Preece Family Tree

Events

Parents

Families

Media

William Jeffreys

Attributes

Pedigree

1. David Jeffreys
   1. Mary Jones
      1. David Jeffreys
      2. William Jeffreys
         1. Alice Jenkins
            1. Walter Thomas Jeffreys
            2. Mary Jeffreys
            3. Stanley Jeffreys
            4. William Edward Jeffreys
            5. Gwladys Jeffreys
      3. Owen Jeffreys
      4. John Jeffreys
      5. Mary Jeffreys

Ancestors

William Jeffreys *between January 1842 and March 1842 +27 June 1908

David Jeffreys
*about 1811
+about March 1874

Jeffrey Jeffreys
*
+...

Mary Jones
*about 1810
+about June 1881

William Jones
*
+...

Source References

1. Tarian Y Gweithiwr
   1. • 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

2. Rhondda Leader
   1. • 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)

   2. • Date: 16 November 1907
      • Page: Supplement - Page 1
      • Citation:

        Death of Mr. Dafydd John.

        Promising Career Cut Short

        Representative Funeral.

        After a painful illness extending over seven months, Dafydd, the only son of Mr. Tom John, M.A., Llwynypia, passed away on Friday midnight. Always of a very delicate constitution, the condition of his heart had always given great concern to his parents and sisters. On two occasions he undertook a prolonged voyage in the Mediterranean Sea, and returned much benefited thereby. Of late, however, dropsy and other complications set in, and although his condition had been pronounced by the doctors as practically hopeless, he, nevertheless, kept up a stout heart and a cheerful disposition. In moments of ease, he would converse freely with his father about various matters, and although confined to his bed, he took a wonderful amount of interest in what was passing in the world outside.

        Dafydd was educated at the Llwynypia School, and at the County School, Porth, where he was held in great esteem by the scholars and teachers. Two years ago, on returning from his last trip, he joined the staff of the "Rhondda Leader" as a junior reporter. Like every true Pressman, he was very attached to his paper, and was always proud to assist, however so little, in its fortunes. Like Mr. Micawber, he had "great expectations," and many times he remarked that he would be a great journalist, "not a mere reporter."

        "Alas, the schemes of mice and men often go agley."

        About a twelvemonth ago, he underwent an operation for a cleft palate, and although the operation was entirely successful, the effect was not all that could be desired.

        He was a well-read youth, and his conversation was always sparkling and entertaining, and marked with bright flashes of quiet humour. In politics - he was a keen politician at an early age - he was a staunch Liberal, and a true son of his respected father. He was an ardent Non-conformist, and a keen Disestablisher - indeed, he would paint the evils of a State-aided religion with no light hand. He was also a great friend of the teaching profession, as was only to be expected, and almost his last appearance in public was at the last conference of the N.U.T., when Mr. and Mrs. John were presented with an address at Oxford. His mother, who was then lying seriously ill at home, failed to attend the proceedings, and the duties of responding on her behalf fell to Dafydd, which he did with the instinct of a born orator. At the end of April he was confined to the house, and with but rare intervals the hand of sickness was heavy upon him until his release came on Friday midnight, and he passed to the Unknown at the early age of 20 years.

        The funeral on Tuesday was a very large and representative one, the teaching profession, in particular, being strongly represented. The coffin, which was of polished oak, bore the simple inscription

        Dafydd John,
        Died November 9th, 1907.
        Age 20 Years.

        At the graveside a short service was held, when touching tributes to the character of deceased were paid by the Rev. E. Richards, Tonypandy; Rev. T. G. Jenkyn, Salem, Llwynypia; and Rev. Grawys Jones, Aberdare. The singing en route and at the graveside was conducted by Mr. W. T. David, Tonypandy.

        The mourners included Mr. Tom John, M.A. (father); Misses Maggie and Matilda John (sisters); Miss Mary John (aunt); Mr and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir (uncle and aunt); Mr. J. Preece, Porth, and Mr. D. Morgan, Blaenrhondda (uncles); Mr. and Mrs. Scott, Pentre (uncle and aunt); Miss Diana Lewis (aunt); Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, Williamstown; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Lewis, Tonypandy, and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, Penygraig (cousins); Mrs. Davies and family, Treforest; Mrs. Davies, Treorchy; Mrs. Williams and Miss Lena Williams; Mr. Sidney Williams, Treorchy; Mrs. Gwatinn, Pentre; Mrs. Evans, Kenfig Hill; Mr. Jeffreys, Treherbert; Mr. Isaac Harris, Aberdare; Mr. and Mrs. D. Davies, Aberdare; Mrs. M. A. and Master Tom Davies, Aberdare.

        Among those present we noticed the Revs. W. Charles, M.A., Treorchy; M. H. Ellis (C.M.), Trealaw; J. Morgan (O.M.), Llwynypia; J. Nicholas (B.); J. L. Roderick, B.A. (B.); W. Williams (C.M.), Tonypandy: S. G. Jones (C.), Trealaw; Alderman Rd. Lewis, J.P. Mr. D. W. Davies, C.C., Tonypandy; Mr. David Smith, J.P chairman of the Rhondda Urban District Council); Mr. R. S. Griffiths, D.C. Mr. D. C. Evans, D.C. Mr. D. Williams. D.C. Mr. James Evans, C.C., Oydach Yale; Dr. Idris Morgan; Dr. Llewellyn, Penygraig; Mr. T. Millward, solicitor, Pentre; Mr. D. Jones, overseer; Mr. W. D. Jones ("Leader") Mr. D. M. Williams, accountant; Mr. Dan Evans, M.E., Llwynypia; Mr. D. Thomas, Trealaw; Mr. Ben Davies, miners' agent, Pentre; Mr. N. Meredith, Llwynypia; Mr. Jacob Rees, Pentre; Mr. J. Kemp, Ynyshir; Mr. T. W. Berry, Director of Education; Mr. T. G. Jones, deputy-clerk, Rhondda Urban District Council. The teaching profession were represented by Mr. E. Samuel, M.A., Porth; Dr. R. D. Chalke, M.A., Porth; Messrs. Rhys Nicholas, Cwmavon; T. T. Jenkins, Pentrebach, Merthyr; R. J. Price, Merthyr; EI. C. Willmott, Cardiff; James Williams, Swansea; James Nicholas. Aberavon; Isaac Davies, Blaengwynfi; Edmund Davies, Cymmer; J. Ambrose, Penrhiwceiber; G. Lewis, Mardy; J. Evans, Ton; D. Phil- lips, Wattstown; LI. Jones, Pentre; S. Davies, Pontrhondda; David Davies, Pontygwaith; T. P. John, Trealaw; W. H. Owen, Treherbert; H. Harris, Tylorstown; J. W. Jones, Tonypandy: H. Howells, Treorchy; B. Gabe, Penyrenglyn; T. Morgan, Cwmparc Ll. Davies, Pentre. Clydach Vale School: Messrs. R. R. Williams, D. E. Griffiths, D. R. Rees, R. J. Whittington, Mrs. Price, Miss G. Lewis, Miss Jones and Miss Colville. Llwynypia School: Mr. and Mrs. Alf. Evans, Mr. J. Griffiths, Mr. R. Bowen, and Mr. J. D. Lewis.

        Scores of letters expressing sympathy with the family in their second bereavement - it being only three months since Mrs. John was laid to rest - were received, among the number being those from the Right Hon. D. Lloyd George, M.P., Dr. T. J. Macnamara, M.P., Sir Isambard Owen, and Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P. The funeral arrangements were conducted by Messrs. J. Griffiths and Sons, undertakers, Tonypandy.

   3. • Date: 4 July 1908
      • Page: Page 5
      • Citation:

        Death of Mr. W. Jeffreys, Treherbert

        Thirty Years a Guardian.

        We regret having to report the death of Mr. William Jeffreys, grocer, Trehebert, and one of the oldest Guardians of the Pontypridd Union, which took place on Saturday last. Deceased, who had reached the age of 66, was born at Penybont, Llangadock, Carmarthenshire. He served his apprenticeship with his uncle, Mr. J. W. Jones, Aberdare. He came to Treherbert at the age of 23 to manage the premises then known as the "Hen Shop Company," eventually becoming proprietor of the business.

        His career as a Guardian extends back over a period of thirty years, broken only by a lapse of six years. He was re-elected five years ago. He was also sitting member of the Local Burial Committee, and afterwards member of the Rhondda District Council. During his term of office as Guardian the six cottage homes came into existence, and also the workhouse of Llwynypia. He was also an honorary member of the M.U.O.F., and treasure of the local branch of "Hen Gymry." In politics and religion he was a staunch Liberal of the old school, and a member of Ebenezer (W.C.) Chapel.

        For the last twelve months he had suffered considerably from heart trouble, and about a fortnight ago was attended for strangulated hernia, eventually passing away after a painful illness on Saturday last. He leaves a widow and two children to mourn his loss.

        The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon and was very largely attended.

   4. • Date: 1 August 1908
      • Page: Page 4
      • Citation:

        Editorial Notes.

        Treherbert has lost two of its oldest and most valuable public servants by the death of Mr. W. Jeffreys and Mr. M. O. Jones. The formers, who passed away a few weeks ago, had served a long service as Treherbert's local representative on the Board of Guardians; he had given really the most valuable years of his life to carry out the merciful ministrations in the province of the Poor Law. He was transparently honest in all public work, and as a Guardian always discharged his representative duties with singular disinterestness, and with a judicious decision between the "giving" and the "getting" members of the community.

        His term of office represented many transitions in the public conception of the duties of a Poor Law Guardian. He came into the representative duty when its administration was viewed, more or less, as a "necessary evil," and a grudging doling of relief to the necessitous was painfully permeating the entire atmosphere of the Guardians. The wage-earning standard then was much lower than now, and the amount of relife was correspondingly assessed on a more poverty scale. Indeed, the entire governing spirit was one animated with a sense that Poor Law was organised coercive benevolence, and when Guardians could exercise the function with the minimum extraction from the rates, they were accounted genius men in administration. As we have indicated, such was the apprenticeship of the older Guardians. The transitions which have gone on to the culmination illustrated in the institutions on Penrhys Mountain side, and the comfort ruling there for the "old folks," if it has been gradual, has, nevertheless, been most remarkable. Mr. Jeffreys had gone through all these periods of change, and his deep sympathetic nature was elastic enough to respond by its natural sympathy and temperament to the broader and more humane views. Mr. Jeffreys, though always careful about public burdens, with him, nevertheless, the money problem was never allowed to depresse the human duty of sympathy. Treherbert recognised his services with advancing years, and recorded its appreciation in the last election in a very emphatic and pronounced manner. Truly, he typified a good life, honest in public, straight in business, and affectionate in the home and the community, and his reward is as certain as the good example of his public and private life is generally assured.

        With the passing away of the last Mr. M. O. Jones, not only Treherbert has been left with a vacant chair which in the school and locality cannot be adequately filled, but a national personality has gone who had played his part with eminent distinction in the wider fields of the Eisteddfod, Music and Literature. He had succeeded to touch public life in a greater variety of ways than falls ot most men, and certainly most of his fellow-teachers. Primarily, Treherbert had from him his best, and that in his life work as the educator of the young; and history will tell that in this part he worked with remarkable diligence, constancy and success. He began very young, coming from Borough Road College when just over his minority, and was privileged to remain harnessed to his work to the utmost ripeness and mellowness of experience. He was long the doyen of the Rhondda teachers, and a worthy father he remained professionally during those years. As a teacher he was punctuality and regularity incarnate, and religiously and scrupulously exact in the conduct of those small details which mean so much to a successful school regime, and which always makes for its smooth administrative working. In the forty years of public service as a public teacher, he developed the most generous ideals what a schoolmaster in his relation to the young should be. He had no narrow views of his responsibility to the young enstrusted to his care. He fully realised that his teachership involved more than mere mechanical and technical details of books, and that he had to fill the hearts of his pupils with noble aspirations of conduct and character, before the utility and purpose of the school could bring about its expectant realisations. This consciousness was most obviously reflected in the lift of Mr. M. O. Jones. Judging his school life by the standard of men and women making for the duties of life, the Trehebert School, under Mr. M. O. Jones, has had a very honourable record. The old pupils are the "world over," doing good and great work, reflecting the successful careers the splendid lead and guidance received at their Rhondda Alma Mater. Our departed friend had seen many changes in the government of the schools. Under the local managers he was all in all to them. His concerts were the adjustment of school finances, and in that free atmosphere Mr. M. O. Jones developed a professional independence of character which reamined with him through life. Withal, in the change to the regime of a Local Authority, our friend was loyalty itself to "rules and regulations," though in himself little needing them. The Local Education Authority always thought kindly and respectfully of his long service. It appointed him its representative on the Court of the South Wales University College, and gave him what latitude he wished to follow the calls of his country. Mr. M. O. Jones has left imperishable marks on the history of Treherbert. For forty years he was its moving spirit. The first to initiate and foremost to act for its welfare and local social aspirations. A great man has passed away; the sower has left, but the harvest of good men will remain to fructify still greater returns for "Cyrmu Lân," the land he loved so well.

        Treherbert's Loss.

        The lamented death of Mr. M. O. Jones follows hard upon the demise of Mr. Wm. Jeffreys, a photo of whom we give below. "M. O." and Mr. Jeffreys were connected with the public life of the district for nearly half-a-century, and their disinterested services to the community can hardly be gauged. Mr. Jones - if we may be allowed to say so - shined in the more classic department of life's duties, but those of Mr. Jeffreys, although not less valuable, were mainly in the interest of the poor and needy of the district. For this reason, the loss to Treherbert has been a double-barrelled one, and it is seldom that a community loses in such a short space of time the valuable advice and the sterling services of two men who had filled such a large place in its history. References to both gentlemen will be found in our leading article.

3. 1901 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG13/5012/117/37
4. 1891 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG12/4421/118/34
5. Evening Express
   1. • Date: 1 August 1908
      • Page: Page 2
      • Citation:

        [LOCAL WILLS]

        MR. WM. JEFFREYS, TREHERBERT.

        Mr. William Jeffreys, of 164, Bute-street, Treherbert, grocer and draper, who died on the 27th of June last, aged 67 years, left estate of the gross value of £2,416, with net personalty £1,587, and probate has been granted to his widow, Mrs. Alice Jeffreys, of the same address.

6. UK Government: National Probate Calendar
   1. • Date: 29 July 1908
      • Page: William Jeffreys
      • Citation:

        JEFFREYS William of 164 Bute-street Treherbert Glamorganshire died 27 June 1908 Probate London 29 July to Alice Jeffreys widow. Effects £2146 6s. 5d.

7. 1851 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: HO107/2470/74/2
8. 1871 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG10/5383/56/24
9. 1881 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG11/5300/152/70
10. General Register Office: England & Wales Birth Index
11. 1861 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG9/4069/62/1
12. findmypast.co.uk: Parish Registers - Carmarthenshire
    1. • Date: 19 May 1844
       • Page: Baptism - William Jeffreys (Llangadog)
    2. • Date: 19 May 1844
       • Page: Baptism - Owen Jeffreys (Llangadog)
13. findmypast.co.uk / Glamorgan Archives: Parish Registers - Glamorgan
    1. • Date: 25 July 1872
       • Page: Marriage - William Jeffreys / Alice Jenkins (Ystradyfodwg)
14. General Register Office: England & Wales Death Index
15. 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.

16. Burial Register - Aberdare Cemetery
    1. • Page: David & Sarah John
17. Thomas Preece: Gravestone photographs
    1. • Date: 17 July 2018
       • Page: David & Sarah John, Aberdare Cemetery
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       • 
       • 
       • 
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    2. • Date: 22 June 2018
       • Page: Mary Adelina John et al, Trealaw Cemetery
       • 
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18. Merthyr Express
    1. • 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.

    2. • 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.

19. 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.

20. 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

21. Y Tyst
    1. • 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.

22. Burial Register - Trealaw Cemetery
    1. • Page: Plot D25
    2. • Page: Plot G604
23. Notice of Interment - Trealaw Cemetery
    1. • Date: 25 October 1906
       • Page: Margaret Preece
    2. • Date: 9 November 1907
       • Page: Dafydd John
24. 1911 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG14/32335/194
25. General Register Office: England & Wales Marriage Index