Alexander Cordell (1914-1997)

Alexander Cordell whose real name was George Alexander Graber was born on September 9th 1914 in Columbo, Ceylon (now known as Sri Lanka). He died near Llangollen, North Wales in July 1997.

Alexander Cordell was one of Wales' most prolific writers who took his inspiration from the people and places of South Wales, and in particular the town of Blaenafon.

He particlarly loved this part of Wales where he lived for many years and wrote his best selling novel 'Rape of the Fair Country' (since translated into 17 different lanquages). Through detailed reseach and his evocative writings he immortalised the people who lived and worked during the Industrial Revolution.

Alexander was proud of his work and wanted people to experience first hand the buildings, landscape and places that inspired him to document a lasting reminder of a land rich in culture and heritage.

Following Alexander's death, Torfaen County Borough Council acquired some of his personal effects including his desk and typewriter. These are now on display in the Blaenafon Community Heritage & Cordell Museum.

Cordell Country tours

At Blaenavon you can retrace the footsteps of Alexander Cordell’s characters, visiting some of the original sites featured in his Welsh novels. Let your imagination be guided back to the mid 19th Century, alongside the key characters. Four tours cover the area that inspired these writings and will help you bear witness to what moved Alexander to write so passionately. The tours will help you discover the locations and landscapes that bring Alexander Cordell’s novels to life.You can pick up the leaflets, detailing the tours, at our museum.