Volume Two - The Era of Optimism, Investment & Development - Penarth's contribution to coal exports . . .

The Mining Journal [057] references Blaengwawr Merthyr Steam Coal, Cardiff. Proprietor David DAVIS (Coal-Owner) on numerous occasions. Here are a few examples:

DIRECTIONS. "Keep the fire about eight inches thick; a thorough draft of air then passes through the Coal, and as it burns it swells and bursts, giving the most intense heat. When the Ash accumulates, it should be cleared by a hooked instrument under the bars."

ENGLISH TESTIMONIALS. "The following letters will show that the principal authorities have born ample testimony in favor of this Coal : ADMIRALTY, 8th March, 1848. Sir —I have to acquaint you, with reference to your letter of 6th of August last, that the Blaengwawr Steam Coal has, in pursuance of the direction of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, been placed on the list of Coal supplied by contract for the use of H. M. Steam Vessels. I am, Sir, Your humble Servant, R. DUNDAS, Storekeeper-General. Mr. David Davis."

BLAENGWAWR STEAM COAL. "THE BLAENGWAWR Methyr Steam Coal," has for a number of years past been extensively used by some of the largest steamship companies in England, among which may be named the “Royal West India,” “ Peninsular and Oriental,” “Cunard,” and other Companies; and within the last two years by the “Collins New York and Liverpool U. S. M. Steamers;” eliciting from Captains West, Nye, Luce, and Comstock, and engineers of all the above, expressions of their unqualifiedfied satisfaction and approval, after severely testing its merits and value by comparison with other coals. Attention is respectfully solicited to the accompanying certiates and letters, published in the Appendix.

This Coal is found in the valley of “Aberdare,” whence it is transported by railway, 24 miles, to Cardiff. This is one of the richest Coal districts in Wales. The mines are extensively worked by the proprietor, Mr. David Davis; and so rich and prolic are the seams in these mines, that they may almost be said to be inexhaustible. The market can be the only criterion for the supply; any demand can be met by simply increasing the workings.