In the run-up to the launch of ‘The Story of Splott in 50 Objects’ pack of cards in the spring, Inksplott will be publishing teaser articles on the contents of some of the cards, starting with ‘What’s in a name?’
Did you know the first reference to Splott was in 1440, with records showing it to be the lands of Isabel le Despenser, Countess of Worcester and Warwick?
Isabel, who was born in Cardiff in 1400, was the posthumous daughter and eventually the sole heiress of Thomas le Despenser, 1st Earl of Gloucester by his wife, Constance of York, daughter of Edmund of Langley. Isabel died in London on the 27th December 1439 at the age of 39 years.
According to Cardiff records, Splott was then held by the Bawdrips of Penmark, consisting mainly of two farms, called the Upper and Lower Splott, situated between Roath Village and the sea.
The name ‘Splott’ is believed to come from the Old English word for ‘a patch of land’. We prefer the legend that Splott’s name comes from shortening ‘God’ plot’!
Nowadays, some contend that Splott is getting posher, being gentrified you may say, and suggest (tongue in cheek) that its name should be pronounced ‘Spl-o-w’ (but us Splotties know that that is a huge no-no!).
Whatever your view of Splott, there’s a great opportunity to share your interest and pride in the place. A ‘pocket museum’ is being created telling ‘The Story of Splott in 50 objects’ and you are invited to take part in its creation.
The museum is a deck of cards with each card telling a different part of the Splott story, its events, people, places, or things.
You can support this exciting project by sharing your ideas and also supporting when launched later in February the crowdfunding campaign which enables you to buy your very own Splott ‘pocket museum’.
Do click here to find out more and have your say, or email any ideas to hello@inksplott.co.uk
Discover more about the rich history and heritage of Splott, from its first reference through to its current fascinating story in upcoming articles as we get ready to launch ‘The Story of Splott in 50 Objects’.