Quirky Swansea

Swansea was well established by the Middle Ages as a port and trading settlement at the mouth of the River Tawe in Swansea Bay but the development of the copper industry during the Industrial Revolution saw the Welsh city dubbed Copperopolis grow rapidly. As heavy industry declined in the late twentieth century, Swansea redeveloped large areas of the city including its waterfront.


In Quirky Swansea author Mark Rees delves into lesser known but fascinating tales from Swansea's past. In this book, readers will find stories of the inventor known as Dr Death Ray, who claimed to have created such a device; the 'Welsh Blarney Stone' that brings good luck when kissed; the hidden street art inspired by the words of Dylan Thomas; the African elephant that guarded a museum; the miner's daughter who grew up to be a real-life princess; the scenic route of the 'world's first passenger railway service'; and the original Swansea Jack, a lifesaving dog who now lends his name to fans of Swansea City football club and much, much more.


Quirky Swansea celebrates the unusual and often strange history of Swansea and its characters over the years. This fascinating insight into Swansea will be of interest to all those who want to know more about the city's quirky history.