**Blue Plaque Honours Bridgend Icon Wil Ifan, Celebrating His Lasting Legacy**
A new blue plaque has been unveiled in Bridgend to honour one of the town’s most distinguished residents, the Reverend William Evans—better known by his bardic name, Wil Ifan. The commemorative sign stands on Park Street, where Wil Ifan lived for much of his life, cementing his deep ties to the community he served and inspired. This latest addition marks a significant moment in Bridgend’s ongoing efforts to celebrate local figures who have made a lasting impression on the area’s cultural landscape.
Wil Ifan’s contribution to Welsh public life was remarkable and multifaceted. During his lifetime, he wore many hats: minister, poet, journalist, broadcaster, Archdruid of Wales, and avid commentator on societal issues. His poetic achievements, particularly at the National Eisteddfod—one of Wales’ most prestigious cultural festivals—garnered him national recognition on no fewer than three occasions.
The unveiling ceremony at 14 Park Street was a touching family affair, led by Wil Ifan’s grandson, Elwyn Evans. Joined by three generations of the Evans family, as well as Bridgend’s town and county mayors, the gathering paid tribute to a figure whose impact resonates far beyond the town’s borders. Elwyn expressed both pride and gratitude, remarking: “My grandfather, Tadcu, loved this town, and the people of this town loved him. He lived here for more than fifty years and he died here. I am proud and honoured, on behalf of the family and the people of Bridgend, to be unveiling this plaque today.”
Wil Ifan’s roots in Bridgend run deep. He first arrived in the town in 1909 as minister at the English Congregational Church on Wyndham Street, then only in his mid-twenties. Already carving a reputation as a formidable poet, he secured his first Eisteddfod crown in Abergavenny in 1913. Even while moving to Cardiff to continue his ministry in 1917, Wil Ifan’s literary prowess persisted, earning a second Eisteddfod crown in Birkenhead that same year. He returned to Bridgend in 1925 and claimed his third crown at the festival in Pwllheli.
Aside from his ministry and poetic endeavours, Wil Ifan was a prominent voice in the Welsh media landscape. For years, he maintained a regular newspaper column in the Western Mail, provided insightful commentary on BBC Wales in both English and Welsh, and lectured widely. His influence was felt across the country, inspiring audiences of all backgrounds.
In his later years, Wil Ifan was appointed Archdruid of the National Eisteddfod, serving from 1947 to 1950—an esteemed role in Welsh cultural life. His tenure as Archdruid was commemorated locally with a plaque at the Eisteddfod’s stone circle during the 1948 Bridgend festival, highlighting the town’s enduring connection to his legacy.
Bridgend’s blue plaque scheme, under the auspices of the town council, continues to shine a light on the considerable achievements of residents like Wil Ifan. The scheme focuses on people who have made “significant contributions” within the wards of Morfa, Oldcastle, and Newcastle. At the ceremony, Councillor Ian Williams, Mayor of Bridgend Town, voiced appreciation to the Evans family for their role in the commemoration and noted the importance of recognising such local luminaries.
Wil Ifan passed away in Bridgend in 1968 at the age of 85, leaving behind a rich legacy of poetry, public engagement, and community spirit. His books and contributions remain influential to this day, ensuring that his story continues to inspire future generations.
In dedicating a blue plaque to Wil Ifan, the people of Bridgend reaffirm their commitment to preserving and celebrating local history. This recognition of past achievement serves as a reminder of the diverse talents that have shaped Bridgend’s community and its cultural fabric. With this tribute, the legacy of Wil Ifan flourishes anew, echoing through Park Street and far beyond.