Welshpool, an American President and the end of slavery
A presentation was made to the Town Council’s Events and Tourism Committee by Linda Jane James, of the Arts Council of Wales, to explain why Welshpool should look across the Atlantic to renew a relationship that can be first tracked back over 250 years to 1767.
The Welshpool on the east coast of Canada was once gifted to Captain William Owen, a swashbuckling adventurer who received the grant of the 24-square-mile ‘Outer Island’ as a reward for his heroism in the Royal Navy.
He was the youngest son of David Owen of Cefn Hafod, Montgomeryshire, and was born at Glansevern, near Berriew.
A unique governance underpinned the Owens until their power strained and broke, but Owen, followed by his son and his nephew exercised rule over Campobello Island from 1767 to 1857. They were called Principal Proprietors.
It was also revealed that his son, Admiral Fitzwilliam Owen, had an illustrious career as a surveyor for the Empire. He was regarded as a great abolitionist who led sting operations against slave traders on the African coasts and created a British colony in Mombasa which he governed as a protectorate, not to profit from trade but from which to hunt slavers and free slaves.
“This is extremely interesting,” said Cllr Estelle Bleivas. “There has been talk of twinning with places in Spain, France and the like in the past but I have not been in favour, but there are strong historical links with the area for this one.
“As long as there is something in it for Welshpool, then I support it.”
Another meeting will be held with Ms James to move ideas forward for full council to discuss.
The story thread continues with the area being acquired by an American company that sold parcels to wealthy families like the Roosevelts. President Franklin D Roosevelt is said to have summered on the island for three decades and left an indelible mark on its culture.
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