The Aberdare Urban District Council was established in 1894 and covered the parish of Aberdare.
Its responsibilities included public health, sanitation, roads and public works generally.
At this time, one member was elected from each ward on an annual basis.
Four of the five wards were uncontested, with Labour candidates becoming increasingly the dominant force as they took a seat at Gadlys for the first time.
(*) denotes sitting member Abolished