The city of Bangor is about to embark on a groundbreaking journey—one that spans continents, cultures, and centuries. The “Bangors Around the World” exhibition will officially launch at the Storiel Gallery in Bangor, Gwynedd, on 21st January 2025, celebrating the shared history and unique identities of every Bangor across the globe.

This unique small exhibition, housed in Storiel’s Community Exhibition Cabinet, bridges vast distances, uniting Bangors from all corners of the world in one intimate space. Visitors can explore over a dozen Bangors, from the rolling hills of Wales to the vibrant coasts of the United States, the scenic plains of Canada, and the rugged landscapes of Australia. The exhibit will feature photographs, historical accounts, and personal stories from Bangors far and wide.

An Ever-Changing Experience

The exhibition has been designed to evolve throughout the year, with new Bangors being showcased every month. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the unique stories behind each Bangor and explore how these communities—spread across the globe—share both a name and a sense of pride. Alongside the visual displays, a comprehensive write-up for each Bangor will be available in a file situated next to the exhibit. Visitors can also take home free handouts, allowing them to delve further into the history of these fascinating places.

A Journey of Discovery

The creation of this exhibition has been nothing short of an adventure. In assembling this unique collection, Bangor City Councillor, Eirian Williams Roberts, spent countless hours researching, contacting, and collaborating with residents, historical societies, teachers, and even government officials from Bangors in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

“It’s been such an incredible journey,” Cllr Williams Roberts shares. “I’ve learned so much, not just about the other Bangors, but also about the people who call them home. The stories, the histories, and even the day-to-day lives of people in these Bangors are so fascinating. It’s a privilege to be able to bring all this together in one place for others to enjoy.”

“One of the questions people often ask is, ‘How many other Bangors are there, and where are they?’ It’s been so rewarding to finally be able to answer that question—and to share the stories of these unique places with the people of our own Bangor here in Gwynedd.”

The research process also led to many personal connections. “Everyone I spoke to shared a deep sense of pride in their Bangor,” Eirian explains. “Whether they live in Bangor, Gwynedd, or Bangor, Maine, the connection to the name and its history unites us in a way that transcends borders. I’ve made new friends along the way, and their passion for celebrating their own communities has been truly inspiring.”

A Celebration of Shared Identity

This small but powerful exhibition isn’t just about geography—it’s about connection. Each Bangor tells a unique story of resilience, progress, and community spirit, yet all share common threads of pride and identity. From the Welsh settlers who carried the name Bangor to new worlds, to modern-day Bangorians celebrating their shared heritage, this exhibition is a tribute to the enduring legacy of the name.

“It’s been a lot of hard work pulling everything together but seeing it all come to life in this exhibition has been worth every moment,” says Eirian. “I’m really proud of what has been achieved, and I hope that people enjoy exploring the stories of these Bangors as much as I’ve enjoyed discovering them.”

A Warm Welcome to All

The Bangors Around the World Exhibition is open to all and will run throughout 2025. With its ever-changing displays, it’s the perfect excuse to visit Storiel more than once and follow this global journey across the year.

Come celebrate the spirit of Bangor—wherever in the world it may be—and experience how one small exhibition can bring together stories from across the globe.

Location:                          Storiel Gallery, Bangor, Gwynedd
Dates:                                 Throughout 2025
Opening Times:             11-5, Tuesday – Saturday

 

Photo: Esther Elin Roberts, Storiel Visual Arts Officer and Rhys Lloyd Jones Engagement and Education Officer at Storiel.