Preece Family Tree

Events

Parents

Families

Media

Preece Family at Maesyrhaf

Attributes

Pedigree

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

Ancestors

John Preece *about 1858 +19 June 1939

Alfred Preece
*about 1828
+1 February 1904

John Prees
*about 1787
+12 November 1859

Lewis Prees
*about 1758
+about November 1835

Hannah
*about 1756
+19 February 1841

Margaret Stephens
*about 1796
+about April 1869

William Stephen
*about 1750
+15 December 1830

Mary Edmund
*about 1754
+20 November 1834

Mary Thomas
*about 1826
+about October 1899

William Thomas
*
+...

Source References

1. 1901 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG13/5002/39/26 f.
2. 1911 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG14/32384/96
3. Certificate on file
   1. • Date: 30 June 1929
      • Page: Marriage - Arthur Ewart Preece / Beryl Steadman Griffiths
   2. • Date: 1 August 1894
      • Page: Marriage - John Preece / Margaret John
4. 1861 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG9/4028/69/30
5. 1881 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG11/5293/115/67 f.
6. 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: 31 October 1908
      • Page: Page 1
      • Citation:

        [Porth Jottings.]

        We extend our sympathy to Mr. J. Preece (ironmonger) upon the loss of his son; and also to Councillor T. Griffiths, whose son, we hear, lies in a precarious condition at Cardiff.

   4. • Date: 18 March 1911
      • Page: Page 8
      • Citation:

        Mr. Thomas Griffiths, Cymmer.

        Elected President of Coalowners Association.

        At the annual meeting of the South Wales and Monmouthshire Coalowners' Association on Tuesday, Mr. Thomas Griffiths (Messrs. Insoles and Sons) was unanimously elected chairman for the ensuing year.

        Mr. Griffiths started life as a collier in 1850 at the Cymmer Colliery, and worked his way up to fireman, agent, and director of the company. During the whole of that time he has been connected with the same concern, which to a large extent owes its prestige to his energy and skill. It is a curious fact that Mr. Griffiths who won fame for daring rescue work on occasions of great disasters in the Welsh coalfield, was so affected by a catastrophe which befell the colliery at which he was working in 1856 that he then resolved to have nothing more to do with underground work. For a few years he was engaged at a fitters' shop, but he returned to his old avocation, and applied himself with characteristic energy and zeal to the acquisition of a thorough knowledge of mining matters, and in 1870 he was appointed manager, subsequently agent, and eventually a director of Messrs. Insole's. He is admitted to have been instrumental in settling more disputes than any other man on the owners' side - a distinction due no doubt to his great and unique experience. Ho has played a prominent part in public life, was a member of the old Rhondda Local Board and is still a member of the District Council, of which he was chairman 1897-98. Since 1871 he has been, a leading figure in rescue work, and many men undoubtedly owe their lives to his courage and resourcefulness in times of great emergency. In 1906 he was presented in recognition of his public services, with an oil painting, illuminated address, and a purse of gold. He has been a member of the Conciliation Board for years, and since the Eight Hours Act came into operation he has been the chairman of the Overtime Committee.

   5. • Date: 1 September 1906
      • Page: Page 4-5
      • Citation:

        [additional paragraph breaks added]

        Councillor & Mrs. Thomas Griffiths, J.P., Porth, Honoured.

        Well-deserved Recognition.

        Splpndid Responsefor Subscriptions.

        Close upon £500 Collected.

        The public presentation to Councillor and Mrs. Thomas Griffiths, J.P., Cymmer, Porth, took place at the Cymmer Library and Institute on Wednesday evening last, and the respect and esteem in which they are held in the district was clearly manifested by the large and representative gathering which came together to shew their appreciation. The presentation was the result of a general feeling in the district that the splendid services which Mr. Griffiths had rendered should receive suitable recognition, and it speaks volumes that such a liberal response for subscriptions has never been excelled in the district.

        Alderman W. H. Mathias, J.P., presided, and he was supported by Mr. D. Watts Morgan, Councillors W. T. Davies and Ben Davies, Mr. Octavius Thomas, Mr. N. Llewellyn and Dr. Lionel H. Lewis, whilst amongst others present were Mr. and Mrs. John Griffiths, manager, London and Provincial Bank, London; Mr. W. T. Griffiths, A.R.S.M., mining instructor, Calcutta, India (who has just returned for a holiday); Misses Sarah and Lizzie Griffiths, Maesgwyn; Mrs. Griffiths, Llantrisant; and Mrs. Thomas, Cymmer. They were accompanied by Mrs. Ioan Evans, Cymmer; and Miss Davies, Garth Hall.

        Amongst the general public were Mr. W. North Lewis, secretary, Insoles, Limited, and the Windsor Steam Coal Co. Mr. David Hannah, Ferndale; Councillors W. D. Wight, Pentre; Griffith Davies, Pontygwaith; D. O. Evans, Trealaw; Dr. Parry, Ferndale; Dr. C. E. Cochrane, Cymmer; Dr. Ivor H. Davies, Porth; Dr. Burke, Abertridwr; Dr. E. N. Davies, J.P., Penygraig; Mr. David Jenkins, Glaiiffrwd; Mr. Thomas Richards, M.E., Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Williams, M.E., Mr. H. E, Thomas, M.E., and Mr. Thomas Yorath (Taweiiog), the veteran colliery manager; Dr. Chalke, LL.B. Mr. and Mrs. T. W. Young; Mr. John Preece; Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Davies, Waenlas, Cymmer; Mr. and Mrs. G. F. Martyn; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Davies, chemist; Miss Thomas, Ynyshir Schools; Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Jones; Mrs. W. T. Davies, Brynbedw; Mrs. Octavius Thomas; Mrs. Lionel H. Lewis; Rev. W. Thomas, vicar of Cymmer and Porth, and Mrs. Thomas; Mr. Joshua E. Williams, Bronglyn; Mrs. D. Watts Morgan and Miss Morgan Mr. Llewellyn Davies, Pontygwaith; Miss Lewis, Llandaff; Mr. D. Llewellyn Evans, Cardiff; Mr. and Mrs. Thompson, Washington Temperance Hotel; Mrs. N. Llewellyn, Porth Hotel; Mr. Thomas James, ex-colliery overman; Mr. Ebenezer Morgan, under-manager; and Mr. John Jenkins, electrician.

        The Secretary (Councillor W. T. Davies) read letters of apology for inability to be present from Councillor L. P. Griffiths, Porth; Mr. Lewis Williams, Aberdare; Mr. Christmas Eivans, Merthyr; Councillor David Smith, Tylorstown; Mr. Leonard Llewellyn, Clydach Vale; Mr. W. W. Hood, Llwynypia; Mr. H. T. Wales, M.E., Cardiff; Mr. W. James Thomas, J.P., Ynyshir; Messrs. Kensholes, Aberdare; Dr. T. H. Morris, Tylorstown; Mr. Edward Dawson, Cardiff; Mr. William Evans, Porth; Mr. John G. Barclay, Kilmarnock; Eos Dar; and Mr. W. Hutchings, T.V.R. inspector Porth.

        Mr. D. Watts Morgan, in reviewing Mr. Griffiths' past, spoke of the remarkable manner in which their guest had climbed the ladder of fame. Mr. Griffiths started working when 10 years of age, and even at this age he displayed sound abilities, and he (the speaker) had been informed that Mr. Griffiths was within an ace of being a miners' agent (laughter). Personally, he was sorry that the miners had lost such an able advocate (renewed laughter). At any rate, he was appointed on several occasions to represent the workmen. From a subsequent position as fireman, Mr. Griffiths was promoted to overman, and in 1876 he was appointed a manager. Mr. Griffiths' remarkable success was, however, not yet at an end, for some years later we find him appointed general manager of the collieries. Fourteen years later a still further promotion falls to the lot of their guest, viz., that of resident director. The position which Mr. Griffiths had attained was appreciated all the more when it is considered that the educational facilities forty years ago were comparatively speaking, very meagre; but Mr. Griffiths had surmounted all difficulties, and by pluck and integrity of purpose had carved a name for himself.

        Mr. Morgan then dwelt on the indomitable pluck and courage which had characterised Mr. Griffiths in the many appalling mining disasters with which the South Wales coalfield had, unfortunately, been subjected. Mr. Griffiths had always taken a leading part when the call for help came, and this, he considered, was worthy of recognition, and they would ever cherish the noble services rendered by their guest in this direction. They were proud of the Rhondda, but they were still prouder of the race of men which it produced (cheers).

        Alderman W. H. Mathias then made the presentation of the massive oil-painting, which stands over nine feet high, and which has been executed at a cost of 350 guineas, and in so doing said that it gave him the greatest pleasure to ask Mr. Griffiths. as a dear old friend, to accept of the gift. Mr. Griffiths was the oldest member of the Council, and he (the speaker) was the second oldest. He sincerely hoped that both the recipient and his good wife and family would be long spared to enjoy these tokens of respect (cheers).

        Mr. George F. Harris, Cardiff, the artist who executed the work, was then introduced to the audience, and he received a most cordial reception.

        Mr. W. North Lewis, Cardiff, said that he was exceedingly glad to be present to do honour to Mr. Griffiths. To look at Mr. Griffiths, one could hardly appreciate the fact in this age of quick changes that their guest was once employed as a collier at the Cymmer mines. Mr. Griffiths had, however, rendered good and loyal service to the company in fair and foul weather. Mr. Lewis also spoke in high praise of the successful manner in which the collieries had been managed under the able direction of their guest. They were proud to have Mr. Griffiths on the board of Messrs. Insoles, and the directors had gained much by Mr. Griffiths' ripe experience and sound commonsense (cheers). It was given to few men to be honoured as Mr. Griffiths was being honoured that evening (hear, hear).

        Mr. D. Watts Morgan then presented the address, which was as follows:-

        Presented to THOMAS GRIFFITHS, Esq., J.P., M.E., Maesgwyn, Cymmer, Porth.

        "Dear Sir,- We, the undersigned, acting on behalf of the Committee and subscribers, beg your acceptance of this address and the accompanying oil-painting of yourself as a slight token of our regard and appreciation of the long and able services you have rendered in your profession as mining engineer, and your deep interest in the welfare of the inhabitants of those Valleys.

        "The fact that you have represented the ratepayers upon the old Local Board and, upon the Rhondda District Council for the past 25 years is evidence in itself of the great confidence that is placed in you and the value that is attached to the services you have rendered to the inhabitants of the Ward you so ably represent.

        "We have had the gratification of witnessing your elevation to the magisterial bench, the duties of which you discharge with becoming dignity and intelligence.

        "We cannot but admire the perseverance you displayed in your profession, and heartily congratulate you on the position you have obtained among the mining engineers in the South Wales coalfield.

        "We cannot forget how, when mining disasters of appalling magnitude have unfortunately happened in our coalfields, you have nobly and heroically laboured in the work of rescue.

        "Every charitable movement in the district has found in you a warm patron and contributor, and the poor have recognised a practical sympathiser and warm friend.

        "We have great pleasure in asking Mrs. Griffiths to accept of the accompanying silver epergne and cake baskets as a slight token from the subscribers of their regard and esteem, and they earnestlv hope that you both may long be spared to enjoy every happiness and prosperity.

        - W. H. Mathias (chairman), D. Watts Morgan (deputy chairman), R. Conway Joyce, Ben Davies, Lionel H. Lewis, Octavius Thomas (vice-chairman), N. Llewellyn (treasurer), W. T. Davies (secretary). August, 1906."

        The address, which was a splendid work of art, and which was executed by Messrs. Waterloo Bros., London, was enclosed in a massive gilt frame, and contained the photo of Mr. Griffiths and his Cymmer residence, together with pictorials of the following collieries - Mardy, Pentre, Wattstown, Cymmer, and Cambrian.

        Mr. Griffiths, in responding, said that one would have to take a note of everything that had been said that evening; and one's mind would have to be thoroughly concentrated on the evening's proceedings to enable him to fully reply to all the kind expressions which had been made that evening. He was more than proud of the oil-painting, which, he considered, was a real work of art, which had been executed so artistically Some of the speakers had very kindly referred to the part he had taken in mining disasters. It was quite true that, unfortunately, he had had occasion to assist in the work of rescue in a number of them. He had always considered his duty to do so (cheers). The effect of such accidents was such that it oftentimes made one say that he would never go underground again. But it was their bounden duty to render what assistance was necessary, and as long as he lived he would give his services as willingly and as readily as he had done in the past (cheers).

        The mining legislation of this country, he ventured to say, was based upon the experience of the colliery managers. Still, he was in a position to cite several instances where colliery managers had adopted certain features towards safe working of the colliery but were not touched upon by any legislation enactments. Mr. Griffiths then passed on to his connection as a representative the old Local Board and the District Council. A representative of a public body, he stated, was not always able to carry out his promises. He had first to gain the sympathy of his fellow-Concillors. A representative on a public body should always take a broad view of the requirements of the district. There were other people's claims which should be respected as well as their own (hear, hear). He desired to take that opportunity of referring to the splendind services rendered to the Council by Alderman W. H. Mathias and Councillor Wight, especially in some of the huge engineering undertakings which the Council have been confronted with. He would, in conclusion, ask them to accept of his most sincere thanks for their kind sentiments. Mrs. Griffiths, who had always taken a great interest in the locality, would have been delighted to be present that evening, and his concluding wish was that he hoped they would always merit their esteem and confidence (cheers).

        Unfortunately, Mrs. Griffiths was unable, owing to illness, to be present, and the presentation of a most beautifully and highly chased silver epergne and cake baskets was made to Miss Sarah Griffiths (daughter) by Mrs. Dr. Lionel H. Lewis.

        Miss Griffiths suitably responded.

        Addresses were also delivered by Councillor W. D. Wight, M.E., Pentre; Mr. David Hannah, M.E., Ferndale; and Mr. E. S. Williams, M.E., Cymmer, whilst bardic effusions were composed and read by Tawenog and Mr. Towy Thomas. Carn Ellian also sent a contribution.

        The meeting was interspersed with songs rendered by Mr. Taliesin Hopkins, Mr. Dewi Davies, and the Misses Davies. Mr. Tudor Yorath, L.C.M., accompanied.

   6. • Date: 10 August 1907
      • Page: Page 3
      • Citation:

        Death of Mrs. Tom John.

        Funeral Obsequies.

        Glowing Tributes.

        The news of the death of Mrs. Tom John, M.A., although not totally unexpected, was received with a painful shock when the sad news became known on Thursday evening last. The deceased lady had been ailing for many months, and despite the most skilful medical attention, the malignant nature of her terrible disease - internal cancer - was such as to preclude any hope of recovery. She bore her affliction with Christian fortitude, and even in the hour of bitterest agony not a murmur of complaint escaped her lips. Her "passing hence" has evoked the most widespread sympathy with those who are left behind, no fewer than 300 letters of condolence having been received during the week from public men all over the Kingdom.

        Mrs. Margaret John was in the 51st year of her age. The daughter of the late Mr. Fredk. Lewis, Penygraig, she was married to Mr. Tom John 33 years ago, and it can be truly said that never was a union which was more truly blessed. Of a singularly retiring disposition, her manifold virtues were manifested within the sacred circle of the hearth. Here she reigned supreme - a devoted wife and an exemplary mother. Her companionship was always sweet and pure, and who can measure the amount of encouraging support she lent the sorrow-stricken figure who followed her bier to her earthly home? As the Rev. T. G. Jenkyn, Salem, Llwynypia - the deceased's pastor for over a quarter of a century - fittingly remarked at the graveside, her whole life had been one of untiring support to her husband, and had it not been for the kindly encouragement she had given him in the stiffest hours of the fight, Mr. Tom John would not have soared so high in the public life of to-day.

        Neither did she forget her duties to her Maker. For 30 years at Salem, and for the past few years at Ebenezer, Tonypandy, she aided by kindly word and unostentatious deed the great cause of the Master. Like other noble women of Gwyllt Walia, her respect for ministers of the Gospel was unbounded, and many a wearied Gentile Apostle found a true solace and fresh inspiration in this gentle Lydia.

        A pathetic feature in connection with Mr. John's bereavement is the critical state of health of his only son - Dafydd - who for months past has been confined to his room with an affliction of the heart. His condition needs the most unremitting attention and nursing, and for this reason the service at the house on Wednesday was dispensed with. It is to be hoped that his health will soon improve, and that he will once more resume the career upon which he has lately embarked.

        The funeral obsequies took place on Wednesday last at Llethrddu Cemetery, Trealaw, the Rev. E. Richards, Tonypandy (her pastor), officiated, assisted by the Revs. T. G. Jenkyn, Llwynypia; T. Williams, Clydach Vale; and W. Charles, M.A., Treorchy. The attendance was very large and representative, the teaching profession being very strongly represented. The coffin bore the simple inscription:-

        Margaret John,
        Died August 1st, 1907,
        Age 51 Years.

        En route to the cemetery, the choir of Ebenezer, Tonypandy, under the leadership of Mr. W. T. David, rendered very feelingly several well-Known Welsh hymns, most of which were amongst the favourite literature of the deceased.

        The ceremony at the graveside was brief but impressive. Touching tributes to the deceased's worth were paid by the Revs. T. U. Jenkyn and E. Richards. The former, speaking with a 25 years' acquaintanceship of Mrs. John, remarked that during that period all knew the history of Mr. Tom John, but very few were those who could speak with any degree of intimacy of the Christian character of the deceased. Although of a quiet, unassuming disposition, the support and encouragement which he (Mr. Jenkyn) had received at her hands on more than one occasion had been very helpful to him, as a minister of the Gospel and ministers of Christ needed such encouragement at times. She was a woman whose one great word was "Thorough." Her faith was thorough, firm as the rock, and sublime as the noonday sun. As a wife and mother she performed her duties with the same thoroughness of manner, and with the cause of the Master it was her one great watchword. They in Salem knew the true worth of the deceased lady. She subscribed generously, believing that the cause was really the cause of God. Her worth as wife and mother no one knew better than the bereaved husband and children, and had it not been for her support and inspiration Mr. Tom John would not have soared so high in public life.

        The Rev. Evan Richards, Tonypandy, speaking under great emotion, also delivered himself in sentiments. The occasion, he said, was one of great sorrow, and their hearts went out in sympathy towards Mr. John and the sorrowing children and relatives gathered around. Mr. John was a national character, and in his affliction the heart of a nation had been touched. It was difficult to think of him under a cloud. He was always in the sunshine - he loved the sunshine - but to-day they saw him under the cloud of adversity. But across that dark bank the prismatic colours of the rainbow of the Greater Life had been painted by God's own fingers, conveying the comforting promise of a Peace and Calm beyond the Storm.

        The Rev. W. Charles, M.A., Treorchy, read a portion of the Scriptures, and after a touching supplication by the Rev. Thomas Williams, Clydach Vale, all was over.

        Among the mourners were:- Mr. Tom John (husband); Miss Maggie John (daughter); Miss Diana Lewis (sister); Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, Penygraig (nephew and niece); Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, M.E., Williamstown (nephew and niece); Mr. and Mrs. Tom Edgar Lewis, Tonypandy (nephew and niece); Mrs. Owen, Narberth (niece); Miss Catherine Harris, Aberdare (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Aberdare (nephew and niece); Mr. David Davies, Aberdare (cousin): Mr. Isaac Harris, Aberdare (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir (brother- and sister-in-law); Miss John, Cymmer (sister-in-law) Mr. John Preece, Porth (brother-in-law) Mr. Evan Lewis, Swansea, (uncle); Mr. David Evans, Llandilo (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Treorchy (cousins); Miss Lena Williams, Treorchy (niece); Mr. and Mrs. Scott, Pentre (cousins); Mrs. Davies, Crown Hotel, Pontypridd (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. Gwatkin, Llwynypia (nephew and niece); Mr. Dafydd Morgan, Blaenrhondda (uncle); Mr. Ashley, Treorchy (nephew). Mr. Dafydd John (son) was too indisposed to leave the house, and his sister Madeline remained at home in attendance upon him.

        Among those present at the funeral we noticed the Revs. Wm. Williams (O.M.), Tonypandy; J. Walters (C.), Clydach Vale; J. Hope Evans (C.), Mardy; T. T. Jones (B.), Blaenclydach; W. S. Jones (B.), Llwynypia; T. Morris (C.), Clydach Vale; E. Dunmore Edwards, M.A. (prin- citial, Collegiate School, Pontypridd); J. Morgan (C.M.), Llwynypia; J. Nicholas (B.), Tonypandy; County Councillor Tom Jones, Treorchy; Mr. J. D. Williams, J.P., D.C. Mr. David Williams, D.C., Tonypandy; Mr. W. T. Jones, D.C., Treorchy Mr. W. P. Nicholas, solicitor, Trealaw; Dr. Idris Morgan, Llwynypia; Mr. W. D. Jones ("Rhondda Leader"); Mr. D. R. Jones, Tonypandy; Alderman Richard Lewis, Tonypandy; Mr. John Gilmour, Glamorgan Collieries; Mr. D. Jones, assistant overseer; Mr. D. Evans (Eos Dar); Mr. D. Evans (conductor, Tonypandy Harmonic Society); Mr. D. Lloyd, I.S.M., Tonypandy; Mr. Rees Davies, M.E., Aberdare; Mr. W. J. Evans, Aberdare; Mr. W. C. Prichard, Glamorgan Collieries; Major R. C. Dyke, Pentre; Mr. W. D. Morgan, architect, Pentre; Mr. Pennant, Pontycymmer; Mr. Geo. Evans, Tonypandy; Mr. Morris Morris, builder, Ferndale; Mr. W. T. David, Tonypandy; Mr. Tom Evans, M.E., Llwynypia; Mr. Dan Evans, M.E., Llwynypia.

        The teaching profession was represented by the following:- Messrs. Rhys Nicholas, N.U.T., Cwmavon Evan Davies, N.U.T.; E. Samuel, M.A., Porth; H. Howells, Treorchv: Dr. R. D. Chalke, Porth; Isaac Owen James Nicholas, Aberavon; J. W. Jones, Tonypandy; - Lewis, Hen-goed; T. Arthur, Tonypandy; Dan Jones, Cymmer; and Miss Williams, L.L.A., Cardiff.

        Letters of Condolence.

        Over 300 letters of condolence were received. The Lord Bishop of St. David's wrote:-

        "Dear Mr. John, - I saw with great regret an account of your great sorrow, and venture to write to express my most sincere sympathy with you in your great bereavement. I have the warmest esteem for you as an example of a sterling patriot, and I am sure you will have the widespread sympathy of all who value disinterested and indefatigable services. May I add that I value personally very much your personal kindness in the interview we had together on public affairs. I am very sorry to hear of your son's illness, and earnestly hope he will very soon be restored to health.

        "Yn y dyfroedd dyfnion yr ydych ynddynt, nid oes genyf ond credu a gweddio y bydd i'r Meistr tyner yr ydych yn Ei wasanaethu eich diddanu a'ch nerthu yn ol Ei addewid. - Yr eiddoch yn gynes,

        [In the deep waters you are in, I only have to believe and pray that the tender Master you serve will entertain you and rescue you in His promise. - The eagerly warm,]

        "J. T. DAVIDS."

        Mr. A. R. Pickles, president of the N.U.T., wrote:- "It is with sincere sorrow we hear of your irreparable loss. The release from the pain and suffering to enter into that higher life, where sadness and sorrow and pain are not met, leaves you full of heaviness and sorrow. So, my dear Tom John, we take your hand in very sincere sympathy. Pray that you may be given strength to bear that through the darkness you may be able to look up and onward to her who so long has cheered your way, and that you may be able to say to yourself that she is ever in spirit by your side. So may the long days and weary nights pass in faithful waiting and in abiding hope."

        Prof. Anwyl, M.A., Aberystwyth:- "I have been deeply touched by the fortitude and tranquility with which you have trodden the path of public and private duty, while your spirit devotedly bore its load of constant care. It is my earnest hope, dear friend, that you will derive in the present trial some other spring of consolation."

        Mr. Alfred T. Davies, Welsh secretary to the Board of Education:- "Words are but little purpose at a time like this, but when the heart is sad it is some consolation to learn that others have had you in their thoughts, and that they trust that you may be supported and comforted in the hour of your trial."

        Mr. Allen Oroft, past ex-president of the N.U.T.:- "I am conscious of the futility of mere words in this sad moment, and can only hope that time the great healer will ultimately do something, if but a little, to assuage the poignancy of your grief."

        Mr. Ernest Gray, M.A., Executive, N. U. T.:- "In days of domestic affliction, nothing but the strongest sense of duty would have kept you so long and so loyally devoted to public work. It is a sacrifice which I appreciate and admire."

        Among others received were those written by the following:- The Rev. T. Theophilus, Tredegar; Mr. W. W. Hood, M.E., Llwynypia; Mr. T. P. Sykes, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. T. W. David, Pendoylan, Cowbridge; Mr. A. Blenkinsop, F..LS. (Executive); Alderman Richard Lewis, Tonypandy; Alderman T. J. Hughes, Bridgend; Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P., Russell Square, London; Miss Hannah Williams, L.L.A., Cardiff; Mr. and Mrs. T. P. Jenkins, J.P., Tonypandy; Mr. T. Jones, H.M.I.S., Abergavenny; Mr. Harry Evans, F.R.C.O., Liverpool; Mr. Rhys Nicholas, Cwmavon; Mr and Mrs. Charles Morgan, B.A., Cardiff; Committee of the Aberporth Chair Eistedd- fod; County Councillor James Evans, Cambrian House, Clydach Vale; Mr. John Kees, H.M.I.S., Swansea; Mr. J. James, M.A., B.Sc., Ph.D., Chief Education Official, Glamorgan County Council; Mr. Augustus Lewis, Inspector of Factories; Mr. George Sharpies, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. F. W. Pepperell, Cardiff Teachers' Associa- tion; Dr. W. Morris, F.R.G.S., Treorchy; Mr. J. Davies, hon. secretary Rhondda and Pontypridd Teachers' Association; Mid-Rhondda Male Voice Choir Rev. and Mrs. J. Grawys Jones, Aberdare; Mr. and Mrs. T. W. Berry, Director of Education, Rhondda; Mr. Geo. A. Hamilton, treasurer N.U.T.; Mr. Geo. Baddeley, execu- tive N.U.T. Mr. Thomas Griffiths (on behalf of Salem Congregational Choir); Mr. T. J. Williams, N.U.T., Bangor; Mr. Arthur R. Pickles, M.A. (Oxon.), B.A. (Lond.), president N.U.T.; Mr. T. G. Jones, Deputy Clerk Rhondda Urban Dis- trict Council; Mr. Phillip Thomas, Gnoll Street Schools, Neath (N.U. B. and 0. for Wales); Mr. Evan Davies, executive N.U.T., Wales; Salem Congregational Church, Llwynypia; Mr. W. A. Nicholls, vice-president N.U.T.; Tonypandy Har- monic Society; Sir Isambard and Lady Owen: Mabon; Mr. D. Davies, M.P., Llandinam; Mr. J. R. JoneSj Williams- town; Mr. T. G. Price, Merthyr; Mr. Dan Jenkins, Llangrwys, Llanwrda; Mrs. Salter Lloyd, Aberdare; Miss A. Griffiths, Bodringallt Schools; Mr. R. W. Jones, Pengam; Mr. W. H. Jeffreys, Russell Square, London; Mr. Alf. Evans, Llwynypia; Dr. Jenkins, Medical Officer of Health, Pentre; Councillor R. S. Griffiths, Clydach Vale; Mr. Dd. Bowen, Abercarn.

        The funeral arrangements were admirably carried out by Messrs. J. Griffiths and Sons, undertakers, Tonypandy.

   7. • 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.

   8. • Date: 16 July 1910
      • Page: Supplement - Page 3
      • Citation:

         

         

        Tragic Death of Mr. Edward Rees Griffiths, Porth.

        Large Funeral.

        With very deep regret we have to record the death of Mr. Edward Rees Griffiths, the third son of Councillor Thomas Griffiths, J.P., Porth (director and agent of the Cymmer Collieries), Which took place under tragic circumstances at the Bertie Pit (Lewis Merthyr Collieries) last Friday evening.

        Deceased, who was a traffic inspector at the Bertie Pit, in some unknown manner fell beneath the last journey of trams as it was making its way to the pit-bottom. He was taken out, and it was at once seen that serious injuries had been sustained. Medical aid was requisitioned, and Dr. Carrol, Trehafod, immediately descended the shaft and rendered every assistance possible. The injured man was then conveyed to the Porth Cottage Hospital, and was attended by Dr. L. H. Lewis. From the first it was seen, however, that all human aid was unavailing, and within five minutes after entering the hospital the unfortunate man had quietly breathed his last. Mr. Griffiths was well known and equally well esteemed in the neighbourhood. He was a devoted member of the Church of God at Mountain Ash; a man of deep religious conviction and of high moral principle. He leaves a wife and one child.

        The Funeral.

        Amid manifestations of widespread sorrow and regret the remains were interred at the Llethrddu Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon. Elder Edward Foster, of Roath Meeting House, presided over a short service at the residence, after which the cortege proceeded to the cemetery in the following order:- First coach - Mrs. E. Griffiths (widow), Master Trevor Griffiths (son), Mr. Thos. Earley (brother-in-law), Mr. J. Morgan (brother-in-law), Mr. Alfred Morgan (brother-in-law), and Miss Katie John (niece); second coach - Councillor Thomas Griffiths, J.P., and Mrs. Griffiths, Mr. John Griffiths, Mortlake, London, Misses Sarah and Lizzie Griffiths; third coach - Mrs. M. A. Thomas, Cymmer, Miss Sarah Griffiths, Pencoed, Mr. Willie Thomas, and Mr. Thomas Thomas; fourth coach - Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Thomas, Miss Mary Griffiths, and Miss Ann Griffiths; fifth coach - Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, Glannant, Tonypandy; sixth coach - Rev. Oscar Owen, Porth, Rev. C. Tawelfryn Thomas, Groeswen; seventh coach - Mr. E. S. Williams (general manager, Cymmer Collieries), Mr. G. F. Martyn (cashier), Mr. W. H. Bowen (under-manager), Mr. E. Morgan (under-manager), and Mr. Ivor Morgan; eighth coach - Mr. Jno. Samuel (head mechanic, Cymmer Collieries), Mr. Thomas Yorath (manager, Upper Cymmer and No. 1 Level), Mr. David Davies (yard overman), Mr. Ed. Trueman, and Mr. H. E. Thomas; ninth coach - Mr. Vm. Evans, Mrs. J. Phillips, and Mrs. J. Stone, Cymmer. The bearers were:- Messrs. John Harris, John Davies (overman), John Davies (Cae'rysgol), John Bunn, Richard Toms, Alfred Williams, Samuel Breeze, and Griffith Lewis. Other officials of the Cymmer Collieries present were:- Messrs. D. W. Jones, Percy Martyn, T. Yorath, Wm. Evans, D. Cook, T. Richards, Tom Morgan, John Williams, E. Hodges, J. Griffiths, Thomas Harris, Griffith Lewis, John Crawnon Jones, and John Davies. There were present also the following officials of the Lewis Merthyr Collieries:- Mr. Charles Oatridge (manager, Bertie Pit), Messrs. Thomas Williams, David Rees, Owen Jones, Thomas Hopkins, David Jones, John Polsome, and Llewellyn Oatridge. Among the general public we noticed:- The Vicar of Porth (Rev. W. Thomas), Dr. L H. Lewis, Messrs. Octavius Thomas, R. Farr, J. Preece, H. Cooper, John J. R. James, J. T. Jenkins, T. Maddox, M. Hicks, Wm. Morgan (Llantwit), A. A. Evans (Trehafod), Lewis Lewis, Robert Morgan, T. Davies (chemist), T. Davies (Imperial Hotel), J. Towy Thomas, Obadiah Llewellyn, J. T. Richards (Cloth Hall), Llewellyn Williams, and Thomas Richards. There weie also present almost the whole of the Church of God at Mountain Ash, numbering about 150. At the graveside, a touching service was conducted by Mr. G. Prasher, Bridgend, who expressed pleasure that deceased had long since accepted the offer of the Lord Jesus Christ, and now rested confident of resurrection with the saints. There were a large number of floral offerings, including wreaths from "The Family at Maesgwyn," and one from Sir William Thomas Lewis, with the following inscription.- "With the sincere regret and sympathy of Sir William Thomas Lewis, Bart., and the Lewis Merthyr Consolidated Collieries Company". A beautiful cross from "Johnny, Bertha and Family," also wreaths from Mr. Dd. Jenkins and family, Glannant; "Aunt Mary and family," Porth; and officials, Bertie Pit.

   9. • Date: 19 November 1910
      • Page: Page 4
      • Citation:

        Whist Drive and Dance at Cymmer Schools.

        The whist drive and dance held at the Cymmer Schools on Friday evening last proved a gigantic success. The drive and dance was promoted by the Cymmer Schools' staff with a view of augmenting the piano fund. The rooms were brilliantly illuminated and nicely decorated. Twenty-eight sets participated in the games, the prizes being awarded as follows:- Ladies, first prize, Miss Minerva Jones, 2nd Miss C. M. Jones; gentlemen, 1st Mr. Trevor W. Jones, 2nd Mr. W. T. Griffiths, M.E. booby, Mr. John Preece, Porth. The prizes were distributed by Councillor Thos. Griffiths, M.E. Dancing commenced at 10.45, and continued until midnight. Mr Gomer Evans, Tonypandy, proved a very capable M.C.

7. Notice of Interment - Trealaw Cemetery
   1. • Date: 25 October 1906
      • Page: Margaret Preece
   2. • Date: 19 October 1908
      • Page: Stanley Preece
   3. • Date: 20 June 1939
      • Page: John Preece
   4. • Date: 2 August 1907
      • Page: Margaret John
   5. • Date: 9 November 1907
      • Page: Dafydd John
   6. • Date: 9 June 1910
      • Page: Edward Rees Griffiths
   7. • Date: 11 April 1924
      • Page: Tom John
8. The Cambrian
   1. • Date: 29 November 1901
      • Page: Page 8
      • Citation:

        THE LATE MRS. EVAN LEWIS

        FUNERAL AT DANYGRAIG CEMETERY.

        Amid many manifestations of respect, the remains of the late Mrs. Evan Lewis, wife of the sub-curator of the Royal Institution of South Wales, who passed away as already reported by us, at her residence in Walter-road after a somewhat prolonged illness, were laid to their final resting place at Danygraig Cemetery on Monday afternoon last. The coffin was of polished oak, with massive brass fittings, and bore the following inscription: "Margaret Lewis, died November 21st, 1901; aged 58 years." The flag of the Royal Institution was hoisted half-mast. Amongst those who attended were the following: First carriage. Rev. Evan Jenkins, Dr. G. Arbour Stephens, Mr. J. B. Pritchard; mourning coach, Mr. Evan Lewis (husband), Mr. Idris Evan Lewis, B.A. (son), Miss Mary John (niece), Mr. John W. Preece (nephew), Mr John W. John (nephew); first brougham, Mr. Henry Williams (cousin), Mr. David Evans (cousin), Mr. Evan Morgan (cousin); second brougham, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jones (cousins); Mrs. Lewis Lewis (Southville), Mrs. John Rees (Uplands crescent), Mrs. William Evans (Eirianfa), Mrs. Jayne Rees (Belgrave-terrace), Mrs. Tustian, Mrs. Bowen (Belgrave-terrace), Mrs. W. A. Davies, Mrs. Philip Rogers (De-la-Beche-street), Col. Morgan and Mr. C. H. Perkins (representing the Royal Institution of South Wales), Rev. Tudor Jones (representing Swansea Scientific Society), Mr. Samuel Roberts, B.A. (headmaster, Higher Grade School), Dr. D. E. Edwards, Alderman John Griffiths, Mr. Morgan Williams (Troed-y-bryn), Mr. William Evans (Eirianfa), Mr. Julius Smith, Mr. Geo. Wilkinson Walters, Mr. Walter E. Harris (solicitor), Mr. E. Meredith Thomas, Mr. W. A. Davies (solicitor), Rev. Lloyd Davies, B.A., Mr. W. J. Rowe, Mr. W. Atkins, Mr. Chas. Davies, Mr. C. Nash and others. Wreaths were sent by the bereaved and sorrowing husband, and son, the president and council of the Royal Institution, the ladies of the Walter-road Congregational Chapel (of which deceased was for many years a member), Mrs. Lewis Lewis (Southville), Mr. John Griffiths and members of the Bible Class in Walter-road Congregational Chapel, Mr. and Mrs. Evans (Eirianfa, Eaton-grove), Mr. and Mrs. John Roberts (Cleveland-terrace), Mr. and Mrs. Preece, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jones, the boys of the first class, Higher Grade School, Mr. and Mrs. Lamb (Walter-road). The Rev. Evan Jenkins (pastor of Walter-rd. Chapel) officiated and the funeral arrangements were efficiently carried out by Mr. J. B. Pritchard (Oxford-street, Swansea.) funeral [sic] was taking place, the flag at the Royal Institution was hoisted at half-mast. Mrs. Evan Lewis, it may be added, was a member of the Walter-road Congregational Church from its opening, 1870, and had for many years taken an active interest in the Dorcas Society and other minor institutions connected with the church. She was also one of the most active members of the Ladies' Visiting Committee of the Swansea Union, and the poor and sick at that institution will miss her much. During the time that Mr. Evan Lewis and his late son (Mr. Collwyn Lewis), acted as secretaries to the Swansea Scientific Society, Mrs. Lewis rendered further valuable services to the society in connection with the soirees and excursions which were then held. A lady unostentatious in manner, and of a kindly disposition, she will be much missed, but by none more so than her sorrowing husband.

   2. • 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.

   3. • Date: 22 November 1901
      • Page: Page 8
      • Citation:

        DEATHS

        Lewis. - On the 21st inst., at No. 112, Walter-road, Swansea, Margaret, beloved wife of Evan Lewis. Funeral leaving Walter-road on Monday, at 2 p.m.

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: 23 June 1939
      • Page: Page 6
      • Citation:

        BURIAL OF MR. JOHN PREECE, PORTH

        Mr. John Preece, of Maesyrhaf, Grawen-street, Porth, was buried in Trealaw Cemetery on Thursday.

        The Rev. J. A. Jeffreys-Jones, vicar of Cymmer, officiated.

        Chief mourners were:- Mr. and Mrs. David Preece, Dr. and Mrs. Trevor Preece, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Preece (sons and daughters-in-law); Miss Gladys Preece, Dr. and Mrs. D. R. Gillies (daughters and son-in-law); Mrs. Diana John J.P. (sister-in-law); Messrs John and Edward Parsons (nephews); Miss Marie Evans and Mrs. Harold Summers (nieces).

        Among those present were Messrs. D. Frank Evans, J.P., J. Lloyd Thomas, Oliver H. Howell, C. H. Jarvis, Cliff Morgan, W. H. Maddocks, Ben Protheroe, R. E. Arnott J.P., W. D. Thomas, Percy S. Phillips, and J. L. Thomas.

   3. • Date: 16 January 1925
      • Page: Page 7
      • Citation:

        FUNERAL OF MRS. THOMAS GRIFFITHS AT MUMBLES.

        The funeral of the late Mrs. Mary Griffiths, J.P., a well known Rhondda lady magistrate, which took place at the Mumbles Cemetery, Swansea, on Thursday afternoon, was a very impressive one, although it took place at a place remote from the scene of the lady's chief life activities.

        Mrs. Griffiths was the wife of Mr. Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., formely director and general manger of the Insoles Cymmer Collieries, and sister of the late Mr. Tom John, Llwynypia, and she was (as already stated) a lady who had occupied many important public positions in the Porth district.

        There was a large attendance of relatives and friends from many parts of Glamorgan at the house, at which Mrs. Griffiths died in her retirement, namely, Longfield, West Cross, Mumbles, and many others attended at the graveside at the cemetery.

        At the services the Revs. A. Smith (Mumbles), E. C. Davies (Ynyshir), and D. Mark, M.A. (Porth), officiated.

        The chief mourners were Messrs. John Griffiths and W. Griffiths (sons), Evan Lewis, John Preece (brother-in-law), D. Moy John, solicitor (nephew), H. E. Thomas (son-in-law), Rhys Morgan (son-in-law), David Preece, Trefor Preece, and Arthur Preece (nephews), H. Cook, H. Wakefield, David Evans (Llandilo), the Rev. J. D. Jones (Cellan), Thomas Thomas (nephew), David Evans, Trefor Griffiths (grandson), Willie Thomas (nephew), John Griffiths and W. Griffiths, Los Angeles (nephews), Moy Evans, David Davies (Porth), F. G. Martin, W. Jackson, W. Rowlands, R. Llewellyn, W. Williams, John Thomas, John Samuel, Timothy Evans, M.E., John Morgan (Abertridwr), T. Day (Abertridwr), E. S. Williams, M.E. (Porth), W. B. Davies, M.E. (Porth), Dr. Marks, Rev. W. James (Swansea), Mr. J. Morgan (Porth), Messrs. H. J. Williams (Porth), J. D. Rees (Barclays Bank, Porth), John Hughes, J.P. (Porth), Octavius Thomas (Porth), John Davies (Porth), Wm. Chenery (Porth), Councillors Mark Harcombe, Abel Jacob, James James, and John Hughes, Messrs. J. H. Thorne, Gwilym Morgan, Griffith Morgan, H. E. Morris, and J. E. Lloyd (clerk to the governors of the county school), while at the graveside were also Mr. and Mrs. Arnott (Midland Bank, Porth), Lady Nicholas, Miss Harris (County School), Mrs. John Kane, Mrs. Dr. Davies, the Rev. and Mrs. Mark (vicar of Cymmer), Mrs. J. T. Lewis, Mrs. Davies (Brynbedw), Mrs. Lewis (Tylorstown), Mrs. Dr. Davies (Poplars, Porth), and Miss E. M. Harris (Porth County Schools).

        The services were very impressive, and the large congregation joined in singing with great earnestness the hymns "Lead, Kindly Light" (tune "Sandon"), "Jesu, Lover of my Soul" (tune "Aberystwyth"), and "Daeth yr Awr" (tune "Lausanne"). Over 70 wreaths and other floral tributes were sent by sympathisers.

        References to the loss sustained by the death of Mrs. Griffiths were made at Porth Police-court on Thursday by the Rhondda stipendiary (Mr. D. Lleufer Thomas, M.A.) and Leiut-col. D. Watts Morgan, C.B.E., D.S.O, M.P.

   4. • Date: 17 January 1925
      • Page: Page 5
      • Citation:

        LATE MRS. MARY GRIFFITHS, J.P.

        More than sixty wreaths were received for the funeral of Mrs. Mary Griffiths, J.P., of Longfields, West Cross, which, as reported in Friday's Western Mail, took place at the Mumbles Cemetery on Thursday.

        They included the following:-

        Mr. T. Griffiths (husband); Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths, John, Bertha, Nansi, and Betty (Brighton), son and daughter-in-law; Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Griffiths (son and daughter-in-law); Messrs. Wynne and Douglas Griffiths (grandchildren); Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Thomas (daughter and son-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. R Morgan (daughter and son-in-law); Mr. J. Preece and family, Maesyrhaf, Porth; Mrs. Tom John (sister-in-law); Mrs. J. W. John and Mr. D. Moy John; Miss Griffiths and Mrs. Thomas (sisters-in-law); Mr. Evan Lewis; Dr Trevor Preece, Hull (nephew); the Misses Margaret and Madeline John (nieces); Mr. Moy Evans, solicitor, Swansea; Rachel, Mona, Maggie, Wakefield, and Cookie; chairmen and directors of Insoles (Limited); Cymmer Collieries; Mr. and Mrs. W. North Lewis; Cymmer Colliery Officials; Office Stall of Cymmer Collieries; Mrs. Insole, Ely Court; Commissioners, Guiders, Guides and Browies of the Rhondda Division; Clerk and Governors of the Porth Intermediate Schools; boys and girls of Caer salem Newydd, Cymmer.

        [etc, etc]

   5. • 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.

   6. • 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.

   7. • 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.

   8. • Date: 14 September 1918
      • Page: Page 7
      • Citation:

        [WELSH WAR HEROES]

        Gunner David A. Preece, R.G.A., wounded. Eldest son of Mr. J. Preece, Maesyrhaf, Porth.

   9. • 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. • Date: 12 April 1924
       • Page: Page 8
       • Citation:

         DEATHS.
         JOHN. - On April 10th, at Cae Gwyn, Penygraig, Tom John, M.E., J.P., beloved husband of Mrs. Diana John, in his 75th year. Funeral Tuesday, 2.30, for Trealaw Cemetery; Gentlemen only.

   11. • Date: 15 January 1925
       • Page: Page 1
       • Citation:

         [DEATHS.]

         GRIFFITHS. - On the 12th inst., at Longfield, West Cross Swansea, Mary Griffiths, J.P., late of Maesgwyn, Porth. Funeral (Gentlemen only) Thursday, leaving the above residence at One p.m. for Mumbles Cemetery. Friends wishing to attend will meet at Mumbles Cemetery at 1.30 p.m.

10. 1871 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG10/5374/97/36
11. Ancestry.com: Royal Air Force Airmen Records, 1918-1940
    1. • Date: 11 January 1916
       • Page: Trevor Meyrick Preece
12. The Cambria Daily Leader
    1. • Date: 13 January 1916
       • Page: Page 3
       • Citation:

         LLANDILO.

         The death has occurred, in her 76th year, of Mrs. Ann Evans, wife of Mr. Henry Evans, of Headington Villa, Ffairfach, and formerly of Gelly Farm, near Trapp. Deceased, who was well known and greatly respected, was the mother of Mr. David Evans, Mount Pleasant, who for years was a prominent member of the Llandilo Board of Guardians and Rural District Council; Mr. Wm. Evans, a prominent San Francisco attorney; and Messrs. D. Evans, Oakland; Col and Joseph Evans, Ogden, Utah, both large business men in the States. The remains were interred at Tabernacle Congregational Church, Ffairfach. The officiating ministers were the Revs. W. Davies, The Walk; D. B. Roberts, M.A., B.D.; D. Bowen, Hermon; and H. T. Jacobs, Fishguard. The Rev. Silvyn Evans, Aberdare, took the service at the graveside. The chief mourners were: Mr. H. Evans (husband); Mr. and Mrs. D. Evans, Mount Pleasant (son and daughter-in-law); Rev. and Mrs. J. D. Jones, Llanfair, Cardigan (son-in-law and daughter); Mr. and Mrs. Jones, Cilwoon, Llandilo (brother and sister-in-law); Mr. Preece, Porth; Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths, Cymer (cousins); Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Llangyfelach (nephew and niece).

         Sergt. Morgan, son of Mrs. Morgan, formerly of the Rose and Crown, is now at home on sick furlough, having been wounded in the heel in the Dardanelles.

         A meeting of the local Advisory Committees was held on Tuesday. There were, we understand, about 100 appeals. A good number were put back. The exemptions were very few.

13. Y Tyst
    1. • Date: 19 January 1916
       • Page: Page 9
       • Citation:

         Y Ddiweddar Mrs. Anne Evans, Ffairfach, Llandeilo.

         Priod Henry Evans, gynt o'r Gelli, nawr o Hedington, Ffairfach, ydoedd Mrs. Anne Evans. Wrth ei rhoi yn y bedd rhwng dau a thri prydnawn ddydd Llun, Ionawr 10fed, gwelsom ar ei harch, 'Anne Evans. Ganwyd Chwefror 18fed, 1839. Bu fawr Ionawr 6ed, 1916.' Cadd hithau, fel ei thylwyth, hirhoedledd i ynyl y pedwar ugain. Erysn un o'i brodyr eto, sef David Jones, Cilwern, yr hwn sydd wedi croesi ei 80 oed. Bu ei thad a'i mam, a mab a merch i deulu ei rhieni, farw yn eu 77, ac wele hithau yn ei 77 oed. Erys ei phriod, yr hwn, er yn wr dall er's blynyddoedd, sydd yn aelod a diacon o werth mawr yn y Tabernacl, Llandeilo. Yr oedd yn fam i ddeg o blant. Y mae pump ohonynt wedi croesi drosodd o flaen eu mam, ac mae'r pump eraill yn aros hyd heddyw, sef David Evans, Towy Stores, Llandeilo, a Mrs. Jones, priod y Parch. J. D. Jones, Llanfair a Cellan, ac mae'r tri mab arall yn America mewn safleoedd o anrhydedd ac ymddiriedaeth.

         Yr oedd hi yn ddynes o arbenigrwydd. Meddai ar ewyllys gref, a deall cyflym, a chyngor diogel. Hawdd oedd gweld yn ei symudiad a'i golwg ei bod yh frenhines ar ei haelwyd, ac yn feistres yn ei hamgylchiadau, ac yn gymeriad cryf yn ei heglwys. Aethai i'r farchnad yn deall busnes, ac aethai i'r addoliad ar y Saboth yn deall ei hangen a'i Duw, ac yr oedd ei chraffter a'i chydymdeimlad a'i doethineb yn ei gwneud yn allu mawr ar ei haelwyd.

         Dan beth mawr ei bywyd ydoedd ei haelwyd a'i haddoldy, ac erys dylanwad y ddau beth hyn ar ei phlant, a phlant ei phlant.

         Yr oedd ei chladdedigaeth yn cynnwys pennau teuluoedd amlwg y dref a'r ardal ac o bell, megis Mr. Preece, Porth; Mrs. Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Rhondda; Mrs. H. T. Jacob, Abergwaun; a lliaws o Llanfair, Cwnllynfell, &c. Ac yr oedd cryfder ac urddas yn y dwasanaeth claddu, yn enwedig y bregeth gan ei gweinidog, y Parch. W. Davies, yr hwn a gynorthwywyd yn y capel gan y Parchn. - Roberts, M.A., B.D., Memorial Hall; D. Bowen, Hermon; S. Thomas, Salem; H. T. Jacob, Abergwaun; - Davies (W); D. Silyn Evans a D. Harries.

         Rhoddwyd ei chorff mewn bedd glân, ar brydnawn gwaith dan gymylau, ym mynwent gysegredig y Tabernacl, y dywedai Penry cyn marw am dano: 'O! 'r hen Dabernacl annwyl! Wyt mor annwyl i mi ag oedd y deml i Solomon, yr hen Dabernacl annwyl.' Heddwch i'w llwch.

          

          

         The Late Mrs. Anne Evans, Ffairfach, Llandeilo.

         Wife of Henry Evans, formerly of Gelli, now of Hedington, Ffairfach, was Anne Evans. As she was buried between two and three in the afternoon on Monday, January 10th, we saw on her coffin 'Anne Evans. Born February 18th, 1839. Died January 6th, 1916.' She, like her family, had longevity to the tune of the eighty. One of her brothers survives her, David Jones, Cilwern, who has just crossed his 80s. Her father and mother, and a son and daughter of her parents' family, died at the age of 77, and, lo, she was 77. Her husband, who, though a blind man for many years, remains a member and deacon of great value at Tabernacle, Llandeilo. She was the mother of ten children. Five of them have predeceased their mother, and the other five are still alive today, namely David Evans, Towy Stores, Llandeilo, and Mrs. Jones, wife of Rev. J. D. Jones, Llanfair and Cellan, and the other three sons are in America in positions of honor and trust.

         She was a woman of distinction, of strong will, and quick understanding, and safe advice. It was easy to see in her movement and appearance that she was the queen of her home, and a mistress in her circumstances, and a strong character in her church. She went to the market understanding business, and she went to Sunday worship knowing her need and her God, and her acumen and sympathy and wisdom made her a great power.

         Underneath her great life was her home and her place of worship, and the influence of these two things on her children, and those of her children, remain.

         Her mourners included the heads of prominent families of the town and district and from afar, such as Mr. Preece, Porth; Mrs. Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Rhondda; Mrs. H. T. Jacob, Fishguard; and many of Llanfair, Cwnllynfell, &c. There was strength and dignity in the burial service, especially the sermon by her minister, the Rev. W. Davies, who was assisted in the chapel by the Rev. - Roberts, M.A., B.D., Memorial Hall; D. Bowen, Hermon; S. Thomas, Salem; H. T. Jacob, Fishguard; - Davies (W); D. Silyn Evans and D. Harries.

         Her body was laid in a clean tomb, on a cloudy afternoon, in the sacred Tabernacle cemetery, under which Penry said before dying: 'Oh! dear old Tabernacle! You are as dear to me as the temple was to Solomon, the beloved old Tabernacle. ' Rest in peace.

    2. • 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.

    3. • 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.

14. The Amman Valley Chronicle and East Carmarthen News
    1. • Date: 20 January 1916
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         The remains of the late Mrs. Ann Evans, aged 76, wife of Mr. Henry Evans, retired farmer, formerly of Gelly, near Trapp, and now of Headington Villa, Ffairfach, were interred at the Tabernacle, Ffairfach, the ministers officiating at the house being the Rev. Wm. Davies, pastor, Rev. D. P. Roberts, M.A., B.D., Rev. D. Bowen, Hermon, and the Rev. H. T. Jacob, Fishguard; while the Rev. Silyn Evans, Aberdare, took the service at the graveside. The deceased was the mother of ten children, of whom five survive, one of them being Mr. David Evans, of Mount Pleasant, formerly a well-known member of the Llandilo Board of Guardians. Another son is Mr. Wm. Evans, an attorney at San Francisco; and two others in business in the State, viz. , Mr. John Evans, Oakland, Colorado, and Mr. Jos. Evans, of Ogden, Utah. A daughter is married to the Rev. J. D. Jones, Llanfair, Cardiganshire. The mourners at the funeral were:- Mr. Henry Evans (widower); Mr. and Mrs. David Evans, Mount Pleasant (son and daughter-in-law); Rev. and Mrs. J. D. Jones (son-in-law and daughter); Mr. and Mrs. David Jones, Cilwern, Llandilo (brother and sister-in-law); Mr. Preece, Porth, and Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths, Cymmer (cousins); and Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Llangyfelach (nephew and niece).

15. 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.

16. 1891 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG12/4412/126/34
17. UK Government: National Probate Calendar
    1. • Date: 7 December 1939
       • Page: John Preece
       • Citation:

         PREECE John of Maesyrhaf Porth Glamorgan died 19 June 1939 Probate Llandaff 7 December to David Alfred Preece ironmonger Trevor Meyrick Preece medical practitioner Arthur Ewart Preece ironmonger and Gladys Preece spinster. Effects £7538 0s. 10d.

    2. • 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.

18. Pontypridd Observer
    1. • Date: 9 November 1918
       • Page: Page 2
       • Citation:

         LATE MR. A. J. PREECE.

         The funeral of the late Mr. Alfred Jas. Preece, grocer, husband of Mrs. Edith Preece, Broadway, Treforest, took place at Glyntaff Cemetery on Monday. There was a large and representative gathering, which further showed the respect in which deceased was held. The chief mourners were Messrs. W. H. Preece (father), J. Preece, Porth (uncle), Jas. Parsons (uncle), J. Edwards (cousin), H. E. Summers (brother-in-law), W. Chapland (uncle), David Jones, Whitchurch (uncle), Fred Thomas (uncle), and Cadet L. Reeves, Llantwit. A number of members of the Grocers' Association (of which deceased was a member) acted as bearers. A number of floral tributes were recieved, including one from the Grocers' Association.

    2. • Date: 4 November 1899
       • Page: Page 4
       • Citation:

         DEATH OF MRS PREECE, TRALLWN.

         We regret to have to record the death, at an advanced age, of Mrs Preece, Trallwn. The funeral, which was largely attended, took place on Wednesday. Mrs Preece leaves a daughter (Mrs Parsons) and two sons - Mr Preece, ironmonger, Porth and Mr. W. H. Preece, Treforest.

    3. • Date: 6 February 1904
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         DEATH OF MR. ALFRED PREECE.

         We have to record the death, at the advanced age of 75, of Mr Alfred Preece, Coedpenmaen-road, Pontypridd. Deceased died on February 1st, the cause of death being senile decay. He was buried at Glyntaff Cemetery on Thursday. Mr Preece was a highly respected and amiable old gentleman, and as evidence of the respect and ??? in which he was held, we may mention that Mr Gordon Lenox (in whose employ he was for a number of years) sent a beautiful wreath. The deceased leaves one daughter (Mrs Parsons), with whom he resided, and two sons, Mr J. Preece, ironmonger, Porth, and Mr W. H. Preece, Chainworks.

    4. • Date: 13 November 1926
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         DEATH & FUNERAL OF MR. W. H. PREECE, TREFOREST.

         It is with deep regret that we chronicle the death of Mr. William Henry Preece, who passed away at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. H. E. Summers, 44, Llantwit Road, Treforest, on Monday. Deceased was a native of Pontypridd, being born in the town 72 years ago. He married Miss Edith Powell, headmistress of the Wood Road Girls' School, who pre-deceased him four years ago. Mr. Preece served for nearly a quarter of a century with the Taff Vale Railway Company and finally retired from the position of stationmaster at Treforest. The funeral took place at Glyntaff Cemetery, Treforest, on Thursday, the Rev. J. Gower Jones M.A. (Vicar of Glyntaff) officiating. The chief mourners were: Mr. J. Preece, Porth, brother; Mr. H. E. Summers, Treforest, son-in-law; Messrs. David Preece and Arthur Preece, Porth; John Parsons and Edward Parsons, Pontypridd; J. Edwards, Treforest, nephews.

         Among the general public were Messrs. W. E. Summers, T. J. Gowan, H. P. Williams, W. Hobbs, G. Mitchell, H. John, J. Jenkins, Percy S. Phillips, J. McGregor, Rhys Davies, F. Davies, A. Liscombe, Oliver Morgan, R. Jones, D. Thomas, E. Hemmings, E. S. Hunt, Griff Morgan, D. Richards, R. T. Richards, J. Harrison, W. Carpenter, Moses Severn, Foulkes Jones, J. O'Donnell, and others.

         For some years the deceased was with his brother, Mr. J. Preece, ironmonger, Porth, and the following gentlemen from Porth gave evidence of the respect with which he was held in that district: Councillor Jack Morgan, Messrs. Tom Davies (chemist), D. Moy John (solicitor), W. Griffith Thomas, Owen Nicholas, Smith Davies, W. S. Morgan, - Gibbon, Robert Farr and others.

         Floral tributes were sent by Mr. J. Preece and family; Mrs. H. E. Summers, daughter; Miss Mary Summers, grand-daughter; Miss Gladys Preece, Welshpool; Mrs. Margaret Parsons, Swansea; Mr. W. E. Summers; Mrs. Kate Edwards, Rhydyfelin; Mrs. Edith Preece, Church Village, and Neighbours and Friends.

19. 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.

20. 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.

21. New Tredegar, Bargoed and Caerphilly Journal
    1. • Date: 6 September 1906
       • Page: Page 7
       • Citation:

         PRESENTATION AT CYMMER.

         Large and Enthusiastic Gathering.

         Councillor Thomas Griffiths, J.P., Honoured.

         The respect and esteem in which Councillor Thomas Griffiths, J.P., Cymmer, is held by the inhabitants of Cymmer and district was manifested on Wednesday evening last, when that gentleman was the recipient of a magnificent life-size oil painting of himself, by the brush of Mr. Geo. F. Harris, Cardiff, and an illuminated address beautifully got up.

         Mr. Griffiths was not by himself as regards receiving the appreciation of the public, for his dearly beloved wife, although unable to be present through sickness at that vast assembly which was held at the Workmen's Hall, came in for a fair share of the honour bestowed on her husband by being presented with a massive silver epergne and cake basket.

         For some time past a feeling has existed in the district that Mr. Griffiths' yeoman service should be recognised. A committee was formed by some of the leading men of Porth, and it was resolved to present Mr. Griffiths with a public testimonial. Subscriptions were invited, and a ready response was met with, and the subscriptions flowed in abundantly, and a large sum was soon in the hands of the treasurer. As a boy Mr. Griffiths worked in the mine, and as years rolled on, by his diligence and perseverance, reached the pinnacle of fame in the mining world, and had been the means of saving many lives.

         The spacious Workmen's Hall was well filled, and amongst those present were: Alderman W. H. Mathias, J.P. (in the chair), Councillor W. T. Davies, Mr. D. Watts Morgan, C.C., the Misses Sarah and Lizzie Griffiths (daughters of recipients), Miss Davies, Mr. John Griffiths (manager L. & P. Bank), London; Mrs. Griffiths, Llantrisant; Mrs. Thomas, Cymmer; Mr. Ioan Evans, Cymmer; Mr. W. North Lewis, sec. Insoles, Ltd., and the Windsor Steam Coal Co.; Mr. D. Hannah, Ferndale; Mr. W. T. Griffiths, mining instructor, Calcutta; Mr. W. D. Wight, Pentre; Mr. Griffith Davies, Pontygwaith; Mr. D. S. Evans, Trealaw; Dr. Parry, Ferndale; Dr. Naunton Davies, Penygraig; Dr. Cochrane, Cymmer; Dr. Lionel Lewis, Cymmer; Dr. Ivor Davies, Porth; Dr. Burke, Abertridwr; Mr. D. Jenkins, Glanffrydd; Mr. Thomas Richards, M.E., Dr. Chalke, L.B.B., Mr. John Preece, Mr. and Mrs. T. W. Young, Mr. Thomas Yorath, the veteran colliery manager; Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Williams, M.E., Mr. H. E. Thomas, M.E., Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Davies, Waenlas; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Davies, chemist; Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Jones, surveyor, Cymmer Collieries; Mrs. W. T. Davies, Brynbedw, Mr. and Mrs. Octavius Thomas, Mr. Jos. E. Williams, Rev. and Mrs. W. Thomas, vicar, Porth and Cymmer.

         The address presented to Mr. Griffiths read as follows :-

         "Presented to Thomas Griffiths, J.P., M.E., Maesgwyn, Cymmer, Porth.

         "Dear sir, - We, the undersigned, acting on behalf of the committee and subscribers beg your acceptance of this address and the accompanying oil painting of yourself as a slight token of our regard and appreciation of the long and able services you have rendered in your profession as mining engineer, and your deep interest in the welfare of the inhabitants of these valleys.

         "The fact that you have represented the ratepayers upon the old Local Board and upon the Rhondda District Council for the past twenty-five years is evidence in itself of the great confidence that is placed in you and the value that is attached to the services you have rendered to the inhabitants of the ward you so ably represent.

         "We have had the gratification of witnessing your elevation to the Magisterial Bench, the duties of which you discharge with becoming dignity and intelligence.

         "We cannot but admire the perseverance you displayed in your profession, and heartily congratulate you on the position you have obtained among the mining engineers in the South Wales coalfield.

         "We cannot forget how, when mining disasters of appalling magnitude have unfortunately happened in our coalfields, you have nobly and heroically laboured in the work of rescue.

         "Every charitable movement in the district has found in you a warm patron and contributor; and the poor have recognised a practical sympathiser and warm friend.

         "We have the great pleasure in asking Mrs. Griffiths to accept the accompanying silver Epergne and Cake Baskets as a slight token from the subscribers of their regard and esteem, and they earnestly hope that you both may long be spared to enjoy every happiness and prosperity.

         "W. H. Mathias (chairman), D. Watts Morgan (deputy-chairman), R. Conway Joyce, Ben Davies, Lionel H. Lewis, Octavius Thomas (vice-chairman), N. Llewellyn (treasurer), W. T. Davies (secretary)."

         "August, 1906."

         The epergne and cake basket bore the following inscription :-

         "Presented to Mrs. Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Cymmer, Porth, by her many friends as a token of their regard and esteem."

         "August 29th, 1906."

         The Chairman, on rising to open the proceedings, was received with loud applause. He said he was glad to see so many there to pay their respects to Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths. However, he regretted that Mrs. Griffith was unable to be present through illness, but was pleased to say that she was getting very much better. Sometimes honour was conferred on people who were not deserving of it, but it was not so in this case. (Hear, hear.)

         The secretary was then called upon to read letters of apology from the following persons who regretted their inability to be present :- Mr. L. P. Griffiths, Porth; Mr. Lewis Williams, Aberdare; Mr. Christmas Evans, Merthyr; Councillor D. Smith, Tylorstown; Mr. Leonard Llewellyn, Cambrian Colliery, Clydach Vale; Mr. W. W. Hood, Llwynypia; Mr. W. Jas. Thomas, Aberystwith; Mr. H. H. T. Walis, Switzerland; Mr. Kenshole, solicitor, Aberdare; Dr. T. H. Morris, North Wales; Mr. E. Dawson, Cardiff; Mr. W. Evans, Pentre; Messrs. S. Dickinson & Co; Mr. J. G. Barkey, Kilmarnock; "Eos Dar," and Mr. W. Hutchings, Porth.

         The majority of the above gentlemen were away on their holidays.

         Mr. D. Watts Morgan, in his remarks, said that when drawing out the programme the committee thought it wise to appoint some one to say something about the great amount of work done by Mr. Griffiths. That gentleman commenced as an ordinary workman, and for ten years he did the ordinary work of a colliery youth. Some old workmen had said that he had been on the verge of being made a miners' agent. It was a loss to that fraternity that he was not made one. (Laughter.) After serving those ten years he was appointed fireman, which position he held for five years. Six years later he was elevated to overman, and three years later - in the year 1876 - he was appointed one of the managers in the district. Soon after he was appointed general manager of the colliery. Fourteen years later a further promotion fell to his lot, when he was given a seat on the Board of Directors, which controls the collieries at which he was at one time a mere workman. (Hear hear.) He was now resident director to the company at Cymmer. (Hear, hear.) His indomitable pluck and talent had stood him in good stead for many years. He had but little early education - he was the son of a workman. (Hear, hear.) His natural pluck and talent had enabled him to surmount all the obstacles which confronted him. In the process of growing - going upward - he was elected public representative in the Rhondda and was now the oldest. (Applause.) He was a member of the old board, and was now a member of the District Council. In 1896 he was elevated to the Magisterial Bench, and he (the speaker) thought the Lord Chancellor, or whoever made these appointments did but right, though that work was not at all times pleasant. They were living in a coalfield that produced the best quality of coal, but in consequence of that superior quality they had to face disasters of appalling magnitude. He (Mr. Morgan) was proud to say that during those regrettable occurrences, Mr. Griffiths had done heroic work. (Applause.) In conclusion, the speaker said "Our thoughts will always remain green and our memories will ever cherish the name of Griffiths and those in the valley who have acted as volunteers of rescue in those dark days of disaster." They have done excellent work, and I am proud of the men (and the recipient is one) who have made the Rhondda itself. I wish to name the following gentlemen who have proved themselves during colliery disasters in the valley and who deserve the greatest honour that the community can bestow upon them: Messrs. W. D Wight, M.E., Pentre; John Thomas (Standard); D. Hannah (Ferndale), - Richards (Llwyncelyn), and Mr. Llewellyn, Penygraig. (Applause.) The presentation has been brought about solely on the fact that the recipient deserved it. The subscriptions are entirely voluntary, and the subscription list is probably the biggest yet been in the valley. Still, it is not too much. (Loud applause.)

         The oil painting was then presented to Mr. Griffiths by Ald. Mathias, who remarked that it gave him very great pleasure to make the presentation, because Mr. Griffiths was one of his oldest friends in the valley extending back over a period of 42 years. They had always been friends, and had worked together on public bodies for many years. Mr. Griffiths was the oldest public man in the district, and he (Mr. Mathias) came second. (Hear, hear.)

         The artist (Mr. G. F. Harris), who had so beautifully painted the picture was then introduced to the audience by way of appreciation of his work.

         Mr. W. North Lewis, secretary of the Board of Directors for Insoles, Ltd., spoke very highly of Mr. Griffiths, and remarked that the Cymmer Colliery had been fortunate in securing such a man.

         Mr. D. Watts Morgan presented Mr. Griffiths with the address, and Mrs. Lionel Lewis presented Miss Griffiths with the silver epergne and cake baskets.

         Miss Griffiths warmly thanked them on behalf of her mother.

         Speeches were delivered by Mr. W. D. Wight, Mr. D. Hannah, Dr. Parry and Mr. E. S. Williams.

         Mr. Griffiths rose to respond amidst loud and prolonged applause. It was difficult, he said, for him to reply to all the good things said of him. It was impossible for him to concentrate them all in his mind. He thanked them for the great interest they had taken in collecting the funds which were so freely and willingly given. The artist deserved praise for the splendid painting. The address was also excellent, but the phraseology was above any standard that he could claim. He remembered the time when there were not many engineers of great ability in the district, but he made up his mind to follow in the wake of the best. He watched what they did. He received every education from them and did what they did. With the exception of two he thought they were all gone, still he had the utmost regard for them for the great amount of good they had done him. (Hear, hear.) Those deplorable colliery accidents had a detrimental effect on one's mind, not so much with regard to the exploration work but the after thoughts - the devastation of humanity. It made one feel that he would never go down a pit again. But they were bound to do so and he was ready in the future as he had been in the past. (Applause.) In conclusion Mr. Griffiths asked them to accept his sincerest thanks on behalf of his wife, who was in the hospital. He hoped that he would merit a continuance of their confidence and appreciation during the remainder of his life. (Loud applause.)

         A vote of thanks to the Chairman was proposed by Dr. Lionel Lewis, seconded by Mr. Octavius Thomas and carried with applause.

         A vote of thanks was also accorded to the Library Committee for the use of the room.

         During the evening the company were entertained with songs, etc., by Messrs. Dewi Davies and T. Yorarth, Miss Davies, the Misses Thomas and others.

         Several eulogistic Welsh poetic compositions were read.

         ENGLYNION

         Cyflwynedig i Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Griffiths.

         Arwydd o serch yw'r anerchiad - a pharch
         Hoff orchwyl gwir gariad;
         Gemau heulog amlygiad - yw'r melyn
         Aur, yma yn dilyn er mwyn ad-daliad.

         Darlun glan, cyfan, er cofio - y Dyn
         A'r doniau diguro;
         Oes sain ar ei wefus o,
         Ac offrwn fel pe'n cyffro.

         Onid hwn yw'r "Ynad Hedd" - och y fi,
         Clywch ei farn, o rhyfedd!
         Ah! hwn saif, pe yn ei sedd,
         Hyn a heriwn yn wiredd.

         Dymunaf yn awr i'r ddeuddyn rhagorol
         Wenau y Duwdod, a'i heddweh tragwyddol;
         Eu nawnddydd fo'n ddysglaer, a'u diwedd y fywyd
         I dreulio'r tragwyddol yn mhalas y Gwynfyd.

         G.D.

         [MINUTES

         Presented to Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Griffiths.

         The talk is a sign of love - and respect
         The true task of true love;
         Games sunny exposure - is the yellow
         Gold, here follows for reward.

         A clean, whole picture, though to remember - the Man
         And the unrivaled talent;
         Is there a sound on his lip of,
         And we will offer as if our excitement.

         Isn't this the "Justice of the Peace" - oh my,
         Hear his views, oh wonder!
         Ah! this stands, if seated,
         This is what we challenge in reality.

         I wish now to the outstanding duo
         The whites of the Godhead, and his everlasting peace;
         It is their patron saint, and their end of life
         To spend the eternal in the Palace of the Good.]

22. Glamorgan Free Press
    1. • Date: 3 July 1897
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         [Porth.]

         On Saturday, Mr Preece, ironmonger, with his usual kindness, organised a collection in support of that most worthy object, Dr Barnardo's Homes; and Miss Davies (North Road), Miss Richards (Birchgrove), and Mr John (Mount Pleasant), very kindly assisted in looking after the collecting boxes. It is satisfactory to find that good assistance was given by the donations placed in the boxes.

23. Tarian Y Gweithiwr
    1. • 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.

    2. • 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

    3. • Date: 15 August 1907
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         Claddedigaeth Mrs. Tom John.

         Daearwyd yr hyn oedd farwol o Mrs Margaret John, Ceinfan, Tonypandy, anwyl briod Mr Tom John, M.A, yn mynwent Llethrddu prydnawn dydd Mercher diweddaf. Yr oedd tyrfa fawr yn y gynhebrwng, yn cynwys cynrychiolaeth gref o Undeb Cenedlaethoi Cyfranwyr Addysg. Derbyniodd Mr John dros 300 o lythyrau yn datgan cydymdeimlad ag ef, a hyny oddiwrth ddynion yn cynrychioli pob gwedd a sefyllfa ar gymdeithas. Gwasanaethwyd ar yr achlysur gan y Parchn E Richards, Tonypandy; T Williams, Clydach Vale; W Charles, M A, Treorci; a T G Jenkyns. Salem, Llwynypia. Ar y ffordd i'r gladdfa canodd Cor Ebenezer amryw o donau cynulleidfaol adnabyddus.

          

          

          

         Burial of Mrs. Tom John.

         The mortal remains of Mrs Margaret John, Ceinfan, Tonypandy, the beloved husband of Mr Tom John, M.A, were buried at Llethrddu Cemetery last Wednesday afternoon. A large crowd attended the ceremony, including strong representation from the National Union of Teachers. Mr John received over 300 letters expressing condolences, from men representing every facet of society. The service was conducted by the Revs. E Richards, Tonypandy; T Williams, Clydach Vale; W Charles, M A, Treorchy; and T G Jenkyns. Salem, Llwynypia. On the way to the burial ground the Ebenezer choir sang several well-known congregational tunes.

24. 1921 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG15/8108/95
25. Burial Register - Trealaw Cemetery
    1. • Page: Plot D25
    2. • Page: Plot G604
    3. • Page: Plot D13
    4. • Page: Plot Q676
26. Thomas Preece: Gravestone photographs
    1. • Date: 18 April 2018
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    2. • Date: 17 July 2018
       • Page: David & Sarah John, Aberdare Cemetery
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    3. • Date: 22 June 2018
       • Page: Mary Adelina John et al, Trealaw Cemetery
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    4. • Date: 22 June 2018
       • Page: Edward & Alice Griffiths, Trealaw Cemetery
    5. • Date: 15 May 2018
       • Page: Alfred James & Edith Jane Preece, Glyntaff Cemetery
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    6. • Date: 22 June 2018
       • Page: Tom & Diana John, Trealaw Cemetery
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    7. • Date: 19 June 2018
       • Page: Thomas & Mary Griffiths, Oystermouth Cemetery
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    8. • Date: 15 May 2018
       • Page: John & Elizabeth Powell et al, Glyntaff Cemetery
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27. 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).

    3. • Date: 30 August 1906
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         HERO OF THE MINE.

         Mr T. Griffiths, Porth.

         DISTINGUISHED RESCUE WORK.

         Thrilling Experiences Recalled.

         PRESENTATION AT CYMMER.

         Employers and workmen, professional and business men united on Wednesday night to honour Mr T. Griffiths, J.P., the agent and director of Messrs Insoles, Limited, Porth, by the presentation of a testimonial in recognition of his rescue work on the occasion of colliery explosions extending over a period of nearly forty years, and public services for a period of almost a quarter of a century. A large and representative gathering attended for this purpose at the Workmen's Hall, Cymmer, the presentation taking the form of a life-like oil painting of the recipient, executed by Mr George F. Harris, at a cost of 350 guineas, and an address on vellum, together with a silver epergne and other gifts to Mrs Griffiths. Alderman W. H. Mathias, J.P. (chairman of the committee), presided.

         Mr D. Watts Morgan (miners' agent) dwelt on Mr Griffiths's great success, which he attributed to indomitable pluck and natural talent, in having attained to the position of resident managing director of a company under which he commenced as an ordinary working man. He had been told by some of the oldest miners that Mr Griffiths was within an ace of being made a miners' agent. (Laughter.) The committee who had taken the presentation in hand felt that there should be some public recognition of the great work done by Mr Griffiths on the occasion of great colliery disasters in the coalfield, and he (the speaker) was voicing the views of all when he stated that they and their children would always cherish the memory of Mr Griffiths and the noble engineers of the Rhondda Valley who had never failed to do everything that was possible to rescue men entombed after great disasters. Mr Morgan added that the subscription list was the largest of its kind in the history of the valley. (Applause.)

         The Chairman in making the presentation of the portrait asked Mr Griffiths to accept it from his many friends as a recognition of the heroism he has displayed, and for the public services he has rendered. (Applause.)

         Mr North Lewis (secretary of Insoles, Ltd) paid a high tribute to Mr Griffiths, and referred to his unique service with the company - from collier to managing director. (Applause.)

         Mr W. D. Wight (Messrs Cory Bros) and Mr D. Hannah, J.P., Ferndale, also spoke. Mrs Lionel Lewis, daughter of Sir David Evans, presented the silver epergne and plate to Miss Griffiths, who attended on behalf of Mrs Griffiths. Addresses were delivered by Dr. W. T. Perry, Ferndale, and Mr E. F. Williams, manager.

         Mr Griffiths, who was received with loud applause, was deeply affected. He returned sincere thanks for the gifts. As compared with 20 or 30 years ago great improvements had been effected in the conditions and supervision of mines, and colliery managers were introducing reforms in respect of which there was no legal enforcement. As in the past, he would always be ready to render any service in the future, although he hoped this would not be required. (Applause.)

         Biographical Sketch.

         Mr Thomas Griffiths, J.P., M.E., agent and director of Messrs Insoles, Limited, Cymmer Collieries, started life in 1858 as a collier, working his way up to fireman overman, manager, agent and director, and during the whole of this eventful period he has been connected with the same concern, which to a material extend owes its prestige to his energy and skill. It is a curious fact that Mr Griffiths, who has won fame for daring rescue work on occasions of great disasters in the Welsh coalfield, was so affected by the catastrophe which befell the colliery at which he was working in 1856 that he then resolved to have nothing more to do with underground work. For a few yeas he was engaged at a fitter's shop, but he returned to his old avocation, and in 1870 he was appointed manager. He is admitted to have been instrumental in settling more disputes than any other man on the owners' site - a distinction no doubt due to his great and unique experience. Mr Griffiths has devoted a great deal of time to the public service. Twenty-four years ago he was elected a member of the Rhondda Local Board, and he has occupied a seat on the Rhondda Council since its creation. Of this body he was some years ago chairman, and his views on administrative work are highly valued.

         Rescue Work Incidents.

         Above all else, Mr Griffiths is honoured for the part he has played in colliery rescue work. He was a leader of exploring parties in connection with disasters at the following collieries:- 1871, Pentre; 1990, Naval Penygraig; 1882, Coedcae; 1883, Gelli; 1885, Mardy; 1885, Penygraig; 1887, Wattstown; 1890, Llanerch; 1892, Park Slip; 1892, Great Western, Pontypridd; 1894, Cilfynydd; 1896, Tylorstown; 1899, Llest; 1901, Senghenydd; 1905, Clydach Vale; 1905, Wattstown.

         In the course of an interview with our Pontypridd representative Mr Griffiths stated the threefold object of his work on the occasion of disasters as follows:- (1) To recover workmen who might have suffered from afterdamp or burns, with a view to saving life; (2) to mark the friendly feeling which existed between colliery officials in offering assistance in the day of trial; and (3) to investigate the causes of the disasters with a view to preventing similar accidents in the collieries under his own charge.

         "The most difficult exploration work I was engaged in," he said, "was at the Cambrian Collieries, Clydach Vale, in consequence of the outbreak of fire in the seam and the deadly fumes emitted, rendering the work of rescuing highly dangerous. The worst explosion in regard to falls of roof was at the Dinas Colliery. One of the falls we failed to penetrate, and many bodies of entombed men were unrecovered for some years. It was when the late Mr Daniel Thomas, M.E. drove through the 4ft. to the 6ft. seam that the remains of the victims were recovered, and the skeletons were buried at the Lledrddu Cemetery, where a monument has been erected. Another disaster in which great difficulties were encountered was the fire at the Great Western Pit, Pontypridd. The fire originated in the engine-house, and spread into the mine, consuming all the timber, and resulting in 60 to 70 deaths. Some of the poor fellows were reduced to ashes.

         "In my early days," continued Mr Griffiths, "I used to follow my seniors in these matters with a view to learning. To-day there are only two left of those who took part in rescue work at that time, viz. Sir William Thomas Lewis, Bart., and Mr William Jenkins, Ystradfechan. Of late years we have proved that the best method of ventilation is to confine all the available current of air into one district, thoroughly explore that district, then 'bash' it off, and drive all the air current into another district, and so on through the whole colliery. One fact to-day which was not known in the early history of colliery catastrophes in these districts is the presence of carbon monoxide in the air, and there is no doubt that ignorance of the presence of this noxious gas caused the death of many a hero in exploration work. Its presence was first demonstrated at the Tylorstown explosion, where a number of lamps were found burning, whilst the men who owned them lay dead. The lights of safetly lamps will burn freely where this gas is present, whilst a very small percentage of it in the atmosphere will prove fatal. This gas is rendered more dangerous by reason of the difficulty of detection. Dr. Haldane has rendered great assistance to mining engineers in the directon of enabling them to cope with this poisonous gas. He advices the utilisation of mice, which are very sensitive to this gas, and at Clydach Vale this experiment was adopted and proved of great service.

         "Personally I have never been physically affected by afterdamp or carbon monoxide. The main principle that I have always adopted is to explore the intake airways first, and to restore ventilation as we proceed. The reason why many persons have suffered from the work of exploration is that they have entered the return airways first, where all the poisonous gases accumulate."

         Contrasting the methods in vogue years ago with those of the present day, Mr Griffiths said that the ventilation had been greatly improved of late years, and more attention was being paid to "splitting the air," thus shortening the route by which the air was to sweep away the gases given off by the working of coal. The greatest disasters had occurred in pits where the highest velocities of air had been found. A factor which had reduced the possibilities of explosions was that all the best managed collieries had adopted a system of watering in order to lay the coal dust. Colliery managers had also gone in for safer explosives in shot-firing.

28. Burial Register - Aberdare Cemetery
    1. • Page: David & Sarah John
29. 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

30. Richard C Watson: Rhondda Coal, Cardiff Gold: Insoles of Llandaff, Coal Owners and Shippers
    1. • Page: Page 160-161
       • Citation:

         It may be indicative of North Lewis's standing in the coal industry that in 1919, when the Prince of Wales visited South Wales, he came to Cymmer colliery where he was welcomed by North Lewis and, having been taken underground, allowed a newly worked district to be named after him.

         Tom Griffiths was also present for the royal visit but he was by this time one of the veterans of the company and on 24 January 1924 he retired at the age of 74. As one who had started work as a door boy, he had come a long way. By the time of his retirement he was a director of Insoles Ltd and the Windsor Steam Coal Co. Ltd, a member of the Conciliation Board, a past president of the South Wales Coal Owner's Association and a life member of the South Wales Institute of Engineers. He was particularly well known, trusted and admired for his work in colliery rescues and disaster explorations; he was at the Pentre disaster in 1871 and, after becoming manager at Cymmer, led the following rescues (the number of men who had been killed is shown in brackets):

         1879 Dinas (3)
         1880 Naval, Penygraig (96)
         1883 Gelli (4)
         1885 Naval (14)
         1885 Mardy (81)
         1887 Wattstown/Ynyshir (37)
         1892 Park Ship (110)
         1892 Great Western (58)
         1894 Albion, Cilfynydd (276)
         1896 Tylerstown (57)
         1899 Llest, Garw (19)
         1901 Senghenydd (82)
         1905 Clydach Vale (31)
         1905 Wattstown (0)

         In 1906 he retired from rescue work and was presented with a full-length portrait and a silver plate for his role in rescues and his public service by 'all classes' in the Rhondda Valleys. He was a Liberal member of the Rhondda Local Board and its successor, the urban district counsil, of which he was the second chairman in 1891-2. He was also a JP, known for his 'kindness on the bench', and a governor of the University of Wales.

         Griffiths was Welsh speaking and his early experience underground had helped him to gain the confidence of the men, being known for his fairness, understanding and sound judgement. According to Col. Watts Morgan MP DSO he was once asked to become the miners' agent. He retired to West Cross on the Gower where he died three years later on 11 February 1927. His funeral, conducted by the Congregational minister at the cemetery, was attended by Eric Insole and Arthur North Lewis.[1] He was succeeded by William B. Davies, the son of a county alderman from Pentre, who had been his deputy. Before coming to Cymmer Davies had a varied industrial career and had qualified as a civil, electrical and mining engineer. Davies's three brothers were a Cardiff doctor, a Harley Street specialist and a major in the Territorial Army, a very different background from both of his predecessors, Jabez Thomas and Tom Griffiths.

         [1] South Wales Daily News, 25 Jan. 1924, 13 Feb. 1927; Colliery Guardian, 18 Feb. 1927.

31. Colliery Guardian
    1. • Date: 18 February 1927
       • Page: Page 406
       • Citation:

         OBITUARY.

         Mr. Thomas Griffiths, J.P., who died on Monday, aged 77 years, had a distinguished career, both in personal advancement and in conspicuous rescue work. He was formely a director of Insole's Cymmer collieries, in the Rhondda, and retired a few years ago from the position of general manager, which he had held for over 40 years. So far back as 1860 he commenced work in that colliery as door boy, and won his way forward by determined effort and signal ability. His personal association with the wormen, and their confidence in his fairness and judgment, gave him enormous influence with them, both in colliery control and in rescue operation, where the presence of "Griffiths, Cymmer" evoked the heartiest of co-operation. He had served as chairman of the Coal Owner's Association, and also taken prominent part in the proceedings of the Conciliaton Board; and amongst his other distinctions was 40 years membership first of Rhondda local board and afterwards in its successor, the urban council. He has repeatedly been called to give evidence on Royal Commissions and on similar inquiries that necessitated expert testimony, was a governor of the Welsh University, a life member of the Institute of Engineers, and in 1906 had a public presentation of a portrait and silver plate in recognition of his rescue work and public service. His life story would embody romance of the South Wales coal field, as can be indicated by a bald record of some of the principal colliery accidents with which he was associated in rescue work - namely, Pentre in 1871, Penygraig 1880, Gelli 1883, Naval 1885, Mardy in the same year, Wattstown 1887, Park Slip 1892, Great Weslam in the same year, Albion 1894, Tylorstown 1896, Senghenydd 1901, Clydach Vale and Wattsown 1905. His experiences in the prolonged efforts due to the underground fire at Clydach were exceptional in a remarkable degree, and he always recalled that as the most difficult exploration work undertaken. He was a widower, and leaves one son and two daughters - Mr. W. T. Griffiths, mineral valuer for South Wales to the Inland Revenue Department, Mrs. Thomas, wife of the agent to Powell Duffryn Co., and Mrs. Rhys Morgan.

32. Evening Express
    1. • Date: 8 August 1907
       • Page: Third Edition, Page 2
       • Citation:

         LATE MRS. TOM JOHN

         The remains of Mrs. Tom John, Tonypandy, were laid to rest at Llethrddu Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon. The funeral was attended by a large number of the general public, and by many well-known figures in the scholastic world, in which Mr. John, as ex-president of the National Union of Teachers, is so well respected. Owing to the illness of Mr. John's son, Dafydd, the service at the house was dispensed with. Officiating at the graveside were the Rev. T. Richards (Tonypandy), the Rev. T. G. Jenkin (Llwynypia), the Rev. T. Williams (Clydach Vale), and the Rev. W. Charles, M.A. (Treorky). Letters of condolence were received from the Bishop of St. David's; Mr. Arthur R. Pickles, president N.U.T.; Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P., secretary N.U.T.; Mr. T. P. Sykes, ex-president N.U.T.; Professor Anwyl, Aberystwyth; Mr. A. T. Davies, Welsh Educatioc Department; Mr. Harry Coward, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. G. Sharples, ex-president N.U.T.; committee of the Aberporth Chair Eisteddfod, and many others.

33. Weekly Mail
    1. • Date: 10 August 1907
       • Page: Page 12
       • Citation:

         LOCAL OBITUARY NOTICES.

         MRS. TOM JOHN, LLWYNYPIA.

         Widespread sympathy is expressed with Mr. Tom John, M.A., Llwynypia (ex-president of the National Union of Teachers), at the death of his wife, Mrs. Margaret John, which took place at Ceinfan, Tonypandy, on Thursday night.

         Mrs. John had had a long and painful illness, and was in consequence unable to attend the recent National Union of Teachers' conference, at which she and Mr. John were to have been the recipients of a. presentation. Deceased was attended to by Dr. Edwin Morgan, who was in constant consultation with Dr. Maclean, of Cardiff, but, despite the best medical aid, she succumbed to an attack of internal cancer.

         By the death of Mrs. John a gap will be left in the social life of the district. The deceased lady was a prominent figure in all philanthropic work in the district in which she had lived, and worked assiduously for its social development. The daughter of the late Mr. Frederick Lewis, of Penygraig, she was married to Mr. Tom John 33 years ago. Throughout her life she has rendered her husband sympathy and encouragement in his public career and acted as a help-meet. Unassuming in her manner, the soul of integrity, and with a wonderful charm of womanly sympathy, she passed a useful life, assisting any cause of deserving charity, at the same time devoting herself to the best interests of her family.

         For the past two months Mr. John's son has also been laid up with a serious illness, and is now confined to his bed.

         The remains of Mrs. Tom John, Tonypandy, were laid to rest at Llethrddu Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon. The funeral was attended by a large number of the general public, and by many well-known figures in the scholastic world, in which Mr. John, as ex-president of the National Union of Teachers, is so well respected. Owing to the illness of Mr. John's son, Dafydd, the service at the house was dispensed with. Officiating at the graveside were the Rev. T. Richards (Tonypandy), the Rev. T. G. Jenkin (Llwynypia), the Rev. T. Williams (Clydach Vale), and the Rev. W. Charles, M.A. (Treorky).

         Letters of condolence were received from the Bishop of St. David's; Mr. Arthur R. Pickles, president N.U.T.; Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P.. secretary N.U.T.; Mr. T. P. Sykes, ex-president N.U.T.; Professor Anwyl, Aberystwyth; Mr. A. T. Davies, Welsh Education Department; Mr. Harry Coward, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. G. Sharples, ex-president N.U.T.; committee of the Aberporth Chair Eisteddfod, and many others.

34. Cardiff Times
    1. • Date: 31 October 1908
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         [DEATHS]

         PREECE - At Maesyrhaf, Porth, Stanley Preece, youngest son of John Preece, ironmonger, Porth, on Monday, October 19th.

35. findagrave.com
    1. • Page: Ann Evans / Henry Evans
36. Burial Register - Glyntaff Cemetery
    1. • Page: Plot J107
    2. • Page: Plot J105
37. Glamorgan Free Press and Rhondda Leader
    1. • Date: 18 April 1924
       • Page: Page 9
       • Citation:

         A LOSS TO THE RHONDDA.

         Funeral of Mr. Tom John, M.A., J.P., Penygraig

         The death of Mr. Tom John, M.A., J.P., educationist, philosopher, litterateur, musician, and Eisteddfodwr, to mention a few of this versatile man's qualifications, on Thursday evening last removes one of the "grand old men," not only of the Rhondda but of Wales.

         The death of Mr. John, who was in his seventy-fifth year, followed a heart attack, and came as a shock to his many friends, for he had appeared to be in his normal health on Wednesday evening. He was one of the best known and most highly respected figures in the public life of the Rhondda, and was an educationist of national fame. During a long lifetime devoted to public service, he became widely known not only for his sterling work for democratic education, but as a talented musician and a staunch and loyal worker in the cause of Liberalism.

         A native of Aberdare, Mr. John received his early education at the old "Ysgol y Comin," and was trained for the scholastic profession at the Borough-road Training College, London. After a short stay in North Wales, he came to the Rhondda. For a time he was a teacher at Penygraig, and later took charge of the colliery school establishd by the Glamorgan Coal Company, which subsequently was taken over by the local authority. He retired from this post several years ago, after forty years' service as head master.

         In 1884 he was elected a member of the executive committee of the National Union of Teachers, and he remained a member of that body until he retired in 1904. His fellow members of the scholastic profession conferred on him the highest honour in their gift by electing him president of the N.U.T. He occupied the chair at the annual conference at Llandudno in 1905, and was one of the delegates appointed by the N.U.T. to present the Union's address to his Majesty King George V at the Court at St. James' Palace in July, 1910. He was a member of the Court of the University of Wales, a governor of the University College of South Wales and Monmouthshire, and a member of the National Council of the General Welsh Board. He also served intermediate education in his own district, and was a governor of the Porth County School. These services were recognized by the University of Wales in the conferment upon him of the hon. degree of M.A. of the University.

         Few men, if any, did more to create a love of music in the minds of the Rhondda people. He was one of the few remaining survivors of Caradog's famous Côr Mawr. His brother, the late J.W. John, head master of the Ynyshir Schools, was also one of Caradog's famous band of singers. Mr. Tom John was for many years precentor of Salem Congregational Church, Llwynypia, and was conductor of the Salem Choral Society. In his youthful days he and the late Mr. J. W. Jones, Tonypandy, carried a harmonium from Aberdare to Ferndale to assist in the formation of a choral society in the latter district. His last appearance as a musical conductor was at the Westminster Hall, London, in January, 1922, on the occasion of a Coalition meeting at which Mr. Lloyd George was present.

         During his long residence in the Rhondda he was the means of raising thousands of pounds for charity by organizing various musical events. In his youth he was well known locally as a cricketer, and was up to the time of his death a keen golfer. In politics he was a staunch life-long Liberal and was an ex-president of the old Rhonnda Labour-Liberal Association, which was disbanded a year or two ago. He was very diligent in the discharge of his duties on the magisterial bench, and was a well known figure at the Rhondda courts, where his rich sense of humour earned for him the title of "The Rhondda Plowden". If always prepared with a jest in season, he served the public faithfully in this as in every other capacity, and took particular interest in the reformation of youthful offenders.

         THE FUNERAL.

         The funeral took place on Tuesday at Trealaw Cemetery. The services at the house were conducted by the Rev. George Evans, B.A., B.D., and the Rev. Dyfan Thomas (Soar, Penygraig), while at the graveside the Rev. G. Evans and the Rev. D. G. Evans, Rhydyfelin (past pastor of Tabor Church) officiated. Deacons of Tabor Church and sergeants of the Glamorgan Constabulary, under Police sergeant I. J. Beirne, acted as bearers.

         A brief address was delivered at the graveside by Mr. Enoch Davies, J.P., one of the deceased's colleagues on the magisterial bench. He said that Mr. John's sayings and happy expressions would live long in the memory of those who were privileged to have known him. He was a versatile, able, and most kind-hearted man, and his colleagues on the bench would miss him greatly.

         The principal mourners were Mrs. D. John (widow), Mrs. T. Griffiths, J.P., Cymmer (sister), the Misses John (daughters), Mrs J. W. John, Porth (sister-in-law), Messrs. Moy John, Fred Lewis (Penygraig), Fred Lewis (Bridgend) and Tom Lewis (nephews); Mr. John Preece (brother-in-law), Messrs. Arthur and David Preece (nephews), Mr. David Davies, Llanweda (cousin), Mrs. P. Davies, Abercynon (cousin), and Messrs. Tom Ford (Aberaman), Evan Lewis (Swansea) and D. Evans, Llandilo (cousins).

         The cortege was preceded by about 100 members of the Glamorgan Constabulary, under Superintendents James Davies and J. L. Rees and Inspectors E. Jones (Ton Pentre), John Davies (Tonypandy), James Griffiths (Porth) and W. E. Rees (Ferndale).

         The ministers of religion present included the Revs. Principal Thomas Rees, M.A., Ph.D., Bangor College; Geo. Evans, B.A., B.D, Tabor, Penygraig (of which the late Mr. John was a deacon); Joseph Walters, Blaenclydach; E. C. Davies, Ynyshir; J. Williams, Hafod; Fred Jones, B.A., B.D., Treorchy; R. E. Peregrine, Williamstown; D. T. Jones, Noddfa, Blaenclydach; D. Overton, Ynyshir; D. Jeremy Jones, M.A., Tonypandy; D. Mark, vicar of Cymmer, Porth; D. G. Evans, Rhydyfelin (past pastor of Tabor, Penygraig), and R. Williams, Trinity, Tonypandy.

         The Bench was strongly represented, and amongst magistrates and members of the Rhondda Council present were Mr. D. Lleufer Thomas, M.A., stipendiary magistrate for the Rhondda and Pontypridd; Messrs. John Hughes, J.P., David Lewis, J.P., Stephen Evans, J.P., Alderman James Evans, J.P., Messrs. Enoch Davies, J.P., Tom Taylow, J.P. (chairman of the Pontypridd Ubran District Council), Tom Morgan, J.P., David Lewis, J.P., Tudor Jenkins (representing Mr. T. Pascoe Jenkins, J.P.), J. W. John, J.P., J.W. Richards J.P., William Jones, J.P., H. H. Evans, M.E., J.P. (general manager of the Cambrian Combine Company), and Walter Williams, J.P., together with Councillors James James, J.P., Dan Davies, J.P., Dr. W. E. Thomas, J.P., Edgar Morgan, J. T. Jones, Abel Jacob, and Gwilym Rowlands, and Mr. T. W. Berry (director of education).

         The scholastic profession and the National Union of Teachers, of which the late Mr. John was a past president, were very strongly represented, among those present being Messrs. Dan Edwards, Port Talblot (representing the N.U.T. Executive); Rhys Nicholas, Cwmavon; Philip Thomas, Neath; T. Morgan, Cwm pare; Urien Edwards, Bodringallt; Ben Nicholas (members of the central countil of the N.U.T. benvolent and orphan fund); T. Goodwin (president of the Rhondda Association of the N.U.T.); Gomer Evans (past president of the Rhondda Association); Dan Phillips (a former president of the Rhondda Association); J. T. Lewis (vice-president of the Welsh Head Master's Association); Morgan Rees, Harry Harries, Griffith Davies, J. W. Thomas, Edward Hugh, M.A., R. O. Davies, B.Sc., G. Davies, B.Sc., R. Bowen, A. Evans, J. D. Lewis, T. D. John, J. R. Jones, Jack Griffiths, Gwilym Lewis, R. J. Oriel, W. Jones, M.A., W. Chubb, Llandwit Fardre; Rhys Morgan, M.A., Pontypridd; and E. Samuel, M.A., Porth.

         Amongst the general public present were Messrs. Willie Griffiths and W. Thomas, Cardiff; J. Victor Evans, M.A., London; T. W. Williams (representing the Church of Salem, Llwynypia, of which Mr. John was for many years precentor); Charles Woosnam, Porth; T. P. Davies and John Hughes (representing West Rhondda Liberal Association); Gomer Jones, Tonypandy; U. R. Edwards, Ystrad Rhondda, E. Edwards (representing the Rhondda district of the Typographical Association); L. E. Morgan, Barclays Bank, Tonypandy; Albert Thomas, Blaenllechau; Llewellyn Evans, Tonypandy; J. H. Llewellyn and George Llewellyn, Griffith Davies, David Rees (coroner for East Glamorgan); Thomas Morris, Trealaw; D. G. Hughes, Clydach Vale; T. Osborne, Porth; M. E. Williams, Llanharry; and Thomas Rees, Penygraig.

         Beautiful floral tributes were received from Mrs. John (widow); Maggie and Madeline (daughters); Mr. and Mrs. T. Griffiths, J.P., Cymmer (sister and brother-in-law); Mrs J.W. John and Mr. Moy John; Mr. J. Preece and family; Head master and staff, Porth County School; Miss E. M. Harries, Girls' County School; Rhondda Head Teacher's Association; Dr. J. D. Jenkins (medical officer of health), Pentre; Rhondda branch of the National Union of Teachers; National Union of Teachers; Misses Gwladys and Violet Watkins; Mr. and Mrs. Rogers, Craig-y-nos, Llandrindod Wells; girls of Porth Intermediate School; Mrs. Harries and family, Prewylfa, Dinas; National Council of Music, University of Wales; Mr. and Mrs. Dean Davies, Clydach Vale; Council of U.C.S.W.; Mr. R. Love; staff, Tonypandy Secondary School, Rhondda Gold Club; Mr. Alf and Miss Annie Evans, Penrhyns; and Rhondda Liberal Association.

38. 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).

39. Wills on file
    1. • Date: 6 March 1930
       • Page: John Preece (1858-1939)
40. General Register Office: England & Wales Death Index
41. General Register Office: England & Wales Marriage Index