Llanwrtyd Wells grew from a tiny hamlet which was called Pont-rhyd-y-Fferau, translated as Bridge Over The Ankle Deep Ford. The hamlet was centred on the bridge which spanned the River Irfon. Fame came to Llanwrtyd Wells in an unusual way with the discovery of the mineral waters in 1732. The then Vicar of St. David's church discovered the Wells at the Dol-Y-Coed Park, and seeing that a frog was alive and seemingly no worse for wear in the smelly waters, he decided to try the waters himself with the view of them helping his' scurvy'. His condition improved so dramatically that he wrote an article on the healing properties of the Wells. Thus the popularity of the Wells grew, together with the development of the town where buildings and recreational facilities were built to cater for the increasing numbers of visitors to the Wells. It was at this time also that Pont-rhyd-y-Fferau changed its name to Llanwrtyd Wells. There are many buildings which have historical interest within the town. The station was built c1868 when the trains began to run through Llanwrtyd Wells. Before this, the method of travel was a stage-coach route using the now A483. The houses that were built were in the main three or four storeys high proving that they were purpose built for the Spa visitors. One shop in particular has claims to fame - Britannia - as it was here that Sosban Fach, the very famous rugby song was jointly composed by two visitors to the town, namely, Talog Williams and the Rev. D.M. Davies. Victoria Wells was opened to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897. It was the centre of numerous cultural events that took place in a large wooden hall in the grounds, this was erected by Penry Lloyd and his generosity was awarded with a fine monument in his memory following his death in 1913. The Abernant Lake Hotel was built on the grounds of an old farm. The name was derived from the Welsh words mouth of the stream. The vast grounds include a lake which was created by damming of an ox-bow lake of the Irfon in 1903. The hotel was, and indeed still is self sufficient within their entertainment programme, and draws visitors from many parts of the globe. Droving played an extremely important role in the people of Wales life from the 14th up to the 19th century. There was no direct route through Llanwrtyd Wells but many people were employed from the town and surrounding areas in the industry. The Drovers Walk is now one of the Green Events that take place each year in the Town.