Jacqueline Day

1863 Victorian north Wales, an evolving port town sits in the lap of the magnificent Eryri mountains, the mighty Yr Wyddfa king of all. In its shadow the Blaenau Ffestiniog mines are at the centre of the burgeoning international demand for slate. It fuels the development of the Ffestiniog Railway from a gravity-run trackway to full steam power and the port’s shipbuilding industry becomes an integral part of ‘roofing the world’.

Love and Loyalty: The story explores the complexities of love in its various forms: familial love, romantic love, and loyalty to one’s own desires. Lowri Priddie’s struggle to balance her love for her family with her revelatory romance with Ed Pigot highlights the difficult choices and sacrifices that love often demands.

Social Class and Gender Roles: The story examines the constraints of social class and gender roles in Victorian Wales. Lowri’s experience as a housemaid contrasts with the relative freedom and privilege of her employers, and the expectations placed upon women are repeatedly challenged by Lowri’s independent spirit and unconventional choices.

Secrets and Betrayal: The story is riddled with secrets, both personal and familial, that have far-reaching consequences. Revelations and manipulative betrayal underscore the destructive power of secrets and the importance of honesty and trust.

All photos © Jack Day unless otherwise credited.