Skip to main content

Trail point 10

The Irish Connection and The Impact of the Swansea Blitz

The Irish Connection and the Impact of the Swansea Blitz

Greenhill’s resilience was forged in fire — first in the hardship of immigration, then in the destruction of war.

The Irish Connection – Irish Immigration and the Making of Greenhill

In the mid-19th century, Greenhill experienced a profound transformation as waves of Irish immigrants arrived, many fleeing the horrors of the Great Famine (1845–1852). Drawn by the promise of work in Swansea’s docks and copper industries, they found in Greenhill both hardship and opportunity. The influx reshaped the area into a densely populated and culturally vibrant community.

The Irish community brought with them a rich cultural identity — the Irish language, Catholic faith, music, and community traditions — which quickly became embedded in the social fabric of Greenhill. Despite overcrowded housing, high poverty levels, and limited infrastructure, the community maintained a deep sense of solidarity and resilience.

Catholic Institutions and Cultural Legacy

A defining moment in the development of Greenhill’s Irish identity was the construction of St Joseph’s Church, designed by the famous Gothic Revival architects Pugin & Pugin. Consecrated in 1888, it served as the spiritual heart of the Irish Catholic community. In 1987, it was elevated to the Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph, a lasting monument to the enduring faith and influence of Irish migrants.

Surrounding the church, the Irish community built more than places of worship. They established shops, schools, and social halls, forming a tightly knit neighbourhood network. Greenhill Roman Catholic Junior School was one such hub, nurturing future generations in the community’s values and heritage.

Greenhill: What’s in a Name?

Today, “Greenhill” is often associated with the area around St Joseph’s Cathedral, yet its name predates Irish immigration. Records show “Green Hill” used as early as 1641, with an 1819 map marking the hill just east of the road — opposite the original church site, which stood to the west. This layered identity reflects Greenhill’s evolving story: a name once defined by landscape, now defined by legacy.

An 1819 plan shows the hill clearly opposite the church — which stood west of the road. – These notes are also included in 1. The origins of Greenhill

Image: An 1819 plan shows the hill clearly opposite the church — which stood west of the road. These notes are also included in 1. The Origins of Greenhill

The Impact of the Swansea Blitz

The Three Nights’ Blitz (February 19–21, 1941)

During World War II, Swansea’s docks and industry made it a prime target for German air raids. The most devastating attack came during the Three Nights’ Blitz, when 1,273 explosives and over 56,000 incendiary bombs were dropped on the city by the Luftwaffe. Swansea’s historic heart, including Castle Street, High Street, and Greenhill, was reduced to rubble.

Greenhill suffered immense damage. Homes, shops, and cherished landmarks were destroyed. Families were displaced. The streets once filled with life became scenes of wreckage and loss. While exact figures for the district are difficult to isolate, the overall toll on Swansea included 230 lives lost, 409 seriously injured, and over 11,000 buildings damaged or destroyed.

Image: Damage during the Swansea Blitz, 19-21 February 1941.

Rebuilding Greenhill

Yet, the Blitz did not destroy the spirit of Greenhill. In the post-war years, efforts were made to rebuild the area, both physically and socially. Emergency housing was constructed, and the council initiated long-term redevelopment plans, many of which reshaped Greenhill’s layout. Community groups, churches, and schools played a vital role in stitching the community back together.

The trauma of the war years left deep scars, but it also strengthened community bonds. Neighbours leaned on each other, and former immigrants, now multi-generational families, remained committed to rebuilding a better future. Many of the current residents trace their roots to this era of rebirth.

Preserving Memory, Honouring Legacy

Greenhill’s story cannot be told without remembering the Irish immigrants who built it and the Blitz that nearly broke it. These twin legacies — of arrival and endurance — are cornerstones of the community’s identity. Through this heritage trail and ongoing education, we honour those who shaped Greenhill and learn from their examples of faith, courage, and unity.

Image: Roger Fellows Memorial Mural at Greenhill Gardens. Roger passed away July 4th 2024 and is dearly missed. He was instrumental in the dream of Matthew’s House and Greenhill Gardens

 

Message of Thanks and Dedication

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our funders, including the National Heritage Lottery, Moondance foundation, WCVA Landfill communities trust, Girls Guild & Hostel, Postcode Lottery Fund, Nationwide whose generous support has made possible this heritage trail and the transformation of St Matthew’s Church Graveyard into Greenhill Gardens. This project is a public expression of the hope we wish to embed in this community—a community that has endured much pain and difficult moments yet continues to show remarkable resilience and strength.

Greenhill Gardens stands as a symbol of renewal and hope, a place where the memories of the past are honoured and the promise of a brighter future is nurtured. The Hill Church Charity and Matthew’s House are deeply committed to this community, working tirelessly to provide support and create a space where everyone can find solace and inspiration.

Thank you for joining us on this heritage trail. We invite you to support Matthew’s House in preserving Greenhill Gardens and continuing the vital work it does to offer hope and support to those in need. There are many ways you can get involved:

  • Volunteer: Your time and skills can make a significant difference. Whether it’s helping in the café, assisting with events, or providing one-to-one support, your contribution is invaluable. Learn more and apply to volunteer here.
  • Donate: Financial contributions help us to maintain and expand our services. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us to continue our mission. You can make a one-time or recurring donation here.
  • Fundraise: Organise events or activities to raise funds for Matthew’s House. Your creativity and effort can help us reach more people in need. Find out how to start a fundraiser here.
  • Spread the Word: Share our story and mission with your friends, family, and social networks. Awareness is key to building a supportive community. Follow us on social media and share our posts to help spread the word.

For more information on how to get involved, please visit: Matthew’s House – Get Involved.

Together, we can preserve the legacy of Greenhill Gardens and continue to provide hope and support to this incredible community. Thank you for your support and dedication.

Dedication

This project and booklet are lovingly dedicated to two incredible Rogers, both of whom have poured love, care, and vision into this place we call home.

To Roger Fellows, a founding part of Matthew’s House, a leadership member, and trustee whose heart was full of compassion, kindness, and quiet strength.
Roger carried the dream of Greenhill Gardens long before the ground was ever touched. He believed in it — and in us — and gave his energy, voice, and passion to help make it happen. His deep hope, gentle soul, and servant heart helped shape our values in ways not many could match. He tragically passed on July 4th, 2024, but we carry his legacy every step of this journey. One of his little side projects was called “Hope Grows” — and it truly does.

And to Roger the Gardener, our beloved, green-fingered warrior who has cared for these grounds faithfully for decades. A true steward of the earth, a gentle soul, and a vital part of our volunteer family. His heart is rooted here — and now he has a snazzy new maintenance area, where he can pause, breathe, and take in all he’s helped create.

We honour both Rogers.
This garden grows because of you. 🌱

In our maintenance hub of Greenhill Gardens you will be able to find a mural dedication to the two beautiful souls that we will continue to love and remember.

Further Reading on Greenhill

For those interested in learning more about the rich history and character of Greenhill, there are several books available—some can be purchased online, and all are available to read at Swansea Central Library in the Civic Centre.

  • Brian Aherne, My Greenhill Far Away (2002) – A personal and heartfelt account filled with memories of the area. Aherne also wrote a second book, continuing his reflections on Greenhill life.
  • Rob Sheffield, Pieces of Us (2023) – A recent and thoughtful contribution. Rob is approachable and knowledgeable and invited us to be part of his book; part of a great journey.
  • Georgina Stockhard, The Greenhill of My Mother’s Childhood (1990) – A partially fictionalised but vivid depiction of Greenhill in earlier times.
  • Norman Lewis Thomas, The Story of Swansea’s Districts & Villages (circa 1964), pp. 131–150 – A historical overview with a useful section on Greenhill. (Note: He published two books with the same title, so check both if you’re researching.)

Please note that these works reflect Greenhill as it’s commonly understood today, shaped by memory and local tradition.

Sources and References

Trail Points