THIS week’s From The Archive features a photograph of Dan Evans, and his apprentices, at the Dan Evans department store in 1905.

Mr Dan Evans came to Barry from Llanelli in 1889, when his father the Rev Ben Evans became the minister of Tabernacl Welsh Congregational Chapel, King Square.

Mr Dan Evans started work as an apprentice in the Ironmongers Shop of Mr W.H. Hooper at 81, Holton Road.

In 1905, aged 22, Dan Evans bought the business from Mr Hooper.

The first apprentices at Dan Evans included Edward Griffiths, who became Sir Edward Griffith – a leading figure in the world of cinema, as well as Henry Edwards and Anthony Edwards, both of whom became captains of large steamships.

From the beginning, Dan Evans established a trading principle of giving excellent personal service.

The second shop followed in 1908, followed in 1912 by a third and in 1917 a fourth to complete a block of four shops occupying 81, 83, 85, and 85a Holton Road.

Before 1945 number 85c had also been purchased, leaving only 85b until it was eventually purchased in 1981.

In 1943, Dan Evans’ son Mr Alewyn Evans joined the company and for more than 40 years was responsible for further development of the business.

The Barry & District News would like to thank Geraint Evans for the photograph and information.

If you have an old Barry photograph you would like to see included, with information about what it depicts, email sha@barryanddistrictnews.co.uk