Jerman of Llanidloes Family History Project Social Themes - Edward Jerman and the Elan Valley

Edward Jerman (1873-1943) Edward Jerman (1873-1943), the author's Great Grandfather - see Background - is known to have worked as a general labourer on the construction of the Elan Valley resevoir system, located near Rhayader in mid-Wales. This large civil engineering project started in 1893 and was completed in 1906. Edward Jerman would therefore have been between 20-33 years old if engaged in the construction. It is not known at this time at what period he worked on the project, or if he was employed there after completion. It is also not known whether he lived in the Elan Village, constructed at the time to accommodate the workers, or whether he travelled to and from Llanidloes, a relatively considerable distance in those days of some 20 miles. His occupation is recorded as "General Labourer" in both 1908, aged 35, upon the birth of one of his daughters (below right), also in 1935, aged 62, upon her marriage. He himself married Sarah Ann Ingram in 1895, aged 22. Edward Jerman is also known to have been employed at some point, with his wife, as caretaker to the Baptist Chapel in Shortbridge Street, living behind it in Chapel House.       Edward Jerman and Sarah Anne Ingram, with Kenneth Jarman (1928-1982). This photograph, outside Chapel House, Llanidloes, would have been taken shortly before Sarah Anne's death in 1933.           Some of the pictures on this page are taken from Powys Digital History Project - following this link will give more background about the Elan Valley Dams.

The site is maintained by  Gareth Jones. Updated: 5 December 2004 Return to Index