Welsh facts for kids

Welsh is a word that can mean many different things! It often refers to things connected to Wales, a country that is part of the United Kingdom. But it can also describe people, animals, places, or even buildings.

What Does Welsh Mean?

The word "Welsh" most often describes something that comes from or is related to Wales. This includes the people who live there and the special language they speak.

Welsh Language

The Welsh language is a very old language spoken mainly in Wales. It's one of the oldest languages in Europe!

• The Welsh language is part of the Celtic languages family.
• About 500,000 people in Wales speak Welsh today.
• There's even a special type of Welsh called Patagonian Welsh. This dialect is spoken by people in a part of Argentina because Welsh people moved there a long time ago.

Welsh People

The Welsh people are the people who live in Wales. They have a rich history and culture.

• Many Welsh people are proud of their heritage, which includes unique music, poetry, and traditions.
• Sometimes, the word "Welsh" was also used to describe the ancient Britons (Celtic people). These were Celtic people who lived in Great Britain before the Romans arrived.

Animals Called Welsh

Some animals have "Welsh" in their name because they were first bred or are common in Wales.

Welsh Pigs

The Welsh pig is a type of pig that comes from Wales.

• These pigs are known for being strong and good at raising piglets.
• They are usually white and have long bodies.

Welsh Ponies and Cobs

The Welsh Pony and Cob is a group of horse breeds that are very popular.

• They are known for being strong, smart, and good for riding.
• There are different types, from small ponies to larger cobs, all from Wales.

Places Named Welsh

There are a few places around the world that have "Welsh" in their name.

Welsh Basin

The Welsh Basin is a very old geological area.

• It was a large area of water that existed millions of years ago.
• This basin was around during the Cambrian, Ordovician, and Silurian periods, which were ancient times in Earth's history.

Towns in the United States

There are also towns named Welsh in the United States:

• Welsh, Louisiana is a town located in the state of Louisiana.
• Welsh, Ohio is a small community in Ohio.

Buildings and Structures

Some buildings and bridges have "Welsh" in their name.

Welsh Bridge

The Welsh Bridge is a historic bridge in Shrewsbury, England.

• It's a beautiful bridge made of stone arches.
• It crosses the River Severn and has been there for a very long time.

Nantwich Bridge

The Nantwich Bridge in Nantwich, England, was also once known as Welsh Bridge.

• This bridge is in Cheshire, England.

Welsh Auditorium

The Welsh Auditorium was a large building in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA.

• It was used for many different events, like concerts and conventions.

Military Units

Historically, some parts of the British Army were named "Welsh" because many of their soldiers came from Wales.

Welsh Infantry Divisions

• The 38th (Welsh) Infantry Division was a military unit that fought in both World War I and World War II.
• The 53rd (Welsh) Infantry Division was another important unit. It was part of the Territorial Army, which is a group of volunteer soldiers, from 1908 to 1968.

Other Welsh Military Units

• The Welsh Brigade was a group that helped organize and train soldiers from Wales between 1948 and 1964.
• The Welsh Transport Regiment was a unit that helped move supplies and equipment for the army.