Facts about Swansea in 1914

1. In the late 19th century, there were attempts to establish Swansea as a fashionable seaside resort.
2. At the same time, industry grew, drastically changing the shape and even geography of the town and its surroundings.
3. The growth of the metallurgical industry was to transform the town. The Lower Swansea valley was a favourable area for industrial development because of the proximity of Swansea's port, easy access to coal deposits, and a supply of cheap labour. While lead and zinc were also smelted in west Glamorgan, Swansea’s signature industry was copper and it was referred to as ‘Copperopolis’.
4. During the summer of 1913, the central part of the South Stand was built at the Vetch, and a grass pitch was also laid however Swansea City didn’t quite achieve promotion to the First Division before the First World War interrupted professional football.
5. By 1914 Swansea was in the vanguard of council house building and design. The First World War initially dealt a blow to its ambitions but earlier progress left the council well-placed to capitalise on the post-war drive for ‘Homes for Heroes’ and the improved standards set.
6. Later that year, Swansea’s record on housing and its future promise stood proud. A total of 321 municipal houses had been built – mostly in the improved terraces discussed above but with model housing on garden suburb lines to come. The council had approved a loan for 300 homes with an in principle agreement for more.
7. On 18 September 1914, the Welsh Church Act, disestablishing the Church in Wales received Royal Assent but implementation of both is postponed for the duration of World War.
8. Between 1914 and 1918, the population of Swansea grew by 12,000 people.