Undeb Dirwestol Merched y De.

Corporate body

Undeb Dirwestol Merched y De.

The South Wales Women's Temperance Union (Undeb Dirwest Merched y De), was founded in 1901. Sarah Jane Rees, 'Cranogwen' (1839-1916), was the dominant figure at the beginning. The Union developed quickly, setting up ten branches within the first few months, rising to 140 branches within 15 years. The papers reflect the work of the Union, including its role as a charity support, particularly concerning the Cwmdonkin Shelter Fund and the Cranogwen Rescue and Preventive Fund. Membership of the Union declined in the second half of the twentieth century, and by the early 1960s it was agreed that, rather than close down the Union, it would be absorbed into the South Wales Temperance & Band of Hope Union, under the latter's title.