Preece Family Tree

Events

Parents

Families

Attributes

Pedigree

1. David John
   1. Sarah Jones
      1. John William John
      2. Mary John
      3. Margaret John
         1. John Preece
            1. David Alfred Preece
            2. Trevor Meyrick Preece
            3. Arthur Ewart Preece
            4. Gladys Preece
            5. John Stanley Preece

Ancestors

Margaret John
*3 November 1862
+24 October 1906

David John *12 May 1822 +5 January 1894

William John
*
+before 1853

Margaret Evans
*
+...

Sarah Jones
*about 1828
+23 February 1897

David Jones
*about 1795
+...

Ann
*about 1799
+before 1871

Source References

1. Maiden name on child's birth index record
2. 1901 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG13/5002/39/26 f.
3. Certificate on file
   1. • Date: 1 August 1894
      • Page: Marriage - John Preece / Margaret John
4. 1871 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG10/5404/86/6 f.
5. 1881 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG11/5320/26/7
6. 1891 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG12/4419/19/32
7. Rhondda Leader
   1. • Date: 27 October 1906
      • Page: Page 7
      • Citation:

        Sudden Death of Mrs. Preece, Porth.

        We regret to announce the death of Mrs. Preece, wife of Mr. John Preece, ironmonger, and general furnisher, Porth. The deceased lady, too, was sister of Miss John (Cymmer Schools), and Mr. J. W. John (Ynyshir) and Mr. Tom John (Llwynypia). On Tuesday evening, Mrs. Preece attended one of the Porth Y.M.C.A.'s lectures, and on Wednesday morning declared that she had slept better than ever. She attended to the household matters on Wednesday morning, and one of the last orders given by her was to the servant to "dish" the dinner. She was soon after this unconscious, and about 4.15 o'clock she succumbed. There is a large family of six young children. Profound sensation has been created in the district, as Mr. and Mrs. Preece have always been known as generous and hospitable people. Great sympathy is expressed with Mr. Preece and the immediate relatives.

   2. • Date: 3 November 1906
      • Page: Page 5
      • Citation:

        [Paragraph breaks added]

        Funeral of Mrs. Preece, Maesyrhaf, Porth.

        Striking Manifestations of Sorrow.

        In spite of the torrential downpour of rain which prevailed during Monday, the funeral of Mrs. Preece, wife of Mr. John Preece, ironmonger and general furnisher, Porth, and whose sad and sudden demise has caused quite a profound sensation in the district, was largely attended.

        The scholastic profession, of which the deceased lady was at one time a distinguished member, was well represented, there being present representatives from the various schools throughout the Valleys. Mrs. Preece was trained for the teaching profession at Swansea, and on the termination of her collegiate career she was appointed headmistress at Ynyswen Schools, and subsequently at Bodringallt, where she remained for close upon eleven years, having fulfilled the position with infinite credit to herself and the Ystradyfodwg School Board.

        She brought her scholastic career to a close on the occasion of her marriage, and although that intimate acquaintanceship with her contemporaries was now scholastically severed, a bond of friendship and mutual attachment had been cemented, and this had always been fondly preserved.

        Additional pathos is centred in her death by the fact that there are no less than six young children now rendered motherless. The eldest child is barely eleven years of age, whilst the youngest has only just attained his third birthday. Much sympathy is being expressed with the sorrowing husband, the motherless children, and the relatives in the terrible and sore affliction which has befallen them.

        It was close upon 3 o'clock when the mournful cortege left Maesyrhaf, after having first sang "Daeth yr awr im' ddianc adre'," the place of interment being the Llethrddu Cemetery.

        The chief mourners were:- Mr. John Preece (husband); Masters D. A. Preece, Trevor Preece and Arthur Preece (sons); Miss Mary John (sister); Mr. and Mrs. Tom John, Llwynypia (brother and sister-in- law) Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir (brother and sister-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Preece, Treforest (brother and sister-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. Parsons, Pontypridd (brother and sister-in-law); Miss Dora Preece, Treforest (niece); Mr. Dafydd John, Tonypandy (nephew); Mr. David Moy John (nephew); Councillor David Evans, Llandilo (cousin); Mr. Evan Lewis, Belgrave Terrace, Swansea (uncle); Mr. W. Jeffreys, Treherbert (uncle); Mr. Willie Jeffreys (cousin); Mrs. Williams, Treorchy (cousin); Mrs. Scott, Pentre (cousin); Mrs. Davies, Treforest (cousin); Messrs. A. F. Preece and C. J. Preece, Treforest (nephews); Messrs. J. Parsons, Edward Parsons and Godfrey Parsons, Pontypridd (nephews); and Mrs. Griffiths, Poncaemawr, Merthyr (cousin).

        The carriages also contained some of the most intimate friends of the deceased lady, in the persons of Mrs. Dr, Chalke; Miss Davies, Mardy Schools; Miss Jennie Thomas, Pontygwaith; Mrs. Thomas, Brynamman Mrs. Danl. Jones, Cymmer Miss Jones, Cymmer Schools; Miss Amy Jones, Porth; Miss Mattie Davies, Porth; Mrs. Evans, Hafod; Mrs. Jones, Coedpenmaen; Mrs. Harris, and Messrs. Rowlands and Humphreys.

        The bearers were:- Messrs. J. R. Griffiths (foreman) and J. Rogers (Preece & Co.), W. M. Jones, H. Harris, D. E. Jones, David Davies, D. W. Davies, J. Hinton Jones, William Jones, T. Taylor, W. S. Morgan, G. Webster, and J. Smith-Davies.

        The scholastic profession was represented by Mr. E. Samuel, M.A., County School; Mr. T. W. Berry, Director of Education Dr. Chalke, M.A., LL.B.; Mr. T. G. Jones, Deputy-Clerk, R.U.D.C. Mrs. G. F. Martyn and Miss Thomas, Ynysrir; Mr. D. Phillips, Wattstown; Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Jones, Cymmer; Miss Jones, Cymmor Mrs. Jones, Coedpenmaen; Mrs. J. T. Phillips, Aberllechau; Miss C. E. Davies, Ferndale; Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Lewis, Blaenclydach; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Harris, Gelli; Mr. Hawkins, Pupil Teachers' Centre; Mr. and Mrs. John Evans, Trehafod; Mr. J. Hinton Jones, Llwyncelyn; Mr. Howells, Tynewydd Mr. Arthur Williams, Porth; Mr. J. S. Grant, M.A., Higher Grade; Mr. and Mrs. John, Trealaw; Mr. J. W. Jones, Tonypandy; Mrs. Rees and Miss Jones, Porth; Mr. D. Davies, Pontygwaith; Miss Mattie Davies. Blaenllechau; Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins, Cymmer; Mrs. Davies and the Misses Morgans, Davies, Lewis, and Williams, Cymmer Schools; Mr. T. Davies, manual instructor; Mrs. Moore, l'ynewydd Schools, Porth; Mrs. Jones, Blaenrhondda; Miss Harris, Penygraig; Miss Evans, Tonypandy; Mr. Howell Howells, Treorchy; Miss D. Lewis, Llwynypia; Mr. Stanley Howells, County Schools, Porth; Mrs. Gibbon, Trehafod Schools.

        There were also present the Revs. W. Thomas (vicar of Cymmer and Porth) and Gwilym Francis (curate); Rev. R. B. Jones and Mrs. Jones; Rev. J. T. Davies, Cymmer; Rev. J. T. Phillips, Ynyshir; Rev. Grawys Jones, Aberdare Rev. E. Richards, Tonypandy Rev. J. Williams, Hafod; Rev. John Morgan (C.M.), Ynyshir; Rev. E. C. Davies, Ynyshir; Rev. IR. E. Salmon, Porth: Rev. J" D. Jones, Abercanaid; Rev. D. D. Hopkins, Seion, Porth; Rev. J. M. Lewis, Cymmer; Rev. J. Edwards, Salem, Porth; Rev. T. J. Pritchard, Porth; Councillors L. P. Griffiths, Porth, and David Smith, T'ylorstown; Dr. Ivor H. Davies, Bryngarw; Messrs. William Evans (Thomas & Evans); Wm. Griffiths, Apple Tree; John Hughes (cashier), Stan- dard Colliery; Howell Davies, Ynyshir; John Hughes (checkweigher), Cymmer Collieries; Thomas Davies, Pantglas; D. Powell, Porth Farm; W. Williams, The Bon; Joseph Brooks, Porth; Gwilym Thomas, Ynyshir; Thomas Davies, chemist; W. S. Morgan, ironmonger; J. H. Richards, Cloth Hall; James Williams, Porth; Wm. Humphreys, Aberdare; W. R. Thomas, newsagent; D. M. Jones, Gladstone House; J. R. James, Royal Stores; L. T. Davies, sanitary inspector; J. T. Jones (Jones & Jones); A. J. Williams, solicitor; R. S. Jones, Llandudno; Richard Rowlands, Aber- dare; R. G. Scott, jeweller; Geo. Packer, Aldergrove; John Davies, Cae'rysgol; J. Trotman (Chas. Jenkins & Sons); Morgan Morgans, Cymmer; J. Idris Davies, Ynyshir; Alfred Jenkins, Porth; W. Gibbon, stationmaster; D Williams, Hannah Street; D. W. Davies, chemist; T. O. Jones and Lewis Thomas (Preece and Co.); M. John, Pentre; Wm. Evans, Liberal agent, Pentre; D. Jones, Commerce House; Owen Griffiths (City Tailors); J. Powell Davies; Benj. Phillips, Porth; T. Williams, Hannah Street; Edgar Thomas, Porth; Joseph E. Davies ("Rhondda Leader"); Enoch Jones, contractor; W. D. Thomas, Cemetery Rd.; David Davies, Porth; M. J. Thomas, Cymmer Collieries; Tom Ash (T.V.R.); Owen Griffiths, Ynyshir; J. Joyce, Maesteg; J. Toleman, Cardiff: J. E. Lloyd, Porth; Mrs. Packer, Aldergrove; Mrs. E. S. Williams, Cymmer; Mrs. R. B. Jones, Porth; Miss Hannah Price, Ystrad; Mr. and Mrs. Jenkin Evans, Mount Pleasant; Mr. and Mrs. John Davies, Porth; Mrs. Davies, Pantglas; Mrs. M. A. Thomas, Cymmer; Mrs. C. G. Evans, Hannah Street; Mrs. Davies, Cymmer; Mrs. Hodgson; Mrs. Edward Evans; Mrs. Evans, Parade; Mrs. Tom Price, Hannah Street; Miss Jones, Bristol House; Mr. and Mrs. D. Williams, Hannah Street; Miss Howells, Rose Bank; Miss Thomas, Tivy Villa, Pontypridd; Mrs. Thomas, Gilea, Brynamman; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, China Shop; Mrs. Owen, Mardy.

        Floral tributes were sent by the following:- The Family; Mr. and Mrs. Tom John, Llwynypia; Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir; Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Preece, Treforest; Mr. and Mrs. Parsons, Pontypridd; Mrs. J. W. Jones, Tynny Park, Trecynon; Mr. and Mrs. Evan Lewis, Swansea; Staff, Cymmer Girls' School; Staff of J. Preece & Co.; Miss C. E. Davies, Terrace House, Ferndale; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Harris, Ystrad; Mr. and Mrs. D. M. Jones, Gladstone House; Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Jones, Llandudno; Dr. and Mrs. R .D. Chalke, The Parade; Mr. and Mrs. Dl. Jones, Cymmer Schools; Mrs. Howells and family, Rose Bank, Ystrad; Miss M. J. Jones, cymmer Schools; Mr. and Miss Jones, Woodlands, Cemetery Road; Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Post Office, Porth; Councillor and Mrs. Smith, Tylorstown; Mr. and Mrs. Smith-Davies, Porth; Mrs. G. F. Martyn and Miss Thomas, Ynyshir Schools; Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Hafod Schools; Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Lismore House Dr. and Mrs. Joyce, Glynrhondda Councillor and Mrs. W. T. Davies, Bryn- bedw; Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Richards, Cloth Hall; Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins, Cemetery Road; Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Wilton, Porth; and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Brooks, Porth.

        The service at. the graveside was conducted by the Rev. W. Thomas (vicar of Cymmer and Porth), the Revs. J. T. Davies (Cymmer), and Grawys Jones (Ebenezer, Aberdare), and the singing of that stirring yet pathetic Welsh hymn, "Bydd myrdd o ryfeddodau," brought the obsequies to a close. The coffin was of Welsh oak, with silver-plated fittings, and contained the following inscription:-

        Margaret Preece,
        Died 24th October, 1906,
        Aged 43 Years.

        The funeral arrangements were satisfactorily undertaken by Mr. John Williams, Cymmer.

        ----------

        National Union of Teachers

        Meeting at Porth.

        There were close upon 250 certificated teachers present at the County Schools, Porth, on Saturday last, the meeting having been convened for the purpose of according a warm welcome to Mr. Harry Price, M.A., the newly appointed Inspector of the schools, who succeeds Mr. Thomas Jones, M.A., Abergavenny, who has resigned. Those present were grawn from the Rhonddas, Mountain Ash and Pontypridd scholastic areas.

        Mr. Edgar Jones, M.A., presided, and gave an admirable address on "The Ideal Education". Addresses were also delivered by the new Inspector, Mr. J.S. Grant, M.A. (headmaster, Higher Grade Schools), and Mr. England (Cardiff).

        Advantage was also taken of the occasion to present Mr. J. T. Lewis (Clydach Vale) with a slight recognition of the valuable services which he has rendered in his capacity as local secretary to the N.U.T. The presentations consisted of a finely executed address, together with a travelling bag, and these were respectively presented by Mr. Edgar Jones and Mrs. Gibbon (Hafod Schools).

        The lady teachers at the Higher Grade Schools had prepared quite a sumptuous repast, and this was thoroughly enjoyed. In the subsequent vote of thanks to Mr. Grant for the kind interest which he had taken, the ladies were not forgotten for the admirable part which they took in the commissariat department.

        A social had also been arranged in connection with the meeting, but this was postponed in consequence of the sad death of Mrs. Preece, Porth, and who had been a prominent member of the scholastic profession for some years. A vote of condolence with the bereaved family was also passed with due solemnity.

      • To Do:

        Family members still to be identified:

        Mrs. Williams, Treorchy (cousin)
        Mrs. Davies, Treforest (cousin)
        Mrs. Griffiths, Poncaemawr, Merthyr (cousin)

   3. • Date: 3 November 1906
      • Page: Page 6
      • Citation:

        Porth.

        The organ recital held in connection with St. John's Church on Thursday evening last was patronised by a goodly number of the music-loving fraternity. The recital was given by Mr. George Beale, M.B., F.R.C.O., organist of Llandaff Cathedral, and there were also engaged as soloists Mr. Harry Millar, principal bass of the Cathedral; and Miss Morfydd Williams, R.A.M., Cardiff. The proceedings were commenced by prayer by the Vicar (the Rev W. Thomas) and the hymn, "The Church's One Foundation," was substituted by "Lead, Kindly Light" as an expression of regret at the death of Mrs. Preece, Maesyrhaf. The programme was as follows:- Overture (Faulkes), Mr. Beale; song, "Lord of the Night" (Handel), Miss Morfydd Williams; organ solos, "Adagio" (Lemaire), "Minuet and Trio" (Faulkes); song, "Our Father" (Beale), Mr. Harry Millar; organ solo, "Evening Song" (Bairstow); duet "Harbour Lights," Miss Williams and Mr. Millar; organ solo, "Idylle" (Buck); song, "The Lost Chord" (Sullivan), Miss Williams; organ solo "Spring Song" (Hollins); solo, "It is enough" (Mendelssohn), Mr. Harry Millar; organ solo "Allegretto" and "March in D" (Guilmant). The recital was much appreciated, and deservedly gained the full appreciation of the large congregation. St. John's Church has recently undergone some structural alterations, and the proceeds are to be devoted to a fund which has been promoted to meet the expenditure incurred thereby.

      • Citation:

        [Porth.]

        The memorial service to the late Mrs. Griffiths, Maesgwyn, and which was held at the Cymmer Library and Institute on Sunday evening, was attended by a large congregation. The service was conducted by the Rev. T. Bryn Thomas, Ferndale, who, in the course of an eloquent address, pathetically referred to the irreparable loss which the cause of religion had sustained at the death of one whose life was bound up in the religious welfare of the district.

8. Y Tyst
   1. • Date: 10 March 1897
      • Page: Page 11
      • Citation:

        JOHN - Dydd Mawrth, Chwefror 23ain, Mrs Sarah John, 30, Harriet-street, Trecynon, Aberdar - gweddw y diweddar Mr David John, hen arweinydd canu Ebenezer. Bu yn gystuddiol yn hir. Cafodd ergyd o'r parlys tua dwy flynedd yn ol. Ar ol hyny, eiddil fu ei hiechyd hyd y diwedd. Ond dyoddefodd ya nodedig o arnyneddgar a thawel. Yr oedd yn 69 oed. Claddwyd hi y Sadwrn dilynol. Cynaliwyd gwasanaeth yn nghapel Ebenezer, lle y bu am lawer o flynyddau yu aelod. Teimlai ddyddordeb dwfn yn hanes ac achos yr eglwys Gwasanaethwyd gan y Parch J. Grawys Jones. Yn y fynwent, siaradodd y Parch W. I. Morris, Pontypridd - hen gyfaill cynes i'r tenlu. Gweddiwyd gan y Parch E. C. Davies. Ynyshir; a rhoddwyd emyn i'w ganu gan y Parch W. S. Davies, Llwydcoed. Cafwyd angladd barchus a lluosog iawn. Bydded nodded y Nef ar y plant - Mr Tom John, Llwynpia; Mr John John, Ynyshir; Mrs Preece, Porth; a Miss Mary John.

         

         

         

        Translation:

        JOHN - Tuesday, February 23rd, Mrs. Sarah John, 30, Harriet-street, Trecynon, Aberdare - widow of the late Mr David John, former Ebenezer singer. Her health had troubled her for a long time. About two years ago she was struck by sudden paralysis[1]. After that, her health was frail until the end. But she bore this patiently and quietly. She was 69 years old. She was buried on the following Saturday. A service was held in the Ebenezer chapel, where she had been a member of many years. She felt a deep interest in the history and cause of the church. The service was led by Rev J. Grawys Jones. In the cemetery, Rev. W. I. Morris, Pontypridd - an old friend - spoke to the crowd. Rev E. C. Davies, Ynyshir, prayed; and a hymn was sung by Rev W. S. Davies, Llwydcoed. It was a very respectful and well-attended funeral. May the protection of Heaven be upon the children - Mr Tom John, Llwynpia; Mr John John, Ynyshir; Mrs Preece, Porth; and Miss Mary John.

        [1] The same expression is used in modern Welsh to refer to a stroke.

   2. • Date: 10 August 1984
      • Page: Page 9
      • Citation:

        GENI, PRIODI, A MARW.
        PRIODASAU.

        PREECE-JOHN. Awst 1af, yn Ebenezer, Aberdar, gan y Parch Grawys Jones, Mr John Preece, ironmonger, Porth, a Miss Margaret John, merch ieuengaf y diweddar Mr David John, hen arweinydd canu Ebenezer. Teimlid dyddordeb mawr yn y briodas yn y lle, a daeth lluaws yn nghyd i fod yn llygad-dystion ohoni. Rhoddwyd y briodas- ferch ymaith gan ei brawd, Mr Tom John, Llwynypia. Gwelsom fod y rhoddion priodasol yn lluosog a gwerth- fawr, a'r dymuniadau da, fel y reis a daflwyd, yn aneirif.

         

         

         

        Translation:

        BIRTHS, MARRIAGES, AND DEATHS.
        WEDDINGS.

        PREECE-JOHN. 1st August, at Ebenezer, Aberdare, by Rev. Grawys Jones, Mr John Preece, Ironmonger, Porth, and Miss Margaret John, the youngest daughter of the late Mr David John, former Ebenezer singer. There was a great deal of interest in the wedding in the place, and there were many witnesses to it. The bride was given away by her brother, Mr Tom John, Llwynypia. We found that the wedding gifts were numerous and valuable, and the good wishes, such as the thrown rice [confetti], were innumerable.

   3. • Date: 19 January 1894
      • Page: Page 7
      • Citation:

        DAFYDD JOHN.

        Dydd Mawrth, Ionawr 9fed, claddwyd gweddillion marwol Dafydd John yn Nghladdfa Gyhoeddus Aberdar. Daeth tyrfa fawr o wŷr bucheddol yn nghyd o bell ac agos, i dalu iddo y gymwynas olaf o barch. Yr oedd wedi cyrhaedd yr oedran addfed o 71.

        Y mae yr enw Dafydd John wedi bod yn adnabyddus iawn yn nghylchoedd Aberdar a Merthyr am haner can' mlynedd. Daeth i amlygrwydd fel cerddor yn bur ieuanc, a pharhoadd felly ar hyd ei oes faith.

        Ganwyd Dafydd John yn Merthyr Tydfil, Mai 12fed, 1822. Enwau ei rieni oedd William a Margaret John. Genedigol o Cilgeran, sir Aberteifi, oeddynt hwy eu dau, ond wedi d'od i Merthyr y darfu iddynt briodi.

        Pan yn llanc tua phymtheg neu un-ar-bymtheg oed, teimlodd argraffiadau crefyddol dwys, ac aeth at grefydd yn Soar, Merthyr. Meddianwyd Dafydd John ieuanc o'r adeg hon yn mlaen gan lawer o ddifrifoldeb meddwl. Dadblygodd yn fuan mewn defnyddioldeb. Cyn hir cawn ei fod yn faswr o amlygrwydd a sylw yn nghor Rosser Beynon, ac fel cerddor, dysgybl ydoedd i'r gwr enwog hwnw.

        Tua'r flwyddyn 1848, yr oedd gweithiau haiarn a glo Aberdar yn cynyddu, a'r lle yn myned rhagddo yn fawr. Penderfynodd Dafydd John symud o Ferthyr i Aberdar. Cymerodd hyny le yn mis Ebrill, 1849, ymaelododd yn Ebenezer, Heolyfelin, o dan weinidogaeth y Parch William Edwards, ac yma y treuliodd weddill ei oes. Bendithiwyd ef a phedwar o blant, sef Mr Tom John, Llwynypia, golygydd y Glamorgan Free Press; Mr J. W. John, ysgolfeistr, Ynyshir; Miss Mary John, ysgolfeistres, Cymer; a Miss Margaret John, ysgolfeistres, Bodringallt. Nis gwyddomam neb a lanwodd yr enw tad yn well na Dafydd John. Ni welsom erioed hefyd fwy o anwyldeb parchus yn bodoli rhwng rhieni a phlant nag oedd yn nodweddu ei deulu ef.

        Wedi ymsefydlu yn Aberdar, daeth Dafydd John ar unwaith, i amlygrwydd neillduol fel cerddor o radd uchel. Cymerodd at y gwaith o godi y cor a'r ysgol gân i weithgarwch ac effeithiolrwydd yn Ebenezer. Dygodd i mewn amryw ddiwygiadau pwysig. Cyn hyn arferai y merched ganu tenor, a'r gwrywod ganu yr alaw. Gosododd yntau y merched i ganu soprano, a'r bechgyn i ganu tenor. Yn fuan iawn daeth cor Ebenezer i sylw mawr dan arweiniad Dafydd John. Ffurfiwyd cor undebol yn Aberdar er mwyn cystadlu mewn eisteddfod yn Merthyr. Y darn cystadleuol oedd 'Parotowch y Ffordd' (gwaith Daniel Charles Lewis, y crydd). Priodol iawn y gellir dyweyd fod yr amgylchiad hwn wedi 'parotoi y ffordd' i bethau mwy i ganlyn. Bu enill yn Merthyr y tro hwn yn symbyliad i gymeryd darnau mwy mewn llaw, ac enillasant lawer buddugoliaeth wedi hyny. Gellir edrych ar Dafydd John fel pioneer canu clasurol yn nghylchoedd Aberdar. Dysgodd i'w gor yr oll o'r 'Messiah' (Handel). Y rhan fwyaf o 'Judas Maccabeus.' Perfformiodd y 'Twelfth Mass' (Mozart), a chynorthwyid y perfformiad hwn gan string band Caradog, y cyntaf o'r natur yma yn Aberdar. Yn yr adegau hyn bu rai o brif gerddorion y Deheudir yn canu yn ei gor yn achlysurol, megys Dan Griffiths, Aberdar; Caradog; W. T. Rees (Alaw Ddu), Silas Evans, &c. Yr oedd Dafydd John yn gefnogol iawn i weithiau awdwyr Cymreig, megys Owain Alaw, Tanymarian, Ambrose Lloyd, Ieuan Gwyllt, &c. Trwy ei lafur diflino felly cododd y cor i sylw mawr yn y cylchoedd hyn. Gelwid am ei wasanaeth i gynal cyngerddau er cynorthwyo eglwysi ieuainc a gwan. Bu ef a'r cor o bryd i bryd yn cynal cyngerddau i'r amcan hwn yn Carmel, Treherbert; Ferndale; Ynysgau, Merthyr, &c. Ond yn nghanol llafur dibaid o'r tu allan, ei ofal penaf oedd am waith rheolaidd yr eglwys yn Ebenezer. Yr oedd yn ymgysegredig i achos Duw yn ei holl ranau yn ei eglwys ei hun. Fwy nag unwaith anrhegwyd ef gan eglwys Ebenezer fel arwydd o'i pharch dwfn iddo, yn gystal a'r gwerth dwfn a roddai ar ei ymdrechion parhaus. Yn y flwyddyn 1860, anrhegwyd ef â swm o arian ac harmonium da, a dyma y cyntaf a ddaeth i Gwm Aberdar. Yn Ionawr, 1875, cafodd ei anrhegu drachefn gan yr eglwys â piano rhagorol ac anerchiad hardd, a swm o arian, am ei ddylanwad iachus, a'i egni di-ildio gyda chaniadaeth y cysegr, ac o blaid cerddoriaeth yn gyffredinol. Yn y flwyddyn 1856, dewiswyd ef yn ddiacon. Llanwodd y swydd bwysig hono gyda ffyddlondeb a medr eithriadol am 38 o flynyddau. Yr oedd Dafydd John yn ddyn cyflawn a da yn mhob swydd, ond fel arweinydd canu cynulleidfaol, yr oedd fel Paul yn uwch o'i ysgwyddau i fyny nar lluaws o'i gwmpas. Yr oedd yn meddu ar fedr rhyfeddol hefyd i ganfod yr hyn oedd eisieu ei wneyd yn yr eglwys - yr oedd gofal arno ef am yr achos, ac am bob rhan ohono - yr oedd yu gyfaill trwyadl i'r weinidogaeth.

        Yn ei ymddangosiad allanol yr oedd bob amser yn barchus. Yr oedd yn meddu i raddau helaeth ar y peth a elwir Presence. Nid oedd neb, wedi ei weled unwaith, byth yn methu ei adnabod ar ol hyny. Yr oedd Dafydd John o gorff lluniaidd a hardd, yn dalach na'r cyffredin, ei wynebpryd yn hawddgar-ddifrifol, ei holl symudiadau yn sydyn a bywiog, ei besychiad yn fyr ac uchel, ac yn wahanol i bob pesychiad a glywsom erioed. Gellid ei adnabod ganllath, neu fwy, oddiwrtho yn y tywyllwch, oherwydd neillduolrwydd ei besychiad.

        Cerddai yn gyflym a gwisgi. Gwelsom ef yn 70 oed yn cerdded i Cwmdar, Hirwaun, Llwydcoed, a Tresalem, i rehearsals y gymanfa ganu, a llawer un ugain mlwydd yn ieuengach yn cael y gwaith mwyaf yn y byd i'w ddilyn. Yr oedd bob amser yn llawn o fyn'd, symudai yn mlaen gyda'i oes, neu yn hytrach o'i blaen. Arosodd yn berffaith ieuanc yn ei ysbryd a'i syniadau hyd y diwedd. Ni phetruswn gredu ei fod yn un o'r dynion duwiol mwyaf progressive yn ei Enwad, a phan fyddai wedi gwneyd ei feddwl i fyny i symud yn mlaen, llwyddai braidd yn ddieithriad, oblegid yr oedd yn llawn o deimlad caredig at rai o farn wahanol iddo ei hun, ac eto yn benderfynol, a dyfalbarhaol. Priodol iawn y dywedodd y Parch W. I. Morris, Pontypridd, yn ei angladd, 'Na ddaliodd neb ymchwiliad erioed yn well nag ef. Pa fanylaf y byddid yn ei chwilio, goreu oll yr ymddangosai efe. Yr oedd yn ddiniwed heb fod yn wasaidd. Yn ddidderbyn-wyneb, heb fod yn dramgwyddus, ac yn arweinydd canu o radd uchel, ac heb fod yn chwyddedig a gellid teimlo yn sicr, gan nad faint adawodd ar ol i'w weddw a'i blant, nad oedd cymaint ag un swllt brwnt yn y cwbl.' Nodweddid ef â'r un didwylledd a ffyddlondeb yn ei lafur gyda'r achos. Gwnaeth lawer yn gyhoeddus ac yn ddirgel i feithrin heddwch, a theimlad da. Medrai argyhoeddi dyn ei fod yn caru ei les. Nid oedd un amser yn dyweyd ei fod yn ddyn plaen, fel y mae arfer rhai, ac eto yr oedd y n hynod o blaen a llym, ond ei fod yn feistr ar y gelfyddyd o gynghori a cheryddu, fel mai anaml iawn y byddai ef yn methu gwneyd lles yn y cyfeiriad hwn. Parchai Dafydd John dy Dduw a'i wasanaeth gydag ysbryd llawn o ddefosiwn. Yr oedd hyd yn nod coed a cheryg ty Dduw yn gysegredig yn ei olwg. Prin yr wyf yn meddwl fod nemawr wydryn wedi ei osod mewn ffenestr o gwmpas y capel a'r ysgoldy, neu gloc wedi ei lanhau, neu ganwyllbren, neu fwrdd, neu sedd, neu gadair wedi ei hadgyweirio, nad oedd ef wedi bod yn gofalu am hyny. Y gwir yw, ni wnaed na bychan na mawr yn nglŷn â'r achos, na fu Dafydd John yn cymeryd rhan flaenllaw ynddo. Nid oedd pall ar ei ffyddlondeb a'i sel grefyddol. Gwelir hyn yn amlwg yn ei waith yn dilyn yr ysgolgan yn gyson hyd y diwedd. Pedair blynedd yn ol rhoddodd ofal yr ysgol gân i fyny, ond parhaodd hyd ei farwolaeth yn arweinydd y canu cynulleidfaol. Wedi i'r eglwys, ar ei gais ddewis W. E. Thomas i ofalu am yr ysgol gân yn ei le, y cynorthwywr mwyaf ffyddlon a didwyll a gafodd yr arweinydd newydd o hyny hyd yn awr oedd yr hen arweinydd enwog. Er dim ni chollai ysgol gân, gofalai fod yno yn siriol ei ysbryd i galonogi yr arweinydd a'r ysgol gân, ac yr oedd ei bresenoldeb yn llawnder gwerthfawr. Credwn mai addurn penaf ei gymeriad godidog oedd ei ysbryd rhagorol. Dyma yr elfen a beraroglodd ei fywyd crefyddol maith a llwyddianus, ac fe erys dylanwad hwn yn hir iawn, a bydd cofio Dafydd John yn help i fyw yn dduwiol yn Nhrecynon a'r cylch.

         

         

         

        DAFYDD JOHN.

        Tuesday, January 9th, the mortal remains of Dafydd John were buried at Aberdare Public Cemetery. A great crowd of living men came together from far and wide, to pay him their last respects. He had reached the age of 71.

        The name of Dafydd John has been well known in the Aberdare and Merthyr districts for half a century. He came to prominence as a very young musician, and so continued throughout his long life.

        Dafydd John was born in Merthyr Tydfil, May 12th, 1822. His parents were William and Margaret John. They were both natives of Cilgeran, Cardiganshire, but married after coming to Merthyr.

        When he was a boy about fifteen or sixteen years of age, he felt intense religious impressions, and came to faith in Soar, Merthyr. Dafydd John, though young, went forward from this point with much seriousness of mind. It soon developed in usefulness. We soon discover that he was a bass singer of prominence and attention in Rosser Beynon's choir, and as a musician he was a pupil of that famous man.

        About 1848, Aberdare's iron and coal works were increasing, and the place was much advanced. Dafydd John decided to move from Merthyr to Aberdare. This took place in April, 1849, when he became a member of Ebenezer, Heolyfelin, under the ministry of the Rev. William Edwards, and here he spent the rest of his life. He was blessed with four children, Mr Tom John, Llwynypia, editor of the Glamorgan Free Press; Mr J. W. John, schoolmaster, Ynyshir; Miss Mary John, schoolmistress, Cymmer; and Miss Margaret John, schoolmistress, Bodringallt. No one knows the name of the father better than Dafydd John. We also never saw more respectful affection existing between parents and children than was typical of his family.

        After settling in Aberdare, Dafydd John immediately came to prominence as a musician of high caliber. He took to the task of raising the choir and song school to activity and efficiency at Ebenezer. He brought in various important reforms. Previously the women sang tenor, and the males sang the melody. He set the girls to sing soprano, and the boys to sing tenor. Ebenezer's choir soon came to prominence under the leadership of Dafydd John. A union choir was formed in Aberdare to compete in an eisteddfod in Merthyr. The competitive piece was 'Parotowch y Ffordd' ['Prepare Ye the Way'] (the work of Daniel Charles Lewis, the shoemaker). This circumstance may well be said to have 'paved the way' for larger things to follow. Winning in Merthyr this time was a catalyst for taking bigger pieces in hand, and they subsequently won many victories. Dafydd John can be regarded as a pioneer of classical singing in the Aberdare circles[1]. He taught them all over the 'Messiah' (Handel). Most of 'Judas Maccabeus.' He performed the 'Twelfth Mass' (Mozart), and this performance was assisted by the Caradog string band[2], the first of its kind here in Aberdare. On these occasions some of the leading Southern musicians occasionally sang in his choir, such as Dan Griffiths, Aberdare; Caradog; W. T. Rees (Alaw Ddu), Silas Evans, & c. Dafydd John was very supportive of the works of Welsh authors, such as Owain Alaw, Tanymarian, Ambrose Lloyd, Ieuan Gwyllt, & c. Through his tireless labour the choir thus rose to great attention in these circles. He was called for his services to hold concerts to assist young and weak churches. He and the choir occasionally held concerts for this purpose in Carmel, Treherbert; Ferndale; Ynysgau, Merthyr, & c. But in the midst of countless outside labour, his primary concern was the regular work of the church in Ebenezer. He was dedicated to the cause of God in all his parts of his own church. On more than one occasion he was rewarded monetarily by Ebenezer chapel as a mark of their ongoing deep respect and the value placed on his continued efforts. In 1860, he was gifted with a good sum of money and a harmonium - the first to come to the Aberdare Valley. In January, 1875, he was again presented by the church with an excellent piano and a beautiful address, and a sum of money, for his wholesome influence, and his unwavering energy with the sanctuary, and for music in general. In the year 1856, he was elected Deacon. He filled that important job with exceptional loyalty and skill for 38 years. Dafydd John was a good and good man in every job, but as a congregational singing conductor, he was like Paul, head and shoulders above all around him[3]. He also possessed a remarkable ability to ascertain what he wanted to do in the church - for which he cared for the cause, and for all parts of it - he was a thorough friend of the ministry.

        In his outward appearance he was always respectable. He was largely in possession of the thing called Presence[4]. No one, having seen him once, could fail to identify him after that. Dafydd John was of a memorable and handsome body, taller than average, his face easy-going, his movements quick and lively, his cough short and loud, and unlike every coughing we have ever heard. He could be known a hundred or more from him in the dark, because of the particularity of his cough.

        He walked fast and agilely. We saw him at the age of 70 walking to Cwmdar, Hirwaun, Llwydcoed, and Tresalem, to the rehearsals of the singing festival, and many a good twenty years younger would have had their work cut out to keep up with him.. He was always full of vigour, moving forward with his years, or rather preceding them.. He stayed perfectly young in his spirit and ideas until the end. We do not hesitate to believe that he was one of the most progressive godly men in his Denomination, and when he had made up his mind to move forward, he was almost invariably successful, for he was full of a kind feeling for those with different views to himself, yet determined, and persevering. The Rev. W. I. Morris, Pontypridd, very fittingly said at his funeral, 'No one ever undertook research into new ideas better than him. The more detailed it was searched, the better it seemed. His manner was inoffensive, without giving in. He stood up to his detractors without being offensive and was a leader of high caliber singing, and not proud, and one could certainly feel that, given how much he had left for his widow and children, there was not one shilling dirty at all.' He was characterized by the same sincerity and fidelity in his daily work as in the [chapel] cause. He did much in public and in secret to foster peace and a good feeling. He could convince a man that he loved his welfare. He did not once say that he was a forthright man, as is the practice of some, and yet he was very plain and strict, but he was a master of the art of counseling and correcting, so that he was rarely failing to achieve peaceful resolution in such matters. David John respected the house of God and his service with a spirit of devotion. Even the knots in the wood of the trees and the stones of the house of God were sacred in his appearance. I hardly think that a glass was placed in a chapel or schoolroom, or a clock cleaned, nor a candle, table, seat or chair repaired that he did not have a hand in. The fact is, nothing small or large related to the Cause happened in which Dafydd John did not take a prominent part. His faithfulness and religious zeal were undeniable. This is evident in his work following the students until the end. Four years ago he handed over care for the choir scholars, but remained until his death the leader of congregational singing. The church then, at his request, chose W. E. Thomas to take charge of the choir scholars in his place - the most faithful and sincere assistant that the new leader had from then until now was the famous old leader. He did not then abandon the choir school but made sure to be there cheerfully, to encourage the conductor and his presence of great value. Surely the greatest mark of his excellent character was his open-minded spirit.This is what bears testimony to the authenticity of his long religious life, and this influence will last a very long time. The memory of David John will help those in Trecynon and the surrounding area to live godly lives.

         

        [1] Classical singing could have been quite controversial at the time, as it was seen as quite avant garde for a chapel choir.

        [2] "String bands" at the time were mostly made up of harps, which were considered seemly in chapel.

        [3] Referring to Paul climbing to the rock of Ares in the Areopagus in Athens. The implication is that he was boldy setting a new standard of faith.

        [4] Charismatic, but with his charisma coming from God.

9. Western Mail
   1. • Date: 22 June 1939
      • Page: Page 1
      • Citation:

        PREECE. - On June 19th at Maesyrhaf, Porth, John Preece, beloved husband of the late Margaret Preece. Funeral Thursday 22nd June, 2.30 p.m., for Trealaw Cemetery. Gentlemen only.

   2. • Date: 26 August 1927
      • Page: Page 10
      • Citation:

        GILLIES-PREECE.

        The marriage took place at St. Paul's Church, Porth, on Thursday of Dr. Dugald Gillies, Caerau, Bridgend (son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Gillies, Toyvallich, Argyllshire), and Miss Hilda Mary Preece, youngest daughter of Mr. John Preece, ironmonger, Porth, and the late Mrs. Preece. The bride, who was given away by her father, was frocked in ivory georgette trimmed with silver, wore a veil of embroidered net with a wreath of orange blossoms, and carried a shower bouquet of pink carnations, lilies, and white heather. She was attended by the Misses Georgie and Netta Gillies, sisters of the bridegroom (in frocks of powder-blue crep de chine), and Miss Mary Summers and Miss Joyce Parsons (in pale pink crepe de chine and wearing silver hair wreaths). Each carried bouquets of pink carnations. Dr. J. C. McMillan, Bo'ness, was the best man, and the Vicar of St. Paul's (the Rev. A. J. Millard) conducted the ceremony.

        After a reception at the Church-hall Mr. and Mrs. Gillies left for Scotland for the honeymoon.

   3. • Date: 4 October 1930
      • Page: Page 10
      • Citation:

        WELSH WEDDING.

        Mr. David Preece and Miss Cecil Watts.

        The wedding of Mr. David Preece, son of Mr. John Preece and the late Mrs. Preece, of Maesyrhaf, Porth, to Miss Cecil Watts, daughter of Mr. Alban Watts (late of Llantwit Major) and Mrs. Watts, of Max Gate, Llantwit Major, took place at St. Paul's Church, Porth, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. T. Jones, the Vicar of Cymmer, Porth.

        The bride was given away by her uncle, Mr. Abraham Williams, late headteacher of the boys' council school, Porth. She wore a dress of crepe de chine of delphinium blue, with coat trimmed with Persian lamb and velvet hat to tone. Mr. Arthur Preece, brother of the bridegroom, acted as best man. After the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Preece left for London and Belgium, where the honeymoon is to be spent.

   4. • Date: 3 October 1930
      • Page: Page 1
      • Citation:

        MARRIAGES.

        PREECE-WATTS. - On October 2nd, at St. Paul's Church, Porth, by the Rev. T. Jones, David, eldest son of Mr. J. Preece and the late Mrs. Preece, Maesyrhaf, Porth, to Cecil, only daughter of Mr. A. T. Watts (late of Llantwit Major) and Mrs. Watts, Max Gate, Llantwit Major. No cards.

   5. • Date: 26 August 1927
      • Page: Page 11
      • Citation:

        CAERAU DOCTOR WEDS.

        An interesting wedding took place at St. Paul's Church, Porth, on Thursday, the contracting parties being Dr. Dugald R. Gillies, of Tayvallich, Argyllshire, now of Caerau (Maesteg), and Miss Hilda Mary Preece, daughter of Mr. John Preece and the late Mrs. Preece of Maes-yr-Haf, Porth. Our photograph is that of the bridge and bridegroom.

10. Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo
    1. • Date: 12 January 1894
       • Page: Page 7
       • Citation:

         DEATH OF AN ABERDARE MUSICIAN.

         DAVID JOHN, TRECYNON, PASSES INTO HIS LAST LONG SLEEP.

         On Friday morning at Trecynon there passed away an old musician, who may be considered the pioneer of music in Aberdare, in the person of Mr. David John. Mr. David John originally came to Aberdare from Cardiganshire, and settled down at Trecynon around 1850. At once he took active steps in musical organisation, and started a choir at Ebenezer Independent Chapel. About 1862 his choir performed almost all the choral music of the "Messiah." He also performed most of the music of "Judas Maccabeus," followed by Mozart's "Twelfth Mass," when he was assisted by "Caradog's" choir, who were then appearing as pioneers of orchestral music. In the other concerts Mr. John was aided by Mr. Lawrance, organist of St. David's, Merthyr, then the only capable accompanist, perhaps, in the district. Mr. John also had a great leaning towards glees, Bishop's and Mendelssohn's being learnt by his choir, as also were "Owain Alaw's", "Tanymarian's," and other Welsh composers' anthems. Mr. John figured also as a conductor in competitive music, but this was only a secondary part of his programme. When the Welsh Choir went to London there was no more ardent supporter of "Caradog's" choir than himself. During all these years he also acted as precentor, and only relinquished the office some years ago, but such was his love of music that he attended the performance of the "Elijah" by the Aberdare Choral Union last Christmas. He was twice presented with handsome testimonials by the church and musical friends. He was a musical educator himself, and has a family of well-known elementary teachers - Mr. Tom John, Llwynypia Schools, who also conducted oratorio and other performances; Mr. J. W. John, Ynyshir Board School; Miss John, Cymmer Board School; and Miss Margaret John, Bodringallt Board School.

         AN IMPOSING CEREMONY.

         The funeral of Mr. John took place on Tuesday, and a huge concourse of people attended. It was in the highest degree affecting, for the dead musician had a strong and deep hold on the affections of the people who knew him. The body was enclosed in a chastely polished coffin of real Welsh oak, and bore on the panel shaped brass plate the following inscription:-

         DAVID JOHN,
         Died 5th January, 1984,
         Aged 71 Years.

         It was borne from the house on the shoulders of his brother deacons to the chapel, where a long and exceedingly impressive meeting was held. The Revs. J. Grawys Jones (pastor), D. Griffiths, Cwmdare; J. Davies, Soar; D. Thomas, Cymmer; G. Griffiths, Pentre Estyll; W. I. Morris, Pontypridd; M. O. Jones, Treherbert; and several others took part in the funeral obsequies at the chapel, in the house or at the cemetery. The choir, under the able leadership of Mr. W. E. Thomas, had turned out en masse, and rendered with moving effect at the services and on the way the following well-known hymns "Pen Nebo," "Nantgau," "Barford," "Abergele," "Dymuniad," "Eifionydd," "St. Luke," "Henryd," "Talybont," "Lousanne," and "Rhuddlan," in addition to which that beautiful anthem, a special favourite with the deceased, "Dyddiau dyn sydd fel glaswelltyn," was given at the chapel in a most touching manner. We should mention that the chapel accompanist, Mr. T. B. Lewis, played the "Dead March" while the people were entering the chapel, again repeating the same as they left. The coffin was literally covered with the most beautiful of wreaths. These were sent by the widow, Mrs. John, the four bereaved children, Ebenezer Chapel Choir, Mrs. Evans, Brynbach; Major Sloper, J.P., Cardiff; Mrs. J. W. Jones, Park-lane; Mr. and Mrs. J. Moy Evans, Swansea; Mr. and Mrs. Charles, Pentre; teachers of the Bodringallt School; Mr. David John, Cardiff; and Mr. J. Preece, Porth. At the service in the chapel, the Rev. J. Grawys Jones announced that he had received letters regretting inability to attend, and expressing profoundest sympathy from Caradog, Inspector James, Cardiff, and others.

         The mourners were Mrs. John, the widow, Mr. Tom John and Mr. John William John, sons; Miss Mary John and Miss Margaret John, daughters; Miss May John, grand-daughter; Mrs. Tom John, daughter-in-law; Miss Gretta John and Miss Nellie John, grand-daughters; the brothers and brother-in-law, David, Evan, Scott, and David; Mrs. Davies, Dowlais; Mrs. Lewis, Swansea; Mr. John Jones, Llwynypia; Mrs. and Miss Morgan; Mrs. Evans and Mr. Roger Jenkins and Mr. Jenkins.

         Among those present were the following - Revs. J. Davies, W. Harris, D. Sulgwyn Davies, W. S. Davies, W. M. Morgan, J. Grawys Jones, Aberdare; - Edmunds, Hirwain; W. I. Morris, Pontypridd; D. Thomas, Pentre; G. Griffiths (Penar), Pentre Estyll; Messrs. Alderman Thomas Williams, J.P., Merthyr; W. Humphreys, G. George, Morgan Davies, Richard Wigley, W. Charles, J. Treharne (Tibarog), Owen Harris, W. Davies, cashier, Gadlys; John Phillips, T. B. Lewis, T. Thomas, Ty'nywern; J. Thomas, M. J. Harris, H. C. Morris, D. Lewis Edmunds, J. Rees, Co-operative, Aberaman; R. H. Lewis, H. Wigley, Daniel Griffiths, John Thomas (tailor), - Jones, grocer, Bell-street; D. Arthur Thomas (sculptor), J. Davies, colliery manager, Aberaman; Daniel Evans, Hirwain-road; - Smart, dentist, Bristol; Mr. Preece, ironmonger, Porth; Rees Powell, Rees Evans, Aberdare, Professor Richard Howells, Hywel Cynon, D. H. Wigley, R. Hopkins, A.C., D. Richards, Carmarthen; and the following representing the scholastic profession:- Messrs. M. O. Jones, Treherbert; Gomer Jones, inspector of schools; J. W. Jones, Penygraig; John Evans, Hafod; J. Griffiths, Hugh Thomas, Miles Thomas, Park; T. Thomas, Barry Dock; Chalke, Pentre; and David Evans, Treorky.

         From the chapel, the funeral slowly proceeded to the cemetery, where the mortal remains of the fine old Welshman were placed in their last resting place, amidst several manifestations of sorrow. It can be truly said of him that he died as he lived, a quiet, peaceful, and trusting death. It will be a long time ere the memory of "Dafydd John" will fade from the minds of the residents of Trecynon, and particularly the members of the Ebenezer Chapel and Choir.

         The funeral arrangements were entrusted to Mr. W. T. Harris, Carpenters Arms, Trecynon. The mourning was supplied by Mr. G. George, Bee Hive, Aberdare, and Mr. H. I. Dix, Bridgend Mews, provided the mourning coaches and carriages.

11. Y Gwladgarwr
    1. • Date: 23 January 1875
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         TRECYNON, ABERDAR.

         CYFLWYNIAD TYSTEB. - Nos Lun, Ionawr 18fed, cynaliwyd cyfarfod i'r dyben o gyflwyno tysteb i Mr. David John, arweinydd canu cynulleidaol a chôrawl eglwys Ebenezer, Trecynon. Cymerwyd y gadair gan y Parch W. Edwards, gweinidog, am haner awr wedi saith. Canwyd tôn i ddechreu, yna arseth gan y llywydd. Deuawd gan Mary a Margaret John. Mr J. Williams, London Warehouse, yn darllen yr anerchiad, yr oedd wedi ei osod allan yn ardderchog. Mr. William Owen, un o'r côr, yn cyflwyno y pwrs i Mr. John, yn yr hwn yr oedd £40. Cydnabyddodd Mr. John hwy am y rhodd mewn ychydig o eiriau pwrpasol. Rhoddodd hanes y canu yma er ys pum mlynedd ar ugain yn ol, yn nghyda'r cwrs yr oedd ef wedi ei gymeryd yn ystod y cyfryw amser. Yna, darllenwyd enwau'r tanysgrliwyr gan Tiberog, ysgrifenydd y dysteb. Wedi hyny, canwyd gan Mr. Daniel Davies a'i gyfellion, Mr. Daniel Lewis, Miss Mary Ann Evans, Mr. T. D. John, Ysgolion Llwynypia; areithiwyd yn bwrpasol gan Mr. Morgan Rowlands, Mr. Roger Jenkons, y Parch W. Harris, Trecynon y Parch W. Morris, Pontypridd, a Mr. Richard Wigley. Traddodwyd anerchiaudau barddonol gan Mr. Richard Williams, Ehedydd Cynon, a Tiberog. Yna, cafwyd cystadleuaeth mewn darllen ar y pryd, yn nodiant y Sol-ffa; buddugol, Mr. Edward Lewis. Buddugol ar ddarllen triawd ar y pryd oedd D. Davies, a'i gyfeillion, a D. J. Lewis a'i gyfeillion. Cafwyd cyfarfod dyddorol ac adloniadol iawn. Bydd yn dda gan gyfeillion Mr. John glywed am yr anrhydedd hyn. - Un oedd yno.

          

          

          

          

         TRECYNON, ABERDARE.

         PRESENTATION OF TESTIMONIAL. - On Monday, January 18th, a meeting was held with the purpose of presenting a testimonial to Mr. David John, congregational singing and choral conductor of Ebenezer church, Trecynon. Rev. W. Edwards, the minister, took the chair at half past seven. A tune was sung first, followed by a speech by the president. Duet by Mary and Margaret John. Mr J. Williams, London Warehouse, read the address, which was excellently laid out. Mr. William Owen, one of the choir, presented the purse to Mr. John, which contained £40. Mr. John thanked them for the gift in a few purposeful words. He gave a history of the singing for the last twenty-five years, together with the course he had taken during that time. The names of the subscribers were then read by Tiberog, the testimonial secretary. After that, Mr. Daniel Davies and his friends, Mr. Daniel Lewis, Miss Mary Ann Evans, Mr. T. D. John, Llwynypia Schools, sang a song; and purposeful addresses were given by Mr. Morgan Rowlands, Mr. Mr. Roger Jenkons, Rev. W. Harris, Trecynon Rev. W. Morris, Pontypridd, and Mr. Richard Wigley. Poetic addresses were given by Mr. Richard Williams, Cynon Sky, and Tiberog. Then there was a contest in sight-reading, in the notation of the Sol-fa; won by Mr. Edward Lewis. D. Davies, his friends, and D. J. Lewis and his friends were the winners of a trio reading at the time. It was a very entertaining meeting. Friends of Mr. John heard of this honor. - One who was there.

12. Tarian Y Gweithiwr
    1. • Date: 22 January 1875
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         TRECYNON.

         CYFLWYNIAD TYSTEB. - Nos Lun, y 10fed cyfisol, cynaliwyd cyfarfod yu Ebeneser, i'r dyben o gyflwyno tysteb i Mr. David John, arweinydd canu cynulleidfaol a chorawl eglwys Ebeneser. Cymerwyd y gadair gan y Parch W. Edwards, gweinidog y lle. Canwyd tôn i agor y cyfarfod. Wedi cael anerchiad gan y llywydd, aed yn mlaen yn y drefn ganlynol:- Deuawd gan Mary a Margaret John. Darlleniad yr anerchiad gan Mr. J. Williams, London Warehouse, yr hwn oedd wedi ei osod allan yn hardd a destlus. Cyflwyniad y gôd a'r arian i Mr. John gan Wm. Owen, un a aelodau y côr, yr hwn oedd yn cynwys £40. Siaradodd Mr. John ychydig o eiriau byr a phwrpasol ar dderbyniad y dysteb. Rhoddodd ychydig o hanes y canu pan y daeth yma gyntaf, er ys pum mlynedd ar ugain yn ol, yn nghyd a'i gysylltiad ag ef o hyny hyd yn bresenol. Wedi hyny darllenwyd enwau y tanysgrifwyr gan Tiberog, ysgrifenydd y dysteb. Triawd gan Daniel Davies a'i gyfeilliony yn nesaf cawd anerchiad barddonol gan Darlwyn, Hedydd Cynon, a Tiberog. Cymerwyd rhan yn y cyfarfod hefyd gan Daniel Lewis, gan Mary Ann Evans, Morgan Rowlands, Roger Jenkins, Parch. W. Harris, Parch. W. Morris, Pontypridd; Mr. T. D. John, Llwynypia Schools, sef mab gwrthddrych y dysteb; a Mr. Richard Wigley. Cafwyd cystadleuaeth darllen cerddoriaeth ar y pryd, yn nodiant y sol-fa; y buddugol Edward Lewis. Buddugol ar ddarllen triawd ar y pryd oedd David Davies a'i gyfeillion, a D. J. Lewis a'i gyfeillion. Cafwyd cyfarfod dyddorol ac adlonol iawn. Bydd yn dda gan luaws o hen gyfeillion Mr. John glywed am hyn - mae ganddo luaws o honynt. Yr oedd ef yn un o gadfridogion y cor mawr. - GOHEBYDD.

          

          

          

         TRECYNON.

         TESTIMONIAL PRESENTATION. - Monday, the 10th instant, a meeting was held at Ebenezer, with the sole purpose of presenting Mr. David John, congregational singing and choral conductor of Ebenezer church. The chair was taken by the Rev. W. Edwards, the minister of the place. A tune was sung to open the meeting. Addressed by the president, the following proceeded:- Duet by Mary and Margaret John. Reading of the address by Mr. J. Williams, London Warehouse, which was beautifully and neatly laid out. Presentation of the purse and the money to Mr. John by Wm. Owen, a choir member, which contained £40. Mr. John a few brief and purposeful words on the receipt of the testimonial. He gave a little history of the singing when he first came here, twenty-five years ago, and his connection with it from then until now. The names of the subscribers were then read by Tiberog, the testimonial secretary. A trio by Daniel Davies and his friends next is given a poetic address by Darlwyn, Hedydd Cynon, and Tiberog. Daniel Lewis, Mary Ann Evans, Morgan Rowlands, Roger Jenkins, Rev. W. Harris, Rev. W. Morris, Pontypridd; Mr. T. D. John, Llwynypia Schools, son of the recipient of the testimonial; and Mr. Richard Wigley. There was a music reading competition at the time, in the sol-fa notation; the winner was Edward Lewis. Winning trio reading at the time were David Davies and his friends, and D. J. Lewis and his friends. There was a very daily and entertaining meeting. Many old friends of Mr. John heard about this - he has a lot of them. He was one of the generals of the great choir. - CORRESPONDENT.

    2. • Date: 1 November 1906
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         Porth

         Marwolaeth Sydyn.

         Gofidus iawn genym gofnodi marwolaeth sydyn ac annisgwyl y chwaer ragorol ei hysbryd Mrs M Preece, Maesyrhaf, o'r lle hwn, priod anwyl Mr J Preece, Ironmonger, Hannah street, yr hyn a gymerodd le prydnawn dydd Mercher diweddaf, y 24ain. Merch ydoedd yr ymadawedig i'r diweddar Mr David John, o dref Aberdar, a chwaer i'r brodyr Tom John, ysgolfeistr, Llwynypia, a T W John Ynyshir, a Miss M John, ysgolfeistre, Cymmer, ger y lle hwn. Bu Mrs Preece hefyd yn ysgolfeistres llwyddianus am flynyddau yn ysgol Bodringallt, Rhondda. Mae'r gymydogaeth yn cydymdeimlo yn fawr a Mr Preece, yn ngwyneb y tro chwerw hwn, sydd wedi ei amddifadu o wraig ofalus, dyner ac anwyl, ac a'r chwe' plentyn sydd yn wylo ar ol eu hanwyl fam. Amddiffyniad y nef fyddo drostynt oll.

          

          

         Porth

         Sudden Death.

         We are deeply saddened to record the sudden and unexpected death of the excellent sister Mrs M Preece, Maesyrhaf, from this place, wife of Mr John Preece, Ironmonger, Hannah street, which took place last Wednesday afternoon, the 24th. The deceased was a daughter of the late Mr David John, of the town of Aberdare, and a sister of the brothers Tom John, schoolmaster, Llywnypia, and T W John Ynyshir, and Miss M John, schoolmistress, in nearby Cymmer. Mrs Preece was also a successful schoolmistress for years at Bodringallt School, Rhondda. The whole neighbourhood expressed their sincere condolonces to Mr Preece as he faced this bitter experience of having been bereaved of his solicitous, loving and dear wife, and to the six children greatly missing their beloved mother. May the protection of heaven be over them all.

    3. • Date: 18 January 1894
       • Page: Page 3
       • Citation:

         [paragraph breaks added]

         CLADDEDIGAETH MR. DAVID JOHN

         ARWEINYDD Y CANU YN EBENEZER, ABERDAR, AM YN AGOS I BUM MLYNEDD A DEUGAIN.

         Ymddangosodd hanes ei farwolaeth yn rhifyn diweddaf o'r DARIAN. Hawdd iawn ydoedd casglu nad dyn cyffredin oedd yn cael ei gladdu o Harriet Street, Trecynon, prydnawn dydd Mawrth, y 9fed o Ionawr. Canys gwelid y blinds i lawr ar y ffenestri, a gwelid y tyrfaoedd yn dod o wahanol gyfeiriadau. Yr oedd yr angladd i godi am haner awr wedi dau o'r gloch; yn y ty cyn cychwyn, darllenwyd a gweddiwyd yn ddwys gan ei weinidog, y Parch. J. Grawys Jones. Yr oedd yn drefn i fyned i Ebenezer i gynal gwasanaeth crefyddol cyn myned i Gladdfa Gyhoeddus Aberdar.

         Gyda chychwyn, ymffurfiwyd yn orymdaith. Yn blaenori yr oedd gweinidogion, lleygwyr, a boneddigion ereill, yn dilyn ac o flaen y corff yr oedd y cantorion yn gor cryf a lluosog. Caoasant emynau o brogram paratoedig ar gyfer yr amgylchiad. Ar ol cyraedd yr Addoldy, tra yr oedd y dorf yn cymeryd eu lleoedd, a'r corff yn cael ei ddwyn i fewn, chwareuwydd yr Alar don ar yr offeryn, gan Mr. T. Lewis, chwareuydd y capel. Yr oodd y cantorion i gyd yn llenwi yr oriel, ac o dan arweiniad Mr W. F. Thomas, arweinydd corawl y lle. Dechreuwyd y gwasanaeth trwy ddarllen a gweddio gan y Parch. D. Griffiths, Cwmdar.

         Yna siaradodd Mr Jones, y gweinidog ychydig eiriau. Dywedodd fod y dydd hwnw yn ddiwrnod tywyll iddynt hwy fel eglwys, eu bod yu claddu un oedd wedi bod yn gymeriad amlwg iawn yn yr eglwys am lawer iawn o flynyddoedd. Eu bod wedi bod yn gobeithio y cawsai y brawd David John fyw am ychydig flynyddoedd i ddyfod, er iddynt gael cynal ei Jiwbili ar ei ddyfodiad i'r lle, ond mai nid dyna oedd ewyllys yr Arglwydd. Ond er fod y diwrnod yn dywyll iddynt, fod i'r cwmwl ei ochr oleu. Dywedai pe cawsai Mr John fyw ychydig fisoedd, y buasai wedi bod yno am bum' mlynedd a deugain, ac wedi bod trwy yr holl gyfnod hirfaith yn arweinydd y gan, a'i fod felly hyd ef farwolaeth.

         Yr oedd wedi bod yn llenwi y swydd o ddiacon am lawer o flynyddoedd. Dywedai fod yn yr eglwys ddynion rhagorol yn y blynyddoedd hyn, ond fod Mr John, yn herwydd ei safle fel arweinydd, wedi bod y cymeriad mwyaf amlwg yn yr eglwys. Yr oedd wedi derbyn llythyrau oddiwrth amryw hen gyfeillion ddymunasent fod yn yr angladd, ond nad oedd yn bosibl iddynt. Enwodd Mr J. Hees, Inspector of Schools, Abertawe; a Caradog. Gan fod yno amryw frodyr a chyfeillion i Mr John - rai a i hadwaenent yn dda, ei fod yn myned i alw arnynt hwy i siarad, gan ei fod yntau yn bwriadu pregetbu pregeth angladdol iddo y Sul dilynol.

         Galwodd ar y Parch W. Morris, Pontypridd. Dywedai Mr Morris y galiasai ddweyd llawer iawn am ragoriaethau Mr John, fod yr amser yn fyr iddo gael. Na wyddai yn iawn pa beth i'w ddywedyd. Daethai i aros i'r lle hwn pan nad oedd ond llanc ieuanc dwy ar bymtheg ar hugain oed. Ymaelododdyn eglwys Ebenezer, a bu yn aros o dan gronglwyd Mr John am yn agos i bedair blynedd. Gwyddai yn dda am ei weitbgarweh a'i ffyddlondeb yn yr eglwys; ond cael cyfleusdra i'w adnabod yn ei dy ei hun oedd y fantais oreu er ei adnabod yn iawn. A pha mor ddysglaer bynag oedd yn ei ragoriaethau a'i rinweddau yn yr eglwys. yr oedd yn llawn mor ddysglaer ei gymeriad fel dyn didwyll, gonest, a phur, ac fel penteulu duwiol yn ei cy ei hun. Wrth lafurio yn dda ar gyfer y byd arall, nid oedd yn esgeuluso hwn, ond gwnelai y goreu o'r ddau, Nis gallasai ddywedyd pa mor ddyl edus oedd i Mr David John.

         Galwyd yn nesaf ar y Parch T. J. Jenkyn, Llwynpia. Sylwai fod ei frawd wedi son am Mr John yn ei gartref, yn herwydd ei gysylitiad â rbai o deuiu Mr John - mai fel dyn oddicartref yr oedd af wedi dod i gyffyrddiad ag ef, a'i adnabod yn dda. A pba mor ddysglaer bynag oedd yn ei gartref, ac yn ei gylchoedd cartref, er ei fod wedi codi te[u]lu oedd yn anrhydedd i'w cael. &c.

         Mr. M. O. Jones, Treberbert, a ddywedai ei fod yn teimlo yn anbawdd i siarad. Ei fod nos Sul diweddaf yn nghapel King's Cross, Llundain, yn gwrandaw ar Dr. Owen Evans yn traddodi pregeth angladdol ar ol diacon o'r eglwys - teulu mewn galar, eglwys mewn galar. Ei fod yn meddwl ar y pryd mor anhawdd oedd pregethu; ei fod yntau yn teimlo yn anhawdd i siarad ar yr amgylchiad. Yr oedd yn adnabod Mr. John er ys deng mlynedd ar hugain. Iddo y pryd hwnw gael rhagarweiniad i gymeriad y dyn. Yr oeddent yn cychwyn eglwys ieuanc yn Nhreherbert, ac eisieu cymorth arnynt. Gofynodd i Mr. David John roddi cynorthwy iddynt, a gwnaeth hyny. Daeth ei gor o Ebenezer, gan gerdded yr holl ffordd yn groes i'r mynydd yn ol a blaen, er cynal cyngerdd i'w cynorthwyo. Gofynai pwy oedd yn b’arod i wneud peth tebyg yn awr. Ei fod wedi bod yn edrych ar Mr. John fel motto i fod yn debyg iddo fel arweinydd. Ei fod yn teimlo yn alarus iawn wrth feddwl ei fod wedi ymadael, ond er ei fod wedi ymadael, ei fod yn teimlo fod ei ddylanwad yn aros, a'i fod yno yn y canu ragorol y dydd hwnw.

         Y Parch. D. Thomas, Cymer, a dffywedodd ychydig eiriau am ei adnabyddiaeth o'r dyn rhagorol, a'i ddefnyddioldeb a'i wasanaeth, ac a ddilynodd trwy weddi.

         Sylwasom fod yno amryw gerddorion yn y capel. Gwelsom Mri. Rees Evans, a Dan Griffiths, Aberdar; Mr. Hywel Cynon, Aberaman; Alaw Brycheiniog, Cefn; a Mr. Richard Morris, Hirwann. Gallasai fod yno ereill na welsom. Ymffurfiwyd yn orymdalth i fyned tua'r gladdfa Gwelsom yn blaenori yr orymdaith y Parchn. Morris, Pontypridd; Thomas, Cymer; Griffiths, Cwmdar; Grawys Jones; Davies, Llwydcoed; Rees, Salem; Penar, Pentre Estyll; Silyn Evans, a Davies, Soar, Aberdar; Edmunds, Hirwaun; Jenkyn, Llwynpia; Davies, Ynyshir; Sulgwyn Davies, Siloh; Morgan (M.C.), Bryn Seion; Harris (B.), Heolyfelin; Mri. Thos. Williams, Gwaelodygarth; Thomas, Tynywern; Jeffreys, Treherbert; J. Rees, Aberaman; M. O. Jones, Treherbert; Hywel Cyoon, Aberaman; G. George, Aberdar.

         Canodd y cor, ffurfiedig o'r gwahanol gapelau, y tonau canlynol yn y capel, ar y ffordd, ac wrth y bedd, - Pen ftebo, Nantgau, Burford, Abergele, Dymuniad, Eifionydd, St. Luke, Henryd, Talybont, Lausanne, Rhuddlan, a chanwyd hefyd yr anthem, "Dyddiau dyn" yn ystod y gwasanaeth yn y capel. Sylwai rhai o'r cerddorion oedd yno nad yn ami y clywyd y fath garu rhagorol.

         Siaradwyd wrth y bedd gan y Parch G. Griffiths (Penar), Pentre Estyll, a gweddiwyd gan y Parch. J. Davies, Soar; ac wedi canu emyn gan y cor, ymadawsom a'r fangre gysegredig, lle y gorphwys gweddillion gwr a wasanaethodd ei Dduw a'i oes mor ffyddlon a neb o'i gydoeswyr yn y byd. Gadawodd weddw i ala u ar ei ol, dwy ferch, a dau o feibion. Y mae pob un o honynt yn llenwi cylchoedd o anrhydedd mewn cymdeitbas - y merched yn ysgolfeistresi, a'r meibion yn ysgolfeistri, un o honynt yn bur adnabyddus fel arweinydd, cerddor, golygydd, a beirniad, Mr. Tom John, Llwynpia. Boed nodded yr Arglwydd dros y weddw hyd ei bedd, a'i fendith ar y plant a'i hiliogaeth hyd byth.

         -- CYMYDOG.

          

          

          

         Translation:

         BURIAL OF MR. DAVID JOHN

         SINGING LEADER AT EBENEZER, ABERDARE, FOR NEARLY FORTY YEARS

         The story of his death appeared in the last edition of the TARIAN. It was very easy to see that it was no common man of Harriet Street, Trecynon, who was buried on Tuesday, January 9th. For the blinds were seen down on the windows, and the crowds were seen coming from all directions. The funeral began at half past two; in the house beforehand, the minister, the Rev. J. Grawys Jones, read and prayed intensely. They then went to Ebenezer to hold a religious service before the burial at the Aberdare Public Cemetery.

         Initially, a parade was formed. At the front came the ministers, lawyers, and other gentrymen, following behind and in front of the coffin were a great crowd of singers in strong voice. They sang hymns from a specially prepared programme. After arriving at the sanctuary, while the crowd took their places, and the body was brought in, the Alardon quarry choir sang, led by Mr. T. Lewis, chapel quarryman. All the singers filled the gallery, under the leadership of Mr W. F. Thomas, the choral leader of the place. The service was started by the Rev. D. Griffiths, Cwmdar reading and praying.

         The minister, Mr Jones, then spoke a few words. He said that this day was a dark day for them as a church, as they buried one who had been a very prominent character in the church for many years. They had been hoping that the brother David John would have lived for a few more years to come, so they could celebrate his Jubilee of his arrival to the place, but that was not the will of the Lord. But even though the day was dark for them, the cloud would have a silver lining. He said that if Mr John had lived a few months longer, he would have been there for forty years and had been for a long period of time as leader of song, which he was until he died.

         He had held the post of Deacon for many years. He said that the church had had many excellent men in these years, but that Mr John, because of his position as leader, had been the most prominent character in the church. He had received letters from various old friends who would have liked to have been at the funeral, but could not attend. Mr J. Hees, Inspector of Schools, Swansea; and Caradog[1]. He was going to call brothers and friends of Mr John - those who had known him well - to speak now and himself intended to preach a full eulogy to him on Sunday.

         He called on Rev. W. Morris, Pontypridd. Mr Morris said that he could say a great deal about Mr John's merits, but that time was too short and he did not know what to say. He came to the chapel when he was only twenty-five years old. He joined Ebenezer church, and stayed there under Mr John’s leadership for about four years. He knew well about his dedication and his faithfulness in the church; but having the opportunity to identify it in your own was the advantage of it to know it properly. And how deeply it was his excellency and his merits in the church. His character was so full of discernment as a sincere, honest man, and a man, and as a godly family in its own right. When working well for the rest of the world, he did not neglect this, but he would do the best of both, could not tell how Mr David John was.

         The Rev. T. J. Jenkyn, Llwynypia, was called next. His brother had mentioned Mr John at home having known Mr John's family. He had been totally at home in their house and consequently knew them very well. And he was a very busy lad who was at his home, and in his home circles, although he had raised a family that was honored to have. & c.

         Mr. M. O. Jones, Treberbert, said he felt inclined to speak. Last Sunday night in King's Cross chapel, London, he heard Dr. Owen Evans[2] deliver a funeral sermon after a deacon of the church - a family in grief, a church in grief. He thought at the time how difficult it was to preach; that he, too, found it difficult to speak on the circumstance. He had known Mr. John for thirty years. He then had an introduction to the character of the man. They started a young church in Treherbert, and sought help. He asked Mr. David John helped them, and he did. His choir came from Ebenezer, walking all the way across the mountain to and fro, to hold a concert to assist them. He asked who was ready to do a similar thing now. That he had looked up to Mr. John as an example, wishing to be a leader like him. That he felt very sad at the thought that he had left, but that although he had left, he felt that his influence was staying, and that he was there in the excellent singing that day.

         The Rev. D. Thomas, Cymer, and said a few words about his knowledge of the great man, his usefulness and his service, and followed with prayer.

         We noticed that there were several musicians in the chapel. We saw Mr. Rees Evans, and Dan Griffiths, Aberdare; Mr. Hywel Cynon, Aberaman; Alaw Brecknock, Cefn; and Mr. Richard Morris, Hirwann. There could have been others we didn't see. We formed a procession to go to the burial ground. We saw the procession was led by the Revs. Morris, Pontypridd; Thomas, Cymer; Griffiths, Cwmdar; Grawys Jones; Davies, Llwydcoed; Rees, Salem; Penar, Pentre Estyll; Silyn Evans, and Davies, Soar, Aberdare; Edmunds, Hirwaun; Jenkyn, Llwynpia; Davies, Ynyshir; Sulgwyn Davies, Siloh; Morgan (M.C.), Bryn Zion; Harris (B.), Heolyfelin; Messrs. Thos. Williams, Gwaelodygarth; Thomas, Tynywern; Jeffreys, Treherbert; J. Rees, Aberaman; M. O. Jones, Treherbert; Hywel Cyoon, Aberaman; G. George, Aberdare.

         The choir, composed of the various chapels, sang the following tunes in the chapel, on the road, and at the grave, - Pen ftebo, Nantgau, Burford, Abergele, Dymuniad, Eifionydd, St. Luke, Henryd, Talybont, Lausanne, Rhuddlan, and also sung the anthem "Dyddiau dyn" ["Man's Days"] was during the chapel service. Some of the musicians present noticed that such outstanding singing was rarely heard.

         The Rev. G. Griffiths (Penar), Pentre Estyll, spoke at the grave, and the Rev. J. Davies, Soar, prayed; and having sung a hymn from the heart, we left the sacred place, where the remains of a man who served his God as faithfully as any of his contemporaries in the world. He left a widow behind him, two daughters, and two sons. All of them fill circles of honor in society - the girls being schoolmistresses, and the sons being schoolmasters, one of them quite well known as a conductor, musician, editor, and adjudicator, Mr. Tom John, Llwynpia. May the Lord give protection over the widow to her grave, and bless the children and her offspring for ever.

         -- A NEIGHBOUR.

          

         [1] Caradog - conductor of the Côr Mawr, of which several members of the John Family were members: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Griffith_Rhys_Jones

         [2] Rev Dr Owen Evans - a well-known figure in the Welsh chapels: https://newspapers.library.wales/view/3714206/3714214/56/evans

13. Merthyr Express
    1. • Date: 13 January 1894
       • Page: Page 8
       • Citation:

         Death of an Old Aberdarian.

         A WELL-KNOWN MUSICIAN.

         We deeply regret to announce the death of Mr. David John, of Harriet-street, Trecynon, which took place on Friday morning. Deceased was one of the pioneers of music in the Aberdare Valley, and had done much to popularise the art of music ere most of present generation were born. A native of Cardiganshire, after a short residence at Merthyr, he removed to Aberdare in September, 1849. Being a Congregationalist, he at once identified himself with Ebenezer Congregational Chapel, where the late Rev. W. Edwards, then a young man, was pastor. Mr. John at once took active steps to promote the musical organisation in the church, and was successful in forming an excellent choir there, of which he himself was the leader. In this connection it may be interesting to add that that choir in 1862 performed almost all the choral music in Handel's "Messiah". The choir also performed most of the music of "Judas Maccabæus," followed by Mozart's "Twelfth Mass," when the choir was accompanied in the orchestration by Caradog's String Band, who were then appearing in Wales as the pioneers of orchestral music in the Principality. In some of the other concerts given about that time by Mr. John's choir they were accompanied by Mr. Lawrence, then organist of St. David's, Merthyr, the only capable accompanist in that time probably in the whole district. The deceased had also a great leaning towards glees, most of Bishop's and Mendelssohn's being learnt by his choir, as well as a large number of Owen Alaw's, Tanymarian's, and other Welsh composer's anthems. Mr. John also figured at one time prominently as a musical conductor in competitive meetings at the various eisteddfodau in the district, although this was only a secondary part of his musical programme. When the Welsh Choir went to London to compete at the Crystal Palace in 1871 and 1872, Caradog and his choir found no more ardent supporter throughout the whole of Wales than the deceased. During all these years he also acted as singing conductor at Ebenezer Church, a position which he only resigned a few years ago. It migh tbe here interesting to add that the Ebenezer Choir is still one of the, if not the best, choirs from a single congregation in the district, and that it purposes to give next week a performance of "Judas Maccabæus" with full orchestration in the Temperance Hall. Mr. John, since his resignation of the office of conductor, took a great interest in the work of the choir, and only a few weeks ago expressed the hope that he might live to see an orchestra introduced into the choir for use at the services on Sundays. He was present on Christmas Day at the performanec of "Elijah" at the Temperance Hall. He has twice been the recipient of handsome testimonials, presented him by the church and musical friends. It is also a remarkable fact that in addition to being himself a musical educator, the whole of his children are elementary teachers, viz. Mr. Tom John, of Llwynypia, the well-known educationalist, a member of the council of the N.U.T., and the editor of the Glamorgan Free Press; Mr. John W. John, of the Ynyshir Board School; Miss John, of the Cymmer Board School; and Miss Margaret John, of the Bodringallt Board School.

         On Tuesday, at 2 30 p.m., the funeral took place, and was attended by a very large and representative gathering. The deceased's body, placed in a polished Welsh oak coffin, with massive brass panel mountings, the breast place bearing the following inscription: "David John, died January 5th, 1894, aged 71 years," and covered with magnificent wreaths, was borne to the chapel, his deacons at Ebenezer acting as bearers. The coffin was followed by the following mourners :- Mrs. David John (widow), Mr. and Mrs. Tom John, Llwynypia; Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir; Miss Mary John, Cymmer; Miss Margaret John, Bodringallt; Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Dowlais; Mr. Evan Lewis, Swansea; Mrs. Lewis, Walters-road, Swansea; Mr. John Jones, Llwynypia, Mr. Scott, Rhondda; Mrs. Thomas, Pontypridd; Miss Roberts, Dowlais, and Mrs. Morgan, Merthyr. Among the ministers and leading laymen present we noticed the Revs. J. Grawys, Cymdare; W. S. Davies, Llwydcoed; J. D. Rees, Salem; J. Sulawyn Davies, Siloh; J. Davies, Soar; W. Harries (B), Mill-street; H. T. Stephens (C.M.), Bryn Seion, Aberdare; G. Griffiths (Penar), Pentru Estyll; T. Edmunds, Hirwain; D. Thomas, Cymmer; W. J. Morris, Pontypridd; E. C. Davies, Ynyshir; T. G. Jenkyn, Llwynypia; D. H. Wigley, Brecon; Messrs. Alderman Thomas Williams, J.P., Merthyr; Gomer Jones, B.A., Merthyr; S. Hopkins, Ysguborwen; Rees Evans, Aberdare; Dl Griffiths, Aberdare; W. Charles and Owen Harries, Trecynon; John Rees, Tyrheol; John Morgan, Clive House; R. Wigley, D. Lewis Edmunds, Morgan Williams, Jacob Treharne (Tiberog), M. O. Jones, Treherbert; W. Jeffreys, Treherbert; Wm. Clarke, Higher Grade School, Pentre; D Evans, Treorky; J. Evans, Havod; Uriel Edwards, Ystrad; J. W. Jones, Penygraig; D. S. Thomas, Bazaar, Pentre; Rees Davies, Abernant; T. Thomas, Tynywern, &c. At the chapel the Rev. D. Griffiths, Cwmdare, read and prayed.

         The Rev. J. Grawys Jones then said that letters of apology and regret for their inability to be present had been received from Mr. John Rees, H.M. Inspector of schools, Swansea; Mr. Griffiths R. Jones, Cardiff; and others. He then feelingly referred to the long connection of the deceased with that church. He had been a model deacon for over 33 years, and longer still the leader of the congregational singing.

         The Rev. W. J. MORRIS, Pontypridd, said he could say a good deal of the deceased. It was 45 years last September that he (the speaker) came to live under Mr. John's roof, and he lived in the house for over four years, and no one knew a man better than an inmate of his own household. It was there a man generally showed his real character. They said of old Edwards, Groeswen, that he was a builder for both worlds, and he might say of the deceased that he was a worker for both worlds. He would not attempt to say how much he was indebted to the deceased for the help he had given him for the four years he had been under his roof. He looked back with great pleasure to that time. The deceased was a born leader, but had no wind or conceit in him. He did not know whether he left much property to his children, but he was sure he could tell them on his death-bed that there was not a dirty shilling among them. He (the speaker) appealed to the children of the deceased, and those whom he might call his musical children, to carry on the old banner, and not let it touch the ground. Let them carry it unsoiled as the deacon had.

         The choir then sang the anthem, "Dyddiau dyn sydd fel gaswelltyn," very effectively.

         Rev. T. G. Jenkyn, Llwynypia, said he knew little of Mr. John in the house except from the influence he left on some of his children whom he knew, but he thought that was a good criterion to judge a man by. He did not let his temporary work hinder him from his spiritual duties. They had met to bury a good man - one who had lived so that death had no terror.

         Mr. M. O. JONES, Treherbert, said he found it very hard at times to speak in a funeral, but it was easy there. He had enough to say of the deceased. His paths had been strewn with the flowers of virtue. He knew deceased 30 years ago, and had found in him a friend, always ready to render a helping hand to any religious cause. He would never forget an occasion upon which the Ebenezer Choir, led by the deceased, came over the mountain to Carmel, Treherbert, when that church was in its infancy, to give a concert in its aid, walking back over the mountain the same night. He always looked upon the deceased as a model leader, who had left behind him a name unstained.

         Rev. D. THOMAS, Cymmer, also spoke of his long and familiar aquaintance with deceased.

         After a hymn had been sung, the procession reformed for the cemetery, where the Rev. Griffith Griffiths (Penar), Pentre Estyll, spoke a few words. Deceased was so full of music that he believed that one of the first characters in the celestial region whom he would look out for would be David and his harp, and the next would be the late Ambrose Lloyd, the composer of the hymn-book he had used so long.

         The Rev. J. DAVIES, Zoar, then effectively prayed and the choir having again sung, the vast crowd slowly turned their backs upon all that was mortal of one to whom the words of the Saviour were especially applicable, "Behold an Israelite indeed in whom there is no guile."

         The funeral arrangements were enstrusted to Mr. W. T. Harries, of Mill-street, and were admirably carried out.

         We append a list of those who placed wreaths upon the coffin :- Mrs. David John, four children of the deceased, Ebenezer Choir, Mrs. Evans, Brynbach, Brynaman; Major Sloper, J.P., Cardiff; Mrs. J. W. Jones, Park lane, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Evans, solicitor, Swansea; Mr. and Mrs. Chalke, Pentre; the teachers of the Bodringallt Schools; Mr. David John, Cardiff; Mr. J. Preece, Porth.

    2. • Date: 29 January 1910
       • Page: Page 4
       • Citation:

         Aberdare Cymrodorion Society.
         WHAT WE OWE TO THE MONKS.

         The fortnightly meeting of the Aberdare Cymrodorion Society was held on Friday evening at the Higher Standard School, Gadlys, Mr. D. M. Richards (Myfyr Dar) in the chair.

         Mr. T. Williams, Park Inspector, read a ten minutes' paper on "The Late Mr. David John, shoemaker, Trecynon," for many years the singing conductor at Ebenezer Congregational Church, Mill-street. Mr. John was born at Kilgerran (Pembrokeshire) in 1823. He removed with his parents when young to Merthyr, and in 1849 to Aberdare. The reader delineated his character since advent to Aberdare as a choir master and a conductor, and pointed out that he led his choir to victory three times at one Eisteddfod. An alleged gross act of injustice on the part of an Eisteddfod adjudicator, however, so disgusted him that he never afterwards competed at an Eisteddfod. Mr. Williams then gave a graphic picture of him as a singing conductor at Ebenezer, and especially his power of bringing out the spiritual meaning of the hymn and the tune in congregational singing. His devotional spirit was also dealt with, and a reference made to the fact that Mr. Tom John. M.A., of Llwynypia, ex-president of the National Union of Teachers, was his son. Mr. John was buried on January 9th, 1894.

         The Rev. C. A. H. Green, M.A., Vicar of Aberdare, then delivered a very interesting address on "The Monks." He by drawing out very clearly the difference between the hermits and the monks. The hermits, he said, dwelt apart in solitude, while the monks dwelt, together under the rules of their respective orders. After a reference to various theories as to the origin of monasticism in the Christian Church, he said it arose out of the natural aspirations of the human heart for a closer walk with God. It was Christ Himself who nurtured the seed in urging the disciples to seek for perfection, and His example, without family, without home, led others to follow and seek for Christian perfection in that direction. The hermits existed during the early Christian persecution, but the monks arose later in the third century. The father of the monks, though not himsslf a monk, was St. Anthony, of whom the Vicar drew a graphic picture, although he pointed out that his pulpit rather than his cell was the centre of attraction in his case. He then traced the growth of monasticism in the Eastern Church, and its introduction into Great Britain, coming here as Christianity did in various waves. He also dealt with the difference between the Norman monasteries and the old Celtic ones, pointing out the result of this on tha monastic life in the Principality. The Normans introduced into Wales the Benedictine, their rule being based on silence, humility, and obedience. They arose at midnight for devotion, and then spent the remainder of the night in prayer and study, again greeting the dawn with a service of devotion to Almighty God. They ate very little meat, confining themselves almost entirely to vegetables, eggs, and fish. At six in the evening, the labour of the day being over, they retired to sleep. They had no monastery in the Diocese of Llandaff, but had one for women at Usk, and many small cells and chapels dependent on foreign monasteries. Other orders in Wales were described as the Cluniae Monks, the Cistercians, the Dominicans, the Franciscans, the Carmelites, and other orders. The monks were the great preachers and teachers of the Middle Ages. Mr. Green dealt also with some causes of their failure, and the indebtedness of Wales to monasticism in keeping alive its literature.

         At the close of the address, the Chairman expressed a hope that on a future occasion the Vicar might be induced to give another address dealing specially with the aspect referred to by him in his closing sentence of the indebtedness of Wales to the monks. Mr. J. Griffiths, Park School, referred to some of the traces of monasteries, and the roads the monks passed over in that district. Rev. J. R. Dewi Williams, the vice-president of the Cymrodorion Society, also spoke of recent visits he had paid with the Cardiganshire Antiquarian Society to Stata Florida and Talley Abbey, and the part these institutions took in the history of the Principality. Our danger, he said, was to judge monasticism by what it had become at the time of the Protestant Reformation. The monasteries were not merely religious houses; they were also, in a sense, cities of refuge. Here, too, the poor and the needy ever found succour and help. It was said that at Llantwit Major 100 priests, 100 soldiers, 100 workmen, 100 travellers, and 100 widows were fed daily. Mr. George Powell, Mr. David Davies, Mr. John Davies, Mr. David Richards, and Mr, W. E. Thomas also spoke. Thanks were accorded to both speakers.

14. Jacob Treharne (Tiberog): Hanes Eglwys Annibynol Ebenezer, Aberdar
    1. • Page: Page 108
       • Citation:

         From Chapter XV (Persons brought up in Ebenezer Chapel who went on to do well in the field of education)

         Miss Mary John. - Merch y diweddar Dafydd John. Treuliodd hi ei thymor yn Ysgol y Parc. Aeth i'r coleg yn Abertawe, ac wedi treulio ei thymor yno daeth allan yn llwyddianus, a chafodd ysgol yn y Cymer, Rhondda, lle y mae yn bresenol.

         Miss Margaret John. - Merch eto i'r diweddar Dafydd John. Yn Ysgol y Parc y bu hithau, ac oddiyno i'r Coleg yn Abertawe. Wedi ei dyfodiad allan, aeth i gadw ysgol yn Ynysowen, Bodringallt. Mae'n briod yn bresenol gydag un o'r enw Mr. Preece, ac maent yn cadw siop Ironmongery yn y Porth.

          

          

         Miss Mary John. - A daughter of the late Dafydd John. She attended Park School. She went to college in Swansea, and after spending her time there, graduated successfully, and runs a school in Cymmer, Rhondda, where she is at present.

         Miss Margaret John. - Also a daughter of the late Dafydd John. She had attended Park School (Trecynon) and then College in Swansea. From there she went to run a school in Ynysowen, Bodringallt. She is now married to a Mr. Preece, and they run an Ironmongery shop in Porth.

15. Evening Express
    1. • Date: 13 April 1901
       • Page: Page 1
       • Citation:

         WANTED immediately, an experienced General Servant; good wages given. - Apply Mrs. Preece, 75, Hannah-street, Porth, Rhondda.

16. General Register Office: England & Wales Birth Index
17. Herald of Wales
    1. • Date: 4 August 1900
       • Page: Page 3
       • Citation:

         Interment in Swansea Cemetery.

         REMARKABLE MANIFESTATIONS OF RESPECT.

         The obsequies in connection with the decease of Mr. L. Collwyn Lewis, secretary to the Swansea Intermediate Education Committee, whose tragic death on Sunday last caused a profound sensation throughout the town, were performed on Thursday afternoon, when the remains of the deceased were interred in the Danygraig Cemetery. The funeral cortege left the residence of the late Mr. Collwyn Lewis's parents at 112, Walter-road shortly after two o'clock, amidst remarkable manifestations of respect. In the first carriage were the Rev. Evan Jenkins, Mr. W. E. Harris (solicitor), Mr. Sidney Harris, and Mr. J. B. Pritchard (who carried out the funeral arrangements). The mourning coach was occupied by Mr. Evan Lewis (father of the deceased), Mr. Idris Evan Lewis (brother), Mr. Evan Idris Lewis (cousin), and Mr. T. John, schoolmaster, Llwynypia (relative), and following were a large number of private carriages and a procession of male friends of the deceased, amongst whom were the past-master of the Masonic Lodge, to which he belonged, and representatives of the Teachers' association, the Swansea Scientific Society, and Walter-road Congregational Church. The coffin, which was suitably inscribed, was obscured from view by a number of beautiful wreaths from the following:- Father, mother, and brother, Mr. and Mrs. Preece (Porth), Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John (Ynishir), Miss Mary John (Cymmer), the Swansea Scientific Society, the Misses Bertha, Flossie, and Annie Rowlands (Cardiff), Mr. and Mrs. Evans (Eton Grove), Mr. and Mrs. J. White (Windsor Lodge), the Misses Langdon, Mr. and Mrs. Aynsley (Lansdown-terrace), Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Davies (Gwydr ???), Mr., Mrs., and Miss Lamb (Walter-road), Mrs. J. Lewis (Oxford-street), Mr. Arthur Luty, Mr. Bracewell (Mumbles), the Governors of the Swansea Intermediate School, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Arthur Davies, boys of the Swansea Grammar School, Miss Benger (Swansea Grammar School), Mr. Bowman (Swansea Grammar School), Mr. and Mrs. Marley (Swansea Grammar School), the staff of the Swansea Grammar School, Mrs. Jenkins (Osborne Hotel, Langland), Mr. Geo. Jones, Mr. D. M. Lewis, Mr. Fred. T. Jenkins, Mr. Ivor Davies, Mr. B. Chalk, Mr. Sid. Owen, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Williams, Mr. C. H. Glascodine, Mr. S. Mansel Jones, Walter-road Congregational Church, Mr. and Mrs. R. Lewis Hicks, Mr. and Mrs. Pritchard, Mr. adn Mrs. David Roberts, Mr. Kenyon Clegg, Mr. James Brown ("Cambrian"), President and Council of the Royal Institute of South Wales, Mr. and Mrs. J. Roberts (Clevedon-terrace), Messrs. Willie, Richard, and Sidney Harris, Messrs. John and Evan Griffiths, Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Chapman, Mr. and Mrs. Nash, and Clen. The service at the Cemetery was impressively rendered by the Rev. Evan Jenkins, pastor of Walter-road Church, of which the late Mr. Collwyn Lewis was a member, and the beautiful words of the burial service found a mute response in the breasts of those assembled around the open grave.

18. Notice of Interment - Trealaw Cemetery
    1. • Date: 25 October 1906
       • Page: Margaret Preece
19. South Wales Daily News
    1. • Date: 10 January 1894
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         FUNERAL OF AN ABERDARE MUSICIAN.

         On Tuesday the funeral of Mr David John, Harriet-street, Trecynon, Aberdare, took place at Aberdare Cemetery. The funeral, which was an exceedingly large one, left the house at 2.30 for Ebenezer Church, where the deceased, who was a native of Cardiganshire, was a member since he came to Aberdare in 1849. Owing to the great interest taken by Mr John in musical matters at Aberdare since he first resided here, the funeral was a very representative one, being attended by ministers and leading members of churches from all parts of Glamorgan. On the arrival of the body at the chapel, where deceased had been for so many yaers deacon and singing conductor, the organist played the "Dead March" in Saul. The Rev. D. Griffiths, Cwmdare, read and prayed, and his pastor, the Rev. J. Grawys Jones, feelingly spoke and read letters of apology which had been received from Mr John Rees, H.M. Inspector of Schools, Swansea; Mr Griffith Jones (Caradog), and others. The Rev. W. I. Morris, Pontypridd; Rev. T. J. Jenkyn, Llwynypia; Mr M. O. Jones, Treherbert; and the Rev. David Thomas, Cymmer, followed, all bearing high tribute to the sterling Christian character of the deceased. The procession was then re-formed, and the choir sang all the way from the chapel to the cemetery. At the grave the Rev. G. Griffiths, Pennar, Swansea, spoke, and the Rev. J. Davies, Soar, prayed. The mourners were Mr and Mrs Tom John, Llwynypia; Mr and Mrs J. W. John, Ynyshir; Miss Mary John, Cymmer; and Miss Margaret John, Bodringallt (sons, daughters, and daughters-in-law of the deceased); Mr and Mrs Davies, Dowlais; Mr Evan Lewis, Swansea; Mrs Lewis, Walter-road, Swansea; Mr John Jones, Llwynypia; Mr Scott, Rhondda; Mrs Thomas, Pontypridd; Miss Roberts, Dowlais, and Mrs Morgans, Merthyr. A number of magnificent wreaths were laid on the coffin. Mr D. Harris, Trecynon, was the undertaker. The coffin was made of solid oak, with massive brass mountings.

    2. • Date: 11 August 1894
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         BIRTHS, MARRIAGES, DEATHS

         PREECE-JOHN - On Wednesday, August 1st, at Ebenezer, Trecynon, Aberdare, by the Rev J. Grawys Jones, John Preece, Porth, to Margaret John, of Trecynon (late of Bodringalt Schools).

20. Burial Register - Aberdare Cemetery
    1. • Page: David & Sarah John
21. Thomas Preece: Gravestone photographs
    1. • Date: 17 July 2018
       • Page: David & Sarah John, Aberdare Cemetery
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
    2. • Date: 18 April 2018
       • Page: John & Margaret Preece, Trealaw Cemetery
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
22. Y Drych
    1. • Date: 8 February 1894
       • Page: Page 2
       • Citation:

         Y DIWEDDAR DAVID JOHN, TRECYNON

         Hyde Park, Pa., Chwef. 3. - Yr oedd yn chwith genyf ddarllen yn y DRYCH am farwolaeth y cerddor galluog David John, Trecynon, a diau fod canoedd yn teimlo yn gyffelyb. Daw i'm cof adgofion am ddygwyddiadau 40 mlynedd yn ol, cyn i gapel Ebenezer ddyfod i'w ffurf bresenol, pan oedd y scwar a'r grisiau ceryg o bob tu i'r drws oddi allan yn arwain i'r llofft. Yr oedd D. John yn arweinydd y gan yno y pryd hwnw, a'r Parch. W. Edwards yn ddyn ieuanc llawn bywyd. Ond y nddiweddarach - o 1850 i 1870, y daethym i i adnabyddiaeth agos a Mr John, pan yn cyd-addoli yn Ebenezer, ac yn mwynhau y canu yno dan ei arweiniad ef. Anaml y ceir dyn mor gyflawn ag ef. Yr oedd yn llanw dob cylch yn yr eglwys - yn ddiacon, athraw yn yr ysgol Sul, a gweddiwr gafaelgar, heblaw yn arweinydd y canu. Yr odd yn "ddyn round" yn ngwir ystyr y gair.

         Yn y Merthyr Express am Ion. 13, yn nglyn a hanes angladd Mr. John, crybwylla gohebydd am Lawrence, fel organydd. Cofus genyf finau ei weled yn chware yn Ebenezer mewn cyngerdd un tro, a mawr oedd ein syndod, oblegid nid oedd offerynau yn y capeli y pryd hwnw, nac ond yn bur anaml yn y tai. Cofiwyf am Mr. John yn cael yr harmonium gyntaf yn Trecynon, neu Heol y Felin, fel y gelwid y lle. Fel cymydog a phenteulu hefyd yr eodd Mr. John yn gymeriad i'w edmygu. Bum yn byw yn ei ymyl ar Church Row am ddeuddeng mlynedd; mae genyf adgofion melus am dano.

         Hyfrydwcch oedd genyf weled yn hanes yr angladd enwau personau a adwaenwn mor dda - Thos. Williams, Ysw., U. H., Merthyr, ond Trecynon gynt; David Lewis Edmonds a Morgan Williams. Da y cofiwyf am y ddau olaf yn cael eu gwneyd yn swyddogion yn Ebenezer. Mae mab a merch i Edmonds yn aelodau yn hen eglyws Hyde Park, sef Lewis a Mary Ann, a da genyf ddwyn tystiolaeth i'w bywyd dichlynaidd a'u gweithgarwch crefyddol. Gwelais hefyd enw Jacob Treharn (Tiberog). Ond pa le mae yr hen frodyr, Tomi Tomos Dafydd; Twmi Shencyn; T. Shencyn, Farrier, Timothy Davies, crydd; Dr. Williams, Creunant; Thos. Evans, pwyswr, a Shencyn Griffith? Eu lle nid edwyn ddim o honynt mwy; ond mae eu henwau yn perarogli a dylanwad eu cyngorion yn aros yn nghalonau canoedd o rai sydd ar wasgar yn mhedwar ban y byd. Cofion cynes at bawb o gwfeillion bore oes yn yr hen ardal uchod. - T. J. James

          

          

          

          

          

         THE LATE DAVID JOHN, TRECYNON

         Hyde Park, Pa., Feb. 3. - I was sorry to read in the DRYCH about the death of the able musician David John, Trecynon, and no doubt hundreds feel the same. It brings to mind memories of events 40 years ago, before Ebenezer Chapel came into its present form, when the square and the stone steps from the outside door led to the loft. D. John was the singing conductor there, and the Rev. W. Edwards was a young man full of life. But later - from 1850 to 1870, I came to know Mr John, when he worshiped at Ebenezer, and enjoyed singing there under his guidance. A man is rarely as complete as he is. He filled every circle in the church - a deacon, a teacher in the Sunday school, and an earnest prayer, besides being the conductor of the singing. He was a "round man" in the true sense of the word.

         At the Merthyr Express for Jan. 13, in connection with Mr. John's funeral, a reporter mentions Lawrence as an organist. I remember seeing him playing in Ebenezer in concert once, and we were very surprised, because there were no instruments in the chapels at that time, and very rarely in the houses. I remember Mr. John got the first harmonium at Trecynon, or Mill Street, as the place was called. As a neighbor and head of family, Mr. John is a character to be admired. I lived beside him on Church Row for twelve years; I have fond memories of him.

         It was wonderful to see in the funeral history the names of persons we know so well - Thos. Williams, Esq., U. H., Merthyr, but formerly Trecynon; David Lewis Edmonds and Morgan Williams. I well remember the last two being made officers of Ebenezer. A son and daughter of Edmonds are members of the former Hyde Park eglyus, Lewis and Mary Ann, and I wish to bear witness to their Christian life and religious activity. I also saw the name of Jacob Treharn (Tiberog). But where is the old brothers, Tomi Tomos Dafydd; Twmi Shencyn; T. Shencyn, Farrier, Timothy Davies, shoemaker; Dr. Williams, Crynant; Thos. Evans, presser, and Shencyn Griffith? Their place knows nothing of them any more; but their names perfume and the influence of their counsels remain in the hearts of hundreds of those scattered throughout the world. Warm regards to all the early morning relics in the old area above. - T. J. James

23. The Cambrian
    1. • Date: 3 August 1900
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         SAD FATALITY AT LANGLAND.

         MR COLLWYN LEWIS CAUGHT BY THE UNDERCURRENT.

         INQUEST AND VERDICT.

         Langland Bay has claimed another victim. As if the list were not already long enough! And this time the sorrow of the people of Swansea is intensified by the fact that the victim, Mr Collwyn Lewis, Secretary to the Intermediate and Technical Schools, was one of the most popular and promising young men in the district. He held a position which taxed his body and mind. But he loved his work, and none more proudly pointed to the successes of the schools and none more keenly felt disappointments. What would have been to many an arduous and trying work was to Mr. Collwyn Lewis a labour of love. He was a bright, sociable, and amiable young fellow, and it was good to know him. He won the respect and confidence of his Governors, who now lament the loss of a faithful and painstaking secretary. For some years Mr. Lewis took an active part in the Scientific Society, and it was due very largely to his labours as secretary a few years ago that the Society attained almost high-water mark. Of a sanguine disposition, deceased looked forward to a successful career. But alas! a cruel fate has decreed it otherwise. To the bereaved we extend our deepest sympathy. The father, Mr Evan Lewis, has been Curator of the Royal Institution of South Wales for over thirty years. He was proud of his boy, and so his grief is all the more intense. There is no doubt that Langland Bay is very dangerous, at certain tides, to even the strongest of swimmers. A powerful undercurrent or back-wash prevails after most storms and high tides and it is then that bathers, be they ever so cautious, should not venture out. These dangerous under-currents are always proclaimed by a low rumbling noise - by a warning note which we fear is not heeded as it should be. Mr. Collwyn Lewis was drowned on Sunday alternoon last. The news of the sad fatality spread with surprising rapidity, and caused a painful sensation throughout the district. The whole of the distressing circumstances were given at the inquest on Monday, a report of which appears below.

         THE INQUEST.

         The inquest was held at the Osborne Hotel on Monday afternoon, before Mr. F. H. Glynn Price, County Coroner. The foreman of the jury was Mr. C. W. Jones, Merthyr.

         Evidence of identification was given by Mr. Idris Evan Lewis, brother or the deceased. He said his brother was 28 years of age. He last saw him about one o'clock on Sunday morning, when he lunched at home. After lunch he left home, stating that he intended visiting some friends at Mumbles. He was then in his usual health and spirits. At six o'clock a messenger came and informed him that his brother was exceedingly unwell at Langland. He immediately set off in a conveyance, but upon arriving at the Bay, he found him dead. Deceased had been in good health for the last 13 years.

         Mr. Stanley Mansel Jones, 3, Brunswick-place, Swansea, stated that he was bathing with deceased at about four on Sunday evening. Whilst in the water, he felt a strong under-current running, and, after shouting to deceased, he turned to go out; but deceased replied, "Stick to it, old chap." Almost immediately afterwards deceased shouted that he was "caught." Witness at once ran for the life-buoy, at the same time calling for help, and upon his return a young man named Nichols took it and went to the assistance of deceased, whilst he held on to the end of the rope. Deceased sank when Nichols had got within a few yards of him. Replying to a juror, witness said they bathed only a few yards from the edge of the water, but the waves were high. They had only been in the water about four minutes when deceased cried out that he was caught. The body might have been in the water about 20 minutes. It was washed out first, and then brought in shore by the current. It would have been impossible for him to have helped the deceased, on account of the undercurrent. Besides, he could not swim much, whilst he understood deceased was a strong swimmer.

         Frederick Henry Nichols, of Dorset House, Bryn-road, Swansea, said that he was bathing at Langland about 4.45, when a young man named Fred Lewis drew his attention to deceased who, he saw, was on his back moving as if swimming. He heard a remark from someone as to deceased being all right, and he replied, "Yes, he's all right," his reason for saying so being that the water was shallow where deceased was. He saw nothing more until he observed a person coming with a life-buoy. The buoy was given him, and he swam out with it. After going some distance, he saw the back of deceased's head some yards away from him. He continued swimming, but when he reached the place where he expected to find deceased, he saw no signs of him. Not being a strong swimmer, he was then obliged to turn back. He estimated the distance he had swum at 50 yards. He did not feel any current.

         Wm. Howells, who keeps a refreshment house at Langland Bay, deposed that noticing a boat being taken down towards the water, he ran down to see what was the matter. He saw Mr. Hemmings, coal merchant who lived near the Bay, taking off his coat, and was told that someone was drowning, Together with Mr. Hemmings, he rushed into the water, and they had not gone very far when his companion stumbled over a rock. Just then the body of deceased came up between them. He assisted Mr. Hemmings (who was just out of his depth) to his feet, and they carried the body out of the water, and laid it upon the sand, where efforts were made towards re-animation. The sea was not very rough, nor was there any under-current running.

         In answer to a juror, witness said he could not say what arrangements the District Council made about the boat which was kept in the Bay. If the boat had been afloat the man in charge would have done all he could to save deceased.

         Dr. Arthur Lloyd Jones. Rotherslade-lane, said he was called to the Bay about 5.30 on Sunday evening. He there saw deceased on the sands, surrounded by a party of helpers, who had apparently been doing everything possible towards re-animation. He found him lifeless, and not responsive to any stimulus or further effort, which was continued for an hour. He attributed death to suffocation by drowning, and he opined that it was hastened by deceased having had a heavy meal, a portion of which become [sic] impacted in his wind-pipe.

         A Juror: Would you suggest that that man could have died solely from drowning?

         Witness: The only explanation I can give from the evidence, and the appearance of the deceased when found, is that he must have been alarmed at something like a current or backwater, and having got his mouth under the water, he swallowed some. Now people frequently forget that salt water acts as an emetic, and so I think that deceased must have vomited, and whilst doing so took a deep inhalation, which brought the food back his lungs. He did not think deceased's heart failed him.

         Hy. Smith, Chapel-street, was called to speak of the arrangements for the protection of bathers. He said he was employed by the District Council to take charge of the boat for the safeguarding of bathers. His hours on week-days were from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sunday from 8 to 12. He considered it was too rough on Sunday to launch the boat, but it was not dangerous for bathing, as there was no current running.

         P. C. Roberts deposed to finding on the body of deceased a watch (which had stopped at 5.5), and other articles, which he produced.

         The Coronor having summoned up, the jury returned a verdict to the effect that death was due to suffocation, caused by the lungs becoming impacted whilst bathing.

         RESOLUTION OF SCHOOL GOVERNORS.

         A meeting of the Governors of the Swansea Intermediate and Technical Schools was held in the Guildhall on Monday afternoon. Present: Mr. R. Martin (Chairman), Dr. Rawlings, Mr. W. Watkins (Mayor), Mr W. Williams, Mr. Fred. Rocke, Mr. W. Walters, J.P., Ald. Gwilym Morgan, Mr. T. Freeman, Mrs. R. Martin, Mrs. T. Freeman, Miss Broche, Miss Benger (Principal Girls' School), and Mr. D. C. Johns (Clerk).

         Mr Martin paid a high tribute to the zeal and devotion of Mr. Collwyn Lewis, whose sad death he greatly deplored. He devoted heart and soul to the work of the schools. No work was too great, or any sacrifices too much to promote the interests of the schools. He (Mr. Martin) knew no official more devoted to his duties, and by his death they had lost a valuable and faithful secretary. He moved a resolution which recorded the Governors' high sense of the deceased's services, and their deep sympathy with the bereaved parents.

         The Mayor seconded.

         Mrs. Freeman said that Mr. Lewis was a most excellent Secretary. He worked hard, and was always most kind. She voted for the appointment, and if every appointment was justified so well, it would be a great pleasure to all.

         Miss Benger said that many men did their work carefully and enthusiastically, but Mr. Collwyn Lewis did more: he was ever ready to help those around him. She deeply deplored his death, and she could not refrain from bearing testimony, not only to his devotion to duty, but to his invariable kindness.

         The resolution was carried in silence, and on the suggestion of Mrs. Freeman, it was decided to send a wreath.

         THE FUNERAL.

         The respect and esteem in which the late Mr. Collwyn Lewis was held, and the poignancy of the sorrow felt at his sad death, were evidenced in a striking manner yesterday (Thursday), when the funeral took place. Blinds were down in almost every house in Walter-road and Mansel-street, and along the whole line of route taken by the cortege there were abundant manifestations of regret and sympathy. The coffin was covered with beautiful wreaths, sent by the following: Father, mother, and brother; Mr. and Mrs. J. Preece, Porth; Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynishir; Miss Mary John, Cymmer; The Swansea Scientific Society; the Misses Bertha, Flossie, and Annie Rowlands, Cardiff; Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Eton Grove; Mr. and Mrs. J. White, Windsor Lodge; the Misses Langdon; Mr. and Mrs. Aynsley, Lansdown-terrace; Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Davies, Gwydr Gardens; Mr., Mrs., and Miss Lamb, Walter-road; Mrs. J. Lewis, Oxford-street; Mr. Arthur Luty; Mr. Bracewell, Mumbles; Mr. and Mrs. Richard Lewis, Mumbles, the Governors of the Swansea Intermediate School; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Arthur Davies, the boys of the Swansea Grammar School, Miss Binger, Swansea High School; Mr. Bowman, do.; Mr. and Mrs. Marley, do.; the staff of the Swansea High School; Mrs. Jenkins, Osborne Hotel, Langland; Mr. George Jones, Mr. D. M, Lewis, Mr. Fred. T. Jenkins, Mr. Ivor Davies, Mr. B. Chalke, Mr. Sid Owen, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Williams, Mr. C. H. Glascodine, Mr. S. Mansel Jones, the Walter-road Congregational Church, Mr. and Mrs. R. Lewis Hicks, Mr. and Mrs. Pritchard, Mr. and Mrs. David Roberts, Mr. Kenyon Clegg, Mr. James Brown ("Cambrian"), the President and Council of the Royal Institute of South Wales, Mr. and Mrs. J. Roberts, Cleveland-terrace; Mr. Willie Richard and Sidney I Harris, Miss John and Evan Griffiths, Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Chapman, Mr. and Mrs. Nash and Clem, etc.

         The chief mourners were Mr. Evan Lewis (father), Mr. Idris Evan Lewis, B.A. (brother), Mr. Evan Idris Lewis (cousin), Mr. Tom John, Llwynypia (cousin), Mr. J. Preece. Porth (cousin). The cortege left Walter-road shortly after two o'clock. The attendance of friends and sympathisers was large and representative. We noticed, among others, Mr. R. Martin (Chairman Intermediate and Technical Committee), Mr. Richard Lewis; Mr. John White. J.P., Mr. Aynsley, and Mr. Meredith (Ben Evans and Co.); Mr. John Roberts, Mr. D. Roberts. Mr. D. Thomas. M.E., Ald. John Griffiths, Mr. Evan Griffiths, Ald. Gwilym Morgan, Mr. Halden (Clerk of School Board), Rev. Evan Jenkins, Dr. E. le Cronier Lancaster, Mr. J. R. Leaver, Mr. Charles Davies, Mr. W. Terrill, and Mr. James Brown ("The Cambrian"), representing the Swansea Scientinc Society; Mr. John Powell, Mr. D. C. Johns (Town Clerk's Office), Mr. W. A. Davies (solicitor), Mr W. A. Davies, Mr. F. C. Eddershaw, Mr. W. C. Jenkins. Mr. T. Rees ("Daily Leeder" [sic]), Mr. A. Hoskins, Mr. Rouse, junr., Mr. Haydn Evans, Mr. J. P. Long, Mr. S. P. Wills, junr., Mr. J. T. Davies (metal broker), Mr. Brace, junr., Mr. Ernest Jones (Castle Square). Mr. Julius Smith. Mr. M. Williams. Mr. Walter Lewis, Mr. W. J. Lloyd (chemist). Mr. Parson (commercial traveller), Mr. Alfred Davies, representatives of the Indefatigable Lodge of Freemasons (of which deceased was a member); Mr. H. J. Thomas, Mr Davies (Wind-street), Mr. W. E. Harris, Mr. Sid Harris, Mr David Williams (late Principal Swansea Training College). Mr. Percy Bracewell, masters at the Swansea Intermediate and technical Schools, etc. The service at the Danygraig Cemetery was reverently and impressively conducted by the Rev. Evan Jenkins, pastor of Walter-road Congregational Church. In the course of a brief address, the rev. gentleman, who was labouring under deep emotion, referred to the bright young life that had been cut down in a most sudden and unexpected way. The life of their dear departed friend was a life of singular devotion to duty, a life that endeared itself to a large circle of friends. The scene at the graveside was very affecting, the bereaved father seemed overcome with grief, and deep was the sympathy felt for him and his in their great hour of tribulation.

         The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr. Pritchard, Oxford-street.

         At the Swansea Board of Guardians yesterday, a vote of sympathy was passed with Mr. and Mrs. Evan Lewis in the loss of their son.

24. 1911 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG14/32384/96
25. General Register Office: England & Wales Death Index
26. UK Government: National Probate Calendar
    1. • Date: 9 July 1907
       • Page: Margaret Preece
       • Citation:

         PREECE Margaret of 75 Hannah-street Porth Glamorganshire (wife of John Preece) died 24 October 1906 Administration Llandaff 9 July to the said John Preece ironmonger Effects £1104 11s. 1d.

27. Exeter and Plymouth Gazette
    1. • Date: 20 June 1926
       • Page: Page 2
       • Citation:

         A wedding took place in the Lady Chapel of Exeter Cathedral on Saturday between Miss Ruby Colvin Fryer (younger daughter of the late Mr. J. Fryer, of Saddleworth, Yorks., and of Mrs. Fryer, of Roslyn, Archibald-road, Exeter) and Dr. Trevor Meyrick Preece (second son of Mr. J. Preece, of Porth, Glamorgan, and the late Mrs. Preece). The ceremony was performed by the Rev. R. C. B. Llewellyn. The sub-organist (Mr. F. G. Bradford) played appropriate music, including Mendelssohn's "Wedding March." The bride was escorted by her brother, Mr. Frank Fryer, and was given away by her mother. Mr. D. A. Preece was best man. The bridesmaids were Miss Hilda Preece and Miss Gladys Preece (sisters of the bridegroom).

28. Burial Register - Trealaw Cemetery
    1. • Page: Plot D25
29. General Register Office: England & Wales Marriage Index