Chapel Row, birthplace of the composer Joseph Parry.

Joseph Parry, a famous son of Merthyr Tydfil. Born on the 21st May 1841, he composed over 400 Hymn tunes, three hundred songs, and 300 anthems, chorales and other orchestral pieces. His operas Blodwen and Arianwen gained widespread popular acclaim. His birthplace, Chapel Row, Cyfarthfa, Merthyr Tydfil is beautifully preserved today, and is a treat for visitors who would like to see the home of a ironworker. Joseph was sent to work in the Cyfarthfa Mills when only 9 years of age. in the 1850's the family emigrated to the United States and settled in Danville in Pennsylvania, and his story is immortalised in the novel by Jack Jones, "Off to Philadelphia in the morning", which was also televised. 

Joseph Parry died on the 17th February 1903. 

Opening Times:

April-September: Saturday & Sunday.  2pm-5pm.

October-March: Open by appointment only.  Please note there will be a £1 per head charge for opening out of hours.  Contact Cyfarthfa Castle Museum on 01685 727371 to make an appointment.