Manuscript of The National Anthem, 1856 - Mounted Print

Exclusive to the National Library of Wales shop.

This wonderful print features a manuscript containing the earliest copy of 'Hen wlad fy nhadau' in the handwriting of the composer James James (1833-1902), taken from the collections held at the National Library of Wales. 

Mounted Print:  30cm x 40cm with mount

The actual story behind the composition of the national anthem is uncertain. Some believe that Evan James composed the words before his son composed the melody, and others believe that the melody was composed before the words. The title, Glan Rhondda, which was originally given to the work, followed a common trend for hymn music.