1. Pioneer Town

Jonny Owen explores the story of his hometown Merthyr Tydfil, marking 200 years since Cyfarthfa Castle was built by ironworks owners the Crawshays. Once a small village, it became Wales’ first proper town, booming from 40 residents in 1760 to 46,000 by 1851. Thousands, including Jonny’s ancestors, came for iron and coal jobs, lured by higher wages despite harsh conditions. It was a kind of industrial goldrush as these migrants from Wales, Ireland and England sought a better life for themselves and their families.

With family historian Carolyn Nanson – he finds out how Merthyr has made him. He reconnects with old friends, tracing family roots, and visits his old school, where pupils proudly share their place in Merthyr’s story.

Episode 1, Pioneer Town, reveals Merthyr’s rise as the Iron Capital of the World, its industrial glory, and the resilience of those who built it.