The Gaer, Newport, Mon
Photo reference number: 957
MJRB postcard view.
Ralph Collins, author of 'Western Valley Walks', reports:
"This is a picture of my old school - Gwent College - run by the Hamilton-Jones family. Old Bill was principle (aged 86), Starchy, Headmaster, and Arnold the other teacher (best of bunch). It was situated on Gaer Road, the area now known as Lansdowne Road. The pond known as College Pond on Masefield Vale was once part of the school grounds. I believe that it was Gaer Farm before that time (not absolutely sure). I left in 1959 and a year or so later it burned to the ground."
See links below for an interesting article about the college.
Johns's 1928 Newport Directory described the college thus:
"Gwent College, The Gaer, Newport, Mon. President - Rt. Hon. Viscount Tredegar."
"This is a high-class school for boys, ideally situated on the outskirts of the town. Boarders and Day-boys are admitted between the ages of seven and nineteen years. The College stands in its own grounds of fourteen acres, occupying a bright, healthy, elevated position, sheltered on the north and east, with a southern aspect, and extensive views of the Bristol Channel - a striking combination of the most favourable conditions necessary for a school. Self-reliance, initiative and athletics are encouraged, and facilities for all games provided. A unique feature is the lake, an acre in area, with a boat, giving opportunity for swimming and fishing. The most modern methods are adopted, excellent food is provided, and the health record is splendid. Tredegar Park busses stop near the College. Prospectus on application. Telephone 4423. Principal: W. J. Hamilton Jones, B.Sc. (honours, London); L.C.P. (double honours); Fellow of Institute of Hygiene; Fellow of Royal Economic Society."
The college ran from 1924 to around 1970. A large house in Stow Park Circle, 'Jesmond', was also used for the school during the War. By 1950 'Jesmond' had been vacated and 'The Firs', Pillmawr Road, was utilised. As late as 1960 William was still running the school on the two sites (Gaer and the Firs). Soon after that the Gaer was demolished to make way for houses and the whole school moved to the Firs. William's son, Arnold, was running the school in 1968. It was closed by 1972.
At various times William's two sons, two daughters and his wife all played their part in the running of the college.
Article from Gwent Local History Journal - Autumn 2001, No. 91. PDF:
Article from Gwent Local History Journal - Autumn 2001, No. 91. TEXT: