MANOROWEN - from Lewis' Topographical Dictionary of Wales (1833)

MANEROWEN, otherwise MANERAWEN (MAENOR-OWAIN), a parish in the hundred of DEWISLAND, county of PEMBROKE, SOUTH WALES, 2 miles (W.S.W.) from Fishguard, containing 220 inhabitants. This parish, which is but of very limited extent, is situated in the northern part of the county, and is intersected by the road leading from Fishguard to St.David's, and watered by a small rivulet which runs into Fishguard bay. The lands, with the exception of a small common, are in a good state of cultivation; and the soil, which is peculiarly favourable to the growth of barley, is in general fertile and productive. The surface is varied; and the surrounding scenery, though not distinguished by any striking features, is of a pleasing character. The ancient seat and residence of John Lewis, Esq., a magistrate of the county in the reign of James II., and equally distinguished for his learning and impartial administration of the law, is now deserted and in ruins: the estate is the property of his descendant, Richard Bowen, Esq., who has erected a handsome mansion a little higher up the hill, which forms an interesting object in the scenery of the place. Slate of very good quality has been found in the parish, but the working of it has been discontinued: a small carding-mill, which is still in operation, affords employment to a few of the inhabitants. The living is a vicarage not in charge, in the archdeaconry and diocese of St. David's, endowed with £600 royal bounty, and £200 parliamentary grant, and in the patronage of the Minor Chapter of St. David's. The church, dedicated to St. Mary, is not remarkable for any architectural details of importance. The abovementioned John Lewis, Esq., was the intimate friend of Bishop Gibson, whom he materially assisted in editing "Camden's Britannia," more especially in those parts of it which related to the principality, of which he was a native, and in the history and antiquities of which he was profoundly skilled. The average annual expenditure for the support of the poor is £89. 8.

Gareth Hicks, 30 Dec 1999