In common with many historical buildings the work of repair and renovation proves costly and on-going and in July 2004 it was decided to form an Association, the 'Friends of Belan' (FOBA).  The Association gives moral and sometimes practical support and raises funds to help towards the cost of the repairs.  It is hoped to save both the Fort and the Dock from the ravages of time and the weather, giving future generations the opportunity to enjoy this unique piece of Welsh Heritage.

Over the years the Fort has become a popular holiday venue and because of the unusual location and in house facilities it has become a Mecca for several groups with shared interests.  Though music has become a focal point we are able to offer groups with a wide range of interests the opportunity to enjoy their activities in the relaxed, friendly and peaceful atmosphere which the Fort has to offer.  The develpment of the fort in this direction is one of the stated aims of the Association

Objects of the Association

To support and further financially and otherwise the restoration and preservation of Belan in accordance with its status as listed buildings and/or structures with regard to appropriate environmental practice and conservation law and practice.

To further and carry out research into the history and archaeology of Belan.

To give financial and other assistance for the provision in Belan of facilities for individuals and societies engaged in leisure pursuits and activities connected with the furtherence of these objects.

FOBA Committee.

Vice Chair               Vernon Jones

Treasurer                Vernon Jones

Secretary                Jean Blundell

Members         Christopher Blundell

                        Svetlana Blundell

           Rhiannon Humphreys Jones

                           David Wilkinson

                   Dr Roger Worthington

  President                Jean Blundell                                                                                                   

Membership

The number of FOBA members has risen to 252 and they are based in the following countries:

Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland,  the Isle of Man,  America, Australia, Canada, Denmark, India, St Lucia, Switzerland and Russia.

Please contact Jean if you would like to receive a membership form

01270 526 244  soniblundell@aol.com

 Events

From time to time events are organised and members receive notice of these. Those which are open to the public will appear on the 'Events' site.

 

Falcon Hildred

 Many people have asked who painted the picture of the ‘South gate’ which appears on the Home Page and on the cover of ‘The Arts at Fort Belan’ pamphlet. It was painted by Falcon Hildred, artist, industrial archaeologist and a Friend of Belan.

Falcon moved to Wales years ago lured by the tranquillity and wonderful scenery. The area has much to offer a keen walker and also he liked the thought of living in an old mill! Set in the heart of Snowdonia, Melin Pant yr Ynn is now a small private museum of his watercolour drawings which record the quarries and dramatic landscape of the historic and once mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Steps lead up from the mill to a waterfall and an expansive view of the landscape which has inspired so much of his work. When invited to describe the mill and his work there, Falcon’s reply came from the heart. It is worth recording as it gives an insight into the man and his philosophy.

“I’ve never managed to give a description of the mill which pleases me. ‘Mill’ is misleading to mill enthusiasts who want machinery, whilst ‘Art Gallery’ conveys the wrong impression too and is not to my taste. From the point of view of work, the mill is not just a job, it is a complete way of life, independent and self- contained like sailors and old working boats. The mill and I are rather like an old couple who have who have looked after each other for years, sharing a life of simple utility and useful art, whether that art is a picture made by me or a pot made by Carole, a cabinet I have designed or a piece of beautiful dry-stone walling I have had  built.  Art brought down to earth, that’s my kind of art.  Not mysterious, pretentious or elitist”.

Please phone Falcon if you wish to visit; he will be looking forward to seeing you and you will find that the waterwheel is working again and a coal fire cheers the dullest day!         

The mill is open between May and October at any time including evenings and weekends.  You will be charged the princely sum of £3.00. 

Tel. 01766 830 540

 

A Maritime Fortress.

This book makes an important contribution to the history of North Wales, outlining in the extensive introductory chapters the history of both the Wynn family and Fort Belan.  It is an illustrated catalogue, full of anecdotes and curiosities, which gives an in- depth presentation of over three hundred pieces of the collection of the Wynn family, reflecting their activities in the military and maritime fields and is one of the most important private maritime collections in the United Kingdom.  The collection was housed at Belan prior to its  acquisition in 1986  by the Merseyside Maritime Museum.

Copies of  this excellent book by Michael Stammers, the one- time Keeper of the Merseyside Maritime Museum, are now available from the office price £14.99.(FOBA members £12.00) plus £2.50 P&P. For postal orders please ring 01270 526 244 or e mail soniblundell@aol.com