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Cockle gathering at Penclawdd 1857
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Cockle gathering at Penclawdd 1857
Eight miles from Swansea on the Loughor river, women gathering and preparing cockles for market. Date: 1857
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Media ID 20159343
© Bubblepunk
1850s 1857 Boiling Cockle Cockles Gathering Mollusc Preparing Sifting Swansea
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the daily life of women in Penclawdd, a small coastal village eight miles from Swansea in Wales, during the 1850s. Located on the banks of the Loughor River, Penclawdd was renowned for its cockle industry, which thrived in the shallow waters of the estuary. In this photograph, a group of women are seen gathered around a fire on the beach, engaged in the laborious process of preparing cockles for market. The women are hunched over large pans, carefully sifting through the molluscs to remove any debris and impurities. The cockles, which had been freshly gathered from the sea, are boiled in large pots before being carefully sorted and cleaned. The scene is one of industry and hard work, with the women focused intently on their task. The steam rises from the pots, mingling with the misty air, while the women's faces are etched with determination and concentration. The simple tools they use - wooden paddles, sieves, and baskets - are evidence of the traditional methods employed in this coastal community. Despite the challenging conditions, the women of Penclawdd took pride in their work, which was an essential part of the local economy. The cockles were a valuable source of food and income, and the industry provided employment opportunities for many in the area. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, providing a window into the daily lives of the women who worked in the cockle industry in Penclawdd during the 19th century.
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