The Last of the Onion Men

For nearly 175 years the Johnnies of Roscoff migrated annually to sell their celebrated red onion to the people of Britain. When their trade was at its peak in 1931 it was estimated that 1,500 men came to spend the winter months in harsh conditions and a miserable climate. They were known the length and breadth of Wales, Scotland and England - they were respected, popular and a colourful part of life. At one time, they sold their onions from the Channel Islands to Orkney and Shetland.This book tells the story of these onion men (and women), their problems and worries. The author spent time talking to two men based in Cardiff and interviewing retired Johnnies and their families in Roscoff, Saint-Pol-de-Leon, and the surrounding villages. There were terrible disasters, like the sinking of the Hilda when 74 onion sellers were drowned. The Second World War could have been the end of their trade. But their resilience saw them through and it was discovered that the Johnnies -and their onions - were far better-known and better appreciated in London than in Paris. Is it 'Goodbye'? Not quite, a company still comes to Cardiff and there are individuals still making the journey. Long may they continue.

Author: Gwyn Griffiths
Publisher: Gwasg Carreg Gwalch
Extra Details: Pictorial Card Covers 6 x 9 inches tall, 144 Pages,illustrated with B&W photos.