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Nestled along a secluded country road near the picturesque village of Llanycefn stands Penrhos Cottage, a remarkable testament to Wales’ ancient home-building traditions. Stepping over its threshold is akin to a journey through time, immersing visitors in a bygone era. This whitewashed thatched property, more than two centuries old, serves as a living relic of a unique Welsh practice known as tŷ unnos, or “house in one night”.

In centuries past, the legality of land ownership was determined by a simple yet challenging rule: if someone could construct a dwelling on common land between dusk and dawn and have a fire lit in the hearth by first light, the land and the house became legally theirs. Moreover, all land within an axe throw of the front door became their rightful possession. Penrhos Cottage stands as a rare survivor of this intriguing tradition, showcasing the resilience and craftsmanship of Welsh builders from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

Built around 1800 and later reconstructed with a blend of stone and clom (a mixture of clay, mud, and straw) in 1849, Penrhos Cottage defied the passage of time, housing families despite its modest two-room structure consisting of a kitchen/living area and sleeping quarters. The cottage, now owned by Pembrokeshire County Council, was last occupied by the kind-hearted Williams sisters, Maria and Rachel, until 1968. These sisters, whose generosity and simplicity endeared them to the community, turned Penrhos into a cherished local landmark. Visitors, young and old, were welcomed with sweets and warm smiles, creating cherished memories for generations.

Eifion Evans, a former neighbour, reminisced about the sisters’ kindness and the idyllic simplicity of their lives. “It was a very simple life,” he recalled, his voice laden with nostalgia. Now, the locals, stirred by a collective determination to preserve this historical gem, are mobilising. A new group, named Friends of Penrhos, is set to emerge, comprising passionate individuals eager to safeguard the cottage’s legacy.

The future of Penrhos Cottage hangs in the balance, but hope and determination fill the air. Local author and journalist Hefin Wyn sees Penrhos Cottage not just as a building but as an invaluable treasure. He advocates for its preservation, envisioning it as a museum where visitors can step into the past, learning about the struggles and triumphs of those who once called this humble abode home. Wyn’s optimism resonates within the community, sparking conversations about Penrhos’ potential revival.

Pembrokeshire County Council, recognising the significance of Penrhos Cottage, has expressed openness to collaborating with the newly formed Friends of Penrhos. The council, acknowledging the importance of preserving this historic building, aims to facilitate accessibility and ensure its conservation for future generations.

As the community rallies together, Penrhos Cottage stands not just as a structure but as a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the enduring legacy of Welsh traditions. The cottage’s future may be uncertain, but the determination of the people of Llanycefn to safeguard their heritage ensures that the flickering flame of Penrhos’ story will continue to illuminate the hearts and minds of generations to come.