Evelyn Hobbs of Tonmawr, Neath, nursing a baby 'Welsh fashion', c.1920s
Evelyn Hobbs is shown here nursing her baby 'Welsh fashion', whereby a shawl supporting the baby is wrapped over one shoulder and around the waist at the back. Her hands are free to do other things, and the baby's weight is taken on the shoulders and back rather than the arms. The baby is held close to the mother's body, where it is comforted by her body heat and the sound of her heartbeat.
In years gone by, many Welsh mothers kept their babies close and contented in this manner, which allowed them to get on with their housework or other tasks. Many women still nurse their babies in this way, especially among those who belong to older generations.






