0:00:00 > 0:00:00- Subtitles
0:00:00 > 0:00:03- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:00:07 > 0:00:09- # Hallelujah #
0:00:09 > 0:00:13- I'm a farmer's daughter - from Bethania in Ceredigion.
0:00:13 > 0:00:19- My success as a singer comes from - the Eisteddfod and various stages.
0:00:19 > 0:00:21- Singing is my career.
0:00:24 > 0:00:26- I'm from a musical family.
0:00:26 > 0:00:31- My father, Dafydd, is a tenor and - Menna, my sister, is an accompanist.
0:00:32 > 0:00:34- Music is truly in the blood.
0:00:34 > 0:00:39- In 2015, my husband, Dan, and I - became the proud parents of Nel...
0:00:39 > 0:00:43- ..and I received - a very personal invitation...
0:00:43 > 0:00:48- ..to perform at the - North American Festival of Wales.
0:00:48 > 0:00:53- It was the ideal opportunity - for Mam, Dad, Menna, Dan and me...
0:00:53 > 0:00:59- ..to visit America and introduce Nel - to the Edwards clan in Ohio.
0:00:59 > 0:01:01- # Hallelujah
0:01:02 > 0:01:06- # Hallelujah #
0:01:15 > 0:01:17- Ceredigion.
0:01:18 > 0:01:23- A county with seaside towns - such as Aberystwyth and Aberaeron...
0:01:23 > 0:01:27- ..glorious beaches - and rich agricultural soil.
0:01:28 > 0:01:32- This is where I grew up - and where Dad continues to farm.
0:01:33 > 0:01:38- My family is proud to be Welsh - but being Welsh is pure luck for us.
0:01:38 > 0:01:40- Almost 200 years ago...
0:01:40 > 0:01:45- ..nearly every member of - the Edwards family of Brynele...
0:01:46 > 0:01:48- ..emigrated to Ohio in America.
0:01:48 > 0:01:50- I love this view.
0:01:50 > 0:01:54- On a clear day, you can see the - Lleyn Peninsula, Bardsey Island...
0:01:55 > 0:01:58- ..the Brecon Beacons - and down to Pembrokeshire.
0:01:58 > 0:02:01- Growing up here was paradise.
0:02:01 > 0:02:06- You couldn't get a better place - to simply escape, play and work.
0:02:06 > 0:02:09- Who would leave this behind - for a foreign land?
0:02:09 > 0:02:14- If it wasn't for a few members - of my family who stayed behind...
0:02:14 > 0:02:16- ..I wouldn't have experienced this.
0:02:17 > 0:02:20- It's from the father - of the Edwards sisters.
0:02:20 > 0:02:25- Dad, Mam, Menna and I share an - interest in our emigrated family...
0:02:25 > 0:02:29- ..since Dad was invited - to sing in America in 1977.
0:02:29 > 0:02:33- It's important that this interest - is passed to Nel.
0:02:34 > 0:02:37- I haven't visited Ohio - for almost ten years.
0:02:38 > 0:02:42- I'm delighted to sing at the - North American Festival of Wales...
0:02:43 > 0:02:45- ..and introduce Nel to the family.
0:02:52 > 0:02:56- My family weren't the only ones - to emigrate across the Atlantic.
0:02:56 > 0:02:59- In the early 19th century...
0:03:00 > 0:03:04- ..over 4,000 left Ceredigion - for Ohio in search of a better life.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07- The Ship Inn - at Pennant, Cilcennin...
0:03:08 > 0:03:11- ..saw the first wave - to leave for Ohio in 1818.
0:03:12 > 0:03:16- They were the family of John Jones, - Tirbach, who ran the pub.
0:03:16 > 0:03:21- I've visited Ohio since I was eleven - and flying there is bad enough...
0:03:21 > 0:03:24- ..so life must have been tough...
0:03:24 > 0:03:27- ..for families to uproot - and cross the Atlantic.
0:03:28 > 0:03:32- Why did so many of the Welsh - leave this area...
0:03:32 > 0:03:35- ..and why choose to go to Ohio?
0:03:37 > 0:03:40- Agriculture was one of the reasons - for emigrating...
0:03:41 > 0:03:44- ..as the late Dr John Davies - explains.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48- In the first half - of the 19th century...
0:03:48 > 0:03:53- ..the population in this area - had risen by 78%.
0:03:54 > 0:03:58- We can see that the land around us - isn't fit for agriculture.
0:03:59 > 0:04:04- When more people depend upon farming - on unsustainable land...
0:04:04 > 0:04:06- ..it spells catastrophe.
0:04:07 > 0:04:12- This part of land suffered - in the same way as Ireland...
0:04:12 > 0:04:15- ..in the first half - of the 19th century.
0:04:18 > 0:04:24- They had heard about South Ohio - and areas such as Oak Hill.
0:04:24 > 0:04:28- They decided to emigrate - to that region...
0:04:28 > 0:04:34- ..because it was very similar - to this part of Ceredigion.
0:04:34 > 0:04:37- It's terribly similar.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41- They were able to purchase land...
0:04:41 > 0:04:45- ..for one dollar - and fifty cents an acre.
0:04:45 > 0:04:48- This was incredibly reasonable.
0:04:48 > 0:04:53- It was a great opportunity - to start a new life...
0:04:53 > 0:04:56- ..and look forward to the future.
0:04:56 > 0:04:59- # By the seaside
0:04:59 > 0:05:02- # There are red roses
0:05:02 > 0:05:05- # By the seaside
0:05:06 > 0:05:08- # There are white lilies #
0:05:09 > 0:05:11- To reach this better life...
0:05:11 > 0:05:15- ..they sailed from Aberaeron - to Liverpool Docks...
0:05:15 > 0:05:18- ..and boarded a ship for America.
0:05:18 > 0:05:24- This is how the first migrants of - my family left Ceredigion in 1834.
0:05:24 > 0:05:29- I think the Welsh - were incredibly brave...
0:05:29 > 0:05:34- ..to even contemplate - embarking on such a long voyage.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38- They left Aberaeron - and set sail for Liverpool...
0:05:39 > 0:05:43- ..to face a six-week trip - across the Atlantic to America.
0:05:43 > 0:05:47- They were extremely brave.
0:05:49 > 0:05:54- This is Croeswyntoedd Farm where Dad - was born but Menna lives here now.
0:05:54 > 0:05:58- The final wave of Edwards migrants - left here in 1865...
0:05:58 > 0:06:02- ..in the same year as - the Mimosa's voyage to Patagonia.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06- It was a historical year - for Welsh emigration.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10- Coming back is also a great excuse - for a cuppa with Menna!
0:06:14 > 0:06:15- Menna?
0:06:22 > 0:06:26- Most of my family in Ohio - are linked with Croeswyntoedd.
0:06:26 > 0:06:32- In August 2015, we had a visit from - Tim Edwards, who resides in Montana.
0:06:32 > 0:06:35- It affirmed the importance...
0:06:35 > 0:06:39- ..of the farm's role - in our family history.
0:06:39 > 0:06:43- My great-great-grandfather, - Nathaniel Edwards was born here.
0:06:44 > 0:06:48- He left here 150 years ago - and moved to Oak Hill, Ohio.
0:06:48 > 0:06:51- It's amazing to see these buildings.
0:06:51 > 0:06:55- It's a place that my grandfather - and father talked about.
0:06:56 > 0:07:01- They mispronounced all their names - now I've heard the real Welsh names.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03- It's a real moving experience.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11- The Welsh settled - in various places in Ohio.
0:07:12 > 0:07:17- The Edwards settled and started - a new life in Oak Hill, South Ohio.
0:07:17 > 0:07:21- It was a free land - without an established church...
0:07:22 > 0:07:25- ..so people worshipped - as they wanted.
0:07:25 > 0:07:28- They were compelled to go - in large groups.
0:07:28 > 0:07:33- This created a microcosm of what - they had in Wales in this new world.
0:07:33 > 0:07:39- The large numbers meant you had - congregations to build churches.
0:07:40 > 0:07:44- Attending church - upheld the tradition of singing.
0:07:45 > 0:07:50- Four talented sisters in my family - gained fame across America...
0:07:50 > 0:07:53- ..at the turn of the last century.
0:07:53 > 0:07:58- They were known as - The Edwards Sisters Quartette.
0:07:58 > 0:08:04- # Close your eyes in sleep #
0:08:04 > 0:08:10- When I initially heard about - The Edwards Sisters Quartette...
0:08:10 > 0:08:15- ..it gave me - a great sense of satisfaction...
0:08:15 > 0:08:21- ..to hear that my family - had released music...
0:08:21 > 0:08:24- ..in the United States.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28- I felt extremely proud...
0:08:28 > 0:08:33- ..to follow in my family's footsteps - and start singing.
0:08:33 > 0:08:39- Gwawr has also followed suit - and Menna performs on the piano.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43- I feel quite proud - that all this happened.
0:08:43 > 0:08:48- My first invitation arrived in 1977.
0:08:49 > 0:08:53- It was the first time - for me to visit America...
0:08:53 > 0:08:55- ..and I felt quite special!
0:08:56 > 0:08:58- I was also very nervous.
0:08:58 > 0:09:01- # A pure heart #
0:09:01 > 0:09:04- The Americans were delighted...
0:09:04 > 0:09:08- ..and had a particular liking - for our Welsh singing.
0:09:09 > 0:09:14- I had to give them some variety - as they didn't understand Welsh...
0:09:14 > 0:09:19- ..but they were familiar - with the music.
0:09:19 > 0:09:22- I received standing ovations.
0:09:22 > 0:09:26- The Americans always like - to show their appreciation...
0:09:26 > 0:09:28- ..when they enjoy a concert.
0:09:29 > 0:09:31- Will these fit in?
0:09:31 > 0:09:32- Oh-oh.
0:09:33 > 0:09:36- It's ten years since Dad and I - sang at the church in Oak Hill.
0:09:37 > 0:09:39- We'll perform there again....
0:09:39 > 0:09:43- ..and at the North American - Festival of Wales...
0:09:43 > 0:09:46- ..so it was time to pack.
0:09:46 > 0:09:48- It closed. Thank goodness for that.
0:09:49 > 0:09:54- I'm quite proud that - we're upholding this connection.
0:09:54 > 0:09:58- I hope it continues - as Gwawr is still young...
0:09:58 > 0:10:04- ..and I hope Nel gets the chance - to visit Ohio in the near future.
0:10:05 > 0:10:10- Hopefully, the family - will maintain this link...
0:10:10 > 0:10:13- ..between Wales - and the United States.
0:10:15 > 0:10:20- I can't wait to go back to America - and catch up with the family.
0:10:20 > 0:10:25- It's been so long and I'm intrigued - to see how the festival has evolved.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29- It's 17 years - since I was last at the festival...
0:10:29 > 0:10:32- ..so I can't wait to see - how it has changed.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35- I'll see you in Ohio.
0:10:35 > 0:10:39- # Hallelujah
0:10:39 > 0:10:44- # Hallelujah #
0:10:48 > 0:10:48- .
0:10:49 > 0:10:49- .
0:10:49 > 0:10:53- # Hallelujah
0:10:53 > 0:10:58- # Hallelujah #
0:11:07 > 0:11:11- Columbus is the capital - of the state of Ohio.
0:11:11 > 0:11:13- It's home to a million people.
0:11:13 > 0:11:17- The city was named after - the explorer, Christopher Columbus.
0:11:17 > 0:11:22- In 2015, it's home to the - North American Festival of Wales.
0:11:23 > 0:11:25- I'm performing at the festival...
0:11:25 > 0:11:30- ..and it's a great opportunity for - Nel to meet my American relatives.
0:11:33 > 0:11:35- We've arrived at Columbus, Ohio.
0:11:36 > 0:11:38- What do you think? Are you excited?
0:11:38 > 0:11:41- It's been ten years - since my last visit...
0:11:42 > 0:11:45- ..and I never dreamt - you would be with me this time.
0:11:45 > 0:11:50- I can't carry you all week, - so let's find some family.
0:11:53 > 0:11:57- I was eleven when I first met - my family in Ohio.
0:11:57 > 0:12:02- Most of them live at Oak Hill but - some live in Columbus, such as Dan.
0:12:02 > 0:12:04- Hey!
0:12:04 > 0:12:05- Hello, how are you?
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- Hello, how are you?- - Welcome.
0:12:07 > 0:12:11- He's a descendent of Croeswyntoedd - Farm where Menna lives.
0:12:11 > 0:12:15- I always get a warm welcome - whenever I see him.
0:12:15 > 0:12:19- We've been so excited for Joseph - and Nel to meet each other.
0:12:20 > 0:12:22- The youngest generation of Edwards.
0:12:23 > 0:12:28- The sixth generation back - that we can trace.
0:12:28 > 0:12:30- I think there was five brothers.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35- Four came to the United States - and one lineage stayed back.
0:12:35 > 0:12:36- I could have been born out here.
0:12:36 > 0:12:37- I could have been born out here.- - That's right!
0:12:38 > 0:12:41- We do have a little gift for Joseph.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43- Don't we, Nel?
0:12:43 > 0:12:48- The Internet and social media make - it easy for us to keep in contact.
0:12:48 > 0:12:53- As the next generation, I hope - Nel and Joseph will do the same.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55- Will you play rugby for Wales?
0:12:55 > 0:12:57- Will you play rugby for Wales?- - Yes, you know it!
0:12:58 > 0:13:04- I was delighted to see Dan and the - family but it wasn't a social call.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08- I had to promote the festival - and concert on the radio.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11- With me today is Gwawr Edwards.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14- It's a big weekend in Columbus. - Welcome.
0:13:15 > 0:13:19- This is the North American - Festival of Wales.
0:13:19 > 0:13:25- The weekend celebrates everything - Welsh and it happens every year.
0:13:26 > 0:13:28- The Welsh in North America...
0:13:28 > 0:13:32- ..have met annually - to celebrate Wales since 1929.
0:13:32 > 0:13:38- Today, the festival alternates - between Canada and North America.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41- The Welsh spirit remains strong.
0:13:41 > 0:13:42- Good afternoon.
0:13:43 > 0:13:46- How are you today? It's great.
0:13:46 > 0:13:48- I've got a family history here...
0:13:49 > 0:13:51- ..dating back to Carmarthen.
0:13:51 > 0:13:53- It's an important part of my life.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57- I belong to the Welsh Society - in Downstate New York.
0:13:58 > 0:13:59- My mother was a Jones.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02- She was born in Nantyglo in 1912.
0:14:02 > 0:14:06- I like to keep my hand in - when it comes to Welsh things.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10- I love singing in Welsh...
0:14:11 > 0:14:13- ..and attending these events.
0:14:13 > 0:14:18- The Welsh culture is very important - to me, particularly the music.
0:14:20 > 0:14:24- The festival celebrates - an array of Welsh traditions...
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- ..but some are adapted - to suit local tastes.
0:14:28 > 0:14:31- These are Welshcakes with a twist!
0:14:31 > 0:14:33- We've got maple and bacon.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35- I'm not sure about those.
0:14:35 > 0:14:37- I'll try the chocolate and pecan.
0:14:37 > 0:14:39- Are they as good as Mam-gu's?
0:14:41 > 0:14:45- It's nice but not as good - as the ones Mam-gu makes!
0:14:45 > 0:14:48- OK, once again.
0:14:48 > 0:14:51- I come from...
0:14:51 > 0:14:55- The festival has a strong emphasis - on the Welsh language.
0:14:55 > 0:15:00- Hefina Phillips now lives in Toronto - and has fun with the Welsh learners.
0:15:01 > 0:15:03- Where is Conwy?
0:15:03 > 0:15:04- Where is Conwy?- - Wales.
0:15:04 > 0:15:06- It's over there.
0:15:09 > 0:15:11- I lecture at the university...
0:15:12 > 0:15:16- ..in the Celtic Studies department - at the University of Toronto.
0:15:17 > 0:15:18- It has a wonderful atmosphere.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20- It has a wonderful atmosphere.- - Yes, it's very homely.
0:15:21 > 0:15:26- Everyone is so happy - and our students always want more.
0:15:27 > 0:15:31- We only offer - basic Welsh for learners.
0:15:31 > 0:15:34- I live in Memphis.
0:15:34 > 0:15:37- I come from Chicago.
0:15:37 > 0:15:40- I come from Alabama.
0:15:40 > 0:15:44- I enjoy singing.
0:15:45 > 0:15:47- I enjoy singing too.
0:15:47 > 0:15:49- Oh, well done!
0:15:50 > 0:15:55- Professor Jerry Hunter shares - Hefina's enthusiasm for the event.
0:15:56 > 0:16:01- He's an American who learnt Welsh - and lectures at Bangor University.
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- I love having the festival in Ohio.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08- I'm from Cincinnati in Ohio, - south of Columbus.
0:16:08 > 0:16:12- It's great to see Welsh Americans - and people from Wales...
0:16:12 > 0:16:14- ..in my home state.
0:16:15 > 0:16:21- It's quite strange - and yet both exciting and energetic.
0:16:23 > 0:16:28- The highlight of the festival is - a concert featuring Welsh artists.
0:16:28 > 0:16:33- The Penrhyn Male Voice Choir under - the baton of Owain Arwel Davies...
0:16:33 > 0:16:37- ..and the harpist, Glain Dafydd - met me for a rehearsal.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41- The lads of the - Penrhyn Male Voice Choir...
0:16:41 > 0:16:46- ..have a unique and dark humour - from the quarry days.
0:16:46 > 0:16:51- They have a clear enjoyment of being - Welsh and we do everything in Welsh.
0:16:51 > 0:16:56- It's an honour to be here as Welsh - history is so important to them.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59- This is what we're trying to do.
0:16:59 > 0:17:05- I want some Welsh history about - those who emigrated to America.
0:17:06 > 0:17:08- There's a lot to rehearse...
0:17:09 > 0:17:12- ..and a familiar face - is enjoying himself.
0:17:12 > 0:17:15- I'm amazed - by the number of activities.
0:17:16 > 0:17:20- I'm sure many people share the - same worries of male voice choirs.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25- As their members get older, - the link with Wales is more fragile.
0:17:26 > 0:17:27- But having said that...
0:17:27 > 0:17:33- ..you can see that they want - to maintain these ties...
0:17:33 > 0:17:36- ..and keep them - as tight as possible.
0:17:36 > 0:17:40- I'm surprised - at the number of Welsh speakers.
0:17:40 > 0:17:44- The majority of these people - are immigrants.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47- Use your voices!
0:17:47 > 0:17:49- CHOIR CHANTING
0:17:54 > 0:17:56- I'm so excited about tonight.
0:17:56 > 0:17:59- The audience - is always very welcoming.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02- The family will be here - so I can't wait.
0:18:02 > 0:18:06- The tickets have sold well - so I'm excited.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10- The audience flowed into the hall...
0:18:10 > 0:18:15- ..and my American family - got to meet my husband, Dan.
0:18:15 > 0:18:20- The excitement was building and - the concert finally got underway.
0:18:21 > 0:18:26- # We all praise cheerfully
0:18:26 > 0:18:29- # Better times are coming, - Hallelujah
0:18:30 > 0:18:34- # And after the bad weather, - we'll make money as fast as smoke
0:18:34 > 0:18:38- # There are pleasant signs - ahead of us
0:18:38 > 0:18:42- # Ffwdl-la-la, ffwdl-la-la - Ffwdl-la-la-la-la-la-la
0:18:43 > 0:18:49- # Ffwdl-la-la, ffwdl-la-la - Ffwdl-la-la-la-la-la-la
0:18:50 > 0:18:55- # Ffwdl-la-la, ffwdl-la-la - Ffwdl-la-la-la-la-la-la #
0:18:56 > 0:18:58- CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:19:01 > 0:19:05- # All the stars above are smiling
0:19:06 > 0:19:10- # And the moon looks happy
0:19:10 > 0:19:12- # The day of our wedding approaches
0:19:12 > 0:19:16- # We can now embrace without fear
0:19:16 > 0:19:19- # All the stars above are smiling
0:19:19 > 0:19:23- # And the moon looks happy
0:19:23 > 0:19:27- # The day of our wedding approaches
0:19:27 > 0:19:30- # We can now embrace without fear
0:19:31 > 0:19:34- # The day of our wedding approaches
0:19:34 > 0:19:39- # We can now embrace without fear
0:19:40 > 0:19:43- # The day of our wedding approaches
0:19:43 > 0:19:47- # We can now embrace without fear
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- # The day of our wedding approaches
0:19:51 > 0:19:55- # We can now embrace
0:19:55 > 0:20:01- # Without fear #
0:20:01 > 0:20:03- CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:20:09 > 0:20:12- With the audience - in high spirits...
0:20:13 > 0:20:18- ..we celebrate one of the oldest - North American Welsh newspapers.
0:20:18 > 0:20:20- It's called Ninnau.
0:20:21 > 0:20:24- I started Ninnau in 1975.
0:20:24 > 0:20:28- I went to a Cymanfa Ganu - in the city of New York...
0:20:28 > 0:20:34- ..and revealed my plans - for publishing this newspaper.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37- It was only a small newspaper - at the start.
0:20:38 > 0:20:43- We had a great response - and it grew from there.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49- I'm surprised - at the size of the festival.
0:20:49 > 0:20:55- The Welsh in North America - are also drawn to this festival.
0:20:55 > 0:21:00- It enables them to socialize - just as we do in our Eisteddfod.
0:21:01 > 0:21:06- It's busy and people are having fun - and chatting so it's wonderful.
0:21:06 > 0:21:11- Our sisters and mother - was born in Maerdy in South Wales.
0:21:11 > 0:21:12- In the Rhondda Valley.
0:21:12 > 0:21:14- This is Mary-Lou and...
0:21:14 > 0:21:18- It's Thomas - in Swansea and Port Talbot.
0:21:18 > 0:21:22- My family - emigrated to the United States...
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- ..in 1830 or thereabouts.
0:21:27 > 0:21:32- Nobody knows where the family - originally came from in Wales...
0:21:32 > 0:21:38- ..so I think I can claim that - everyone in Wales is related to me!
0:21:38 > 0:21:41- I've come here - from Shandon in Ohio...
0:21:41 > 0:21:45- ..to see the choir - and everything else that is here.
0:21:46 > 0:21:50- I grew up with the lads in the choir - as I'm from Caernarfon.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54- # It's the world in union
0:21:55 > 0:22:00- # The world as one
0:22:00 > 0:22:02- # As we climb
0:22:02 > 0:22:05- # To reach our destiny
0:22:05 > 0:22:08- # A new age
0:22:09 > 0:22:14- # Has begun
0:22:14 > 0:22:17- # Begun
0:22:17 > 0:22:20- # A new age
0:22:21 > 0:22:27- # Has begun #
0:22:31 > 0:22:31- .
0:22:33 > 0:22:33- .
0:22:33 > 0:22:38- # Hallelujah
0:22:38 > 0:22:42- # Hallelujah #
0:22:49 > 0:22:54- It's day three of my trip to Ohio - and it's a fine morning in Columbus.
0:22:54 > 0:22:59- In a few hours, I'll perform - at the festival's Cymanfa Ganu.
0:22:59 > 0:23:04- First, I'm at one of the city's - parks so Nel can meet my cousin.
0:23:04 > 0:23:09- I first met her in Columbus when - the family visited the city in 1996.
0:23:10 > 0:23:12- It's ten years - since I was last here.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14- It seems like so long ago.
0:23:14 > 0:23:20- Rachel Jones was raised in Columbus - but now lives in Louisiana, Texas.
0:23:20 > 0:23:24- I was delighted that she'd returned - to Columbus to meet Nel...
0:23:24 > 0:23:28- ..especially as she's expecting - her first child.
0:23:29 > 0:23:33- Enjoy it and go with the flow!
0:23:33 > 0:23:36- It's been wonderful - to catch up with Rachel.
0:23:36 > 0:23:41- We're lucky that we can - keep in touch via modern technology.
0:23:41 > 0:23:44- I can't imagine - how people felt a century ago...
0:23:44 > 0:23:48- ..to be out of touch - with their family so I'm very lucky.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51- # Hallelujah #
0:23:51 > 0:23:55- The day had to go on as I went - to prepare for the Cymanfa Ganu...
0:23:56 > 0:23:59- ..at the Southern Theatre, - Ohio's oldest theatre.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03- # Hallelujah, Hallelujah #
0:24:03 > 0:24:07- The Southern Theatre - is the oldest theatre in Columbus.
0:24:08 > 0:24:11- It's hosted famous Americans - since the 1920s...
0:24:11 > 0:24:15- ..so I was very excited - about singing here.
0:24:16 > 0:24:19- # Hallelujah
0:24:19 > 0:24:22- # Hallelujah #
0:24:24 > 0:24:30- It's ideal for the Cymanfa Ganu - conducted by Owain Arwel Davies.
0:24:31 > 0:24:34- And it was time - for the singing to start!
0:24:34 > 0:24:37- # Hallelujah, Hallelujah #
0:24:37 > 0:24:41- There's one specific Welsh word - and it's "hwyl."
0:24:42 > 0:24:43- Altogether now.
0:24:43 > 0:24:50- # I sing as the songbird is singing
0:24:50 > 0:24:55- # Happily beside the stream #
0:24:55 > 0:24:58- Congregational singing - and hymn singing...
0:24:59 > 0:25:03- ..has been important to the Welsh in - Ohio since the early 19th century.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07- Maintaining this tradition - is important to this day.
0:25:07 > 0:25:13- It's the history of the people that - makes this festival interesting.
0:25:13 > 0:25:18- They want to talk to you - and tell your their story.
0:25:18 > 0:25:22- They tell you about - the Roberts or Jones families.
0:25:23 > 0:25:25- # Jerusalem
0:25:25 > 0:25:28- # Jerusalem
0:25:28 > 0:25:33- # Sing for the night is over
0:25:33 > 0:25:39- # Hosanna in the highest
0:25:39 > 0:25:44- # Hosanna forever more
0:25:44 > 0:25:47- # Hosanna
0:25:48 > 0:25:53- # In the highest
0:25:54 > 0:25:58- # Hosanna
0:25:59 > 0:26:06- # Forever more #
0:26:06 > 0:26:08- APPLAUSE
0:26:08 > 0:26:14- I wasn't the only soprano to sing - for such a welcoming audience.
0:26:14 > 0:26:19- At the 2014 Eisteddfod, I won the - Osborne Roberts Blue Ribband Award.
0:26:19 > 0:26:23- As a result, - I get to perform in Columbus, Ohio.
0:26:23 > 0:26:27- I'm so excited - to perform in such a large theatre.
0:26:27 > 0:26:32- I've never performed in a - Cymanfa before so I'm very excited.
0:26:32 > 0:26:45- # Ave Maria
0:26:45 > 0:26:54- # Gratia plena
0:26:55 > 0:27:04- # Maria, gratia plena
0:27:04 > 0:27:12- # Maria, gratia plena
0:27:13 > 0:27:17- # Ave
0:27:17 > 0:27:22- # Ave dominus
0:27:23 > 0:27:27- # Dominus tecum #
0:27:27 > 0:27:29- APPLAUSE
0:27:32 > 0:27:36- Wonderful! - Nobody can sing like the Welsh!
0:27:36 > 0:27:38- So when you come - to another country...
0:27:39 > 0:27:43- ..you've got to make sure - that they're all from Welsh descent!
0:27:43 > 0:27:48- "Great is Jesus in his Person" - in one, two...
0:27:48 > 0:27:52- # Great is Jesus
0:27:52 > 0:27:56- # In his Person #
0:27:56 > 0:27:58- The singing is excellent.
0:27:58 > 0:28:03- They understand the language despite - there being many outsiders here.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07- But they are passionate - about singing.
0:28:07 > 0:28:09- Are we ready for it?
0:28:09 > 0:28:12- That was excellent. - I'm getting a buzz now.
0:28:13 > 0:28:17- # Great is he
0:28:17 > 0:28:23- # In heaven
0:28:23 > 0:28:29- # On his firm
0:28:29 > 0:28:38- # Strong throne #
0:28:38 > 0:28:44- The 2015 Cymanfa Ganu - ended on a fantastic note.
0:28:53 > 0:28:55- After three days in Columbus...
0:28:55 > 0:29:01- ..my trip to Ohio ends with a - two-day visit along the Welsh Byway.
0:29:01 > 0:29:07- My family settled here in the - Oak Hill region in the 19th century.
0:29:07 > 0:29:10- It's very similar to home.
0:29:10 > 0:29:15- The land is mountainous - and I'm a bit lost.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17- We'll see what happens.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21- What's the best thing to do - when you're lost?
0:29:22 > 0:29:27- Follow a family tradition of having - breakfast in the restaurant...
0:29:28 > 0:29:33- ..of the family's most successful - forefather in America - Bob Evans.
0:29:34 > 0:29:37- # Come and get it #
0:29:38 > 0:29:43- Hi, folks. I'm Bob Evans. I have - a suggestion for you homemakers.
0:29:43 > 0:29:48- We discovered anytime is a good time - to serve Bob Evans Farm Sausage.
0:29:49 > 0:29:53- To start the day, Bob Evans - small lengths with scrambled eggs.
0:29:53 > 0:29:57- Mam, Dad, Menna and me - eat here when we visit Ohio.
0:29:57 > 0:30:01- It's great to have - Nel and Dan with us this time.
0:30:02 > 0:30:03- That's what I call a breakfast.
0:30:03 > 0:30:06- That's what I call a breakfast.- - Everyone's hungry this morning.
0:30:07 > 0:30:10- There are 600 Bob Evans restaurants - in America...
0:30:11 > 0:30:15- ..but this is the original at - Rio Grande and we always come here.
0:30:16 > 0:30:21- Bob has sadly died but he would - always come and see us at the table.
0:30:21 > 0:30:24- The food is definitely tip top!
0:30:26 > 0:30:29- After a tip top meal, - Nel was in a deep sleep...
0:30:30 > 0:30:34- ..so we continued our journey - along the Welshbyway...
0:30:34 > 0:30:37- ..to Gallipolis - on the banks of the Ohio River.
0:30:38 > 0:30:42- My family landed here - after their long voyage from Wales.
0:30:42 > 0:30:48- Visiting the beautiful area where my - family's voyage ended is poignant.
0:30:50 > 0:30:54- A descendant of those immigrants - who lives in Gallipolis...
0:30:55 > 0:30:58- ..is our close family friend, - Bill Thomas.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02- Bill tells us why this area appealed - to the Welsh.
0:31:02 > 0:31:07- They were travelling by water to - Paddy's Run, north of Cincinnati...
0:31:07 > 0:31:09- ..and needed to rest - and reprovision.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12- We had a port - and they were welcomed.
0:31:13 > 0:31:15- They were welcomed - and asked to stay.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18- The got out near Centerville...
0:31:18 > 0:31:23- ..and found the terrain matched - the terrain they had left in Wales.
0:31:23 > 0:31:26- They decided to see - if they could buy land.
0:31:26 > 0:31:31- They could very cheaply - a dollar - or a dollar and a quarter an acre.
0:31:31 > 0:31:37- They bought land and lived here more - easily than when they were in Wales.
0:31:37 > 0:31:40- They could own instead of tenant.
0:31:40 > 0:31:42- Did they get along with the natives?
0:31:42 > 0:31:44- Did they get along with the natives?- - I think so.
0:31:44 > 0:31:47- They seemed to fit right in - because they were bilingual.
0:31:48 > 0:31:52- They could be by themselves - speaking Welsh in their chapels...
0:31:52 > 0:31:56- ..but interacted with the locals - by speaking English.
0:31:56 > 0:32:00- How important is the Welsh to you, - personally...
0:32:00 > 0:32:04- ..and the importance - of the Welsh festival and Cymanfa?
0:32:04 > 0:32:07- On a scale of one to ten...
0:32:07 > 0:32:10- ..it's maybe a ten at the lowest.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14- I grew up knowing - that I was of Welsh descent...
0:32:15 > 0:32:19- ..and I had an occasion to go with - my grandparents to their church.
0:32:20 > 0:32:22- Then the congregation - began singing.
0:32:23 > 0:32:27- All of a sudden, I'm listening - to singing I had never heard before.
0:32:28 > 0:32:29- Nothing.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33- It was captivating, - absolutely captivating.
0:32:33 > 0:32:38- I'm American but the Welsh descent - is something to take pride in.
0:32:39 > 0:32:44- I certainly feel Welsh - when I'm in Wales.
0:32:45 > 0:32:49- This was turning into - an emotional and memorable day.
0:32:49 > 0:32:53- The crowning glory came - when Bill gave us the family Bible.
0:32:54 > 0:32:55- I think it belongs to the...
0:32:55 > 0:32:57- I think it belongs to the...- - Oh, Bill.
0:32:57 > 0:33:01- Is it the Rees Edwards family? - Did it come down from that?
0:33:01 > 0:33:03- Yes, the Rees Edwards...
0:33:03 > 0:33:06- Elizabeth, - daughter of Rees and Ada Edwards.
0:33:07 > 0:33:11- Yes, all Rhys M Edwards's children - - all the Edwards sisters.
0:33:11 > 0:33:15- Rees M came from Croeswyntoedd.
0:33:15 > 0:33:17- It's 150 years - going back full circle.
0:33:18 > 0:33:19- It's great.
0:33:19 > 0:33:20- It's great.- - Yes.
0:33:21 > 0:33:26- It couldn't be better for us. I'm - glad I saved it until you all came.
0:33:37 > 0:33:41- Emigrating is a massive undertaking - even today.
0:33:41 > 0:33:43- But they did it in those days.
0:33:43 > 0:33:47- They left everything behind, - lost people on the voyage...
0:33:47 > 0:33:51- ..and sailed into the unknown - so there was no turning back.
0:33:52 > 0:33:56- These people lived in anguish - but it's a real success story...
0:33:57 > 0:34:00- ..because there are Welsh people - living here to this day.
0:34:01 > 0:34:06- # Hallelujah
0:34:06 > 0:34:10- # Hallelujah #
0:34:12 > 0:34:13- .
0:34:15 > 0:34:15- .
0:34:15 > 0:34:18- # Hallelujah
0:34:18 > 0:34:24- # Hallelujah #
0:34:34 > 0:34:37- I've travelled - to the south of Ohio...
0:34:37 > 0:34:41- ..to where my family settled - almost 200 years ago.
0:34:42 > 0:34:45- My final day in Ohio - starts at Rio Grande.
0:34:45 > 0:34:50- The Welsh and my famous - American forefather, Bob Evans...
0:34:50 > 0:34:54- ..have influenced the town - and the surrounding area.
0:34:58 > 0:35:01- This is the Rio Grande - University campus.
0:35:01 > 0:35:05- I've performed in its theatre - on many occasions.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10- At the Madog Center, - they offer courses on Welsh history.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14- I nearly came to this university...
0:35:14 > 0:35:16- ..and Dad was offered a farm here.
0:35:17 > 0:35:21- There's no telling how my life would - have panned out if that happened!
0:35:23 > 0:35:27- The Madog Center - for Welsh Studies...
0:35:27 > 0:35:33- ..offers courses to raise awareness - about the area's Welsh history...
0:35:34 > 0:35:37- ..and maintain the link - between Wales and Ohio.
0:35:37 > 0:35:43- Lisa Jones from Felinfach - won a scholarship to study here.
0:35:43 > 0:35:49- In 2009, I went on an exchange trip - with Trinity College, Carmarthen.
0:35:49 > 0:35:55- They send Theatre, Music and - Media students to this university.
0:35:55 > 0:35:58- The universities are twinned...
0:35:59 > 0:36:04- ..due to the link with Wales via the - Ceredigion emigrants who came here.
0:36:04 > 0:36:10- We're taught about the other - famous emigration to Patagonia...
0:36:10 > 0:36:13- ..but are not taught...
0:36:13 > 0:36:17- ..about the hundreds - who came to Ohio.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20- It's been - an incredible experience...
0:36:20 > 0:36:22- ..and truly life-changing...
0:36:23 > 0:36:26- ..because I'm now a part of Ohio.
0:36:26 > 0:36:28- You could say I have two homes!
0:36:29 > 0:36:35- # You're the only land for me
0:36:35 > 0:36:38- # Oh, oh, my Wales #
0:36:38 > 0:36:41- The Brynele Edwards' - settled in Oak Hill...
0:36:41 > 0:36:44- ..a stone's throw to the west - of Rio Grande.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48- An old church in the town - houses a heritage museum.
0:36:48 > 0:36:52- It raises awareness - about the area's history.
0:36:52 > 0:36:57- # Oh, Wales, oh, Wales, - give me my life #
0:36:58 > 0:37:04- Elizabeth Davis from Aberaeron - plays a key role in the museum.
0:37:04 > 0:37:08- You were raised in the red house - in that mural of Aberaeron.
0:37:08 > 0:37:10- Yes, on the seashore.
0:37:10 > 0:37:13- Do you feel homesick - when you see this mural?
0:37:14 > 0:37:15- Yes, sometimes.
0:37:16 > 0:37:17- What brought you here?
0:37:17 > 0:37:21- What brought you here?- - I came here to live in 1974.
0:37:21 > 0:37:25- Some of my family moved here - in the 18th century.
0:37:26 > 0:37:28- I wanted to know where they went!
0:37:28 > 0:37:31- Whilst here, - I met my husband and chose to stay.
0:37:32 > 0:37:37- This museum is full - of artefacts linked with Wales.
0:37:37 > 0:37:39- Where did they come from?
0:37:39 > 0:37:43- I think that this became a museum - in about 1971.
0:37:44 > 0:37:46- We've been collecting - for many years.
0:37:47 > 0:37:51- The first church was built of wood - on the edge of the village in 1841.
0:37:51 > 0:37:52- Was that a Welsh church?
0:37:52 > 0:37:56- Was that a Welsh church?- - Yes, the first Independent church.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58- It was too far out of town...
0:37:58 > 0:38:02- ..so they built this church in 1868.
0:38:02 > 0:38:06- This brick building - replaced the wooden structure.
0:38:06 > 0:38:10- The bricks were made locally - at the Etna Firebrick Yard.
0:38:10 > 0:38:14- They made bricks - in this area at that time.
0:38:14 > 0:38:16- In 1890...
0:38:17 > 0:38:21- ..this church alone had 175 members.
0:38:22 > 0:38:26- By 1940, they only had 40 members.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29- It closed as a Welsh church in 1962.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33- Are there many Welsh people - left in Oak Hill?
0:38:33 > 0:38:35- No, not a lot.
0:38:35 > 0:38:39- Do you think the Welsh - have a future in Ohio?
0:38:41 > 0:38:43- That's a tough question to answer.
0:38:43 > 0:38:46- We still hope - that the situation will improve...
0:38:47 > 0:38:50- ..but it's a struggle - to keep it going.
0:38:50 > 0:38:53- I don't know - what the future holds...
0:38:53 > 0:38:57- ..because everyone who works here - is relatively old.
0:38:57 > 0:39:02- We get a lot of visitors - from all across America.
0:39:03 > 0:39:07- It's a wonderful place - and you do some exceptional work.
0:39:07 > 0:39:08- Thank you very much.
0:39:18 > 0:39:23- We leave one church for another, - namely Moriah church and cemetery.
0:39:24 > 0:39:27- It's the first church - built by the Welsh in Oak Hill...
0:39:28 > 0:39:32- ..that has very personal - family ties.
0:39:32 > 0:39:37- Most of the Brynele Edwards' of Ohio - are buried in Moriah cemetery.
0:39:37 > 0:39:41- The Edwards name - graces a number of gravestones.
0:39:41 > 0:39:43- More are buried here than in Wales.
0:39:44 > 0:39:49- Visiting this cemetery is always - emotional for the family...
0:39:49 > 0:39:54- ..and it was wonderful to share - the experience with Dan and Nel.
0:39:54 > 0:39:58- This is the grave - of the Reverend Isaac Edwards.
0:39:59 > 0:40:03- He's the son of Daniel, - one of the brothers who came here.
0:40:03 > 0:40:06- Daniel is the one - who built this church.
0:40:08 > 0:40:13- It's so emotional to know that the - family is buried in this cemetery...
0:40:13 > 0:40:16- ..and Nel is with me this time.
0:40:16 > 0:40:19- You don't understand things - as a child.
0:40:20 > 0:40:21- Graves are graves.
0:40:22 > 0:40:26- But it's more emotional - as you get older.
0:40:26 > 0:40:30- Being here is a wonderful feeling.
0:40:30 > 0:40:32- It's like a home from home.
0:40:34 > 0:40:36- The emotions deepened...
0:40:36 > 0:40:41- ..when family and friends - from the festival in Columbus...
0:40:41 > 0:40:44- ..arrived in Moriah - to see Dad and me singing.
0:40:45 > 0:40:47- The church was full to bursting.
0:40:49 > 0:40:56- # The smiles from your crib - are beautiful
0:40:56 > 0:41:01- # No pain or worldly woes - to make you weary
0:41:02 > 0:41:08- # We received a gem, - a priceless gift
0:41:08 > 0:41:16- # And our world is complete, - my little child
0:41:16 > 0:41:20- # And our world is complete
0:41:20 > 0:41:28- # My little child #
0:41:29 > 0:41:30- APPLAUSE
0:41:32 > 0:41:34- This gets the "hiraeth" going.
0:41:35 > 0:41:36- This is coming home.
0:41:37 > 0:41:39- This moves me beyond belief.
0:41:39 > 0:41:41- To see those pews full...
0:41:41 > 0:41:45- ..and you knew that's the way it was - 75 years ago and before...
0:41:46 > 0:41:48- ..whenever the ancestry came here.
0:41:48 > 0:41:50- And the beautiful music.
0:41:50 > 0:41:52- The comparison was...
0:41:52 > 0:41:58- It was just a great day to see all - the energy that was in this church.
0:41:59 > 0:42:05- # Who will be here - to repeat the song?
0:42:05 > 0:42:10- # Who will be here to accompany
0:42:10 > 0:42:16- # The old melodies - of our dear Wales?
0:42:17 > 0:42:22- # Who will be here - to recite the verses
0:42:22 > 0:42:28- # Of the poets of our time?
0:42:28 > 0:42:34- # Who will be here to compose
0:42:34 > 0:42:42- # In privilege, rite and honour #
0:42:42 > 0:42:47- We are here really to see Dafydd...
0:42:47 > 0:42:52- ..because he is related to me - through Margaret Edwards.
0:42:53 > 0:42:56- The fact that I've got one son here - is a big thing...
0:42:57 > 0:42:59- ..but the fact - that his children are here.
0:43:00 > 0:43:01- I hope this goes on.
0:43:01 > 0:43:04- The personal touch - will keep the bridge going.
0:43:05 > 0:43:09- This festival is like a Mecca - for its visitors.
0:43:09 > 0:43:12- This is the pilgrimage - that people make.
0:43:13 > 0:43:18- How many people in Wales - know that this festival even exists?
0:43:18 > 0:43:21- I doubt that many people - know about it.
0:43:21 > 0:43:24- Its future - lies in the hands of the young...
0:43:24 > 0:43:27- ..so I hope it continues.
0:43:27 > 0:43:33- # Who will be here - to preach the Gospel
0:43:34 > 0:43:39- # And tell the story - of Mary's Child? #
0:43:39 > 0:43:42- Look at the view behind us.
0:43:42 > 0:43:44- It's like being at home.
0:43:44 > 0:43:48- It must have been like - some kind of paradise in those days.
0:43:48 > 0:43:52- What's been the most memorable part - of this trip?
0:43:52 > 0:43:56- It's today, - without a shadow of a doubt.
0:43:56 > 0:43:58- But the moment I'll never forget...
0:43:59 > 0:44:03- ..is when we sang - Pwy Fydd Yma Mewn Can Mlynedd.
0:44:03 > 0:44:05- I struggled to sing that.
0:44:05 > 0:44:06- I struggled to sing that.- - Yes, me too.
0:44:07 > 0:44:09- I had to hold back the tears.
0:44:09 > 0:44:15- Yes, and the tears were flowing - amongst the audience too.
0:44:15 > 0:44:19- They are so welcoming - and we'll never forget it.
0:44:19 > 0:44:21- I'll never forget today.
0:44:21 > 0:44:28- # But the new friends of Jesus
0:44:28 > 0:44:32- # Will be here
0:44:32 > 0:44:39- # To share His story #
0:44:40 > 0:44:42- CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:44:51 > 0:44:53- Edwards!
0:44:59 > 0:45:03- I've reached the end - of my trip to Ohio.
0:45:03 > 0:45:05- There's no better place to end...
0:45:05 > 0:45:10- ..than in Gallipolis with the - Ohio River as our backdrop...
0:45:10 > 0:45:12- ..and Nel in my arms.
0:45:12 > 0:45:16- It's been quite a journey - and one that I'll never forget.
0:45:16 > 0:45:21- Numbers at the North American - Festival of Wales are dwindling...
0:45:21 > 0:45:25- ..but the enthusiasm - is as strong as ever...
0:45:25 > 0:45:28- ..in the hearts - of the Welsh people in Ohio.
0:45:28 > 0:45:30- # Hallelujah
0:45:30 > 0:45:33- # Hallelujah
0:45:33 > 0:45:35- # Hallelujah
0:45:35 > 0:45:37- # Hallelujah
0:45:37 > 0:45:41- # Hallelujah
0:45:41 > 0:45:46- # Hallelujah #
0:45:49 > 0:45:52- S4C Subtitles by Tinopolis