Iorwerth Peate

Iorwerth Peate, also known as Cyfeiliog, (27 February 1901 – 19 October 1982) was a Welsh poet and scholar, best known as the founder, along with Cyril Fox, of St Fagans National History Museum. Born in Llanbrynmair, his interest in folk studies and anthropology was kindled when studying at Aberystwyth under professor Herbert John Fleure and writer T. Gwynn Jones.

Inspired by the open-air museums of Scandinavia, Peate had a vision of recreating this style of attraction, but for Welsh life and culture. His initial attempts were challenged by those outside and inside the academic world. The work on the museum commenced in 1946, thanks to the donation of land from the Earl of Plymouth.

Peate published work on the study of folk life in both English and Welsh. He was a pacifist and believed in a monoglot Welsh speaking Wales.

Peace declined a 1963 New Years honour appointment as an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE).

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