Preece Family Tree

Events

Parents

Families

Media

Thomas Griffiths 1

Thomas Griffiths 3

Tom and Mary Griffiths

Attributes

Pedigree

1. William Griffiths
   1. Sarah
      1. Thomas Griffiths
         1. Sarah Anne Williams
            1. John Griffiths
            2. William Thomas Griffiths
            3. Edward Rees Griffiths
            4. Sarah Griffiths
            5. Elizabeth Griffiths
         2. Mary John
      2. Sarah Margaret Griffiths
      3. Morgan Griffiths
      4. Ivor Griffiths
      5. Gwilym Griffiths
      6. Mary Ann Griffiths

Ancestors

Thomas Griffiths *1849 +14 February 1927

William Griffiths
*about 1826
+22 February 1893

Sarah
*about 1829
+14 February 1913

Source References

1. 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.

2. W W Price: Park Schools Centenary - Its History
   1. • Page: Some Past Pupils
      • Citation:

        Mrs. Mary Griffiths (née John), Cymmer, Porth

3. 1911 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG14/32312/30
4. Wills on file
   1. • Page: Thomas Griffiths (1849-1927)
5. 1851 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: HO107/2456/384/11
6. 1861 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG9/4043/68/18
7. 1871 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG10/5381/16/23
8. 1881 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG11/5297/146/23
9. 1901 United Kingdom Census
   1. • Page: RG13/5010/11/14 f.
10. Carmarthen Weekly Reporter
    1. • Date: 17 July 1914
       • Page: Supplement - Page 2
       • Citation:

         J.P. Threatened by his Brother.

         SEQUEL AT GLAMORGAN ASSIZES.

         Ivor Griffiths, described as a grocer, was bound over at Glamorgan Assizes at Swansea, on Tuesday (before Mr Justice Atkin), when he pleaded guilty to a charge that he, on June 11, at Porth, feloniously and maliciously sent, delivered, or caused to be delivered a letter threatening to kill or murder his brother, Mr Thomas Griffiths, J.P., mining engineer, of Maesgwyn, Porth.

         Mr Marley Samson, for the prosecution, recapitulated the facts, and said that on behalf of the family he wished to say that they believed it to be their duty to take steps to prevent the prisoner being a menace to his brother and the other members of the family in future. It was true the accused man had given way to drink, and was probably suffering from one of those delusions often caused by alcohol. He thought it was a case in which the prisoner should be placed under restraint for some length of time. He then called Supt. Gill, who said complaints had been made on two occasions of prisoner discharging a revolver in public. He was charged on one occasion but acquitted.

         Mr Wilfrid Lewis, addressing the judge on behalf of the prisoner, said prisoner had lived on perfectly good terms with his brother and sister till the mother died in 1913. The prosecutor, Thomas Griffiths, had left the family circle in his younger days to seek his fortune elsewhere, and the prisoner remained at home for some thirty years, and assisted his father in making a considerable fortune. The father died, leaving the whole of his property to his wife. The prisoner said that it was always his father's wish that he should be provided for, but when the mother died she left the property to his brother and sister, leaving him the sum of only £20. It was after this that the trouble began, and the prisoner had written letters extending over a period of twelve months up to March, 1914.

         Mr Marlay Samson, intervening, remarked that his instructions were that the prisoner was provided for.

         Mr Wilfrid Lewis said that, whilst the prisoner now fully realised that he had done wrong, he was honestly labouring under a delusion that he had been very badly treated in-deed. It was further to be noted that the prisoner, although he had plenty of opportunities, had never attempted to carry his threats into operation.

         His Lordship asked where the prisoner got the revolver.

         Mr Lewis (after conferring with prisoner): The prisoner says he never bought a revolver. This is an old revolver he had 28 years ago.

         His Lordship, addressing the prisoner, said "You have pleaded guilty to sending these letters threatening to kill your brother. I have read the series of letters which you have sent to members of your family, and very disgraceful letters they are - letters that no respectable man should write to anybody, and certainly letters you should not have written to your brother and sister. It is quite plain you have been suffering from what is a complete delusion as far as the property is concerned. They have done you no wrong at all. I hope that that is the view you now take yourself."

         The prisoner nodded his head two or three times.

         "If there is any doubt at all about that," continued his lordlship, "I should have to put you in a place where you could do no harm. (Prisoner again nodded). I am prepared to believe that for the future you will realise that your brother and sister are people against whom you have no grievance, and that you will live in peace with them. If you are wise you will keep off the drink. You have been in prison for four months, and, therefore, have undergone some of the probation the prosecution considered necessary. I think I shall be acting in the best interests, even of the prosecution, and I now bind you over in the sum of £20 to come up for judgment within the next two years if called upon." His lordship then explained to the prisoner the result that would immediately follow on the infringement of his bond, and he was discharged on entering into recognisances.

11. Western Mail
    1. • Date: 13 January 1925
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         OBITUARY.

         RHONDDA LADY J.P.

         The death took place at Langfield, West-cross, Mumbles, on Monday at 64 years of age of Mrs. Mary Griffiths, J.P., wife of Mr. Thomas Griffiths, late general manager of Insole's Cymmer Collieries, Rhondda Valley, lately residing at Maesgwyn, Porth. Mrs. Griffiths had distinguished herself by a career of remarkable activity during the war, when she was an active supporter of all the local organisations and charities. She was a woman of wide sympathies and extensive activities, and great (possibly too great) demands were then made on her strength. In her capacity of justice of the peace for Glamorgan, member of the Pontypridd Board of Guardians, chairman of the Porth Cottage Hospital Ladies Committee, chairman of the County School Governor for Porth, commissioner for Rhondda of the Girl Guides, and similar offices, she occupied a great sphere in the life of a great population for some years past. She was a sister of the late Mr. Tom John, of Llwynypia, the well-known educationist and Welsh Eisteddfodwr.

         Mr. Thomas Griffiths, M.C., J.P., her husband, who up to July last was general manager, consulting engineer, and a director of Insole's Cymmer Collieries, and consulting engineer to the Windsor Collieries, &c., occupied a high position in the coal industry of South Wales and has sat as chairman of the Coalowners' Association. Not only was he of great repute in the engineering sphere of the Welsh coal trade, but he has given singular instances of heroism and intrepidity in Welsh coal disasters. Several years ago he was the recipient of a great testimonial from the public of the Rhondda in recognition of his personal quality and his heroism in colliery disasters.

         In July last Mr. Griffiths retired from business and went to live at Langfield, West Cross, Mumbles, which house he had used as a holiday resort for some years previously.

    2. • 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.

    3. • 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]

    4. • Date: 13 March 1914
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         APOLOGY IN DOCK.

         LETTERS TO PORTH MAGISTRATE.

         A WILL DISAPPOINTMENT.

         BROTHER'S REGRET FOR BEHAVIOUR.

         Ivor Griffiths, described of independent means, of 'The Limes', Pencoed, was brought up in custody on remand at Pontypridd Police-court on Thursday (before Mr. D. Llenfer Thomas, stipendiary) charged with sending a letter threatening to kill or murder his brother, Mr. Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., of Maesgwyn, Porth.

         Mr. A. Ivor Parry (Messrs Morgan, Bruce and Nicholas, Pontypridd) prosecuted, and Mr E. T. Davies (Llantrisant) appeared for the accused, who seemed to feel his position acutely. There was a further charge against defendant of assaulting his sister, Miss Sarah Griffiths, but this was adjourned.

         Mr. Parry said there would be no doubt that the letters forming the subject of the charge had been written by accused and sent by him to his brother. There were two sons and two daughters of the late Mr. William Griffiths, Cymmer, who died on February 22, 1893. Under a will executed on February 16, 1893, the late Mr. William Griffiths left all his property to his wife absolutely. Up to that time there was no outward dissention between the brothers or any members of the family. There were references in the letters to Groes Farm, and accused appear to have the idea that his father's estate was undervalued for purposes of probate and that Groes Farm was not included. But, as a matter of fact, the farm never belonged to Mr. William Griffiths. He bought the farm, but the deeds were made out in the name of his wife. This was one of the things accused seemed to have been dwelling upon in these letters.

         DISSATISFIED WITH WILL

         There was no outward dissendion until Mrs. Griffiths, the mother of accused and prosecutor, died on February 14, 1913. There were various legacies in her will, including one to accused, and to Mr. Thomas Griffiths she gave all her freehold property, Groes Farm, for his life, subject to his paying two annuities of £10 each. The income from the property was, roughly, £40 a year, so that all prosecutor derived under his mother's will was £20 a year, and this he arranged to pay to his sister, Miss Sarah Griffiths.

         Mr. Ivor Griffiths, the accused, was (said Mr. Parry) in an independent position, and his wife also had independent means, so there was no suggestion that he was poor in any sense. At the reading of his mother's will accused intimated that he was dissatisfied with the terms of the will and the position under the will, but his tone then gave no indication that the letters forming the subject of this charge would ever have been written. The matter, however, appeared to have taken hold of his mind, and since his mother's death he had taken the course of writing threatening and insulting letters, not only to Mr. Thomas Griffiths himself, but to his wife, Mrs. Thomas Griffiths; to his sister, Miss Sarah Griffiths; and to Messrs. Insoles (Limited).

         DEMAND FOR £1,000.

         The following letter, the first of many, was sent to prosecutor within a month of his mother's death:-

         Thomas, - Can you see your way clear to send me a cheque for £1000? If not your brains will be flying about.

         A subsequent letter to Mrs. Thomas Griffiths, posted on June 18, 1913, set forth accused's grievance under the will, in which the threat was repeated in another form.

         Copies of the letter having been handed to Mr. E. T. Davies, the Stipendiary said the letter need not be read. It was a painful letter, and it would be undesirable to give publicity to the contents.

         Mr. Parry, continuing, made reference to further letters of a threatening nature, and these were put in.

         Reference, said Mr. Parry, had been made to an alleged assault on Miss Sarah Griffiths, and, though these proceedings gave great pain to prosecutor, he could not with justice to himself and the other members of the family treat the letters as he had done before. It would have been foolhardy to allow these letters to go any longer unchallenged. Whether they were written out of sheer malignity or were the effusions of a disordered mind was a matter for another place.

         MR. THOMAS GRIFFITHS'S EVIDENCE.

         Mr. Thomas Griffiths bore out his advocate's statement. On the day of his mother's funeral the will was read by Mr. Jones, Congregational minister, Pencoed. There was not the slightest truth in the charges his brother made. Witness got no benefit under his mother's will.

         Cross-examined, witness said he had always been on good terms with his brother. Accused was certainly dissatisfied when his mother's will was read, and he said that he believed his father had said the money was to be equally divided between the children.

         Mrs. Thos. Griffiths and Miss Sarah Griffiths, Groes Farm, Pencoed, produced letters which they stated to be in the handwriting of accused.

         SISTER'S STORY OF BLOW.

         Miss Griffiths, a lady of delicate appearance, said that on February 26 she was returning to Pencoed from Cardiff, and saw accused on the platform at Cardiff. He did not enter the carriage then, but did at Peterston.

         Accused asked her for money, and then struck her (witness indicating by putting both her clenched hands to her face).

         In reply to Mr. Parry, she said he struck her about the face and head with both hands. There were in the carriage a Mrs. David, a Miss Griffiths, and Mrs. Francis Ashman. Mrs. David protected witness, and another lady pulled the communication cord. The train was stopped and the guard turned accused out of the compartment. She received a letter containing threats which was in her brother's handwriting, and was posted on March 3.

         In reply to Mr. E. T. Davies, witness said the accused seemed to have had a few glasses. Police-sergeant Mitchell deposed to receiving accused from the custody of the Pencoed police. He read the warrant, and accused replied:-

         Nothing much, I did it while under the influence of drink and knowing that my mother died in February, 1913, and in the will left from £8,000 to £10,000. There was nothing left to me - only the small sum of £20. According to my father's will, he warned my mother very particularly to divide the estate equally between us children, and according to his will I was entitled to about £2,000.

         ACCUSED'S APOLOGY.

         Accused, rising under obvious emotion, now said in reply to the formal charge:-

         Not guilty of those things. I did not mean any harm at all. That is simply a flash in the pan and finished with. I never dreamt they would take any proceedings because we had been very intimate for 50 years, my brother and I - not a single cross word, only lately a little dispute over my mother's will. I have nothing more to say.

         Accused then resumed his seat in the dock, but rose again almost immediately and added:-

         I beg to offer my very sincere apology to my brother and sister for what I have done, and vouch to you it will never occur again.

         The Stipendiary refused to consider an application for bail at the present stage, and remanded accused in custody for a week, but added to Mr. C. T. Davies that he proposed making certain inquiries, and though he held out no hope, he thought it might be possible, if he was satisfied with the result of those inquiries, to take a certain course if very substantial sureties for good behaviour were forthcoming.

    5. • Date: 13 August 1914
       • Page: Page 1
       • Citation:

         MORGAN-GRIFFITHS. - On August 11th, at Victoria Chapel, Mumbles, by the Rev. J. D. Jones Lampeter. Rhys Morgan, third son of Mr. and Mrs. Ebenezer Morgan, Penpound, Porth, to Elizabeth, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Porth. No cards.

12. The Scotsman
    1. • Date: 23 January 1928
       • Page: Page 7
       • Citation:

         WILLS AND ESTATES

         [...]

         Thomas Griffiths, J.P. (78) of Longfield, West Cross, Swansea, mining engineer, for upwards of half a century associated with Insoles (Ltd.) and the Windsor Steam Coal Co. (Ltd.), who began life at the Cymmer Colliery in 1860 as an underground door-boy (net personalty, £55,575) .......... £61,581.

13. 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.

    2. • Date: 5 June 1913
       • Page: Page 3
       • Citation:

         [MARRIAGES.]

         GRIFFITHS-JONES. - On the 4th inst., at Argyle Methodist Church, Swansea, by the Rev. A. Wynne Thomas, M.A., William Thomas Griffiths, son of Thomas Griffiths, J.P., Maesgwyn, Porth, and Longfield, West Cross, Swansea, to Margaret Gaynor, younger daughter of Mrs. Jonathan Jones, Hill Crest, Uplands, Swansea.

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. UK Government: National Probate Calendar
    1. • Date: 4 April 1925
       • Page: Mary Griffiths
       • Citation:

         GRIFFITHS Mary of Longfield West Cross Swansea (wife of Thomas Griffiths) died 12 January 1925 Administration London 4 April to the said Thomas Griffiths mining engineer. Effects £1581 15s. 7d.

    2. • Date: 7 October 1913
       • Page: Sarah Griffiths
       • Citation:

         GRIFFITHS Sarah of Groes Farm Pencoed Glamorganshire widow died 14 February 1913 Probate London 7 October to Thomas Griffiths company director and Sarah Margaret Griffiths spinster. Effects £2777 7s. 6d. Resworn £1687 7s. 6d.

    3. • Date: 4 January 1928
       • Page: Thomas Griffiths
       • Citation:

         GRIFFITHS Thomas of Longfield West Cross Swansea died 14 February 1927 Probate Carmarthen 4 January to William Thomas Griffiths civil servant and Sarah Thomas (wife of Henry Edward Thomas). Effects £61581 8s. 1d.

16. Richard C Watson: Rhondda Coal, Cardiff Gold: Insoles of Llandaff, Coal Owners and Shippers
    1. • Page: Page 98-99
       • Citation:

         In 1877 the Cymmer colliery had a new manager, who satisfied the spirit and the letter of the Mines Regulation Act 1872 by having secured a manager's certificate by examination. Thomas Griffiths was a professional mining engineer, who succeeded Jabez Thomas when he retired. Jabez Thomas had served the Insoles for nearly fifty years from George Insole's first ventures on the canal wharf at Cardiff. It was probably his knowledge of coal mining, albeit without any formal qualifications, which made him useful to his employers; he seems, however, to have been both insensitive in his handling of subordinate managers and workers and slipshod in his supervision and administration. On two events, he bears responsibility for a serious industrial dispute and a mining disaster. He was a founder and leading member of Bethlehem, the Calvinistic Methodist chapel in Cymmer, whose first congregation came with him from Maesmawr to Cymmer in 1844. After his retirement he continued to live next to the colliery office in a house in Three-quarters Row, with his wife Ann, who was some nine years his junior and, like him, came from the Vale of Glamorgan. He died in 1885 at the age of 87.

         Thomas Griffiths was a different type of man; he was born in 1849 at Bettws near Bridgend but, by the time he left school in 1860, his family had moved to Hafod. He started work at Cymmer as a door-boy and worked for ten years at the coal-face. He became a fireman in 1869 and so started a professional career, which saw him rise to the positions of overman and agent and to the acquisition of a manager's certificate, through part-time education and private study. He had left Cymmer in the course of his progress but in 1872 he married the daughter of John Williams of Pen Rhos and he returned to work at Cymmer in 1875, possibly as engineer for the sinking of Cymmer Old to the steam coals. He was a member of the South Wales Institute of Engineers and of the Cardiff Naturalists' Society, whom he entertained at Cymmer in 1885. By that time he had been elected to the Ystradyfodwg Urban Sanitary Authority, so starting a long career of public service in local government. He was to be involved not only in colliery management but also in the direction of the Insole mining businesses over the next forty years. The Insole's management of their collieries was always more distant than the control of their sales office and both Jabez Thomas and Thomas Griffiths enjoyed a considerable measure of freedom and delegated authority in running them. Griffiths was an early beneficiary of improvements in the professional education of engineers in South Wales, which had been fostered by the South Wales Institute of Engineers.[1]

         [1] Walters, South Wales Steam Coal Industry, pp. 181-4.

    2. • 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.

17. 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.]

18. General Register Office: England & Wales Marriage Index
19. General Register Office: England & Wales Death Index
20. 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.

21. 1891 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG12/4419/10/13
22. Rhondda Leader
    1. • 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.

    2. • 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.

    3. • 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.

    4. • Date: 29 September 1906
       • Page: Page 4
       • Citation:

          

          

         Death of Mrs. Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Porth.

         The death occurred at Barry on Tuesday morning of Mrs. Griffiths, wife of Councillor Thomas Griffiths M.E., J.P., Porth, and a director of Messrs. Insoles, Limited. The deceased lady had been in failing health for some months, and was staying at her Barry residence for the past month on the recommendation of her medical advisers. For the first few weeks her health improved, but her illness took a serious turn on Thursday last.

         Mrs. Griffiths was born at Dinas about 60 years ago, and was a daughter of the late Mr. John Williams, who, it will be remembered, was one of the first employees of the late Mr. Walter Coffin at Dinas when the levels on the crop were commenced by him, and before there were any collieries sunk in the Rhondda Valleys. Subsequently her father was appointed manager under Messrs. Geo. Insoles & Sons, and he successfully managed the house coal seams for a considerable number of years. By her death, Congregationalism in the district has lost a most esteemed and devout member, and a strong connecting link with this denomination represented by her grandfather, father, and herself, and extending over a period of 100 years, has been severed. Local philanthropic institutions will also suffer, as she was ever ready to lend a willing hand in all charitable movements.

         The interment, which will be of a public character, will take place on Saturday next at 2.30 p.m. at the churchyard adjoining the Old Congregational Chapel, Cymmer. The mortal remains were brought to Porth on Tuesday evening by the 6.15 train, and were conveyed by hearse to Maesgwyn. There were present on the platform a number of Cymmer Colliery officials, together with a large contingent of leading tradesmen, and these accompanied the mournful cortege to Maesgwyn.

    5. • Date: 6 October 1906
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         [paragraph breaks added]

         Funeral of Mrs. Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Porth.

         The funeral took place on Saturday last, amid every manifestation of sorrow, of Mrs. Griffiths, Maesgwyn, wife of Mr. Thomas Griffiths, J.P., resident director of the Cymmer Collieries, the place of interment being the family vault, in the burial ground adjoining the Old Congregational Chapel, Cymmer.

         Not since the burial of Mr. Daniel Thomas, who so tragically met his death at the Penygraig Explosion, and whose remains are interred in close proximity, has the district been the scene of such a vast concourse of people. "Yr Hen Gapel," Cymmer, together with the burial ground, are rich in their associations with the past, and it was here that a goodly portion of those poor unfortunate men who lost their lives in the Cymmer Colliery Explosion in 1857 are buried. Mrs. Griffiths had been a prominent figure in the religious life of the district from childhood, and the large and representative gathering which attended the funeral obsequies was clearly indicative of the high esteem and respect in which she was held.

         The workmen at the Cymmer Collieries suspended operations at 12.30 p.m., in order to attend the funeral. There were present representatives of various mining interests, corporate bodies, and ministers of religion drawn from the Rhonddas, Aberdare, Merthyr, Llantrisant, Cowbridge, and Cardiff. It is estimated that there were close upon 5,000 people present, and as the mournful cortege wended its way along Glynfach Road, the huge crowds which lined the thoroughfares reverently bowed their heads, whilst there were unmistakable signs of general sorrow.

         Under the conductorship of Mr. Taliesin Hopkins, the Congregational choirs of the district very pathetically rendered en route "Daeth yr awr im' ddianc adre" and "Yn y dyfroedd mawr a'r tonau." As the body was being conveyed into the churchyard, the utmost reverence was displayed. The grave is within about ten yards from the entrance, and there was only sufficient room for the family, bearers and a few of the most intimate friends.

         Amongst the immediate relatives present were:- Mr. Thomas Griffiths, J.P. (husband) Mr. John Griffiths, London, and Miss Sarah Griffiths (son and daughter); Mr. W. T. Griffiths, A.R.S.M., Calcutta, and Miss Lizzie Griffiths, (son and daughter); Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Griffiths, Mountain Ash (son and daughter-in-law); and Mrs. Thomas, Tonypandy (aunt). The bearers were Messrs. Daniel Davies (Waenlas, Cymmer) and William Lewis (Penpound), two of the oldest inhabitants of the district, and the respective heads of the various departments connected with the Cymmer Collieries in the persons of Messrs. E. S. Williams, M.E., W. H. Bowen, T. Tawenog Yorath, Ebenezer Morgan, John Lewis, H. E. Thomas, E. Samuel, G. F. Martyn, David Davies, Samuel Breeze, David Jones (manager, Windsor Collieries, Abertridwr), and Thos. Jenkins (surface foreman).

         Amongst the general public we noticed - Mr. W. North Lewis, secretary, Messrs. Insoles, Ltd., arid the Windsor Steam Coal Co., Cardiff; Mr. W. James Thomas, J.P., Standard Collieries, Ynyshir; Mr. W. W, Hood, Glamorgan Coal Co.; Mr. Leonard W. Llewelyn, M.E., Cambrian Collieries; Mr, A. Creed, M.E., Naval Collieries ;-Mr. Tom Evans, M.E., Llwyny- pia; Mr. Jacob Ray, J.P., M.E., Tre- harris: Mr. J, W. Hutchinson, Lewis- MerthyL' Collieries; Mr. W. B. Jones, Blaenclydach; 11 Messrs. W. T. Griffiths Ile and Evan Williams, National Collieries, Wattstown; Councillors J. D. Williams, J-P., Clydach Court; R. S. Griffiths, F Tonypandy; Morris Morris Ferndale; W. T. Davies, Perth; D. B. Jones, Tre- herbert; David Smith, Tylorstown; and Thomas Davies, Pentro; Drs. Cochrane and Lewis, Cymmer; Dr. Ivor H. Davies, Porth; Dr. Howard Davies, Pontypridd; and Dr. Burke, Abertridwr Mr. W. P. Nicholas; Rev. W. Thomas, vicar of Cymmer and Porth; Rev. Gwilym Francis, curate; Dr. Waldo James, Bethania; Revs. J. Edwards, Salem E. C. Davies, Saron, Ynyshir; Jones, Calf aria; J, Lewis, Pisgah; John Wil- liams, Hafod; Owen, Cadoxton; Gronow, Pontypridd.; Messrs. J. P. Thomas, cashier, Insoles, Ltd., Cardiff; J. W. Jones, surveyor, R.U.D.C. Alder- Wan Morgan Williams; Messrs. F. C. Dunn, J.P., Cowbridge; T. Mill ward, solicitor, Pentre; A. J. Williams, soli- I CitQr, Pontypridd; J. W. John, Ynyshir Schools; T. W. Berry, Director of Educa- tion: Joshua E. Williams, Bronyglyn; S. B. Clode, M.R.C.V.S., Pontypridd; A. Probert, Ystradymynach Lewis Williams, Aberdare; W. T. Leyshon, Pontypridd; T. W. Young, Porth; T. H. Davies, -seere- tary, Porth Cottage Hospital; D. W. Jones, surveyor; David Davies, Garth Hall; Octavius Thomas, Llwyn Onn; T. Maddock; T. Morgan, Rhondda Hotel; Jacpb Rees, architect; Carnellion, and Mfyfyr Cynfig; and Mr. Dan Evans, M.E., Llwynypia.

         There was quite a profusion of floral tributes in the form of harps, crosses and wreaths from the following:- Family; Baby, Nancy and Bertha; members of church (Caeysaiem Newydd); Pyiflmpr Colliery Steam Coal officials; Cymmer' Colljory House Coal officials,; Gynuuer Colliery Office staff; Windsor Colliery officials; Messrs. Geo. Insole and Sons, Cardiff; Mr, and Mrs, W. North Lewis, Llanishen; members of Tynycymmer family; Mr, and Mrs.. W, H, Mathiay, Tynycymmer Hall; Mr. David ^itkins and family, Glanfrwydd; Mr. and ~L's. Dunn, Cowbridge; Mrs. Packer and ^lily, Aldergrove; Mrs. E. S. Williams the Misses Williams, Office House Gwen Thomas, Maindy, Rhondda; Mother-in-law and two sisters; Mr., Mrs. Miss Davies, Garth Hall; Rev. W. TVrltlas and Mrs. Thomas, The Vicarage; iwrs- M. A. Jenkins, Pontypridd Road; ^r- and Mrs. W. T. Davies, Brynbedw; r and Mrs. Cochrane; Dr. and Mrs. ..l°ttel It. Lewis; Dr. and Mrs. R. Conway oj'ce: Dr. and Mrs. Burke, Abertridwr; ,� and Mrs. Octavius Thomas, Llwyn -*?11; Mr. W. Jenkins, Ystradfechan; and Mrs. B. W. Jones, Graigddu, JJnas; Dr. and Mrs. R. W. Jones, Pen- Wwceiber; Head Teachers of the Cymmer Council Schools; Mr. T. Maddocks, Porth Mr. T. Morgan, Rhondda Hotel; Mrs. M. A. S. Vessey and Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Vessey, Clifton; Mr. H. North Lewis, London; Mr. and Mrs. Uriah Thomas and family, Ashgrove, Pyle Mr. and Mrs. John Williams, America Place; Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Park Place, Cardiff; Mr. and Mrs. Edward Dawson, Cardiff; and Mr. W. T. Leyshon, Pontypridd.

         The coffin, which was of Welsh oak, with silver mounted fittings, bore the following inscription

         Sarah Ann Griffiths
         Died 24th September, 1906.
         Aged 59.

         The service at Maesgwyn was conducted by the Rev. C. Tawelfryn Thomas, Groeswen, and at the graveside by the Rev. Bryn Thomas, Ferndale. The family have been the recipients of close upon 600 messages of sympathy from all parts of South Wales. The funeral arrangements were satisfactorily carried out by Mr. John Williams, undertaker, Cymmer.

    6. • 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.

    7. • 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.

23. South Wales News
    1. • Date: 11 April 1924
       • Page: Page 8
       • Citation:

         OBITUARY.

         MR TOM JOHN, M.A.

         A VERSATILE PUBLIC SERVANT.

         The death took place yesterday of Mr Tom John, M.A., J.P., at his residence, Cae Gwyn, Penygraig, in his 75th year. His death, which followed a heart attack, came as a shock to his many friends, for he had appeared to be in his normal health on Wednesday evening.

         Mr Tom John 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.

         Forty Years as Headmaster.

         A native of Aberdare, he 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 established 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 headmaster.

         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.

         Welsh Revolt Recalled.

         During the early stages of the Welsh educational revolt of 1904 Mr John, then president-elect of the N.U.T., initiated a movement for bringing together the four Welsh bishops and representatives of the teachers with a view to establishing a truce in the educational struggle. That conference, at which Mr John was present, took place at the Palace of Llandaff in 1904.

         In addition to his long and successful career as a schoolmaster, he served the cause of education in many other capacities. He was closely associated with the administration of Welsh intermediate education since the passing of the Intermediate Education Act up to the time of his death. 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 Central Welsh Board. He also served intermediate education in his own district, and was a Governor of the Porth County School. These services were recognised by the University of Wales in the conferment upon him of the hon. degree of M.A. of the University.

         Services for Music.

         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 Cor Mawr. His brother, the late Mr. J. W. John, headmaster 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. A hymn composed for the occasion was being sung when Mr Lloyd George appeared, and it is recorded that he smiled as he recognised Mr John and joined heartily in singing under his baton.

         Since his retirment he had been very closely associated with Sir Walford Davies' work in connection with the Welsh National Council of Music, of which he was a member.

         The Rhondda Plowden.

         During his long residence in the Rhondda he was the means of raising thousands of pounds for charity by organising 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 Rhondda 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.

         For a period he took an active part in local journalism and was editor of the "Rhondda Leader" and "Glamorgan Free Press."

         He is survived by a widow, two daughters and a sister, Mrs Mary Griffiths, J.P., Maesgwyn, Porth, the wife of Mr Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., for many years agent of the Cymmer Collieries, Porth.

24. 1921 United Kingdom Census
    1. • Page: RG15/26665/56
25. Certificate on file
    1. • Date: 3 October 1908
       • Page: Marriage - Thomas Griffiths / Mary John
26. Richard Griffiths: The Entrepreneurial Society of the Rhondda Valleys, 1840-1920: Power and influence in the Porth-Pontypridd region
    1. • Page: Page 76-77
       • Citation:

         Thomas Griffiths, Maesgwyn

         While, apart from the very early days, a rise from the ranks to coalownership was comparatively rare, the same was not true of a rise from the ranks to a professional managership in the heydey of the mining valleys. Here, the progression from doorboy to manager was still comparatively common. Philip Jones, for example, who became manager of that vast enterprise the Albion Colliery Cilfynydd, had started work at a doorboy when seven years old. John Thomas Fernbank started work underground when nine years old, became a fireman, then achieved a manager's certificate before becoming manager and agent of Standard Collieries Ynyshir. But Thomas Griffiths's was the most remarkable of such careers. He achieved enormous influence on the life of the valleys, in a wide variety of rules.

         He was born in 1849 at Bettws near Bridgend. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Hafod, just south-east of Porth. When he left school at the age of 11 in 1860, Griffiths started in Insole's Cymmer Colliery as a doorboy. Thereafter, he worked for ten years at the coalface, becoming a fireman in 1869. He had already determined to better himself, however, and to that end undertook part-time study, becoming a qualified mining engineer and securing a manager's certificate by examination.

         In the early 1870s, he moved away from the area, but returned to Cymmer in 1875 as engineer for the sinking of the Cymmer Old Pit to the steam-coal levels. Within two years he was the manager of the Cymmer collieries. His managerial qualification had served him in good stead, because the Mines Regulation Act 1872 had made this a stipulation for new managers.

         By the 1880s, he was heavily involved in the whole Insole mining business, of which he had become a director. While continuing to serve them as a mining engineer (it was he who sank their new pit at Abertridwr, the Windsor Colliery, in the 1890s), he was also involved in their strategic thinking. Meanwhile, in Porth, he rapidly gained the reputation of one of the leading figures in local society. He lived in a large house called Maesgwyn. For over 40 years he was a close friend and associate of W. H. Mathais, and was part of the Welsh-speaking society which was at the centre of Porth life. In 1882, he became a member of the Ystradyfodwg Urban Sanitary Authority, of which he was to remain a member, under its various guises culminating in the Rhondda Urban District Council, for about 40 years, and on which he was to exert enormous influence.

         His role had long exceeded that of a manager and became in part that of an owner. His influence stretched throughout south Wales. By 1911, he was president of the South Wales and Monmouthshire Coalowners Association, and playing a leading part in the strike negotiatons of that year. He also became a life member of the South Wales Institute of Engineers.

         In 1924, he retired to the Gower, where he died three years later at the age of 78.

27. South Wales Daily News
    1. • 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.

    2. • Date: 25 January 1924
       • Page: Page 6
       • Citation:

         WELSH COALFIELD ROMANCE.

         Door-boy to Director.

         MR THOMAS GRIFFITHS, CYMMER, RETIRING.

         It is announced that Mr Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., who for half a century has been associated with the Cymmer Collieries, is retiring from the position of agent and general manager, and Mr W. B. Davies, who has acted as Mr Griffiths' deputy for some time past, will succeed him.

         An Inspiring Career.

         Mr Thomas Griffiths has been a remarkable and outstanding figure in the Welsh coalfield, and his career is an example of how ability and industry can surmount all obstacles to success.

         Beginning as a door-boy, by sheer merit he worked his way to the posts of fireman, overman, and finally agent and general manager of the Cymmer Collieries of Messrs Insoles (Ltd.), and to a seat on the Board of Directors. In 1919 he completed a full half century's service in an official position with the company, and he was for 47 years general manager of the Cymmer Colliery. His predecessor, the late Mr Jabez Thomas, held the position for 42 years so that for practically 90 years the general managership has been in the hands of only two men.

         Heroic Rescue Work.

         Mr Griffiths played a heroic part in rescue and exploration work on the occasion of Welsh colliery explosions. He was a leader of exploring parties in connection with disasters at the following collieries:- 1871, Pentre; 1990, Naval, Penygraig; 1882, Coedace; 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.

         He has been a member of the Conciliation Board of the South Wales Coal Trade from its inception, and was chairman of the Coalowners' Association in 1911-12, and repeatedly gave expert evidence before Royal Commissions and other inquiries relating to the Welsh coal trade.

         Though devoted to his profession, he takes great interest in public work. He represented his ward on the old Rhondda Local Board, and a member of the Rhondda District Council since the passing of the Act creating that body, of which he is an ex-chairman.

         THE NEW GENERAL MANAGER.

         Mr W. B. Davies, who will succeed Mr Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., as general manager of the Cymmer Collieries, is a son of the late Alderman E. H. Davies, of Pentre, who was one of the best known public men in Glamorgan. Mr Davies is one of the few men who has qualified in three branches of engineering - civil, electrical and mining. He acquired experience as a civil engineer at Cubits Foundry, Pentre, later proceeding to a large electrical engineering firm at Durham, where he qualified as an electrical engineer. His first-class mining engineer's certificate was acquired in a very short time after entering the service of Insoles (Limited), at Cymmer Collieries, under Mr Thomas Griffiths, where he secured very rapid promotion.

         He is a brother of Dr. Ivor Davies, Windsor-place, Cardiff, and Dr. Trevor Davies, of Harley-street, who had the honour of attending upon Princess Mary. Another brother was the late Major E. H. Davies, of Whitchurch and Pentre, who until his recent death, was a very well-known figure in Welsh Territorial circles.

    3. • Date: 15 February 1927
       • Page: Page 1
       • Citation:

         GRIFFITHS. - On February 14th, at Longfield, West Cross, Swansea, Thomas Griffiths, J.P., late Director and General Manager, Insoles Ltd., Porth. Funeral 12 noon, Friday, for Mumbles Cemetery (strictly private). No flowers.

    4. • Date: 15 February 1927
       • Page: Page 8
       • Citation:

         FROM PITBOY TO DIRECTOR.

         DEATH OF MR THOMAS GRIFFITHS, M.E., J.P.

         SERVICES TO THE COALFIELD

         The death occurred at his residence, "Longfield", West Cross, Swansea, yesterday, at the age of 77 years, of Mr Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., formely a director and general manager of Messrs Insoles' Cymmer Collieries, Porth.

         The late Mr Griffiths' career was a remarkable example of the triumph of personality, ability, and industry over initial obstacles and difficulties. Beginning as a door boy, he worked for ten years as a collier, and then step by step rose until he became, when still comparatively young, manager of the Cymmer Colliery, where he first worked as a door-boy. His career was also remarkable for unusually long service, as in 1919 he completed 50 years' service in an official position with the company and 43 years as the general manager of the Cymmer Colliery. His predecessor, the late Mr Jabez Thomas, held the position for 42 years.

         GREAT RESCUE WORK.

         Over 50 years ago, the late Mr Griffiths won the regard of the whole coalfield by his daring rescue and exploration work in colliery disasters, and his great work in this direction is shown by the fact that he was a leader of rescue and exploration parties in the following disasters: Dinas, 1860; Pentre, 1871; Naval (Penygraig), 1880; Gelli, 1883; Naval, 1885; Mardy, 1885; Wattstown, 1887; Park Slip, Tondu, 1892; Great Western Colliery, Pontypridd, 1892; Albion Colliery, Cilfynydd, 1894; Tylorstown, 1896; Llest Colliery, Garw, 1899; Sengbenydd, 1901; Clydach Vale, 1905; and Wattstown, 1905.

         His exploits formed a veritable romance. He had been working at the Cymmer Colliery for six years, when, in 1856, the great explosion, at which 114 men lost their lives, so affected him that he abandoned underground work and worked for two years at a blacksmith's and fitter's shop. He returned to the mine, however, and in 1870 he was appointed manager of the Cymmer Colliery. His gallantry in later disasters was therefore all the more notable.

         Mr Griffiths used to declare that the most difficult exploration work he did was at the Cambrian Collieries, Clydach Vale, where an outbreak of fire and deadly fumes made the work highly dangerous. So far as falls of roof were concerned, the worst explosion in his experience was at the Dinas Colliery, where he and his heroic band of workers failed to penetrate one fall, and the bodies of many entombed men were not recovered for some years, until the late Mr Daniel Thomas, M.E., drove through from the 4ft. to the 6ft. seams.

         At the time of these early colliery catastrophes the presence of carbon monoxide was not known. Mr Griffiths often expressed the view that ignorance of the presence of the gas had caused the death of many a rescue worker. Its presence was first revealed at the Tylorstown explosion, where several lamps were found burning whilst the men lay dead, provied that satefy lamps burnt freely where this gas was present, although a very small percentage of it in the atmosphere would prove fatal.

         PUBLIC SERVICES.

         Though devoted to his profession, Mr Griffiths accomplished a great deal of public work, and was an ex-chairman of the Rhondda Urban Council. He first represented his ward on the old Rhondda Local Board, and became a member of the Rhondda Council upon its formation, rendering valuable public services.

         All movements for public welfare received his support, and his charity was unbounded, although most unostentatious. A Welsh-speaking Welshman, with a strong but genial personality, he exercised great influence in his district, and had a solid reputation as a peacemaker in the coalfiend. He was a member of the Conciliation Board from its inception, and was also chairman of the Coalowners' Association in 1911-12, and had repeatedly given expert evidence before Royal Commissions and other bodies. When, in 1906, all classes of the Rhondda community united in presenting him with a full-length oil painting of himself for his great public services, Colonel D. Watts Morgan, M.P., D.S.O., recalled that the late Mr Griffiths was once within an ace of being made a miners' agent - an illustration of his cordial relations with the men. His work on the magisterial bench was also marked by his kindness and shrewd sense.

         On retiring from an active part in the management of the Cymmer Collieries a few years ago, the late Mr Griffiths retired to West Cross, where his death occurred.

         Mr Griffiths was twice married, his second wife predeceasing him two years ago. He is survived by one son and two daughters - Mr W. T. Griffiths, mineral valuer to the Inland Revenue Department for South Wales; Mrs H. E. Thomas, wife of the agent for the Powell Duffryn Co., Bargoed, and Mrs Rhys Morgan, of Abercynon.

    5. • Date: 19 February 1927
       • Page: Page 10
       • Citation:

         BURIAL OF MR T. GRIFFITHS, J.P.

         The burial took place privately yesterday in Oystermouth Cemetery, Mumbles, of Mr Thomas Griffiths, J.P., of Longfield West-cross, and formely of Maesgwyn Park, who was for 50 years associated with Messrs Insoles (Limited) and the Windsor Steam Coal Company. He was succeeded as general manager of Messrs Insoles Collieries of Porth by Mr W. Brynmor Davies, M.E., A.M.I.C.E., the youngest son of another pioneer of the Rhondda - the late Alderman E. H. Davies, J.P., who devoted his life to public work in Glamorgan.

         The family mourners were Mr W. T. Griffiths (son), and Messrs Trefor Griffiths (grandson), H. E. Thomas, and Rhys Morgan (sons-in-law), William Griffiths and J. S. Griffiths (cousins), and Ifor Griffiths (nephew).

         There were also present Messrs William G. Thomas, Evan Lewis; Eric R. Insoles and A. Norton Lewis (directors of Insoles, Ltd.), Edwin D. Davies (solicitor), J. Rice Jones, W. B. Davies (general manager of Insoles, Ltd.), George F. Martin, Arthur Preece (Porth), William Thomas, and J. Moy Evans. The service was conducted by the Rev. J. W. Smith (Congregational Church, Mumbles).

28. Notice of Interment - Trealaw Cemetery
    1. • Date: 9 June 1910
       • Page: Edward Rees Griffiths
29. Thomas Preece: Gravestone photographs
    1. • Date: 22 June 2018
       • Page: Edward & Alice Griffiths, Trealaw Cemetery
    2. • Date: 19 June 2018
       • Page: Thomas & Mary Griffiths, Oystermouth Cemetery
       • 
       • 
       • 
       • 
30. Burial Register - Trealaw Cemetery
    1. • Page: Plot D13
31. Y Darian
    1. • Date: 20 August 1914
       • Page: Page 5
       • Citation:

         Priodas Dan o'r Porth yn y Mumbles.

         Am un-ar-ddeg o'r gloch boreu dydd Mawrth, Awst 11eg, yn Addoldy y Wesleyaid yn y Mumbles, unwyd mewn glan briodas Mr. Rhys Morgan, Penpound, Porth, a Miss Elizabeth Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Cymmer, Porth.

         Y Parch. J. D. Jones, Cellan, Sir Aberteifi, gymerodd at y gwasanaeth, fel hoft gyfaill i'r par dedwydd ac i deulu Maesgwyn. Yr oedd organyddes yr addoldy wrth yr organ, a melus ei seiniau. Y mae Mrs. Morgan yn ferch i un o arweinwyr enwocaf y fasnach lo, ac un o arwyr dewraf llawer o danchwaoedd pyllau Morgannwg, sef Mr. Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., Maesgwyn, Cymmer, a Longfield, West Cross, Mumbles.

         Hana Mr. Rhys Morgan o deulu gwir barchus, ei dad a'i frodyr yn swyddogion cyfrifol yn y Cymmer, etc., a Mr. Rhys Morgan ei hun yn athraw llwyddiannus a pharchus yn Abercynon bellach, ond gynt ym Mhenrhiwceibr. Mae'r ddau deulu yn flaenllaw gydag Ymneillduaeth Gymreig, ac yn cynrychioli dau enwad, sef yr Annibynwyr a'r Methodistiaid. Trefnwyd fod y briodas i fod yn y Mumbles brydferth, iach, lle y ceir cyfuniad o wlad swynol ogoneddus a'r mor a'i ramant a'i hud. Ac yn ol y dymuniad, cadwyd yr oil yn weddol o dawel, neb ond perthnasai a rhai ffrindiau mynwesol yn bresennol - yn y gwasanaeth syml ac urddasol yn yr addoldy, ac yn y wledd yn Longfield.

         Gyda'r par dedwydd yn llawenhau, gwelwyd Mr. a Mrs. T. Griffiths, Maesgwyn a Longfield; Mr. Ebenezer Morgan, Penpound, Porth; Mr. W. T. Griffiths, Caerdydd; Mr. a Mrs. Thomas, Bargoed; Mrs. James, Abertawe; Miss Griffiths, Pencoed; Mrs. a Mr. Thomas, Cymmer; Mr. Griff Morgan, Bedwas; Mrs. Howells, Porth; Mrs. Morris, Mountain Ash; Mr. a Mrs. Evan Lewis, Abertawe, a Mrs. J. D. Jones, Cellan, heblaw Mr. Llew Morgan, brawd y priodfab yn "best man," ac ni chyflawodd neb y swydd bwysig yn rhagorach, a'r ddwy Miss Morgan, chwiorydd y priodfab, wnaeth gyflawnu eu gwaith fel llawforwynion yn deilwng o'r cyfrifoldeb.

         Wrth y bwrdd ar ol gwledd mwynhawyd doniau hyawdl yn llawn cysuron a dymuniadau da i'r dedwydd bar. Tyner-dadol ydoedd anerchiad y tad, Mr. Thomas Griffiths, tra yn gollwng ei afael o'r ieuangaf o'i blant i wynebu ar ei byd newydd, ond gyda bendith gyfoethocaf calon tad. A swynol ac annwyl dyner ydoedd geiriau Mrs. T. Griffiths. Pa fam a merch sydd yn anwylach o'u gilydd? Dilynwyd yn deilwng o'r amgylchiad gan Mr. Thomas, Bargoed (yr hwn sydd yn briod a merch hynaf Mr. Griffiths), Mr. Evan Lewis, Abertawe, fel hen gyfaill i'r teulu Mr. E. Morgan, tad y priodfab, a'r Parch. J. D. Jones, yr hwn a ddarllenodd y tri phennill canlynol a gyfansoddwyd ar foreu'r briodas :-

         "Un hynod o wylaidd oedd Morgan,
         Fel carwr - rhyfeddol o 'shy,'
         Fe dystiodd rhyw fobi pur egwan -
         'Mi welais, rwy'n shwr 'German spy';

         Datblygodd yr athro llwyddiannus,
         A dringodd i ris ar ol gris,
         Ond heddyw ei fyd sydd mor felus -
         Mae Lizzie a'r 'ring' am ei bys.

         Os rhua magnelau y ddaear
         Nes crynu o'r cread i'w sail,
         A syrthio o ddewrion mor hygar
         Yn amlach na thorf Hydref ddail;
         Daeth bore annwylaf eich rhamant,
         Fu boreu erioed yn fwy braf,
         Yn orlawn yw'r cylch o ogoniant
         Mor agos yw mwyn wlad yr haf.

         Ni welodd priodas annwylach
         Na Lizzie o'r hyfryd Maesgwyn,
         Fu bachgen erioed yn hawddgarwch
         Na Rhys, iaith dyffrynoedd yw hyn;
         Boed heulwen o'r byd gwvnfydedig
         Yn llonni eich bywyd hyd oes,
         A chofiwch mai gwir fendigedig
         Yw'r cartref dan gysgod y groes."

         Ymadawodd y par dedwydd am y Brifddinas a lleoedd eraill, ac una eu lluosog gyfeillion, gyda'r nifer yn y briodas ac yn y wledd, i ddymuno i Mr. a Mrs. Rhys Morgan dyfodol o'r fath oreu. Disgyned bendithion cyfoethocaf nef a daear ar eu haelwyd.

         FFRIND.

          

          

          

         translation:

         Marriage from Porth to Mumbles.

         At eleven o'clock in the morning of Tuesday, August 11th, at the Wesleyan Chapel in Mumbles, Rhys Morgan, Penpound, Porth, and Miss Elizabeth Griffiths, Maesgwyn, Cymmer, Porth, were united in marriage.

         Rev. J. D. Jones, Cellan, Cardiganshire, took the service, as a close friend of the happy couple and of the Maesgwyn family. The organist of the place of worship was at the organ, and melodious were her sounds. Mrs. Morgan is the daughter of one of the most famous leaders of the coal trade, and one of the bravest heroes of many of Glamorgan's coal mines, Mr. Thomas Griffiths, M.E., J.P., Maesgwyn, Cymmer, and Longfield, West Cross, Mumbles.

         Mr. Rhys Morgan is also of a well-respected family, his father and brothers holding respected offices of Cymmer, etc., and Mr. Rhys Morgan himself is a successful and respected teacher now at Abercynon, but formerly at Penrhiwceiber. Both families are prominent in Welsh Nonconformity, and represent two denominations, the Congregationalists and the Methodists. The wedding was arranged to be in the beautiful, healthy Mumbles, where there is a combination of glorious charming country and the sea and its romance and magic. And, as they wished, it was a quiet occasion, with none other than some close friends present - in the simple and dignified service at the place of worship, and at the banquet at Longfield.

         Rejoicing with the happy couple were Mr. and Mrs. T. Griffiths, Maesgwyn and Longfield; Mr. Ebenezer Morgan, Penpound, Porth; Mr. W. T. Griffiths, Cardiff; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, Bargoed; Mrs. James, Swansea; Miss Griffiths, Pencoed; Mrs. and Mr. Thomas, Cymmer; Mr. Griff Morgan, Bedwas; Mrs. Howells, Porth; Mrs. Morris, Mountain Ash; Mr. and Mrs. Evan Lewis, Swansea, and Mrs. J. D. Jones, Cellan; also, Mr. Llew Morgan, brother of the groom, was a "best man," and no-one carried out the important job any better, and the two Misses Morgan, sisters of the groom, carried out their duties as bridesmaids worthy of the responsibility.

         At the table after the feast, we enjoyed a humorous talent full of comforts and good wishes for the happy couple. The father's address, Mr. Thomas Griffiths, while releasing the youngest of his children to face her new world, but with the richest blessing of a father's heart. And Mrs. T. Griffiths's words were charming and affectionate. Which mother and daughter are more fond of each other? This was followed up by Mr. Thomas, Bargoed (who is the husband of Mr. Griffiths' eldest daughter), Evan Lewis, Swansea, as an old friend of the family, E. Morgan, father of the groom, and the Rev. J. D. Jones, who read the following three verses composed on the morning of the wedding:-

         "Morgan was extremely humble
         As a lover, wonderfully shy,
         Some oblivious hobby witnessed -
         'I saw, I'm a German spy';

         The successful teacher,
         And she climbed up to him after a step,
         But today is so sweet -
         Lizzie and the ring on her finger.

         If artillery roams the earth
         Until shaking from creation to its base,
         And such courageous falls of bravery
         More often than October leaf crowds;
         The most beautiful morning of your romance came,
         Morning has never been nicer,
         Overflowing is the circle of glory
         The proximity of summer country ore.

         He did not see an ungodly marriage
         No Lizzie from the lovely Maesgwyn,
         Boy has never been an eternity
         No Rhys, this is the language of the valleys;
         Let there be sunshine from the established world
         Brightening your life to life,
         And remember it is truly wonderful
         The home is under the shadow of the cross."

         The happy couple left for the Capital and other places, and their many friends, with the many at the wedding and the banquet, united to wish Mr. and Mrs. Rhys Morgan such a bright future. May the richest blessings of heaven and earth descend upon their home.

         A FRIEND.

32. 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.

33. findagrave.com
    1. • Page: Ann Evans / Henry Evans