The Eisteddfod that began during World War II and closed with world at peace

A NEW meaning was given to the plea ‘A Oes Heddwch?’ (‘Is there peace?’) during the 1945 National Eisteddfod in Rhosllannerchrugog when it was announced from the stage that Japan had surrendered and the Second World War was over.

- By ERYL CRUMP

The announcement about the war was sudden and unexpected. The Pavilion audience was enjoying a choral recitation competition when the Eisteddfod secretary, JT Edwards, stepped onto the stage and announced the news.

A Western Mail correspondent wrote: “For a moment there was complete silence. Everyone seemed stunned, not grasping the significance of the announcement. Then the floodgates opened. The crowd rose to their feet, shouting and applauding loudly until it seemed as if the roof might lift.

“Few in the pavilion that day had dry eyes. Everyone knew what it would mean for their husbands and sons still serving in the Far East.”

After the celebrations it was announced a thanksgiving service would be held. The Western Mail summarised the day: “So the Rhos Eisteddfod which began during the Second World War closed with the world at peace.”

The Eisteddfod took place just days after the first atomic bomb was dropped and exploded over the city of Hiroshima, killing 166,000 people.