A BOOK detailing the history of one of Powys’ most important historical buildings, and the families that have lived in it, has been published.

‘Pencerrig and Its Past Families’ is written by Penelope Bourdillon and tells the tale of Pencerrig – once the home of notable 18th century Welsh landscape painter Thomas Jones, and later Clara Thomas, believed to have been the richest woman in Wales.

The Pencerrig estate, near Builth Wells, just off the A470 to Landrindod Wells, was eventually split up and sold off in the 1950s. Since then, it has been a trekking centre and a hotel before closing in 2008.

The author is donating profits from sales to the Thomas Jones Pencerrig Trust CIC whose aim is to see the house restored and the famous artist honoured.

 

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“This delightful, interesting and highly informative book is a must for all who study local history and individuals,” said the trust.

“Pencerrig may be known previously as being a hotel but it is, in its own right, an extremely important building both historically and, in the art world through the famous 18th century Welsh landscape painter, Thomas Jones.

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“After Thomas Jones, undoubtedly the most famous owner of Pencerrig was Clara Thomas who was probably the richest woman in Wales in her lifetime (1841-1914).

“Miss Thomas was an outstandingly generous person, giving away a large portion of her income to local works and to those who needed help.”

The book contains paintings from Marcia Gibson-Watt and many old photos which bring to life a bygone era.