Abergavenny grew up around the Norman castle, on the site of a Roman fort. The town's location meant it was frequently embroiled in border warfare. Despite this turmoil, the town, with its ancient market, prospered. It was known for its Welsh flannel, as well as more unusual products - the milk from local goats was used to treat consumption, and their hair to make fashionable periwigs!The town continued to expand in the nineteenth century with the coming of the railway and the iron and coal industries of Gwent, and the Abergavenny Cymreigyddion Society drew the attention of scholars and literary figures. Today this quaint historic town is the 'Gateway to Wales', known for its proximity to the rural beauty of the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons National Park.