In 2013, Professor Chris Williams of Swansea University described it as one of the most important objects in Welsh history.

[1] Alfred W. Hughes was born on 31 July 1861[2] at Fronwen, his family's house at Garneddwen, between Corris and Aberllefenni.

[3] Hughes trained as a draper in Dolgellau for a short time, then took a job as a clerk at Aberllefenni quarry.

[1] The Upper Corris Tramway curved round the memorial on the east and north sides.

[7] The inscription on the monument reads: In memory of ALFRED W. HUGHES F.R.C.S.Professor of Anatomy, King's College, London who began his life's work among these hills and died of fever contracted in the South African war while superintending The Welsh Hospital which he originated and organized Born at Fronwen, Corris July 31st 1861 Died November 3rd 1900