As communities and volunteers have been transcribing the 390,296 signatories from the 1923 Welsh Women’s Peace Petition to America, many have been identifying and uncovering the stories behind this generation of women who stood against war. Who were they – and what messages might they have for us 100 years later.

‘Hidden Histories’ project led by the WCIA invited people across Wales to uncover and share ‘peace stories’ behind the 390,296 women who signed the Peace Petition – not just ‘the great and the good’, but the thousands of ordinary women across Wales moved in the aftermath of World War One to petition for peace.

This story and supporting material was contributed by Enid Lewis, that explored the history of her great grand mother and great aunt, Edith ac Ada Lewis.

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Petition Glyn Neath 33/137  

Here are my great grandmother and my great aunt Edith and Ada Lewis they lived in Edward Steet, Glynneath. Edith was 56 and Ada 25 in 1923. Both were musical and faithful members of Addoldy Chapel Glynneath. Edith in the choir and Ada (known as Llinos Nedd) a soprano well known locally. Edith was married in 1891 aged 24 and had 4 children. Edith’s husband was an engine driver in the colliery in Aberpergwm. Edith and Josiah emigrated to America with the family in 1907 returning the following year as Josiah became ill and died in 1909.  

Ada was married in 1931 aged 33. Her husband also worked in the colliery and was a member of Rock Colliery Rescue Brigade. Before marrying Ada had a chance to go the West End in London as a singer but her mother didn’t approve! Despite this there is a reference by Wynford Vaughan Thomas.  

Winter of 1923 was very sad for Edith and Ada as Jennie, Ada’s sister died in October 1923 aged 26. Jennie also enjoyed music and was involved with musical events.