0:00:00 > 0:00:00- *
0:00:00 > 0:00:04- Adventurous Welsh people have - explored the world for centuries.
0:00:04 > 0:00:09- Many have chronicled their stories - in words, pictures and maps.
0:00:09 > 0:00:14- I'm researching their testimony - and following in their footsteps...
0:00:15 > 0:00:18- ..to the world's - most interesting places.
0:00:18 > 0:00:20- They explored remote areas...
0:00:20 > 0:00:24- ..not knowing - who or what they'd encounter.
0:00:24 > 0:00:27- This week, - an influential woman of her day...
0:00:27 > 0:00:29- ..on both sides of the Atlantic...
0:00:29 > 0:00:32- ..who has up to now - been more or less forgotten.
0:00:35 > 0:00:37- More than 150 years ago...
0:00:37 > 0:00:41- ..thousands of people - left Wales in search of freedom.
0:00:41 > 0:00:45- Political, economic - and religious freedom.
0:00:45 > 0:00:48- But for a woman - like Margaret Roberts...
0:00:48 > 0:00:52- ..leaving Wales was an opportunity - to have more freedom of thought.
0:00:52 > 0:00:56- Although she died in Hirwaun, - she became famous in America.
0:00:56 > 0:00:59- A formidable woman, - she challenged religious beliefs...
0:01:00 > 0:01:02- ..and provoked male counterparts.
0:01:02 > 0:01:05- Historian Bill Jones - has traced the history...
0:01:05 > 0:01:08- ..of Welsh immigrants in America...
0:01:08 > 0:01:12- ..the most intriguing of whom - was Margaret Roberts...
0:01:12 > 0:01:17- ..a writer, contentious lecturer - and early women's rights activist.
0:01:18 > 0:01:21- There's nothing to suggest - she was an exceptional woman.
0:01:22 > 0:01:24- No, the headstone is unremarkable...
0:01:25 > 0:01:29- ..although there's a remarkable - story to tell about her.
0:01:30 > 0:01:33- The big clue here is, - "Formerly from America".
0:01:33 > 0:01:38- Yes, this was someone who rose to - intellectual eminence in America...
0:01:38 > 0:01:43- ..although she has been forgotten - by the Welsh in America and at home.
0:01:46 > 0:01:49- Margaret Evans Roberts - was the daughter of a cobbler...
0:01:50 > 0:01:53- ..born in Cynghordy, - Carmarthenshire in 1833.
0:01:53 > 0:01:57- But she became famous - thousands of miles away.
0:01:57 > 0:02:00- Bill Jones - is one of the few who remember her.
0:02:01 > 0:02:03- Little is known about her life.
0:02:03 > 0:02:05- It's my goal to discover more...
0:02:06 > 0:02:09- ..by retracing her journey - to North America.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13- She and her husband - were among the thousands of Welsh...
0:02:13 > 0:02:16- ..who emigrated to America - in the 1850s.
0:02:16 > 0:02:19- Margaret Roberts - became influential...
0:02:19 > 0:02:23- ..in the Welsh communities - that were established there.
0:02:23 > 0:02:27- She seized opportunities that - would never have arisen in Wales.
0:02:28 > 0:02:32- She's one of the most interesting - figures who emigrated to America.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36- Although her experiences - are similar to those...
0:02:36 > 0:02:39- ..of other women who emigrated...
0:02:39 > 0:02:44- ..they are also unique in terms - of her beliefs about religion...
0:02:45 > 0:02:47- ..women's rights and so on.
0:02:47 > 0:02:51- Margaret Evans - had a poor upbringing.
0:02:51 > 0:02:56- The family couldn't afford to give - their children a formal education.
0:02:56 > 0:03:01- When she was 20, she married William - Roberts from nearby Rhandirmwyn.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05- They pair - saw their chance to travel.
0:03:05 > 0:03:08- Initially, - they kept a grocer's shop..
0:03:08 > 0:03:11- ..in one of the industrial - communities in Rhigos.
0:03:12 > 0:03:16- When the iron industry went into - decline, they, like many others...
0:03:16 > 0:03:19- ..went in search of a better life.
0:03:19 > 0:03:23- They caught the train to Liverpool - and headed to the docks.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34- Little remains - of Liverpool's docklands nowadays.
0:03:34 > 0:03:38- But 150 years ago, this was - the gateway to the Atlantic.
0:03:38 > 0:03:43- Over the years, approximately nine - million people have left this port.
0:03:44 > 0:03:47- They sailed up the Mersey - towards North America.
0:03:47 > 0:03:51- That would've included - tens of thousands of Welsh people.
0:03:51 > 0:03:53- Among them was Margaret Roberts.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57- William was first to set sail.
0:03:58 > 0:04:01- Margaret joined him weeks later - after sailing on her own.
0:04:02 > 0:04:04- She kept a journal - of the 20-day voyage.
0:04:05 > 0:04:09- Reached Londonderry at around 10 - o'clock and picked up passengers.
0:04:10 > 0:04:12- There are - around 300 of us altogether.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15- Most of them - are children of the Emerald Isle.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19- It's one of the most glorious days - I've ever seen.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23- Today we're sailing along - the St Lawrence River.
0:04:23 > 0:04:27- At 10 o'clock - we set foot in America...
0:04:27 > 0:04:29- ..all safe and well.
0:04:31 > 0:04:33- Upon reaching Coal Valley...
0:04:33 > 0:04:38- ..my uncle, along with the entire - family, were there to greet me.
0:04:38 > 0:04:40- William was attending a meeting...
0:04:40 > 0:04:43- ..but it didn't take long - to send for him.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47- When we were reunited, - the feeling was overwhelming.
0:04:49 > 0:04:52- Margaret and William - arrive in America in 1862...
0:04:53 > 0:04:55- ..at an exciting time in history...
0:04:55 > 0:04:58- ..during the Civil War - and civil rights battle.
0:04:58 > 0:05:01- The immigrants spread further west.
0:05:01 > 0:05:04- For white Europeans...
0:05:04 > 0:05:08- ..a new world was definitely - being created around them.
0:05:09 > 0:05:13- This is the first important place - for Margaret Roberts in America.
0:05:13 > 0:05:17- She and William headed to - the mining region of Illinois.
0:05:17 > 0:05:22- However, like many Welsh, they moved - to a more rural setting and farmed.
0:05:22 > 0:05:27- In the 1860s, many Welsh did the - same and came to Old Man's Creek.
0:05:27 > 0:05:29- It was a great adventure.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32- They arrived in wagons - and drove their livestock.
0:05:33 > 0:05:36- They chopped down trees - to make room for a simple dwelling.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39- It was their first home in Iowa.
0:05:39 > 0:05:44- Their faith and bravery in searching - for a better life was incredible.
0:05:52 > 0:05:54- During the 1860s...
0:05:54 > 0:05:58- ..more and more people - had emigrated to America from Wales.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02- This cemetery - could just as easily be in Wales.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06- It's full of familiar names. - There's even an occasional englyn.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10- Names of those - who came here to farm the land...
0:06:10 > 0:06:14- ..and found a Welsh community - in Old Man's Creek in Iowa.
0:06:14 > 0:06:16- Evidence from the period...
0:06:16 > 0:06:20- ..suggests that the Welsh - were like any other settlers...
0:06:20 > 0:06:23- ..who came from all over Europe.
0:06:23 > 0:06:27- They were proud of their language - and spoke it at home and in chapel.
0:06:30 > 0:06:32- In Margaret and William's day...
0:06:32 > 0:06:36- ..the members - of this chapel were all Welsh.
0:06:36 > 0:06:38- Times have changed, - but members today...
0:06:38 > 0:06:41- ..are proud of their Welsh roots...
0:06:41 > 0:06:43- ..and have fought - to keep the chapel going.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47- Mrs Margaret Hootman, who's 91...
0:06:47 > 0:06:51- ..remembers this chapel - when it was full on a Sunday...
0:06:51 > 0:06:54- ..and she remembers - cymanfaoedd canu.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57- When the cymanfa was on, - would the chapel be full?
0:06:58 > 0:07:01- Yes, oh, yes, - and they had to put chairs out here.
0:07:02 > 0:07:04- Of course, they had pot luck before.
0:07:04 > 0:07:09- People came from all over - the country for the cymanfa here.
0:07:09 > 0:07:14- Evans Roberts' name may not strike - a chord with today's members...
0:07:14 > 0:07:16- ..but Old Man's Creek chapel...
0:07:17 > 0:07:20- ..is central to her story - as it inspired great change.
0:07:21 > 0:07:24- She was a member - of this small church.
0:07:24 > 0:07:27- It provided her with inspiration.
0:07:27 > 0:07:31- And then Jesus responds by making...
0:07:32 > 0:07:36- ..an invidious comparison between - the behaviour of the woman...
0:07:36 > 0:07:39- ..and the behaviour of the Pharisee.
0:07:39 > 0:07:43- When Margaret and William - came here...
0:07:43 > 0:07:46- ..William Watkins was the minister.
0:07:46 > 0:07:48- He publicly announced...
0:07:48 > 0:07:53- ..that women should have the right - to preach from the pulpit.
0:07:53 > 0:07:57- That was Margaret's sentiment too. - The minister saw her potential.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00- He encouraged her - to put pen to paper.
0:08:01 > 0:08:03- We hunger to be accepted.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07- Watkins died - at a young age in 1878...
0:08:07 > 0:08:11- ..and left behind - a widow and 10 children.
0:08:11 > 0:08:15- The person who writes the eulogy - in Y Cenhadwr Americanaidd...
0:08:16 > 0:08:19- ..the Independents' - American publication...
0:08:19 > 0:08:21- ..is Margaret Roberts.
0:08:21 > 0:08:24- That didn't happen very often - in those days.
0:08:24 > 0:08:27- It might - never have happened in Wales.
0:08:28 > 0:08:32- Her first articles - appeared in 1875...
0:08:32 > 0:08:37- ..in two American newspapers - - Y Cenhadwr Americanaidd and Y Drych.
0:08:38 > 0:08:42- The first frequent topic - she discussed was women's rights.
0:08:43 > 0:08:46- It was in Old Man's Creek - that she began to flourish...
0:08:46 > 0:08:48- ..and challenge ideals.
0:08:48 > 0:08:53- Y Drych commented on women's rights - and I see it has upset the peace.
0:08:54 > 0:08:58- Whose peace? The devil's peace - and the preachers' peace.
0:08:58 > 0:09:01- She criticised some men - for being narrow-minded...
0:09:01 > 0:09:06- ..yet also criticised women - for not showing much initiative...
0:09:06 > 0:09:09- ..as she had done - in her new environment.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13- There's cause for concern - since many religious women...
0:09:13 > 0:09:15- ..believe that only men should pray.
0:09:16 > 0:09:20- In the chapel, - in the family and in secret.
0:09:20 > 0:09:22- I've so far found the chapel.
0:09:22 > 0:09:26- Now I need to find the land - which she and William farmed.
0:09:27 > 0:09:29- Like everyone else at the chapel...
0:09:29 > 0:09:33- ..I was warmly greeted - by Carolyn Smith...
0:09:33 > 0:09:36- ..who was willing - to help me in my search.
0:09:36 > 0:09:38- She and her husband found a map...
0:09:38 > 0:09:42- ..which indicated - the plots of land and their owners.
0:09:42 > 0:09:46- OK, so this is Union...
0:09:46 > 0:09:49- ..and Union starts right here.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52- And then you are two plots over...
0:09:52 > 0:09:56- So number 11, - and it'd be on this road here...
0:09:56 > 0:10:00- ..which corresponds - to this one here.
0:10:00 > 0:10:06- There's a Roberts there. There's one - very small plot owned by Roberts.
0:10:06 > 0:10:10- The next step was to follow - the grid shown on the map...
0:10:10 > 0:10:14- ..along dusty rural roads, - which is easier said than done.
0:10:14 > 0:10:18- But this was - a new country for the immigrants.
0:10:19 > 0:10:22- As this was the first time - for the land to be occupied...
0:10:23 > 0:10:25- ..there was - a detailed record of everything.
0:10:26 > 0:10:31- The plots of land are almost exactly - how they were back in the 1860s.
0:10:31 > 0:10:35- There's a long list - of the landowners over the years.
0:10:36 > 0:10:39- From speaking - to the land's current owner...
0:10:40 > 0:10:43- ..and from following - one particular map...
0:10:43 > 0:10:46- ..which shows - the square plots of land...
0:10:46 > 0:10:49- ..nothing much has changed.
0:10:49 > 0:10:55- I'm sure this was Margaret and - William Roberts' land 150 years ago.
0:10:55 > 0:10:59- Like other Welsh, it's possible - they were attracted to this area...
0:10:59 > 0:11:02- ..because it resembled rural Wales.
0:11:02 > 0:11:05- There were oak trees to chop down - and land to plough...
0:11:05 > 0:11:09- ..but there was also a neighbourhood - and the promise of a good harvest.
0:11:10 > 0:11:13- For women - in some of these new communities...
0:11:13 > 0:11:15- ..life could be lonely.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19- The men were at work while the women - were slaving away at home...
0:11:20 > 0:11:22- ..often not seeing anyone all day.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27- Iowa was a great place - to buy land and establish a farm.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31- The land was fertile and the process - of sowing and harvesting...
0:11:32 > 0:11:35- ..was a reflection - of Margaret Roberts' life.
0:11:36 > 0:11:40- Amid all the hard work, - she made time to read extensively...
0:11:40 > 0:11:42- ..to think for herself and to write.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45- She had many progressive ideas...
0:11:45 > 0:11:50- ..when it came to Native Americans - and the future of black people.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54- The American nation has evolved - on the back of other nations.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57- Does it retain what it acquired?
0:11:57 > 0:12:00- It has seized - most of the Indians' territory...
0:12:01 > 0:12:03- ..by starving them or killing them.
0:12:03 > 0:12:07- The black man was freed - by killing the white man.
0:12:07 > 0:12:11- Both parties were left - to poison and curse each other...
0:12:11 > 0:12:13- ..when they could, and should...
0:12:14 > 0:12:18- ..help the black people - to start fending for themselves.
0:12:18 > 0:12:21- She not only discussed - social topics.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25- A new world of a different kind - was opening up before her too.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28- She developed - a keen interest in science....
0:12:28 > 0:12:31- ..which was very unusual - for women at the time.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35- Moving to Old Man's Creek in America - had created a brand new world.
0:12:36 > 0:12:40- Even though the community - was familiar, homely and Welsh...
0:12:41 > 0:12:45- ..the opportunities were completely - different for Margaret Roberts.
0:12:46 > 0:12:50- The years she spent at Old Man's - Creek are integral to her story.
0:12:51 > 0:12:51- .
0:12:53 > 0:12:53- Subtitles
0:12:53 > 0:12:55- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:12:57 > 0:13:01- The next leg of Margaret - Evans Roberts' journey and mine.
0:13:01 > 0:13:06- She and husband William had settled - in a Welsh community in rural Iowa.
0:13:06 > 0:13:10- The pair were among tens - of thousands of Welsh immigrants.
0:13:11 > 0:13:12- It was a new life.
0:13:13 > 0:13:16- Both started farming - and she seized the opportunity...
0:13:16 > 0:13:19- ..to write newspaper articles.
0:13:19 > 0:13:23- 10 years of farming - led to William's ill health.
0:13:23 > 0:13:25- Their lives changed once again.
0:13:26 > 0:13:30- In 1878, they were forced to leave - the farm and moved to Iowa City...
0:13:30 > 0:13:33- ..where they lived - on Capitol Street.
0:13:33 > 0:13:38- Once again, it was my aim - to retrace their journey.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41- There are - few historical reminders...
0:13:41 > 0:13:43- ..in a city such as this.
0:13:43 > 0:13:46- History - is a new thing for Americans.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- All I've seen - are a few houses and chapels...
0:13:49 > 0:13:52- ..as well as - this important building behind me.
0:13:52 > 0:13:55- It's the Iowan government's - former building...
0:13:56 > 0:14:00- ..which stood here long before - Margaret Roberts reached the city.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03- It's situated - close to Iowa University...
0:14:03 > 0:14:05- ..which was significant - in her story.
0:14:07 > 0:14:11- The University of Iowa City - was the first in America...
0:14:11 > 0:14:16- ..to open its doors to females, - 30 years before Wales followed suit.
0:14:16 > 0:14:18- Margaret Roberts - was one of the first.
0:14:19 > 0:14:22- She studied women's rights, - astronomy and geology.
0:14:24 > 0:14:28- In America, the woman received - more education and respect...
0:14:29 > 0:14:33- ..and developed more of an identity - in this country than any other.
0:14:34 > 0:14:38- In terms of education, Evans Roberts - was writing from experience.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42- For the first time, - it gave Margaret a chance...
0:14:43 > 0:14:47- ..to attend university lectures - and mix with likeminded people...
0:14:48 > 0:14:51- ..who had an interest - in science and religion.
0:14:51 > 0:14:55- She knew - that educating women was crucial.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58- For them - and for society in general.
0:14:58 > 0:15:03- Thousands wholeheartedly believe - that they are serving God...
0:15:03 > 0:15:07- ..by closing college doors - to the female race.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11- There is nothing strange in that. - It is completely humane.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15- Let us Welsh females do our part.
0:15:15 > 0:15:19- Our plight will give us strength - so that we may benefit and thrive.
0:15:19 > 0:15:21- According to Bill Jones...
0:15:22 > 0:15:26- ..William Roberts had - a tailoring business in Iowa City.
0:15:26 > 0:15:30- But very little is known about - Margaret Roberts' personal life.
0:15:31 > 0:15:33- I head to the archives.
0:15:33 > 0:15:38- Iowa City Directories for 1878 and - 1879, the Roberts aren't listed.
0:15:39 > 0:15:42- It's unlikely that any building - they lived or worked in...
0:15:42 > 0:15:44- ..would still be standing.
0:15:45 > 0:15:50- You know, it's so hard - to find the ordinary people.
0:15:50 > 0:15:52- Yes. Yes.
0:15:52 > 0:15:56- By coincidence, the editor - of a local history journal...
0:15:56 > 0:16:01- ..was very willing to help, but - though she trawled through files...
0:16:01 > 0:16:04- ..there was no record - of Margaret or William.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08- Her life outside - the Welsh community was a mystery.
0:16:10 > 0:16:15- During the 1880s, Margaret went from - being a curious farmer's wife...
0:16:15 > 0:16:19- ..to a prolific writer - and a popular lecturer...
0:16:19 > 0:16:23- ..lecturing on intellectual matters - such as Darwinism...
0:16:23 > 0:16:27- ..and the latest discoveries - in the nature of creation.
0:16:27 > 0:16:30- Upon reaching Iowa City...
0:16:31 > 0:16:33- ..Margaret Roberts made her mark.
0:16:33 > 0:16:36- Welsh publication - Y Goleuad commented...
0:16:36 > 0:16:39- .."This lecturer's different.
0:16:39 > 0:16:43- "She discusses male topics - that are difficult to tackle."
0:16:43 > 0:16:47- Margaret also divided opinion - and provoked conventional men.
0:16:47 > 0:16:51- One man suggested she give up - discussing current affairs...
0:16:51 > 0:16:54- ..and teach other women - to make tasty food...
0:16:54 > 0:16:58- ..instead of trying to wear - the trousers and petticoat.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00- Lecture tours paid well...
0:17:00 > 0:17:04- ..and helped in finding a doctor - to cure William's ill health.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10- Much of Margaret Roberts' popularity - stems from her articles...
0:17:10 > 0:17:13- ..in one publication in particular - - Y Drych.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17- This is how it is possible - to follow her work.
0:17:18 > 0:17:23- My next step - is to learn more about Y Drych.
0:17:23 > 0:17:29- I begin in New York, in whose port - most of the Welsh immigrants landed.
0:17:29 > 0:17:31- They were Y Drych's readership.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37- Most communities - have their own newspapers...
0:17:38 > 0:17:41- ..filled with news - and immigration information.
0:17:41 > 0:17:46- Some ethnic communities in New York - sill have their own newspapers.
0:17:46 > 0:17:50- This is precisely how it was - for Welsh-speaking immigrants.
0:17:50 > 0:17:52- It was here in New York...
0:17:52 > 0:17:56- ..that Y Drych was first founded - to serve the immigrants.
0:17:56 > 0:18:00- It became a community newspaper - for an entire country.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04- So many Welsh people - had migrated to North America...
0:18:04 > 0:18:07- ..that a Welshman - named Thomas J Griffiths...
0:18:07 > 0:18:11- ..seized the opportunity - to print a Welsh-medium newspaper.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13- Y Drych's story...
0:18:13 > 0:18:18- ..is interlinked with the rise - and fall of the Welsh communities.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22- In those days, - New York was a hive of activity...
0:18:23 > 0:18:26- ..with hundreds of thousands - of incomers arriving every year.
0:18:27 > 0:18:30- This is one of the famous - tenement buildings built in 1863...
0:18:31 > 0:18:34- ..a year after Margaret and William - arrived in America.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38- It was a house for incomers - with as many as 170 living here...
0:18:39 > 0:18:42- ..situated in an area - where Y Drych was founded.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45- It has since become - the Tenement Museum.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48- This flat housed an Irish family...
0:18:48 > 0:18:53- ..similar to the ones Margaret - would've encountered on the ship.
0:18:53 > 0:18:56- The Moores lived here - for one year in 1869.
0:18:57 > 0:19:01- Joseph and Bridget Moore and their - daughters Mary, Jane and Agnes.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06- Mass immigration lasted decades.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09- Millions and millions - landed in a different world.
0:19:09 > 0:19:16- Television and film - have familiarized us with America.
0:19:16 > 0:19:20- People in Margaret Roberts' era - read about America...
0:19:20 > 0:19:24- ..and solely relied on reports - in newspapers like Y Drych.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28- It was predominantly aimed - at new immigrants.
0:19:28 > 0:19:32- It's not difficult to imagine - a Welsh family coming here...
0:19:32 > 0:19:35- ..and recreating - their old home in a new place.
0:19:42 > 0:19:47- This was the Welsh-speaking - readership who yearned for Y Drych.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- It begins in 1851, - which is relatively early...
0:19:51 > 0:19:53- ..in the Bowery in New York.
0:19:53 > 0:19:55- It's urban and Welsh.
0:19:55 > 0:19:59- In the newspaper - were tips on how to travel...
0:20:00 > 0:20:05- ..how to go through the immigration - process and how to find work.
0:20:06 > 0:20:10- Y Drych is very good in one way - because it educated people...
0:20:10 > 0:20:12- ..on how to be Americans.
0:20:13 > 0:20:16- There was no Welsh consul - waiting for them...
0:20:17 > 0:20:20- ..but Y Drych served a purpose.
0:20:20 > 0:20:24- It was a handbook on how - to be a Welsh person in America.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28- It also raised - an awareness in Wales...
0:20:28 > 0:20:32- ..of the opportunities - open to Welsh people...
0:20:32 > 0:20:37- ..be they farmers, - coalminers, steelworkers and so on.
0:20:37 > 0:20:41- They could transfer their skills - to a different economy.
0:20:42 > 0:20:47- Y Drych was also a way of keeping in - touch with loved ones back in Wales.
0:20:47 > 0:20:49- An early-day Facebook, if you like.
0:20:49 > 0:20:52- Some requests were heart-breaking.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56- Jonah Daniel, - Mr Mary Daniel's son, Tredegar...
0:20:56 > 0:21:00- ..who emigrated to - the western states many years ago...
0:21:00 > 0:21:03- ..and who's never written - to his family.
0:21:03 > 0:21:07- His mother would be grateful - to hear about his adventure.
0:21:08 > 0:21:10- In Margaret Roberts' time...
0:21:10 > 0:21:15- ..this was one of the most important - Welsh newspapers in the world.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18- It not only included news - of the Welsh in America...
0:21:19 > 0:21:23- ..but also the Welsh back in the - homeland, Australia, Patagonia...
0:21:24 > 0:21:26- ..and many other places.
0:21:26 > 0:21:30- This was a contemporary CNN - for the Welsh in America...
0:21:31 > 0:21:33- ..at the end of the 19th century.
0:21:34 > 0:21:39- Although Y Drych was an American - paper, people in Wales knew of it.
0:21:39 > 0:21:41- Welsh newspapers such as Y Faner...
0:21:42 > 0:21:47- ..widely quoted from its columns - about America and the Welsh abroad.
0:21:47 > 0:21:51- It was their way - of receiving foreign news locally.
0:21:51 > 0:21:53- It served as a news agency.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55- They were interlinked.
0:21:55 > 0:21:59- All these messages, - letters and news...
0:21:59 > 0:22:02- ..combined to create - an image of the Welsh...
0:22:03 > 0:22:07- ..that was international - more - international than it is today.
0:22:08 > 0:22:12- The newspaper enjoyed a golden era - in Margaret Roberts' day...
0:22:12 > 0:22:15- ..at the height - of mass emigration to America.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17- It had a circulation of 20,000...
0:22:18 > 0:22:22- ..with its contributors travelling - the length and breadth of the US.
0:22:23 > 0:22:26- This was - a platform for Margaret's ideas...
0:22:26 > 0:22:28- ..and the basis of her fame.
0:22:28 > 0:22:32- But her travelling wasn't over - - she and William moved again...
0:22:32 > 0:22:35- ..to a new - and prosperous area for the Welsh.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38- Scranton, Pennsylvania.
0:22:46 > 0:22:47- .
0:22:50 > 0:22:50- Subtitles
0:22:50 > 0:22:52- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:22:53 > 0:22:57- After a brief period, Margaret - and William Roberts left Iowa City.
0:22:57 > 0:23:01- She took with her her knowledge - of geology, astronomy...
0:23:01 > 0:23:06- ..and women's rights and headed - to Scranton in Pennsylvania...
0:23:06 > 0:23:08- ..a stronghold of Welsh culture.
0:23:09 > 0:23:13- Travelling to Pennsylvania - is straightforward nowadays...
0:23:13 > 0:23:18- ..but when Margaret and William - Roberts came in the 1880s...
0:23:18 > 0:23:20- ..it would've been - an arduous journey.
0:23:21 > 0:23:24- Their world - was about to change once again.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27- They were heading to an area - populated by Welsh speakers.
0:23:28 > 0:23:32- She was able to put into practice - the skills she had honed in Iowa.
0:23:33 > 0:23:35- She began the work - that made her famous.
0:23:36 > 0:23:38- Writing for Y Drych newspaper.
0:23:39 > 0:23:42- By the end of the 19th century...
0:23:42 > 0:23:45- ..the number of Welsh in America - was at its peak.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48- People who were born in Wales - lived in every state.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52- One in seven - lived in northeast Pennsylvania...
0:23:52 > 0:23:56- ..in Scranton - and neighbouring industrial areas.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03- When Margaret and William - arrived in 1881...
0:24:03 > 0:24:07- ..Scranton was one of America's - industrial powerhouses...
0:24:07 > 0:24:10- ..where skilled workers - were rewarded.
0:24:10 > 0:24:15- The Welsh community prospered - and the city prospered as a result.
0:24:16 > 0:24:21- If Iowa felt familiar, Margaret - Roberts would've been at home here.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25- Scranton and Pennsylvania - were at the heart...
0:24:25 > 0:24:28- ..of the industrial revolution - in North America.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31- The landscape is similar to Wales.
0:24:31 > 0:24:36- The industries were exactly the same - - iron, coal, anthracite and steel.
0:24:36 > 0:24:40- The city of Scranton - was created by two brothers.
0:24:40 > 0:24:43- Seldon and George Scranton.
0:24:43 > 0:24:46- They built - the iron furnaces 170 years ago.
0:24:48 > 0:24:52- They started producing iron - for a rail network...
0:24:52 > 0:24:55- ..at a time - when rail travel was at its peak.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58- In addition to the coal, - iron and steel...
0:24:58 > 0:25:03- ..Scranton became an influential - town for the railways too.
0:25:03 > 0:25:06- Scranton's two main industries, - iron and coal...
0:25:07 > 0:25:09- ..attracted immigrants from Wales.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14- Their expertise meant - that they managed other workers...
0:25:14 > 0:25:16- ..and received better wages.
0:25:16 > 0:25:20- As has always been the case - with immigration...
0:25:20 > 0:25:25- ..some would settle and then - family and friends followed.
0:25:25 > 0:25:28- It provided - economic and social opportunities.
0:25:29 > 0:25:34- That's why Scranton became - the capital of the Welsh in America.
0:25:34 > 0:25:38- Records show that half of Scranton's - population were born overseas.
0:25:38 > 0:25:42- The Welsh were the second - largest group of immigrants.
0:25:43 > 0:25:48- It's easy for us to forget the - importance of newspapers years ago.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52- It was the only medium - that reached a wide audience...
0:25:53 > 0:25:55- ..to educate and share knowledge.
0:25:55 > 0:25:59- For the Welsh, Y Drych - was the principal newspaper.
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- It begins to create an awareness - among the Welsh...
0:26:02 > 0:26:07- ..that it's possible to be Welsh - without being British...
0:26:07 > 0:26:13- ..and that it's possible to be Welsh - within a totally different republic.
0:26:13 > 0:26:18- That becomes a strong element - in Y Drych as the years go by.
0:26:18 > 0:26:23- It's possible to be Welsh outside - of Wales and the British Empire.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26- The newspaper's purpose...
0:26:26 > 0:26:31- ..was to also define an identity - for the Welsh in America.
0:26:31 > 0:26:35- How to be Welsh and American - at the same time.
0:26:35 > 0:26:37- By comparison...
0:26:37 > 0:26:41- ..it emphasised how good life was - for Welsh people in America.
0:26:43 > 0:26:47- The Hyde Park area of Scranton - was where the Welsh lived.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50- It was called - the Welsh Athens of America.
0:26:50 > 0:26:53- 50 poets lived here - and it was a hive of literary...
0:26:53 > 0:26:57- ..religious and cultural activity.
0:26:57 > 0:27:01- It's little wonder that William - and Margaret moved to Hyde Park.
0:27:01 > 0:27:05- Being a Welsh person in the - New World meant a voice for women.
0:27:05 > 0:27:09- Adventurous people emigrated - and embraced change.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13- Although many traditional customs - emigrated with the Welsh...
0:27:13 > 0:27:17- ..it was a chance for - Margaret Roberts to voice opinion...
0:27:17 > 0:27:19- ..more than ever before.
0:27:20 > 0:27:25- Some regarded their wives - as inferior beings...
0:27:25 > 0:27:27- ..and treated them accordingly.
0:27:28 > 0:27:31- Within the family, - they weren't master and mistress...
0:27:32 > 0:27:34- ..but rather master and maid.
0:27:35 > 0:27:38- In America, like in Wales today...
0:27:38 > 0:27:42- ..newspapers must battle - against new modes of communication.
0:27:42 > 0:27:46- But in Margaret Roberts' era, - they were the internet of the day.
0:27:47 > 0:27:50- An ever-growing medium - that discussed new ideas.
0:27:50 > 0:27:53- Public lectures soon followed.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56- Contentious issues - attracted audiences.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59- Margaret Roberts - wrote and lectured...
0:27:59 > 0:28:01- ..and was a progressive thinker.
0:28:04 > 0:28:09- She could challenge the old notion - of a woman's role in society...
0:28:09 > 0:28:12- ..and even in politics.
0:28:12 > 0:28:14- No woman in this country...
0:28:15 > 0:28:18- ..is responsible - for the country's legal failings...
0:28:18 > 0:28:23- ..because she is forbidden - to voice her opinion about any laws.
0:28:23 > 0:28:26- Roberts was the second woman ever...
0:28:26 > 0:28:30- ..to stand for public election - in Scranton in favour of temperance.
0:28:30 > 0:28:34- She likened alcohol abuse to an - open well in which children drowned.
0:28:34 > 0:28:40- Imagine being in a town where - the well is completely exposed...
0:28:41 > 0:28:45- ..without a dam surrounding it - and one child in every five...
0:28:45 > 0:28:48- ..falls into it and drowns.
0:28:48 > 0:28:53- How much persuading - would the townspeople need...
0:28:53 > 0:28:56- ..to do something with the well?
0:28:56 > 0:29:01- She was an advocate - of the temperance movement.
0:29:01 > 0:29:05- Perhaps - that's no surprise to us in Wales...
0:29:05 > 0:29:08- ..because the temperance movement...
0:29:08 > 0:29:11- ..was a way for women - to rise to public prominence.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16- She joins the WCTU, the Women's - Christian Temperance Union...
0:29:16 > 0:29:19- ..a year after its founding...
0:29:19 > 0:29:23- ..and 30 years later she writes - the history of the WCTU in Welsh.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27- By 1883, Margaret - was a very popular writer...
0:29:27 > 0:29:33- ..and lecturer in America but she - and William returned to Wales...
0:29:33 > 0:29:38- ..so that she could lecture - and William's health could improve.
0:29:38 > 0:29:41- With her new-found confidence, - she spoke out...
0:29:42 > 0:29:45- ..about the effects of alcohol - on Wales' industrial communities.
0:29:46 > 0:29:48- She wrote a contentious article...
0:29:49 > 0:29:54- ..entitled Uncivilised Christian - Wales, in which she claimed...
0:29:54 > 0:29:56- Thousands - of Welsh mothers are drunks.
0:29:57 > 0:30:01- She believes it's no surprise - since Wales' Christians ignore them.
0:30:01 > 0:30:06- Wales' churches care very little - about the lower classes.
0:30:06 > 0:30:11- It's a stark article in which she - challenges the respectable Welsh.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14- The Welsh - feel for the world's pagans...
0:30:14 > 0:30:18- ..and contribute - by sending the gospel to them...
0:30:18 > 0:30:21- ..when thousands - of their countrymen are far worse.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24- She opened a can of worms.
0:30:24 > 0:30:28- Mr Thomas claimed in Y Drych that - it was the most disgusting thing...
0:30:28 > 0:30:31- ..ever to appear - in a Welsh newspaper.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34- Margaret is equally as harsh - with her reply.
0:30:34 > 0:30:38- I do not think you are worth - raising a penny mallet against.
0:30:39 > 0:30:42- And then silence.
0:30:42 > 0:30:45- After this argument, - she withdrew for a few years.
0:30:46 > 0:30:47- She wrote to Y Drych in 1884...
0:30:48 > 0:30:51- ..saying that she did not - want to argue this case any more.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54- She wrote one article - the following year...
0:30:54 > 0:30:57- ..and then nothing for three years.
0:30:57 > 0:31:00- It's a mystery - that's yet to be solved.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03- Was she sulking or was - William's health deteriorating?
0:31:04 > 0:31:08- I was hoping to find some of - the answers at Scranton's archives.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11- Hello, sir. Welcome. Come on in.
0:31:11 > 0:31:13- Any luck?
0:31:13 > 0:31:16- These are the city directories.
0:31:16 > 0:31:20- America's houses and shops - are listed in directories.
0:31:20 > 0:31:24- I hope to at least find - where she lived.
0:31:27 > 0:31:31- That must be him - because he used to be a tailor.
0:31:31 > 0:31:35- Having seen a reference - to William Roberts' shop...
0:31:35 > 0:31:38- ..I can check the map - to see where they used to live...
0:31:39 > 0:31:41- ..and get a feel - for their life there.
0:31:43 > 0:31:49- This is an atlas map of Scranton - that was published in 1888.
0:31:49 > 0:31:51- Here's Sumner.
0:31:52 > 0:31:56- Roberts. He's right there. - That would've been his house.
0:31:56 > 0:31:58- And he owns that.
0:31:58 > 0:32:00- And he owns that.- - Yes, he would've been the landowner.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04- Businesses thrived in Scranton.
0:32:04 > 0:32:07- This was Electric City.
0:32:07 > 0:32:11- The first place in America - to have an electric tram system...
0:32:11 > 0:32:14- ..which was developed - during Margaret's time.
0:32:16 > 0:32:19- It was worth coming. - We've found some new facts.
0:32:19 > 0:32:24- Nothing major but a little more - about William and Margaret's life.
0:32:24 > 0:32:28- We were expecting to see they'd - come here to run a shoe shop...
0:32:28 > 0:32:30- ..but we found that initially...
0:32:30 > 0:32:35- ..William Roberts carried on working - as a tailor, as he was in Iowa.
0:32:35 > 0:32:39- So the suggestion is - that he perhaps became more ill...
0:32:39 > 0:32:42- ..and that they - opened the store later.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45- They kept the shoe shop - for five or six years.
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- It matches the time - when Margaret says...
0:32:48 > 0:32:52- ..that she's put an end to her - writing because she's too busy.
0:32:52 > 0:32:56- So this has explained - some of her history...
0:32:56 > 0:32:59- ..and explained - why there was a gap...
0:32:59 > 0:33:02- ..and her precise movements - around Scranton.
0:33:03 > 0:33:07- These are the streets that were - familiar to William and Margaret.
0:33:07 > 0:33:11- They would've - walked around this corner.
0:33:11 > 0:33:14- I'm able to see - where their shop was situated.
0:33:14 > 0:33:19- The likeness to the industrial - valleys of South Wales continues.
0:33:19 > 0:33:21- Scranton - has also suffered economically.
0:33:22 > 0:33:26- The light of the pioneering - Electric City has long faded.
0:33:26 > 0:33:31- The prosperity of Margaret Evans - Roberts' day is a distant memory.
0:33:37 > 0:33:37- .
0:33:40 > 0:33:40- Subtitles
0:33:40 > 0:33:42- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:33:44 > 0:33:48- At one time, Welsh was - the predominant language spoken...
0:33:49 > 0:33:52- ..on the streets and in the chapels - of Hyde Park, Scranton.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56- The chapel was - the backbone of the Welsh community.
0:33:57 > 0:33:59- The Welsh - built seven chapels in Scranton.
0:34:00 > 0:34:02- Three were close together - in Hyde Park...
0:34:03 > 0:34:08- ..each seating 800, with several - Welsh services held on a Sunday.
0:34:09 > 0:34:11- But religion - and the Welsh language weakened.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15- The three chapels merged - and became the Trinity.
0:34:15 > 0:34:17- The language turned to English.
0:34:17 > 0:34:19- Since no-one understands Welsh...
0:34:20 > 0:34:23- ..the records - contain secrets and scandals.
0:34:26 > 0:34:29- This is starting to turn into - a bit of a detective story.
0:34:29 > 0:34:35- We have some additional information - about William Roberts and Margaret.
0:34:35 > 0:34:39- This is a record of the very first - Congregational chapel.
0:34:39 > 0:34:44- Their names appear in here - and it's typical of record books...
0:34:44 > 0:34:46- ..of any chapel during this time.
0:34:47 > 0:34:51- There's talk of people being banned - because they're drunk...
0:34:51 > 0:34:56- ..or that their lives are - too unworthy to be church members.
0:34:56 > 0:34:59- This is - an absolutely typical record...
0:34:59 > 0:35:02- ..of the first - Congregational chapel.
0:35:03 > 0:35:06- "Our warmest gratitude - to Mrs Margaret Roberts...
0:35:06 > 0:35:12- "..for her service in preparing free - non-alcoholic wine for communion."
0:35:12 > 0:35:16- Margaret Roberts provides - alcohol-free wine to the chapel.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19- It makes you wonder - what they drank before that.
0:35:21 > 0:35:24- Two current members - of the Welsh chapel...
0:35:25 > 0:35:28- ..are Catherine Hammerman - and Kitty Purosky.
0:35:28 > 0:35:32- Catherine was born in Scranton. Her - father was a miner from South Wales.
0:35:33 > 0:35:36- Her family - came in search of a better life.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39- He worked down the mines, did he?
0:35:39 > 0:35:43- He worked in the mines - until there was a cave-in.
0:35:43 > 0:35:46- He was the only one of four...
0:35:46 > 0:35:50- ..that survived.
0:35:50 > 0:35:55- The father was also a famous singer. - His name was John T Jones.
0:35:55 > 0:36:00- His daughter loved hearing him sing - on a record from the 1920s.
0:36:00 > 0:36:03- # Oh, if it were summer - all year around #
0:36:03 > 0:36:07- Welsh mementos, - along with some of her customs...
0:36:07 > 0:36:11- ..are indicative of - her Welsh upbringing in Hyde Park.
0:36:15 > 0:36:17- Do you still make Welsh cakes?
0:36:17 > 0:36:20- Oh, indeed, yes. - We make them at the church.
0:36:21 > 0:36:23- 500 dozen at a time, right?
0:36:23 > 0:36:25- And she has the biggest order.
0:36:25 > 0:36:29- Kitty Purosky - is a GI wife from Port Talbot...
0:36:29 > 0:36:32- ..and a school friend - of Richard Burton.
0:36:32 > 0:36:37- She emigrated here after WWII. - She longs for more Welsh culture.
0:36:38 > 0:36:42- Everything has become Americanised - with praise and worship songs.
0:36:42 > 0:36:45- We very seldom hear - the Welsh hymns now.
0:36:46 > 0:36:50- We have to ask them, "Please - let's have some Welsh hymns."
0:36:52 > 0:36:56- Welsh ladies remembering - the good old days of Hyde Park.
0:36:56 > 0:36:58- A close-knit, industrial area.
0:36:58 > 0:37:03- Some memories are akin to people's - memories of the South Wales valleys.
0:37:11 > 0:37:15- In the coal museum - are plenty of Welsh names and faces.
0:37:16 > 0:37:20- Faces of Welsh miners - who came here to use their skills.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22- They usually had influential jobs.
0:37:23 > 0:37:26- They also earned the reputation - for being strong unionists.
0:37:26 > 0:37:29- They were - an important part of the strike...
0:37:29 > 0:37:32- ..that changed the history - of unionism in America.
0:37:33 > 0:37:36- The 1902 Strike - was long and bitter...
0:37:36 > 0:37:38- ..but the miners won.
0:37:39 > 0:37:43- They won the right to a nine-hour - working day and 10% more pay.
0:37:43 > 0:37:47- Margaret Roberts - sympathised with their hardships.
0:37:47 > 0:37:53- The poor miner - - his lungs will be full of dust...
0:37:53 > 0:37:56- ..and his blood poisoned - by the smoke and lack of sunlight.
0:37:57 > 0:38:00- Though he's in his prime, - an early grave awaits him.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04- Her roots and her ideas - about social equality...
0:38:04 > 0:38:08- ..were behind her articles - in support of the strike.
0:38:08 > 0:38:11- No other class of people - in the country...
0:38:11 > 0:38:15- ..has been oppressed - as much as coalminers.
0:38:15 > 0:38:20- How is it possible that half a dozen - of the country's officials...
0:38:20 > 0:38:24- ..condone a practice that accounts - for the death of thousands?
0:38:26 > 0:38:31- That half a dozen refers to - the handful of wealthy mine owners.
0:38:31 > 0:38:35- She's somewhat disappointed - by the free New World.
0:38:35 > 0:38:40- Are innocent ordinary folk - safe in such a country?
0:38:40 > 0:38:43- Is this what - a republican government stands for?
0:38:50 > 0:38:54- Mining resumed but the Welsh - way of life was in decline.
0:38:54 > 0:38:58- Eastern European workers were - willing to work for lower wages.
0:38:59 > 0:39:03- The golden age of Welsh speakers - in Scranton was coming to an end.
0:39:03 > 0:39:07- But one place serves as a reminder - of a time when Welsh was thriving.
0:39:10 > 0:39:15- A small, sad headstone like this - is steeped in history.
0:39:15 > 0:39:20- Firstly, it's in the middle of - a huge graveyard of Welsh names...
0:39:20 > 0:39:25- ..which goes to show how many had - moved from South Wales to Scranton.
0:39:25 > 0:39:28- But there's more to it than that.
0:39:28 > 0:39:31- According to the date - 6 September 1869...
0:39:31 > 0:39:35- ..this was one of the men - killed in the Avondale disaster.
0:39:35 > 0:39:39- The greatest disaster in the history - of Pennsylvania's coalfields.
0:39:39 > 0:39:42- 108 men and boys died, - 69 of whom were Welsh.
0:39:43 > 0:39:48- This headstone - is a small part of a big cemetery...
0:39:48 > 0:39:52- ..in the United States and - a small part of Wales' history too.
0:40:04 > 0:40:07- This is the house on Sumner Avenue - where they both lived.
0:40:07 > 0:40:12- In 1903, Margaret suffered a - huge blow when William passed away.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15- He died, leaving her very lonely.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18- Despite his ill health...
0:40:18 > 0:40:23- ..they had been a close, supportive - married couple for 50 years.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26- She had lost her biggest supporter.
0:40:27 > 0:40:31- The loss brought about - a period of uncertainty.
0:40:31 > 0:40:36- Although they were childless, - she had many relatives in the US.
0:40:36 > 0:40:39- She began to move - from one home to another.
0:40:40 > 0:40:44- Mrs Roberts, under consideration - of a widow's loneliness...
0:40:44 > 0:40:49- ..left Scranton for a season - and returned to Iowa City...
0:40:49 > 0:40:52- ..to settle with Isaac Evans, - her sister's son.
0:40:53 > 0:40:57- She also lived for a while with - her brother and his family in Iowa.
0:40:57 > 0:41:01- At the time of the 1904-05 Revival, - she returned to Wales for a while.
0:41:01 > 0:41:03- She was - without an anchor in her life.
0:41:04 > 0:41:06- When she returned - to Scranton in 1906...
0:41:07 > 0:41:10- ..and the church where - she and William had been active...
0:41:10 > 0:41:13- ..it was clear - that things had changed.
0:41:14 > 0:41:18- Records suggest - there'd been a disagreement.
0:41:18 > 0:41:23- The chapel was divided, so Margaret - decided to attend another chapel...
0:41:23 > 0:41:27- ..that was more evangelical - in nature and English in language.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30- The desire - to retain the new generation...
0:41:31 > 0:41:35- ..was stronger than the desire - to retain the Welsh language.
0:41:36 > 0:41:40- Margaret's move was a sign of things - to come for the Welsh in Scranton.
0:41:41 > 0:41:43- We've known for some time...
0:41:43 > 0:41:47- ..that the Welsh - integrated into American society...
0:41:47 > 0:41:52- ..quicker than other minority groups - who emigrated from Europe.
0:41:54 > 0:41:56- In places like Scranton...
0:41:57 > 0:42:00- ..the language was changing, - and to some extent...
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- ..the Welsh chapels - were turning to English.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06- That's not to say - they didn't still feel Welsh.
0:42:06 > 0:42:11- An American Welshness was created - but they spoke English.
0:42:11 > 0:42:15- But there remains an awareness - of a connection with Wales.
0:42:15 > 0:42:19- It was still powerful - for some of them, at least...
0:42:19 > 0:42:23- ..throughout the 20th century - until present day.
0:42:26 > 0:42:31- This group of Welsh Society members - are aware of their heritage.
0:42:32 > 0:42:35- The first time I went to Wales, - I felt like I was home.
0:42:36 > 0:42:38- Most people of Welsh descent - in Scranton....
0:42:38 > 0:42:40- ..are unaware of their heritage.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45- Doreen is a former teacher and - has taught many Welsh descendants.
0:42:45 > 0:42:48- Their history has been forgotten.
0:42:48 > 0:42:52- I could say to other kids, - "What a nice Welsh name."
0:42:52 > 0:42:54- They had no idea they were Welsh.
0:42:54 > 0:42:55- It could be Evans, Thomas, Pugh.
0:42:55 > 0:42:58- It could be Evans, Thomas, Pugh.- - That's the biggest challenge.
0:42:58 > 0:43:03- A lot of the younger generation - don't even know what Wales is.
0:43:07 > 0:43:12- Margaret Evans Roberts witnessed the - golden age of the Welsh in Scranton.
0:43:12 > 0:43:16- It was a community that Beth, Bert - and Doreen had heard so much about.
0:43:17 > 0:43:21- But since the community has gone, - the memory of Margaret has gone too.
0:43:22 > 0:43:26- She was in Scranton when there were - new opportunities for the Welsh...
0:43:26 > 0:43:29- ..and they readily seized - every one of them.
0:43:31 > 0:43:34- America gave her in her forties...
0:43:34 > 0:43:38- ..and we must remember - she was in her forties...
0:43:38 > 0:43:45- ..the opportunity to go from being - a farmer's wife to a public figure.
0:43:47 > 0:43:52- In the end, Margaret Roberts went - back to Wales after William's death.
0:43:52 > 0:43:54- By the time of the 1911 Census...
0:43:54 > 0:43:58- ..she was listed as a border - in a house back in Hirwaun...
0:43:58 > 0:44:00- ..where her journey began.
0:44:00 > 0:44:05- We don't know if she was related - to the homeowner or just a lodger.
0:44:08 > 0:44:12- She only wrote one article - after her return to Wales.
0:44:12 > 0:44:14- It was a very sad letter...
0:44:14 > 0:44:17- ..that she wrote in February 1911.
0:44:17 > 0:44:22- She writes that she is losing her - sight and medics have advised her...
0:44:22 > 0:44:25- ..not to read or write - because it damages the eyes.
0:44:26 > 0:44:28- She'd lost - her means of communication...
0:44:28 > 0:44:31- ..that had brought her - so much pleasure.
0:44:31 > 0:44:34- The final sentence - is heart-breaking.
0:44:34 > 0:44:37- I have died - but have not been buried.
0:44:42 > 0:44:44- This is one of the things...
0:44:44 > 0:44:47- ..that saddens me about her.
0:44:47 > 0:44:51- She's completely forgotten today...
0:44:51 > 0:44:54- ..but at the time, - she was very well known.
0:44:54 > 0:44:57- She was also very influential.
0:44:59 > 0:45:03- She lived for another 10 years - after going blind.
0:45:03 > 0:45:07- She survived the Great War - and the depression that followed.
0:45:07 > 0:45:10- She died in 1921, aged 88.
0:45:10 > 0:45:14- She wrote thousands of words - engaged in many arguments...
0:45:14 > 0:45:17- ..and crossed the Atlantic - many times.
0:45:17 > 0:45:22- Without Bill Jones' research, - she would've been forgotten.
0:45:22 > 0:45:26- If Margaret's story - ended back in Hirwaun...
0:45:26 > 0:45:30- ..there was one major challenge - left for me in Scranton.
0:45:33 > 0:45:38- William died in 1903 and was buried - in a cemetery for the Welsh...
0:45:38 > 0:45:40- ..in the new part of the city.
0:45:40 > 0:45:43- I've tried to find it but failed.
0:45:46 > 0:45:51- If Bill had failed, I was determined - to find William Roberts' grave.
0:45:51 > 0:45:55- At Washburn Street Cemetery - in Scranton...
0:45:55 > 0:45:59- ..I was aided by Jim Arscott, - president of the Welsh Society.
0:46:01 > 0:46:06- The search is a symbol of the trials - and tribulations of the Welsh.
0:46:06 > 0:46:09- The connection has been lost - in America...
0:46:10 > 0:46:12- ..and the memory - has been lost back in Wales.
0:46:12 > 0:46:17- It's the story of a remarkable woman - and her husband who was her anchor.
0:46:17 > 0:46:21- It's also a story - about community and culture.
0:46:22 > 0:46:26- A couple of hours - before leaving Scranton...
0:46:26 > 0:46:29- ..I've found - William T Roberts' grave...
0:46:29 > 0:46:32- ..with a little help - from local authorities.
0:46:32 > 0:46:37- There's no doubt that this is the - grave because the dates correspond.
0:46:37 > 0:46:40- Margaret died back in Wales...
0:46:40 > 0:46:44- ..which is one of the reasons - she's been forgotten out here.
0:46:44 > 0:46:48- Until very recently, - this headstone had fallen.
0:46:48 > 0:46:50- It has now been replaced.
0:46:50 > 0:46:55- Hopefully the memory of Margaret - Evans Roberts has resurfaced too.
0:46:55 > 0:46:58- She was a very influential woman - in her day...
0:46:58 > 0:47:01- ..and deserves to be remembered.
0:47:01 > 0:47:05- Throughout her life, she had - followed a path of enlightenment.
0:47:35 > 0:47:37- S4C Subtitles by Adnod Cyf.
0:47:37 > 0:47:37- .