Tŷ Melin Inn, Park Street, later renamed 'Circles'

During the Rebecca Riots, which reached Llanelli in August 1843, the Innkeeper of Tŷ Melyn [Melin], was Francis McKiernon, a colourful character who was also the proprietor of the Llanelli-to-Carmarthen Mail Coach.

Two years previously, in 1841, census details show that Mr McKiernon, aged 30, his wife, three daughters and a son called William aged 10, lived at the Inn.

A newspaper report of 13 August 1853, records the very sudden death of Mr McKiernon, landlord and omnibus proprietor, who ‘expired on Tuesday last’. An inquest held two days later before Mr Bonville and a respectable jury, recorded a verdict of death from ‘Gouty Cramp’. The unfortunate Mr McKeirnon was known to have had a drink problem.

Other licensed premises in Park Street in 1872 were the Bristol Tavern, Ivy Bush Inn and Swansea Castle in Upper Park Street.

Note: The correct spelling of the name of the Tŷ Melyn Inn is uncertain as it appears in trade directories, advertisements and newspaper articles as both Melyn and Melin.