This page is currently under construction and relates to my wife, Marian Joyce Davies, nee Wilson's family. Any additional information would be very welcome. I have started with the Wilson family, Davies family from the Bettws Cedewain and Berriew area.

 

 

Generation Guide, showing ascendency from my daughters Kim and Rhian to their great great grandparents. Direct line ascendants are shown first, and maiden names of wives used.

THE WILSON FAMILY

Youngest generation Kimberley Selene Davies                                   and Rhian Jane Davies  (Newtown)
Parents Marian Joyce Wilson  and Kenneth Davies (Newtown)
Grandparents          Stanley Wilson and Ceceline Davies (Waenybricks)
Great grandparents            David Swain Wilson (1889 - 1943) and Eliza Davies (1886 - 1967) 

Great gt grandparents    William Tills Wilson (1841- 1947)   and Jane Swain (1874 - 1945)                      
Great gt gt grandparents Elizabeth West (Wilson) (1850-????) and William Tills (1841)
Great gt gt grandparents George West (1806-????) and Elizabeth West (1850-????)

 

 

WILLIAM TILLS WILSON 1874-1947 and JANE SWAIN 1866-1945 

William Tills Wilson worked as a milk carrier in London, where he presumably met his wife Jane Swain. The couple are the grandparents of Mr Stanley Wilson of Waenybricks. They were married on the 13th February 1889.

For many years, it was thought that William Tills Wilson was a Cockney. This misunderstanding occurred as their son, David Swain Wilson was born in the district of Lambeth, sub district of Norwood, London. The couple were residing at 167 Rommany Road, Norwood when he was born on the 12th November 1889. 

It was not until the 1901 census for Aberhafesp was available that it was discovered that William was born in Beccles, Suffolk. It is thought that he was the illegitimate son of an Elizabeth Wilson (also West). A William Tills is thought to have been his father. He lived in a nearby village, and mothers tended to use the name of the alleged putative father on their child's birth certificate. More about this later.

The 1891 census shows the couple both aged 24 living at 167, Rommany Road, Lambeth, with son David Swain Wilson, aged 1. An Elizabeth Evans, 16 born in Wales is recorded as living with them.

They moved to Aberhafesp between 1892 and 1896 and lived at Penyglannau in 1901. William and Jane were both aged 34. Their family consisted of David Swain Wilson 11,  Roderick Edward Wilson 9, and Dorothy Wilson 4.

They continued to live at Penyglannau until 1925, when they bought Wernfach, Aberhafesp, where this photo of William and Jane was taken..

 

William, not a farmer by trade, turned his hand to farming at these homes.

He was also a churchwarden at Aberhafesp Church. There is a plaque inside the church bearing the following inscription. 

To the memory of William Tills Wilson Churchwarden 1897-1947, given by his only daughter Dora Brandrick

  

Daughter Dora Brandrick, nee Wilson

 

E-mail received from Lyn Fitzgerald, Australia, 19.04.2008, Dora's granddaughter;
I am the Granddaughter of Trevor and Dora Brandrick (nee Wilson) and very much enjoyed reading the articles concerning my forebears and the Newtown my mother Dorothy grew up in. Thank you.

Aberhafesp Church
Photo copyright of the Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust
(CPAT) and is reproduced here with their kind permission.
To visit their excellent website, and their Churches page in particular,
please visit our link to other websites  

His wife Jane was the daughter of Edward and Jane Swain. Details of her family appear further down this page.

Jane died on the 28th May 1945.

Obituary County Times Sat  2 June 1945.

Jane Wilson was taken ill suddenly the previous Thursday. She was a native of Aberhafesp and well known and well liked. A member of Aberhafesp Parish Church, a member of the choir, Mothers Union and W.I., she farmed Penyglannau, Aberhafesp for many years and bought Wernfach in 1925. She is survived by her son Roderick and daughter Dora Brandrick. Her son David Swain Wilson died 18 months ago.

The funeral was held at Aberhafesp Church last Wednesday. The service at the house and in Church was conducted by the Rev. A. Ivett.

Chief mourners were Mr W.T. Wilson, Mr 7 Mrs T. Brandrick son in law and daughter, David Brandrick and Stanley Wilson grandsons, Mr & Mrs David Swain, Mr & Mrs Richard Swain, Mr & Mrs Maurice Swain, Roderick, Percy and Edith, nephews and nieces.

Bearer were Messers T. Benbow, Fachwen, Edward Nutting, Glanrhyd, J. Mostyn and Davies, Thimble Hall.    
 

 William Tills Wilson died on the 1st July 1947, aged 71.

Montgomeryshire Express 12 July 1947

WILSON. The relatives of the late Mr William T. Wilson, Wernfach, Aberhafesp wish to thank all those who sent flowers and attended the funeral. Also all those who sent letters of sympathy and especially ther neighbours who were so kind and helpful during his short illness. 
  

In Loving Memory of

Jane, beloved wife of W.T. Wilson, Wernfach Aberhafesp

who died May 28 1945 Aged 79 years

Peace, Perfect Peace

Also of the above W.T. Wilson who died July 1st 1947 Aged 81 years

At Rest

 

 

 

DAVID SWAIN WILSON 1889-1943 and ELIZA DAVIES 1886-1967 (son of William Tills Wilson and Jane Swain)

David Swain Wilson was born on the 12th November 1889 when his parents were residing at 167 Rommany Road, Norwood and his birth was registered at Lambeth, London.

The 1891 census shows David living at 167, Rommany Road, Lambeth, with his parents. The family moved to Aberhafesp between 1892 and 1896 and lived at Penyglannau in 1901. David's parents William and Jane, were both aged 34. Their family consisted of David 11,  Roderick Edward Wilson 9, and Dorothy Wilson 4.

David Swain Wilson - Montgomeryshire Yeomanry.

David Swain Wilson was first posted to the Montgomery Yeomenry. He enlisted on the 8th September 1914. He served 4 years and 132 days, and was described as 5' 9.5" tall, with a fresh complexion, blue eyes and fair hair. He served in France during the Great War. The Montgomeryshire Yoemenry later became part of the Royal Welch Fusiliers. He was wounded in the War and later discharged on the 17th January 1919, being no longer fit for War Sevice.

The wedding of David Swain Wilson and Eliza Davies at Aberhafesp Church on the 8th October 1919. Witnesses to the wedding were David Swain and Esther Catherine Davies.. 

In 1921, the estate of Glanhafren was sold. Two of the lots for sale were Middle Scafell and Upper Scafell or Waenybricks. Middle Scafell, famous for the field of blessing, was where son Satnaley William Wilson  was born. David Swain Wilson and Eliza Wilson nee Davies worked there for Eliza's brother, Uncle Pryce Davies

Much of their life stories have been recorded by their son Stan, and were published in The Newtonian, the magazine of Newtown History Group. The articles have been reproduced with their permission, and appear in full in the fext link, NEWTOWN (YSGAFELL) NOSTALGIA.  

Part is reproduced here;

Upper Scafell or Waenybricks, Lot 8, in the sale of Glanhafren properties,  described as a freehold small farm, was brick built and slated, containing a barn and bay, stable for three horses, cow house for five cattle, wain house, piggery and yearling shed. The sitting tenant, Mr Richard Lloyd was issued with a notice to quit, and my parents moved to their new home in 1923. Mr Lloyd moved to be a tenant at Upper Rhydfelen.

 

During these difficult times, mother kept the farm going with her produce, selling eggs, butter and boilers, or old hens which had gone past laying age. They would however make wonderful broth, and were sold for 1/6 each (7.5p). She would take two at a time to town, then come back home to dress another two. When I was old enough, I delivered these boilers to people who had ordered them. Mother's produce would pay for hen food, coal and lamp oil.

 

Monies made by father through farming were saved to pay for buildings, repairs, corn and fertiliser. Generally, everything he worked for, in a way, went back into the ground to repay what was taken out of it.  

Our first tractor was a David Brown, purchased from Neal’s Garage, Llanidloes Road. We had been on a long waiting list as tractor supplies were limited. New tractor cultivating implements were therefore required to undertake the work. Petrol was difficult to obtain, but farmers were allowed an additional amount due to the nature of their work.

My father died in 1943, leaving my mother and I to farm our 60 acres.

 

 

OBITUARY NOTICE, Montgomeryshire Express and Radnorshire Times 18 September 1943

The death took place suddenly on Tuesday ofMr David Swain Wilson, Wainybricks, Llanllwchaiarn age 53. Son of Mr and Mrs Wilson, Wernfach, Aberhafesp, Mr Wilson had lived the whole of his life in the neighbourhood. Farming Penyglannau, Aberhafesp before moving to Wainybricks many years ago. As a member of the Montgomeryshire Yeomanry, which later became part of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, Mr Wilson served in France throughout the last war, when he was wounded and subsequently discharged.

He is survived by his widow, one son, on brother, Mr Roderick Wilson and one sister, Mrs Dora Brandrick. The funeral took place yesterday, Friday.

 

Following my father's death, we requested the services of land girls and Prisoners of War. The land girls worked in groups, although some worked individually and were I believe, based in Welshpool. They were mostly employed by us to plant and later pick potatoes, and were paid directly by us.

There were Italian, German and Polish POWs stationed at Glandulas. Farmers signed an agreement when employing them, not to fraternise with the POWs, nor let them handle guns, nor be allowed out late at night. They lodged on the farms, and were “paid” for their services, although the money went to the Government. They had to be shown how to sow seeds.

Eliza moved to lived at 9 Old Church Street, Newtown in April 1949, and later moved to St Elmo, Newtown.

OBITUARY NOTICE;  County Times  28th October 1967

The funeral of Mrs Eliza Wilson, St Elmo, formerly of Waenybricks took place at Aberhafesp Parish Church on Wednesday week. The Rector of Newtown, Rev Cledwyn Owen officiated, assisted by the curate Rev S.V. Gange, organist was Miss Betty Jones, Bella Vista. Bearers;- David Wilson (grandson), David Brandrick (nephew), Eric Swain and E. Lloyd (cousins).

Chief mourners;- Mr and Mrs S. Wislon, D. Wilson (grandson), Marian Wilson (granddaughter) Mr & Mrs W. Ashton (brother in law and sister), Mr T. Brandrick (brother in law), Mr W. Corfield, Mr & Mrs J. Jerman, Mr D. Brandrick, Mr N. Davies (nephews and niece in law), Mrs E. Pilot, Mrs M. Jerman, Mrs H. Andrew, Mr & Mrs S.C. Howman, Mr D. Jones (nephew in law and niece), Mr E. Swain, Mr 7 Mrs E. Lloyd (cousins) and other close relatives.

Floral tributes;

With fondest love to mother, Stanley and Cissie; With love to our Gran, David and Marian; To our dear sister, Agnes and Will;  In Loving Memory  Mary and family, Cloddiau; In Loving Memory of Auntie Eliza, Sue and Cyril, Wellington;  With all our love,   Hilda, Eric and Jim; In Loving Memory,  David, Joan and Jane; Treasured Memories of Auntie Eliza, Fred and Anne;  All my love, Shirley;   In kind remembrance,  Mrs Gertie Davies; In Loving Memory,  Ted and Betty, Aston Piggott;            From Pryce, Jean and Diedre

County Times, Saturday 21 October 1967.The family of the late Mrs Eliza Wilson, St Elmo, Newtown wish to thank all relatives and friends for the kindness and sympathy shown to them in their bereavement, for attendance at the funeral and for the floral tributes and donations received. Special thanks to the Doctors, Matron and staff of Newtown and Shrewsbury Hospitals, also Sister Lloyd Jones.  

 

 

STANLEY WILLIAM WILSON and CECELINE DAVIES   son of David Swain Wilson and Eliza Jane Davies

Stan was born in Middle Scafell, Newtown and moved to Waenybricks when young.

He was educated at Penygloddfa School and left to join his father on the farm at 14. Following his father's death in 1943, he ran the farm with his mother. Article about his life on the farm were published by the Newtonian Magazine, and appear in full in the next link on the left hand side - Newtown (Ysgafell) Nostalgia. 

He married Ceceline Davies in 1944 from Adfa and they continued to farm Waenybricks before Stan's retirement, when they moved to live at Broadlands, Newtown. They had four children, David Pryce Wilson, Peter and Diane twins who died very young in 1954, and Marian.

Ceceline Davies was the daughter of Sarah Elizabeth Davies.She lived in Coedmadoc, Adfa before moving to be cared for by her mother's sister Edith Louisa who married Ted Ashton when she was about 13, after the death of her mother.

Left, Ceceline with her mother Sarah Elizabeth Davies, brother George on the left  and another youngster.Below, with George, youngster and adult whose name is unknown.

After leaving school, she worked at Walkmill, Newtown, for another aunt, Mrs Bowen and when aged 15, worked at The Cross Guns, Newtown for 12 months, before taking up duties at Homestay, near Newtown Hospital, and later for R. & S. Morgans, who ran a draper's shop.

During the war years, she joined the ATS and was based in Swansea, situated near the University Sports Ground. She returned to Newtown in 1944 and assisted her husband at Waenybricks.They moved to Broadlands in 1970 and she worked at Penygloddfa School, Newtown for several years. She also worked at Doris Mills' sweet shop in Broad Street.

She loved outside gardening and became a member of the Gardening Club.

She died on the 12th March 1986 aged 65. 

Ceceline Davies
Parents Sarah Elizabeth Davies
Evan Davies
Grandparents Elizabeth Davies, Pant y Celyn, Adfa
Great grandparents

Left, Elizabeth Davies, grandmother to Ceceline Davies. Below her gravestone in Adfa , where she is buried with her daughter Sarah Elizabeth

By 1901, Elizabeth Davies 47, Ceceline's grandmother was widowed, and working as a housekeeper for Thomas Morgans 50, of Rhosydd, Llanwyddelan. Her children Mary Jane 14, James 7. Alice 9 and Edith Louisa 3, all born in Castle Caereinion were living with her.

Daughter Edith Louisa Ashton lived at Trawsgelli when Ceceline Davies went to live with them when she was about 13 when her mother died in 1933. Edith died on the 4th December 1974. Her husband Edward Ashton, or Ted was born around 1894.

Edward's grandfather, Edward Ashton was farming Trawsgelli in 1891 and was widowed. Living with him then were his son Edward, 26 who Edith's husband's father. Ten years earlier, grandfather Edward was farming 76 acres at Trawsgelli, with sons Edward 16 and Richard Ashton 14. 

The 1901 census for Trawsgelli shows Edward Ashton 61, widower there with housekeeper Margaret Evans 32 of Trefeglwys, Edward Ashton 7, born in Llanwyddelan, and John Thomas 18 a worker  also from Llanwyddelan.

Edward Ashton born around 1894, died on the 7th May 1972. The County Times dated 13th May 1972, has a long obituary column about him, which is summarised here; He farmed Trawsgelli all his life, and moved to live with his son Mr Eric Ashton on 1952. He had an interest in music and was a keen soloist. Member of Adfa Presbyterian Church and later the Llansantffraid Welsh Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his wife Mrs E.L. Ashton and the couple celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary in 1970. He is survived by two sons, Mr R. Ashton (Wolverhampton), Mr Eric Ashton (Llansantffraid) and a daughter, Mrs T. E. Williams (Llansantffraid), grandchildren Mr &Mrs G. Ashton (Pant), Mr & B. Williams (Oswestry), Mr & Mrs R. Hitch (Llansantffraid), Clive and John Ashton (Trederwen), Rita and Peter and Trudy Ashton (Wolverhampton); graet grandchildren Sian Hitch, Sharon Ashton, Justin Williams. 

 

 

RODERICK EDWARD WILSON   1892  -  1946         (son of William Tills Wilson and Jane Swain)

The family moved to Aberhafesp from London between 1892 and 1896 and lived at Penyglannau in 1901. Roderick's parents William and Jane, were both aged 34. Their family consisted of David 11,  Roderick Edward Wilson 9, and Dorothy Wilson 4.

He left Aberhafesp for America in 1912 and served with the Canadian Army in France during the Great War. He was also a member of the Royal Observer Corps. He was a kindly, knowledgeable man.

 It is thought that when abroad, he married a widow, although his obituary notice in the paper states he was unmarried.

He died at Ty'r Afon on the 26th June 1946, his sister Dora's home. He is buried at Llanllwchaiairn Church.

 

Mourners at Roderick Edward Wilson's funeral  were Mr W.T. Wilson, Mr & Mrs T. Brandrick, brother in law and sister, Mrs Wilson and Mr Stan Wilson Waenybricks, aunt and nephew, Mrs Edith Swain, David Swain, Newtown, Richard Swain, Pentre, Rod Swain, cousins, Mrs Swain, Hollybush, aunt.

Bearers were T. Benbow, Fachwen, T. Nutting, Glanrhyd, A. Davies, Thimble Hall, S. Evans, The Lodge.

Wreaths; Dad, Dora, Trev; All at Waenybricks; Ron, Dorothy and David; Edie; All at Hollybush; Dave, Maggie and the boys; Mrs Rees; Morfy and Dorothy; Stan and Sybil; All at Ty'n Celyn, Aberhafesp; Mrs Woosnam, Aberhafesp Hall; Mary, 12 Bridge Street; Royal Observer Corps; Mr and Mrs Owen and family, The Dingle; All at Bwlchyffridd P.O.; J. Mostyn and family; Mr and Mrs Brinley Harris, Hillcrest, Dolfor Road; All at Fairfields; Mr and Mrs Rees and Mrs Humphreys and family, Plantation Farm; Mr and Mrs Astley, Dingle Cottage.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE DAVIES FAMILY

Youngest generation Kimberley Selene Davies                                   and Rhian Jane Davies  (Newtown)
Parents Marian Joyce Wilson  and Kenneth Davies (Newtown)
Grandparents          Stanley Wilson and Ceceline Davies (Waenybricks)
Great grandparents           Eliza Davies (1886 - 1967) and David Swain Wilson (1889 - 1943)
Great gt grandparents         William Davies (1840 - 1914) and Esther Ann Hamer (1847 - 1921)                            
Great gt gt grandparents Richard Davies (1807 - 1881) and Elizabeth Hughes (1815 - 1885)
Great gt gt grandparents Richard Davies and Margaret Davies

 

 

RICHARD DAVIES 1807-81 AND ELIZABETH HUGHES 1815- 85   (son of Richard and Margaret Davies) 

Richard was baptised on the 14th September 1807, in Bettws Cedewain. His wife Elizabeth Hughes was also baptised in Bettws Cedewain, but on the 20th October 1815. The couple were married in Bettws on the 19th August, 1836. The couple are the great grandparents of Mr Stan Wilson, Waenybricks.

Elizabeth was the daughter of David and Ann Hughes in the Garth Genlli township of Bettws. He was a sawyer by trade.

Richard and Elizabeth eleven children. Jane born around 1837 in Bettws, Ann born around 1840 in Newtown,  William born around 1842 in Newtown, (Mr Stan Wilson's grandfather), Bessie (Elizabeth) born around 1845 in Kerry,  Dick born around 1848 in Kerry, John born around 1850 in Kerry, Polly, David, Carol, Thomas and Catherine.

In 1851, Richard 35 and Elizabeth 34 lived at 'Brinbedwin' according to the census (Bryn Bedwen). He was an agricultural labourer. Their family then consisted of Jane 14, Ann 11, William 9, Elizabeth 6, Richard 3 and John 1.

Richard died on the 25th May 1881, and Elizabeth on the 1st May 1885.

Mr Stan Wilson by the grave of Richard and Elizabeth Davies, in Worthen.

 

 

  

WILLIAM DAVIES1840-1914 and ESTHER ANN HAMER 1847- 1921 (son of Richard and Elizabeth Davies)

William was born around 1840 in Newtown and his wife Esther Ann Hamer in 1847. The couple are the grandparents of Mr Stan Wilson, Waenybricks.

Esther was born in Bettws, and was a daughter to Michael and Ann Hamer, who in 1861, were farming 73 acres at Pencaenion, in the parish of Garthgellin. They were both recorded as 42 in the census, and both born in Bettws Cedewain. Esther was 13  and her siblings were; Elizabeth 20 born in Berriew, Herbert 11, John 9, William 7 and Mary 1, all born in Bettws Cedewain. 

William and Esther Davies had seven children, Eliza born around 1886 (mother of Mr Stanley Wilson, Waenybricks), Pryce, Esther Catherine, William, Annie, Polly and Agnes.

In 1871, the couple lived at Shorod, near Upper Brimmon, Newtown. William was noted as 28 and Esther as 23. The couple farmed 10 acres and had no children.

By 1881, they had moved to Pantywinshrew, in the Forden Union of Berriew. He was 38, and she was 33. They had three children by now, John P. Davies aged 12 born Newtown, Mary J. Davies 8 born Berriew, William E. Davies 4 and Anne E. 1, both born in Berriew.

They had moved to Graig, Dolfor by 1891. William is recorded as 50 and a farmer. Esther was 43, John P. 22, Mary J. 18, William E. 14, Annie E. 11. Another two children had been born, Esther was 7 and Eliza 4.

In 1901, William 60 and Esther 53 were farming at Cwm in parish of Dolfor, next to Glascoed and Graig Mill. John P. 32 worked on the farm, Annie was 21 and a new child Agnes, 9 was at home, born in Kerry. They had a boarder living with them. Jonathan Meredith was 25, and a civil engineer from Derbyshire. All their other children had left home.

By 1905, they had moved to live at Middle Scafell.

Middle Scafell

On the 29th September, 1905, Eliza, pictured here,  daughter of William and Esther Davies sent a postcard to her mother at Middle Scafell;

Dear Mother, hope you are well. Sorry to see in the paper of that accident. Hope it did not upset Dad. Please send Bills address, With love from both. Write a long letter soon, Eliza. 

The newspaper report she read was as follows;

Montgomeryshire Express & Radnor Times                            Tuesday September 19, 1905

MAN KILLED AT NEWTOWN

Much sensation was occasioned in Newtown on Saturday evening by the news of a fatal accident on Milford Road. It appears that shortly after 8 o'clock, Thomas Jenkins, a middle aged man, employed at Blue House farm, Aberhafesp, was returning home from Newtown in the company of Mr Davies, Scafell farm, and was rounding that sharp corner of the road, just opposite the old toll gate, when he was suddenly struck down by a bicycle, ridden by Thomas Benbow, Aberhafesp.

Jenkins' head came into violent contact with the ground and Benbow fell over or upon him. With all haste, Dr Wilson was summoned to the spot by Benbow and upon examination he discovered  that Jenkins was suffering from concussion of the brain. The unfortunate man died in a short time. The ambulance arrived in about an hour and upon it the body was removed to the mortuary at the infirmary. Jenkins was an unmarried man. An inquest will be probably held today. 

William died on the 31 st January 1914 and Esther on the 7th January 1921.  

 

 

 

Other children of Richard and Elizabeth Davies

I would appreciate any additional information from visitors to the site please. In many cases, no names of any husbands or wives are known to me, but some children are named. The absence of a husband or wife does not  mean illegitimacy in the following information. Grateful for any corrections or additional names.

Polly married a Bunner from Montgomery.

Ann married Edward Smout and had two children Annie and Pryce.

David had no children. 

John had no children.

Carol had a daughter Jane.

Bessie married an Evans and had three children, Tom, Jack and Maria.

Richard (Dick) had no children.

Jane had three children, Jane, George and Richard.

Thomas had no children.

Catherine (Kitty) had a son Thomas James. 

 

 

 

 ELIZA DAVIES 1886-1967 (daughter of William and Esther Ann Davies) and DAVID SWAIN WILSON 1889-1943 

Details about Eliza Davies appear above under her husband's name above. 

 

 

 

The other children of William and Esther Ann Davies, nee Hamer

 

PRYCE DAVIES worked the farm with his parents. He was a horseman and his horse Scafell King was well known in Montgomeryshire and Shropshire as a stud. Pryce did not like farming particularly, but owned a threshing machine. At one time, he broke his toes when the machine went over them and walked with a bit of limp. He was picked on in town once my a man who despite standing close to Pryce, thought he was a reasonably safe distance from. Pryce, who had long arms, managed to reach him and  hit him through a window.  

Pryce bought and sold Middle Scafell and then went to live at Cefn Caled to live and work with Billy Corfield. Pryce used to go Newtown on a Tuesday for a pint, and one night stayed at The Greyhound pub, situated where the Iceland shop is now. He died there in his sleep.

Llanllwchaiarn Church photo copyright of CPAT.

THE LATE MR. PRYCE DAVIES

FUNERAL AT LLANLLWCHAIARN

The funeral of Mr Pryce Davies, formerly of Scafell, Newtown, whose sudden death was recorded in our last issue, took place  at Llanllwchaiarn Churchyard on Monday, and was largely attended. The Rev Gordon Astley officiated.

The chief mourners who attended were Mr William Davies (brother), Mrs A. Williams Cefncaled, Kerry, Mrs Samuels, Bryn aire, Mrs Wilson, Waenybricks, Mrs A. Ashton, Treorchy and Miss Annie Davies, (sisters), Messers A. Corfield, David Wilson and Mr William Ashton (brothers-in-law), mrs and Mrs Charles Bunner, Worthern (uncle in la w and aunt), Messers William and Frederick Corfield, Cefncaled (nephews), Messers T. Jarman and Albert Bowen (nephews-in-law), Mrs Jarman, Bronvastre, Mrs Bowen, Smithy, Kerry, and Miss Hilda Corfield, Cefncaled (nieces), Mr and Mrs Frank Pilot, Newtown, Mr and Mrs Walter Davies, Newtown, Mr and Mrs Howman, Wellington, Miss Maud Corfield, Manchester, Mr Stanley Wilson Waenybricks, and Messers Pryce and Edward Ashton (nephews and nieces).

The bearers were Mr David Jones, Neuadd Hendidley, Mr Jones, Penybank, Dolfor, Mr Haynes, Scafell Station and Mr Edwards, Vaynor.

Wreaths were received as follows; In loving memory of dear Pryce, from Pollie, Annie and all at Cefncaled; In loving memory, from Bill and Annie;  In ever loving memory of dear Pryce, from Esther; In loving memory of dear Pryce, from Eliza, David, and little Stanley; With love to my dear brother, from Agnes, Will, Pryce and Edward; In affectionate remembrance from Mary, Tom and family, Brynvastre; In affectionate remembrance of Uncle Pryce, from Lizzie, Agnes, Frank and Walter; In loving memory of dear Uncle, from Win and Alfred; With deep sympathy from Mr and Mrs Bunner; With deep sympathy from all at Cafnaire; With deep  sympathy from all at Penstrowed Hall; In kind remembrance from all at Little Cefncaled; With deepest sympathy from Mr and Mrs Morgan and family, Red House, Kerry;With deepest sympathy from Mr and Mrs George Jones, Cefnhir.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr J. E. Morris and Messers David Lewis and son, London House.  

 

POLLY DAVIES married Alfred Corfield.

Some members of the Corfield family

Alfred and Polly had the following children.

Lizzie married Frank Pilot.

William (Bill) Davies.

Agnes married Walter Davies and had two children, Wally and Hilda.

Susan married a Howman and lived in Wellington, Shropshire.

Nin.

Mary married a Jerman. They had five children. Phoebe, Gwladys (married Richard Owen), John, Edward and Audrey. 

Maud.

Hilda who married Eric Andrew and lived in Tregynon.

Fred.

Above; Retired farmer Mr William Corfield of Kerry, pictured with family and friends at his 90th birthday party at the Kerry Lamb. Mr Corfield is the only survivor of nine children who farmed at Kerry until his retirement. Would love to have any further information on the family. Photo courtesy of the County Times.

WILLIAM (BILLY) DAVIES

ANNIE DAVIES

ESTHER CATHERINE DAVIES

AGNES DAVIES who married William Ashton. They had two sons, Pryce and Edward.

 
Edward, Pryce, William and Agnes Ashton (nee Davies)
 

YOUNG SOLDIER DIES IN ITALY

News of the death in Italy, following wounds sustained in action, of Corporal Edward Evan Ashton, RE, came as a great shock to Treorchy and Cwmparc residents.

Corporal Ashton had served some years in the Forces, landing in Algiers to go through the North African campaign with the First Army and eventually fighting in Italy. He also served in Burma. First news of his death came through his soldier 'pal' Corporal Ossie Thomas, Cemetery Road, Treorchy. They had been close chums at Porth County School and had by an amazing coincidence been drafted together. They went through the entire campaign side by side.

The parents have received many letters of condolence, including one from Miss Shepard, an elderly lady colleague who had practically 'mothered' him at Southend and one from Mr Henson, Inspector of Taxes, Southend. They both write glowingly of his fine traits of character and lovely disposition. He married a young lady in the Civil  Service, who is now living in Bromley, Kent. It has been a terrible blow to his people and only the passage of time can perhaps blunt the keen edge of sorrow. 

 

Agnes and Will Ashton, taken from Broadlands, Newtown, 24th August 1971.
Taken by T. Brandrick 

 

 

 

THE SWAIN FAMILY

Youngest generation Kimberley Selene Davies                                   and Rhian Jane Davies  (Newtown)
Parents Marian Joyce Wilson  and Kenneth Davies (Newtown)
Grandparents          Stanley Wilson and Ceceline Davies (Waenybricks)
Great           grandparents     Eliza Davies (1886 - 1967) and David Swain Wilson (1889 - 1943)

Great x 2 grandparents         Jane Swain (1832-1945) and William Tills Wilson (1865-1947)                       
Great x 3 grandparents Edward Swain (1830-1910) and Jane Owen (1832-1901)
Great x 4 grandparents Richard Swain (1787 - 1860) and Dorothy Harding (1807 - 1878)
Great x 5            grandparents John Swain (1754 - 1803) and Elizabeth Lewis                       
Great x 6 grandparents Abraham Swain (1721 - ????) and Ursula Jones (???? - ????)
Great x 7 grandparents Abraham Swain (???? - ????) and Jane Humphreys (???? - ????)

Great x 8         grandparents

Abraham Swayne (???? - ????) and Anno  Coley (???? - ????)
Great x 9      grandparents Robert Coley (????) and unknown                                  

 

 

 

RICHARD SWAIN 1787-1860 and DOROTHY HARDING 1807-1878 Son of John Swain and Elizabeth Lewis

 Richard Swain and Dorothy Swain are the great, great grandparents of Mr Stan Wilson, Waenybricks.

Born in 1787 he married Dorothy Harding, born in Bettws on the 3rd September 1824. In 1841,the couple lived at Little Bryn, Bettws Cedewain aged 50 and 40 respectively. They had three children living with them at the time, Edward Swain, born around 1831 and great grandfather of Mr Stanley Wilson, John born around 1838 and Mariah born around 1840. Richard was an agricultural labourer.

Ten years on, in 1851, Richard was 61, and still an agricultural labourer, wife Dorothy was 48 and Mariah, 10, was the only child living at home.

Richard died on the 2nd May 1860 and is buried at Bettws Cedewain.

1871 has Dorothy living on her own and widowed aged 70, farming 5 acres.

Dorothy died in 1878, aged 71.

 

 

EDWARD SWAIN 1831-1910 and JANE OWEN 1832-1901             Son of Richard Swain and Dorothy Harding

 Edward Swain was baptised on the 29th May 1831.

In 1841, he lived at Little Bryn with his parents Richard and Dorothy Swain, and siblings John 3 and Mariah 1.

He was working as a farm labourer in 1851 for widow Jane Pryce 56 and her family of Little Cloddiau, Kerry, aged 20.

By the next census, he had married his wife, Jane Owen, born around 1832 in Aberhafesp, on the 22nd September 1858. Edward and Jane were the great grandparents of Mr Stanley Wilson, Waenybricks.

In 1861, the couple lived Ysgwylfa, with sons Edward 2 and Richard 7 months old. Elizabeth Owen 12, from Aberhafesp, was a domestic servant there.

In 1871, Edward now 39 was a gamekeeper and he and wife Jane 39 still resided at Ysgwylfa. Son Edward 12 was a farm servant at Gilfach, Aberhafesp for his widowed grandmother, Ann Owens 59, who was born in Llangadfan.  Richard was 10, David 8, Jane 5, she would be Mr Stan Wilson's grandmother, and John 3.

The family had moved to Hollybush by 1881, where Edward 49 farmed 149 acres, with wife Jane 47, David 18, Jane 15, John 13 and Richard 21, a blacksmith.

1891 saw the family back at Ysgwylfa where Edward 59 was again a gamekeeper. Wife Jane was 58 and John 23, was the only son living at home.

Jane died on the 17th January 1901. Edward was 69 and back at Hollybush with son John 32 who he helped on the farm.

Edward died on the 5th September 1910 and was buried on the 9th September.

 

In Loving Memory of

Jane, wife of Edward Swain, Holly Bush, Aberhafesp

who died 17 January 1901 aged 68 years

"For we are but of yesterday and and know nothing, because our days upon earth are a shadow"

Also of the above Edward Swain,

who died September 5 1910, aged 79 years.

"Thy will be done"

 

 

 

 

 

JANE SWAIN  1866 - daughter of                            EDWARD SWAIN 1831-1910 and JANE OWEN 1832-1901

Jane was born around 1866. In 1871,she was living at home with her parents, Edward 39, a gamekeeper and Jane 39, residing at Ysgwylfa. Her siblings were Edward 12,a farm servant at Gilfach, Aberhafesp for his widowed grandmother, Richard 10, David 8, Jane herself 5, she would be Mr Stan Wilson's grandmother, and John 3.

The family had moved to Hollybush by 1881, where Edward 49 farmed 149 acres, with wife Jane 47, David 18, Jane 15, John 13 and Richard 21, a blacksmith.

She married William Tills Wilson born around 1866 and lived at Lambeth, London, before moving to the Aberhafesp area.

They had three children, David Swain Wilson, Roderick Edward Wilson and Dora Wilson.

She died on the 28th May 1945, and is buried in Aberhafesp Churchyard.

More can be read about Jane and her husband in the section on William Tills Wilson on this page. 

 

 

EDWARD SWAIN 1859 - ????                  son of           EDWARD SWAIN 1831-1910 and JANE OWEN 1832-1901

Edward Swain was born in 1859. In 1871, Edward 12 was a farm servant at Gilfach, Aberhafesp for his widowed grandmother, Ann Owens 59, who was born in Llangadfan. Ten years later he worked for Thomas and Elizabeth Francis who farmed Ty Mawr, Penstrowed. I cannot locate Edward Swain after 1881

 

RICHARD SWAIN 1860 - 1943                 son of           EDWARD SWAIN 1831-1910 and JANE OWEN 1832-1901

Richard Swain was born in 1860 and lived with his parents at Ysgwylfa in 1861, and 1871, and Hollybush in 1881 when he worked as a blacksmith aged 21.

By 1887, Richard had married Mary Elizabeth Pryce born around 1865 in Welshpool. They lived in Castle Caereinion at the time of the next census in 1891. They lived with Mary's brother Edward Pryce 28, a blacksmith from Welshpool. Richard 30  was plying his trade as a blacksmith at The Smithy. The couple had three children then, David 3, Maurice 2 and Pryce 5 months, all baorn in Castle Caereinion. Emily Pryce, Mary's sister was 11, and was a domestic nurse according to the census.

The couple and their children had moved to Pentre Smithy, Aberhafesp by 1885.

Richard's wife Mary died on the 19th July 1897, aged 32.

In Loving Memory of

MARY ELIZABETH, Beloved wife of Richard Swain

Pentre, Aberhafesp, Who died July 19th 1897

Aged 32 years.

This languishing head is at rest, Its thinking days are o'er This quiet immovable breast, Is heaved by affliction no more

 

In 1901 Richard is recorded as widowed, aged 40, and supporting his family consisting of David 13, Maurice 12, Pryce 10, Edward 8, all born in Castle Caereinion, Richard 6 born in Aberhafesp. Jane Woods 42 was employed as a domestic servant.

Richard later married to Catherine Jane born around 1869. Their infant son John, died on the 30th December 1903, just 3 months old.

In Loving Memory of

John, son of Richard and Catherine Swain Pentre

Died Dec. 30 1903 aged 5 months.

"Suffer little children to come unto Me"

 

Catherine died on the 15th February 1926 aged 56. 

Richard Swain died on the 7th January 1943 aged 82 and is buried in Aberhafesp.

County Times Obituary, 16th January 1943.

The death occurred last Friday week at the age of 82, of Mr Richard Swain, Pentre Smithy, Aberhafesp. Mr Swain had been blind for several years but had overcome his handicap to a remarkable extent and took an interest in general affairs.

He had a seizure on Monday week and died within a few days. He was a native of Castle Caereinion and lived in Aberhafesp for 50 years. He was one of the best known figures in the area. He was a churchman and acted as a warden at the Parish Church.

Twice married, both wives predeceased him. He is survived by four sons, three daughters and a sister.

The funeral took place on Monday and despite travelling difficulties, was very largely attended.

Chief Mourners; Mr 7 Mrs David Swain, Mr & Mrs Richard Swain (Dulas), Mr & Mrs Pryce Swain, Birkenhead, (Mr Swain unable to attend), Mr & Mrs Maurice Swain, Misses Edith and Alice Swain, Mr & Mrs H. Burden. Mr & Mrs Wilson Wernfach (brother and sister in law), Mr & Mrs Trevor Brandrick, Mr Dennis Swain (nephew and nieces), Mrs Pryce and Miss Pryce, Smithy Berriew (brother in law and niece), Mrs Pryce, Smithy Llandinam, Mr Jack Pryce (sister in law and nephew), Mr & Mrs David Wilson, Waenfach (nephew and niece), Mr & Mrs Jarman and son, Hawthorns, Berriew (brother in law, sister in law and nephew), Mrs Andrews, Dolrhiew, New Mills (sister in law).

There was a large number of wreaths.

Richard was buried with his second wife, Catherine. 

"Peace Perfect Peace"

In Loving Memory of

Catherine Jane, beloved wife of Richard Swain, Pentre

who died February 15th 1926, aged 56 years.

"Peace perfect peace"

Also of Richard Swain who died January 7 1943, aged 82 years.

Rest in Peace.

 

 

 

DAVID SWAIN 1863- 1889                 son of                 EDWARD SWAIN 1831-1910 and JANE OWEN 1832-1901

David aged 8, lived at home in 1871, with his parents at Ysgwylfa.Also there were his siblings Richard 10, Jane 5 and John 3.

The family had moved to Hollybush by 1881, where parents Edward 49 farmed 149 acres, with wife Jane 47, with  David now 18, Jane 15, John 13 and Richard 21, a blacksmith.

David died in 1889 aged 26.

 

In Affectionate Remembrance of

David son of Edward & Jane Swain, Hollybush, Aberhafesp

who died May 1st 1889 aged 26 years.

I was so long with pain oppressed, which wore my strength away,            It made me long for endless rest, Which never can decay.

 

 

 

JOHN SWAIN 1868 - ????                 son of                   EDWARD SWAIN 1831-1910 and JANE OWEN 1832-1901

John Swain aged 3, lived at home in 1871 with his parents at Ysgwylfa. Also there were his siblings Richard 10, David 8, and Jane 5.

 The family had moved to Hollybush by 1881, where Edward 49 farmed 149 acres, with wife Jane 47, David 18, Jane 15, John now 13 and Richard 21, a blacksmith.

1891 saw the family back at Ysgwylfa where Edward 59 was again a gamekeeper. Wife Jane was 58 and John 23, was the only son living at home.

John's mother Jane died on the 17th January 1901. His father Edward was 69 and back at Hollybush. John 32 was at home to help his father on the farm.

I have no further information about John.

Most of the Church photographs appearing on this page are reproduced courtesy of the Clwyd-Powys Archaelogical Trust, who hold the copyrights. Please visit their webpage via our Links to other Websites for a truly fascinating history of our wonderful area.