William Haggar
(1851-1925)

pioneer of the cinema, film maker, and proprietor of the Royalty Theatre Llanelli

Died aged 73

William Haggar (10 March 1851 – 4 February 1925) was a British pioneer of the cinema industry. Beginning his career as a travelling entertainer, Haggar, whose large family formed his theatre company, later bought a Bioscope show and earned his money in the fairgrounds of south Wales. In 1902 he began making his own short fictional films, making him one of the earliest directors in Britain. His films were shown worldwide and his short Desperate Poaching Affray is believed to have influenced early narrative drama in American film, especially in chase genre. As a director Haggar is recognised for his use of editing and the depth of staging in his melodramas and crime films.

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Commemorated on 3 plaques

Arthur William Haggar 1851-1925 Arloeswr y sinema a gwneuthurwr ffilmiau Perchennog Theatr y Royalty Llanelli Pioneer of the cinema and film maker Proprietor of the Royalty Theatre Llanelli

Tinopolis Studio, Water Street, Llanelli, United Kingdom where they was

Centenary Of Cinema 1996 #001

William Arthur Haggar (1851-1925) ran his travelling cinema on and from this site [full inscription unknown]

Market Place, Aberdare, United Kingdom where they worked

Pembroke's Old Assembley Rooms 1860s. Site of Haggar's Cinema and Ballroom 1927-1984

Paddles Night Club, Main Street, Pembroke, United Kingdom where they owned