Singleton Park was the result of the purchase of some 12 farms by the great industrialist and copper smelters, the Vivian family during the 1850's The park was then purchased by Swansea Borough Council in 1919 for use as a public park. Within the original extensive grounds are Singleton Hospital, Swansea University and the extensive botanical gardens. The Gorsedd Circle in Singleton Park, was erected for the 1982 National Eisteddfod of Wales. The Eisteddfod means "sitting" in Welsh and is a fesitival and competition to promote the Welsh language, literature, music, song and folk dancing. Eisteddfod are said to date back prior to the 12th century. The Eisteddfod is celebrated at a different town or city in Wales each year and attracts visitors from all over the world. The highlights of the Eisteddfod are the Crowning of the Bard, presented to the winner of the free verse competition, followed by the Chairing of the Bard (the name coming from the new and unique chair that is presented each year) for the winner of the poetry competition.
