Notes

THE LIFE STORY OF EDWARD ASHTON Compiled by George S. Ashton and added to by Florence A.R. Saxton

Edward Ashton born in Caersws, Parish of Llangwnog, Montgomeryshire, Wales, August 22nd, 1821, came to America in 1850 and settled in Salt Lake City, Utah, Died 7 Feb. 1904.

His father, Richard Ashton, was born in Caersws, Parish of Llanwnog, Montgomeryshire, Wales, in the year 1796, died in 1827.

His mother, Elizabeth Savage, was born in Caersws, Parish of Llanwnog, Wales in the year 1798, Died in Wales.

His eldest brother, Richard Ashton, was born in Caersws, parish of Llanwnog, Wales in the year 1818. Emigrated to America about the year 1838, settled in Waterbury, State of Conn. Died there 29 July, 1893.

His sister, Jane Ashton was born in Caersws, parish of Llanwnog, Montgomeryshire, Wales, 27 Sept. 1823. Married David Humphreys and came to America in the year 1875, settled in Utica, New York. Died there 31 Dec. 1903.

About his father's death in 1827, his mother married a man by the name of Kinsey in about 1832. (He does not state in his history how many children were born after that date but does mention his half-brother, Evan Kinsey, born in Caersws, Parish of Llangwnog, in 1842- he lived in Wales and died in Wales in 1861. He states that this half-brother was very dear to him and he had more pleasure with him than his own brother.)

The following is a copy of the early life of Edward Ashton as written by himself:

"A brief sketch of my early life and happenings as far back as I do remember. We were very poor indeed. I was working in a woolen factory when I was 8 years old and was there until I was 10 years old when I had an accident. My right hand was caught in the engine and the cards nearly tore it off. This crippled me for a long time that I could not do much work. We were working from 6 o?lock in the morning until 9 p.m. in the evening for 3 pence a day (6 cents American money) allowing us a little time for meals.

After I was recovered I went to Newtown to work to do chores around the house and stores of a nice family and to attend an old gentleman that was very helpless. I was there for two years for my board and clothing and they were very kind to me and wanted me to stay longer but my mother did want me to leave as her brother had died and had left a little money to apprentice us, my brother and me. Also to care for my little sister. My brother was apprenticed ten miles away and mother tried to apprentice me to learn a trade, and after trying all around she found a place for me to learn to be a shoemaker. I was bound for three years for my board and shoes. My mother paid 6 soverns also to the man for my apprenticeship, so I was bound solid for three years and I suffered a great deal of abuse and was beaten awful by him, he would strike me with anything nearest him as though he wanted to kill me and especially the last day the first thing in the morning when I had nothing but my pants and shirt on. I ran into the little shop in a corner where my bench was and he followed me and doubled me that I could not straighten up. He had in his right hand a stirrup and held me, then the stirrup was used and he gave it to me as hard as he could as though he wanted to punish me. He pulled my ears until they were bleeding and my nose was bleeding awfully and then he grabbed me by my legs and feet and lifted me up roughly and my head caught the bench and hurt me very bad and then he dropped me down as hard and as rough as he could. Then I managed to get myself out of his grasp and made my escape into the street and him following, but I beat in the race.

There was passing at the time, a man, and I was bleeding and besmeared with blood and he stopped me and asked what was the matter and he looked and saw him coming. He turned around and looked at him and he shook his fist at him and dared him to come any farther after me, so I went with him a couple of miles and went home. After this I had to go before the Magistrate to break the bonds that were made for my apprenticeship. There I was stripped and examined and there were thirteen stripes which had swollen very much. I was liberated. I will say also that I did not have half enough to eat and of the poorest kind and I had to do all kind of work but my trade. I was beaten and starved until I became stupid.

After this I went to work at one thing and another. Then I hired myself to a man so that I could learn my trade. My mother had married another man and this broke up our home, and I was determined to tramp and one thing and another worked in that although my mother was very much opposed to it and offered many inducements to stay but she had married and I did not like her to do so for she had labored hard when we were boys and we could not help her and now she had done the work a brother of her's had died and had left her a little means to give us boys a chance to learn a trade. So now there was a change. He took charge of affairs and that ended our home, and I told my mother that I would leave them and try to get work somewhere else and I told her also that I would not let her know where I was.

I went straight from North Wales to South Wales and I did not stop until I was nearly eighty miles from home, when I stopped and got work in the town of Tredegar, Monmouthshire, as a shoemaker amongst about a dozen of as mean and dishonest men as ever could be found. They stole and borrowed my clothes until I had no change to wear and they got me to make up with them and to go with them to the Taverns to drink and play cards which was the ruin of me, nearly. They would start playing cards in the workshop in the morning and keep it up all day and nobody would work so I got discouraged and gave way and partook of the same spirit and became a great card player and gambler and I turned reckless and careless about working as I could not keep any money. I lived there about a year and I looked at my condition and found that I was pursuing a bad course but how to get away from this crowd of men I did not know so I thought that I would leave the shop, but how to leave I could not make out. I was standing on the street when a man touched me on the shoulder and we had a little talk and he asked me if I would like to go out into the country and work for him about nine miles away. I said upon certain conditions I will and I went the next day. I worked for him for ten years and during that time I wandered around not settled in my mind about the future.

I would sometimes go to the Episcopal meetings and would join in their singing class and other times I would go to the Calvinites meetings and learn the Welsh language and again I joined the Choir and became a leader of the same for quite a while but never joined their church although kindly requested to do so, but I felt discouraged in their discourse.

At this time the L.D.S. Saints came along and after a good deal of delay I joined the church and was baptized on the 20th day of July, 1849 near Blackwood, Munmouthshire. I started for America in October, 1850 on the sail ship, Joseph Badger. Had a pleasant voyage of five weeks crossing the Atlantic Ocean and arrived in New Orleans. Stayed there for two days to change our boat for another one. We had made arrangement to go up to St. Louis but I had only 10 cents of money so a partner that I had become acquainted with paid my passage up there which I promised that I would refund as soon as I could get something to work at and I assure you that I did.

The Cholera made a raid on the boat and many were taken down and some died and I had all I could bear. It was a very weak and was quite helpless but then I found that they took care of me and they gave their bunk to me and they lay on the floor amongst the sick. William and Hannah Evans of Tredgar, Munmouthshire, they got me to a Boarding House and paid my board there and in two weeks I was working in a coal pit digging coal. I never was in a coal pit before. This was at Granery Goal Diggins about six miles from St. Louis.

I united with the branch there and acted as teacher while there for about a year. I was quite sick there during the summer of 1851 until about the middle of July when I started for Salt Lake to cross the plains and it took us all the summer remaining until Sept. 29, 1852 when we arrived in the valley of Salt Lake, where we were located in a tent in the 15th Ward. (Grandfather told how during the sickness mentioned above, he was so ill and they were told not to drink but he crawled out to a ditch and got a drink and began to get well. He also told how they thought he was going to die and even went so far as to make his coffin and show it to him. When they showed it to him he told them he was not going to die they could give it to some one else.)

My friend, with whom I got acquainted on board the ship, Joseph Badger, was with me. He was sick and had been so while crossing the plains, with Ague and Fever. We were quite desperate. He was unable to work and I worked and did the best I could to get something for us to eat, but it was very hard to get along until spring when we started in March trying to find something to do. We had 50 cents when we left the city and that we spent for our lodging that night. Then we had to beg for our support and it became very hard to get along for people could not find us anything to do because of the snow that was on the ground. More snow was coming so we had to beg our way back after going as far as Boxelder which is now Brigham City. There was no house on the flat, just one tent owned by David Evans, where we stayed for one night. The next day was Sunday so we did not travel nor beg that day but stayed on Willow Creek and attended the meeting in the afternoon in the old log house."

The following is an account given by Clifford Ashton of his visit to Edward Ashton's house town in Wales as recorded in a letter, 1931:

"I took a bus from Wrexham to Oswestry. The road winded and twisted through the Welsh hills. The rocks were now a grey sandstone, in contra-distinction from the red sandstone around Chester. The hills were growing in size, and above me on the left I could see good old pine trees, the first that I have seen since I left home. Below me I could see a winding river, that tolled lazily through the little valley, while all around it grazed sheep and fat cattle. Also I got my first glimpse of Welsh ponies. Shaggy and stoic little beats they were; hardy enough I should imagine to stand the most chill blasts of winter.

As we passed through Chirk, I saw on the hillside an old Castle, and my old faithful guide informed me that it had been erected in the time of Edward the 1st. It was beautifully situated in the hills, and was almost completely hidden by the shadows of the pines about it. I noticed that the architecture of this part of Wales was very hard and severe.

At each pub we passed on the road, I saw large crowds of England's great problem-unemployed men. And I looked those broad valleys, resting in idleness, as the private property of large land owners, who use them for nothing more than a fox hunt and wondered why the government couldn't employ that idle land as something to keep idle men busy.

I had another wait in Oswestry, so I walked over to the village market place, and listened to the people barter and sell in their native language. Of course I couldn't understand any of it, but it was intensely interesting nevertheless. I found a few interesting Welshmen, who were willing to talk, and so of course I did lots of questioning. And as I left Oswestry, I had already come to the conclusion that I liked Welshmen better than Englishmen. They seemed to be so much cleaner and intelligent.

From Oswestry, I went to Welshpool, and all along the way saw some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen in my life. It is in the very heart of the stock raising section of Wales. On all sides was red earth, against green grass and trees. It makes a beautiful combination. In the fields were grazing splendid specimen of hereford cattle, reminding me that I was near Hereford the home of the Breed.

My bus was filled with Welsh people, going home from their daily tasks talking about their experiences and neighbors, in Welsh. It all reminded me that I was now in the very middle of the Welsh district. I noticed that they called one another Owens, Morris, Jones, Evans, etc., and almost made me think that I was in Madad.

Grandfather wrote in his history the following:

On the 7th day of April, 1857, Consecrated my property to the Trustee in the Trust of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at the recorders office Salt Lake City. Volunteered on the 10th day of November 1857 as a soldier and was appointed to be captain of ten to go to meet a hostile army that was determined to come in our city in a few days, but could not for God ruled and not James Buchanan (then Pres. Of the United States). Upon this campaign I suffered great hardships as want for food, early froze to death in Kilians canyon on the night of Nov. 10th, 1857. Returned home on Dec. 3, 1857.

In 1857 Brigham Young organized troups of soldiers to go to Echo Canyon which were termed minute men. They were supposed to be ready to meet Johnson? Army on minutes notice. Edward Ashton was appointed Captain of ten and during the year of 1857 he was called to go to Echo Canyon and to build fortresses and trenches to deceive the Army and it was while working there they ran short on food supplies. William Lloyd was appointed commissary and all the soldiers were put on rations, so many pounds per day to each man, which only amounted to one griddle cake to meal, per man. Their griddle cakes were fried in candle grease (Edward stated that one day Thomas Howell, a large man and hearty eater, came to Brother Lloyd in the morning and said, "William I am almost starved, cook my three griddlecakes for breakfast and I will fast the balance of the day." And he did as requested. "He also told that before their supply was so low, the butter being scarce, one man who felt he could not eat without outer, kept moving a small pit of butter across his bread and from one slice to another to help him get along without it."

They built a breastwork or rock, ready to tumble down on the army, if they showed any tendency for trouble. The trenches and some of the rocks they placed are still there and can be seen from the state highway, today. Today it would have been termed Gorilla Warfare, but had the army came through it would have been a most effective defence.

On April 26th, he started his family to Spanish Fork, 60 miles south when he was detailed in the 15th Ward to guard it from enemies who were on their borders, Johnson's Army, and to watch them passing through the city which was nearly as silent as the grave. Brigham Young had instructed all families to move out of Salt Lake City, and go to the adjoining cities south. They went to the cities from Provo to Cedar City, and remained there until the army had come through the city, as by this time an agreement had been reached between the army and the Saints, namely, that they would only march through the city and make camp at some point at least 20 miles from the city. He also instructed the Bishops of each Ward that all homes should be vacated and the Bishops should appoint two men from each of the city Wards and their duties were to put kindling wood in the center of each house and that if the army should for any reason break their agreement, that the guards should go from house to house and light the kindling wood and burn up their houses, so that the army would not have a house to live in. Edward Ashton and William Lloyd were the two men assigned that duty in the 15th Ward. Father lay on the ground all one day on 6th West and 1st South and watched the army match west on North Temple. It took almost the entire day for them to pass 6th West, but they marched over the river Jordan and then went out to Camp Floyd, 22 miles southwest from the city, and remained there for some months, and never molested the Saints but proved a great blessing, for while here they sold or traded the provisions they had brought with them. They were so well equipped with supplies of all kinds that many articles were purchased cheaper than in the stores of New York City, thus being a blessing to the people in their hour of need. God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform. Most of the families returned back to the city in 1858 and each went to his home and then began the growth of the City of Salt Lake. He was also called out by Brigham Young a number of times to fight the Indians.

He worked tending masons on the Temple block wall in the early spring of 1853. Then he worked on the Temple for sometime and was employed there when the corner stone was laid. Then he went to work as a shoemaker for William Jennings in his shoe shop on Main Street and 1st South, the South-west corner, remaining here for about four years. Then he went to work for George Q. Cannon, making shoes and doing other duties around his house. He then built a small shoe shop in the rear of his home on 6th West. Here he worked a number of years until they brought shoes into Salt Lake City cheaper than he could make them by hand. He then obtained a job on the Utah Central Railroad shoveling coal in the engines. He worked at this daily duty until he could find something better to make a living for his family which at this time were all in school and the cost of living becoming higher all the time. George Bywater was Superintendent at the Utah Central Shops and Edward was well acquainted with him, but living in the 15th Ward at this time, so he was given a job in the paint shop painting cars and engines as they needed. He remained in this position until the year 1902, he being then eighty years of age but well and hearty.

An account of some of his church activities follows:

He was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Wales July 20, 1849 by Evan Evans in the Parish of Bedwellty, Munmouthshire,. Confirmed a member by William Evans in Tredegar, Munmouthshire on the 22 of July 1849. Ordained to the Office of a Priest Oct. 25, 1849 by Evan Evans in the Rock Branch, Bedwellty, Mumouthshire, Wales. Emigrated to Great Salt Lake City in July 1852. Was ordained an Elder on the 29th day of Sept. 1850 by Thomas Giles in the Rock branch. Was ordained a Seventy May 29, 1864 by Isaac Leiny and Archibald Hill and became a member of the 9th Quorum of Seventy, and later received as a member of the 2nd Quorum of Seventy. He was an active Ward Teacher from 1858 until he was 75 years of age in the 15th Ward. Very seldom missing one month block teaching during that time. He led the 15th Ward choir for about 14 years. He was also a Sunday School Teacher in the 15th Ward.

In July 1890 he, with some of his near kin, went to the Logan Temple and did the endowment work for his father Richard Ashton, Arthur Laston (Athelustan) Savage, his grandfather, also Richard Ashton his grandfather, and Evan Kinsey his half-brother; Arthur L. (Athelustan) Savage his mother? brother, John Savage, his mother? brother; Edward Ashton, his Father? brother; Edward Savage, his mother's brother; John Savage, his mother's brother; Richard Kinsey, his Father's sister's husband; Richard Ellis, an old gentlemen with whom he lived for two years in Newtown. He received his second anointing on the 9th day of July 1890, Raskely, Recorder; H.M. Merrill performing.

"THE HAPPY HOME" By George S. Ashton 127 So. 6th West St. Salt Lake City, Utah

"In 1856, Father and Mother together with the eldest child just born, commenced one of the Happiest Homes among the valley of the Rocky Mountains that could be found and through their efforts during the year two boomed adobe house, had been completed so that in Dec. 1856 their second son was born in this humble home. In a few years when the boys were old enough to make Adobes, they made the necessary amount of adobes to add another room on the south. This made a three room house all rooms facing the street. In another year or so a kitchen was built in thereafter, this room was a large room and served as our cooking and eating room. Now the boys and girls were getting older and had their company come very often to see them so the center room in the front part that had the open fireplace, that had been used for years to cook in and also provide the heat, was not used as the parlor and we small children, when company came had to stay in the kitchen but when bed time came we were forced to go through this center room to our bed rooms as there was one on the north and one on the south end. When tucked into our bed by our kind and loving Mother, those in the center room went on with their love making and enjoying themselves while we went to slumberland. The south bed room was where the boys slept and Father. The north bed room was occupied by Mother and the girls.

About this time our eldest brother was married to Effie Morris and Father gave him the corner lot 5 x 5 rods of ground to build his home on. I remember how well we all would work early and late helping him to build this two room house that provided a home for he and his wife for a number of years.

By this time Father and the boys thought that the family needed a cellar and grainery. So they set in and made the adobes for this new project. When that task was done they dug a cellar about three feet in the ground as they could not go deeper on account of the water. By this time Ed had learned from his apprenticeship with Elias Morris, to lay stone and adobes. Stone was laid in the cellar and adobes in the grainery, for the building was two stories in height, size about 12 x 14. This made a very big improvement to our household and a very fine place to keep the milk, butter, cheese and our winter pig meat. Each fall Father would have two fine pigs to kill and store for winter use and the grainery would take care of the flour, bran, potatoes, and chicken feed. I forgot to mention the old oaken bucket hung form the well that was just 12 feet north of the kitchen door. This well furnished us our water supply for many years.

Time was going on and each year the family was getting older another of the boys, Jed, was deeply in love with a very fine young lady. I know she was a charming young girl as Jed quite often used to say to me, "George, wouldn't you like to come along with me tonight for company?" and away the two of us would go up to 3rd West to a small Tailor Shop where lived the happy Salisbury family. The father was a very small man and the Mother a very large woman. Here I would sleep while the love making went on. Father then was led to give another 5 x 5 rod lot to Jed, to build him a home on. In about two years a three room adobe house was finished for him.

About this time the two older sisters were trying their hand at love making and occupied our parlor for that use.

One winter brother Brig. found a young man by the name of Ben Dortnell that did not have a home, having no Father or Mother, however, he had a brother and sister but neither could give him a home, so kind hearted Brig., brought him to our home and Mother made a place for "Ben". In a few weeks through the work and unity of the balance of the family a lumber room that was used as a shanty by Mother, was cleaned, papered, and a chimney built so that Ben had a bed room all for his use. Mother and the girls would cook the meals and some of us boys used to take his food to him. He lived there for a number of years. Ben Dartnell, though not the brightest of persons was very thankful for his home and to the day of his death looked up to Brig as his real benefactor, and would do anything for Brig. Brig at this time was attending the University of Utah, endeavoring to get his degree. He was night watching at the Eierpont's Foundry at night, and going to school in the day time, for part of the school years. When that job ended he had to look for other employment. The D. & R.G. Railroad had built from Denver to Salt Lake City, and their track was laid on 6th West to Ogden and there were many cars of coal shipped into the city. There was a coal yard built on the south-east corner of the block we lived on. Many cars of this coal had had to be unleaded at night time as the D. & R.G. Company were short of cars. Many nights I have held a candle sitting on the edge of the car while Brig. would unload this coal. He received 10 cents per ton for shoveling this coal out of the cars. Some nights he would work all night but most of the work was completed by midnight. This is the way Brig. gained his education. In return for me holding the candle Brig. would take us swimming in the 2nd Canal on 8th West between 2nd and 3rd South. There being a fine swimming pool there.

In the year 1882 came a family by the name of Lindsay from the Southern States and Ed courted and made love to their eldest Daughter Cora and married her Jan. 1884, as his second wife.

Brig and Sarah (Sally) were then getting deeply in love. He fell in love with another charming young lady by the name of Lollie Pettit. Sarah choosing Joseph E. Price as her loving companion and wed on the same day Nov. 12, 1884. This left Elizabeth, Emily and myself with our parents at home.

At this date our home was fully completed consisting of a five room modern home having been faced outside with brick and extending the center room or parlor out to the front 6 ft. and putting a porch in front of each bed room; electric lights and bath room and city water in the kitchen sink. Every inch of our 5 x 20 rods being utilized as follows.

In the front of the house and on either side of the gate stood two very large Golden Sweet Apple Trees with flowers and some grass. A small patch north of the house (as the house was built on the south line of the lot) was planted with some kind of vegetables, then came the well and apple trees and a Green Gage Plum tree. In the rear of the house about 10 feet away was the cellar and grainery. Then came the play grounds about 4 rods in length and across the lot north and south, here were large apple trees. One Porter, one Sweet Bough, one Big Red, two Rhode Island Greening, two Spitzenburg, one Winter Pairmain. Under the shady branches of these wonderful fruit trees was the children? play ground. A swing, tricky bar, croquet ground, and horse-shoe pitching, but instead of using horse shoes, Jed used to make us rings out of cast iron and these were what we pitched. North of the play ground was the woodpile and chopping block, then the cow shed, chicken coop, pig pen, and hay shed. All the above mentioned occupied about 7 rods leaving the balance 13 rods for our farming. A strip on the north and one on the east end was planted with Lucern and then came the potato and corn patch, then there were plenty of space left for cabbage, raddish, lettuce, beets, carrots, tomatoes, and currant and gooseberry trees. So on this small farm we had our Happy Home, play grounds, Cow, Pigs, and Chickens and raised all our food supplies and our fruit together with Father's monthly wage of from $40.00 to $50.00 per month. Mending all the family shoes and working each day we lived very comfortably and Father and Mother never went in debt for anything.

From they year 1884 until 1887 the home remained with Father, Mother, two girls and one boy and Father working every week day. Then came the grandchildren to the Happy Home, to make grandfather and grandmother happy with their play. In the fall of 1887 came the first break in their family. After a brief illness, their daughter Sarah, died on Nov. 27, 1887 leaving one boy Joseph (Jodie), and a daughter Mary. They were taken into our home and the girls took full charge of them. The two children remaining with their grandparents, when in Sept. of 1891 the little girl Mary was taken suddenly sick and on Sept. 5 1891 died, leaving her brother Joseph with us and he remained in our home until he got married. The home was quiet from them on until 1893 when their son George was braved away from his home by falling in love with a most charming organist of the 15th Ward choir, by the name of Leah Fidkin, and by her cunning craftiness they were married Sept. 27, 1893 and he left for a mission to the Indian Territory Oct. 9, 1893.

Mother's health had been poorly for sometime and she was confined to the house for a number of years with Asthma, until August 27, 1897 when she was called to her heavenly home. She could not be called to any other kind of home for she had made to all the family a Heavenly Home here on earth. "A Sweeter Spirit Never Lived."

After this the Railroad and other enterprises forced their removal to another location. The balance of the family remaining built a small four room house at 120 South 7th West and lived there. Emily fell in love with Brother Albert D. Richards and were married Feb. 20, 1903. This left Father, Elizabeth and Jodie in the home. Father being 80 years and over the family begged him to quit working at the paint shop and have a vacation, which he did. Balance of his life during the day time was spent in doing odd jobs around his children's homes. His health remained good until one morning in February 1904 after breakfast was eaten he laid his head on the kitchen table in peaceful sleep and in two days faded away Feb. 7, 1904. Such a peaceful ending. The peaceful ending was the well earned rest of a peaceful and well spent life of one of "God's Noblemen."

The country had now become quite mountainous. On my left were the Brieden Hills, only 1324 feet above the sea, but nevertheless, in distinction from the plains, which were almost sea level, it appeared to be quite a mountain. On its ridges is erected a pillar, commemorating Rodney's victory over the French off Dominica in 1782.

As we passed the Brieden Mountains the earth changed from a red color to a dark, rich brown. All through the valley was apple trees, in full blossom. Evidently the people in this section were very religious, for on every hand were churches. There was one huge stone bridge, which was a marvel of masonry. It had twenty spans, each spanning a distance of about sixty feet. The valleys were filled with Interesting things, canals built high above the fields, all sorts of trees?ine, ash, maple, and huge knarled Oaks.

Coming into Welshpool, the scenery grew magnificent. We came through a huge protective hollow, which made the day seem eventide, as we drove through the long shadows. Pines and firs loomed up, as they do at home, making my heart give an extra beat, as I was reminded of our grand canyons at home.

I couldn't get a good bus service out of Welshpool, so I took train direct to Caersws, the home of our ancestors. I was now growing so anxious to see the old homestead that I began to neglect the scenery, although it was of the most charming beauty.

The train puffed up into the hills, and the slowly moving canals forgot their lazy attitude, and began to ripple a little, to keep pace with the inclining country. Montgomery was the next town of any importance. It was a quaint sleepy little place, with a population of 950, named from Roger Montgomery, Earl of Shewbury, in 1093. The country was so restful and peaceful, with heavily wooded hills, and valleys filled not with man's industrialized cities, but simple beauty of grazing sheep, and lowing cattle. Their bleating and calls could be heard above the laborious puff of the train, as the sun began to set far out over the Welsh hills.

Leaving Montgomery, I noticed that the farms were very well kept, and bespoke of a thrifty and industrious people. The barns were white-washed, and the homes were surrounded by friendly trees, and clean healthy children. I found myself growing very friendly with Welsh people and country.

Just before entering into Newtown, I caught my first glimpse of the River Severn. The Severn you know, flows through Caersws. Newtown is a flannel manufacturing town of 5670 inhabitants and the home of Robert Owen the Socialist, who was born in 1771, just one year after great grandfather Richard. Undoubtedly, he knew Robert Owens, for they both lived in the same parish.

I didn't like Newtown, for it was too industrialized, and therefore unattractive, and a sore on the otherwise beautiful scenery.

My next town was Caersws, so I was all excited. The mountains grew higher and higher, and the river Severn ceased to be a lazy river, but became brisk and quick, and rippled over the rocks, reminding me that it was famous throughout Britain, for its trout fishing.

I arrived in Caersws at 7:10 p.m. and went direct through the streets to the Buck Hotel. I was particularly impressed with the simplicity and quiet of the place. The streets were desolate and from the chimney came the odor of pine smoke, reminding me that the villagers were cooking their evening meal. There is no coal near Caersws, so all of the fuel is wood, and its pleasant odor, as it burns fills the village.

I met the proprietess of the hotel, a Mrs. Hughes, granddaughter of Ceiriog Hughes, the Bobby Burns of Wales, and known as Wales most famous bard. She told me some interesting things about the village, but said that she could remember no Ashtons. She referred me to the most aged man in the community, Mr. Wilson, so after a dinner of pea soup, and curry, and rice, cooked in grand Welsh fashion, I wandered up the lane to see the old Gentleman. He was very gracious, and he and his aged wife invited me in to their home to have a chat with them. They were a typical Welsh couple, with genuine hospitality and sincerity. They invited me to have a bite of supper with them. They between nibbles, told me some of the interesting things about the village history. But they would not remember having known grandfather Ashton. They did have a recollection of a large "Mormon" campaign, when hundreds of the people of that part of the country had heeded the Gospel's call, and had emigrated to make their homes in America.

When I left them it was too late to do anything more, as all the streets were dark, and unlighted, and only a few of the village homes were lit by their little oil lamps and candles. So I went to bed early, so that I might arise early for a good start.

Mrs. Hughes led me up to my little bedroom, which was four hundred years of age, and in which the famous Welsh Bard had often slept. I felt quite distinguished. As I as lying there, thinking over the experience of the day, I could hear the tinkling of sheep's bells on the mountain side, reminding me that out in the dark was life and action, waiting for light of another day.

I arose early, and before breakfast rummaged around the graveyard of the Baptist Church. I looked in vain for any mention of the name Ashton. All that I could see was Jones, Evans, Hughes, Griffith, Morris, Price, Edwards, Smith, and Parry.

From there I walked about the village streets, taking pictures, and interviewing the citizens. It was intensely interesting, and everyone was willing to help. By breakfast time, almost everyone in the town knew my mission, and all were trying to help me. As I would go down the street, people would stop me and ask me if I had found anything, as yet. After a good breakfast of fresh cows milk, and eggs, I walked over to Llanwnog, where the parrish records for that part of the community were kept. It was still early morning as I left, and as I walked I passed two little groups of school children, who were walking four miles to the nearest school house, in Llanwnog. They couldn't even speak English, and only grinned, and said, "Hello."

The scene from Caersws to Llangwnog was one of the most beautiful I have ever witnessed. Caersws is situated in the very middle of a natural ampitheatre. When Cwynog, who built the parish Church in 500, A.D. was selecting a spot for his place of worship he refused Caersws, which was then a Roman Camp, because it was too low-lying and was often flooded by the overflowing River Severn. Therefore he picked his site about four miles away, right at the very base of a perfectly round hill, completely covered with pines and oaks. It has since come to be known as Llanwnog, and has a population of about fifty people.

As I traversed the four miles around the edges of the hills my mind wandered and tried to imagine one or two hundred years back, I could see Grandfather Ashton walking over that same road, for it is old, going to the same school, for it too is old, and attending the Church, where his Grandfather had worshipped. I tried to put myself in their place, and as I looked over the clean wholesome country, away from the business and strife of the world, and saw the clean and prosperous homes in the valley below, and the sturdy healthy men, women and children busy about their morning tasks, I thanked God that he had given me an ancestry from such a selected and wholesome place.

Then as I rounded a bend, I saw in the distance the old Church of Llanwnog where my father's had been married, baptized, and buried. It was a thrill and I tried to restrain myself from running. I went first to the home of Mr. Kinsey, the village Sexton. He took me through the burial yard, and one corner I found two tomb stones with the following inscriptions:

IN MEMORY OF EDWARD ASHTON LATE OF RED LION IN THIS PARISH WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE Dec. 7th, 1871 Aged 78 years.

SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF JANE ASHTON LATE OF OERFERWD IN THIS PARISH WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE Nov. 15th 1843 Aged 81 years.

ALSO TO THE MEMORY OF ANNE DAUGHTER OF EDWARD AND JANE ASHTON WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE Jan. 10, 1854 Aged 54 years.

The stones were large, among the most prominent, of that date in the yard. On each side of each of them was a large Yew treem which had undoubtedly been placed there by members of the family.

Me. Kinsey then pointed the home of Vicar D.D. Evans, who had charge of the parish records. I went to his home, and was invited in by his wife, and had to listen to his silly old tales for over an hour, while he was getting in the mood to go down into the cold Church to help me look through the records.

We finally got there, and after he had showed me a few of the interesting things of the Church we got into the records. They were written on vellum, and sheepskin, and were yellow with age. I supposed my hand shook with anxiety as I pondered and turned over the pages. I started with the year 1700 and copied the name of every Ashton and Savage I could find. I looked through the marriage, baptism, birth and burial records."

(This, Clifford's description, is a real treasure of our grandfathers homeland. Seen by one there on the spot, if only he could have had the joy of finding our own grandfather's grave, which we are totally to the present unable to find. 1955)

--------------------

Upon coming to Salt Lake City, Edward Ashton settled in the western part of the city where most of the Welsh people lived at that time. The 15th and 16th Wards were largely made up of the Welsh Saints. In his work as shoemaker making shoes for John Taylor's family, he became acquainted with a charming young lady whom he had seen, at Council Bluffs, as she was employed in the Taylor home. Her name was Jane Treharne.

Jane Treharne, daughter of William Treharne and Ann Richards was born April 2nd 1828 in the Parish of Llangadier, Carmarthenshire, Wales. The name of the town was Llangendereine. She left Wales in Feb. 1848. Through the visits to the Taylor home a friendship was enjoyed by these young people and that friendship developed into love and as a result of these association the young couple were married Feb. 6, 1854. William Lewis performing the ceremony. They received their endowments in the council House in Salt Lake City, April 1, 1854. Sealed by President Brigham Young at his office in Salt Lake City, March 25, 1855.

Jane Treharne Ashton was baptized in Feb. 1848, by Elias Morris.

The first house they lived in only had one room and their furniture consisted of a small cooking stove, a large box for their table and two smaller boxes they used as chairs, and their bed consisted of four posts with a 8x4 timber nailed in between these posts: the timbers had wooden pegs about 8" apart and from these pega a small rope was stretched back and forth across them. When the sides were completed the rope was then put on these pegs from head to foot, by this method it made square 8 inch squares, each way. On this rope springs, a ticking filled with corn hucks was laid and then the bed clothes. These corn shucks usually were about 1/8 inch in thickness and made a very comfortable bed when fresh, but after their use for one year, they were very hard. They could only change each fall as the corn was gathered in the harvest time.

Their first child was a son, Edward Treharne Ashton, born July 14, 1855 at 645 West 1st South in the home owned by Owen Roberts. During 1855 and part of 1856 they bought a 5 x 20 rod lot of 6th west between 1st and 2nd South, and a 5 x 10 rod lot on the Southeast corner of 6th and 1st South Street. Here during the year they erected a two room adobe home at 127 South 6th West and in this humble home with some later additions as the family grew the remainder of the family was born. Jedediah William born Dec. 27, 1856, Brigham Willard born Sept. 11, 1858, Elizabeth Anne born Jan. 20, 1860, Sarah Jane born Nov. 6, 1861, Emily Treharne born Feb. 14, 1864, and on the 27, July 1870 their youngest child, George Savage was born. Thus making a family of Father, Mother, four boys, and three girls, one of the happiest families in the Salt Lake Valley.

Transcript of the Will of Edward Savage, 1653

In the name of God Amen

The first daie of December in the yeare of our Lord God One Thousand six hundred fiftie three I Edward Savage of the parish of Trevegloes in the Countie of Mountgomery beinge sick in bodie but of perfect mynde and memory (praise be given to Almightie God) Do make this my last Will and Testament in manner and forme followinge committinge my Soule unto the mercyfull hands of Almightie God And my bodie to [be] buryed in the parishe Church of Trevegloes at the oversight of my Executor and Friends And of all my worldly goods I dispose as followeth. Inprimis [ie First] I give and bequeath unto the reparation of the parish Church of Trevegloes aforesaid The Summe of Tenne Shillings. Item I give unto Thomas Savage myne eldest Sonne the Summe of Seavenscore poundes to be paid unto him by my Executor at such time as Thomas Savage of Wem Shall accomplish the age of one and twentie yeares Uppon this condition That the said Thomas Savage, my Sonne shall first make and seale unto John Savage my second Sonne a Release of his title to my Meadowinge in Bodaioch [?] And, in case hee shall refuse soe to doe I bequeath unto him the Summe of Fowertie poundes, to be paid unto him at the tyme abovementioned Together with those two meadows in Bodaioch which were purchased by my Father commonly known as Dolover and Arbor each??? and noe more in respect hee hath had a portion of mee alreadie. Item I give and bequeath unto Andrewe Savage, my third Sonne the Summe of Fiftie poundes to be paid unto him within the space of one yeare next after my decease. Item I bequeath unto Joane Savage my Daughter the Summe of Threescore poundes to be paid within the space of one yeare after my decease. Item I bequeath unto Edward Savage my youngest Sonne the Summe of Fiftie Poundes to be paid him within the space of Fyve yeares after my decease And also I give and bequeath unto the said Edward Savage my Sonne a Tanne house latelie erected and one parcell of lands thereunto adjoininge situate and beinge in Keven [Cefn] Bavach???, in the said parish of Trevegloes With all Lymepitts and appurtinamences whatsoever thereunto belonginge in the tenure and occupation of John Brood my nephew Viz The rent thereof duringe his lease And soe to the said Edward Savage and his heires for ever And my Will is That the said Edward Savage shall be maynteyned by my wife with Apparrell fitt for an Apprentice until such tyme as hee shall have received his said portion of Fiftie poundes. Item I bequeath unto Margarett Savage my wife the Summe of Fowertie poundes to be paid unto her immediately after my Sonne John Savage shall marrie. Item I give unto her all my household stuffe to dispose of amongst my children Exceptinge Wainscott Cupboards presses?? Tables Beddstedds and ymplements of husbandrie which I give unto the said John Savage. Item I give and bequeath to the said John Savage my second Sonne all and singular my lands and Tenements with all and singular houses barnes buildings and Appurtinamences whatsoever thereunto belonginge purchased by mee of David Lloyd Doctor of Law And of Edward Evans of

???????.. To have and to holde all the said premisses unto him and his heirs forever Exceptinge one Threepenny tasle?? or parcell of meadowground lately purchased of the said Edward Evans and lyinge at the end of Lewis Wilson?s Farme in Bodaioch. Which said parcel of meadowground I give and bequeath unto my Grandsonne Edward Savage to have and to hould to him and his heirs forever. Item I doe bequeath unto the said John Savage All my goods Cattle and Chattells not by mee formerly bequeathed And also all my Debts by Seperialtie ???? or without Together with all Corne and grayne nowe in the barne and growinge upon the premisses. Item I give unto my Daughter Audrey Goodwynne the Summe of Fyve poundes in lieu of a Childes part in regard shee hath received a greater portion alreadie. Item I give unto Margarett Savage my Grand Daughter the Summe of five poundes to be paid when she shall accomplish the age of Fowerteene yeares. Item I give unto Thomas Savage Anne Savage Audrey Savage and Jane Savage my Grandchildren the Summe of Tenne shillings a peece To be paid within fower yeares next after my decease. Item I give unto Thomas Savage my nephew one fower yeare olde redd??? Colte Item I give unto Richard Powell the Younger Two shillinges. Item I give unto Richard Roger Twelve pence Item I give unto Margarett Lewis Twelve pence Item I make John Savage my second Sonne my sole Executor of this my last Will and Testament, hopinge hee will see the same well and fairlie performed. And I doe nominate and appointe my Brother in law Thomas Hall Lewis Paxton and my nephew John Breed to bee Overseers of the same. In witnes whereof I have hereunto put my hand and seale the Daie and Yeare first above written.

Edward Savage, Sealed and delyvered in the sight and presence of Thomas Hall his mark John Breed his mark.

Bee it remembered that before the ensealinge hereof a word was blotted out in the nynth lyne and the word (Fowertie) interlined in stead thereof, The words (by my wife) interlyned in the nyneteenth lyne And the words (The Summe of Tenne shillings a peece) in the Thirtie Fowerth lyne. Witnesses hereunto Thomas Hall his mark John Breed his mark.

This above written Will was proved at Westminster before the Judges for probate of Wills and grauntinge Administration The Twentieth Daie of February in the yeare of our Lord God accordinge to the computation of the Church of England One Thousand six hundred fiftie three, By the oath of John Savage Sonne of the said deceased and Executor named in the said Will To whom was graunted Administration of all and singular the goods chattels and Debts of the said Deceased Hee beinge first legally Sworne (by vertue of a Commission) well and truly to administer the same.

Description: Will of Edward Savage of Trefeglwys, Montgomeryshire Date: 20 February 1654 Catalogue reference: PROB 11/239 Dept: Records of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury Series: Prerogative Court of Canterbury and related Probate Jurisdictions: Will Registers Piece: Name of Register: Alchin Quire Numbers: 303 - 356

This is the Last Will and Testament of Richard Ashton of ______ of ______ in the parish of Llanidloes and County Montgomery. Farmer First I do nominate & appoint Richard Ashton my son of ______ ______ _______ in the said parish of Llanidloes and County of Montgomery To be my Trustee of this my last Will and Testament. Secondly that my before mentioned Trustee Richard AshTrustee ton is to pay all my just debts and my funeral expenses and the expenses of proving this my last Will and Testament. Thirdly I give and bequeath to my before mentioned son and Richard Ashton of ______ of _______ aforesaid in the parish of Llanidloes and County of Montgomery aforesaid personaryly and singulary all the whole of my personal Estates goods and effects Chattels Household Furniture Bonds and Securities of Money and such money as may be in my house at time of my death and likewise such money as I may be entitled after my decease I do hereby utterly disallow and [discount??] all and every other former Testaments Wills Legacies Bequeaths and Executors by me in any way before named willed and bequeathed ratifying and confirming this and no other to be my last Will and Testament In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the 5th day of January 1847 - Richard Ashton (Esq??) - signed sealed published pronounced and declared by the said testator Richard Ashton as his Last Will and Testament in the presence of us the subscribers Edwd Evans Cott - Edward Evans Cerist In the Prerogative Court of Canterbury ____ the goods of Richard Ashton deceased

Description: Will of Richard Ashton, Farmer of Llanidloes , Montgomeryshire Date: 03 August 1857 Catalogue reference: PROB 11/2255 Dept: Records of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury Series: Prerogative Court of Canterbury and related Probate Jurisdictions: Will Registers Piece: Volume number: 12 Quire numbers: 551-600

The Express 23 November 1946

WILIAMS- The family for the late Mrs Williams, Old School House, Trefegwlys wish to thank all friends and neighbours for sympathy expressed to them in their sudden and sad bereavement, and to Nurse Evans and Dr Shimmin and for tributes received and attendance at the funeral.

The Gazette 26 October 1940

CLATTER

SHILOH CHAPEL - Harvest festvial services were held on Wednesday. The morning service took the form of a prayer meeting, and prayers were offered by the following: Messrs John Ashton, Wall Mill, John Thomas, Old Cwm, John Jones, Shiloh, and Maurice Davies, Llwydcoed. In the afternoon the Rev D Thomas, Llanidloes preached in English. Mr. William Jones, Glynawel, was precentor. In the evening the Rev. D. Thomas preached. There were excellent congregations throughout the day. Mrs. Morfoyd Howard was the organist.

The Gazette 7 December 1940 page 3

CLATTER

OBITUARY - The death of Mr. John Ashton, Clatter Terrace took place on Friday Nov. 29th, in his eightieth year, after an illness of about eleven weeks' duration. He had enjoyed robust health until twelve months ago, when gradually his health failed. He was a former employee of the old Cambrian Railway. He took a keen interest in singing and possessed a remarkably good tenor voice. He was a member of Shiloh Mehodist Church, and took an interest in its welfare. The funeral took lace on Monday, and was largely attended. The Rev. D. T. Rees, Caersws, took a short service, at the residence, and also officiated at Shiloh. Miss Moris, Maengwyn Shop, was at the organ, and Mr. Rd. Jones was the precentor. The remains were afterwards laid to rest in the burial adjoining. The bearers were: Messrs. Chas. Breese, Plasaudcon, William Corfield, Rhiewfienfa, Lewis Hamer, Station House, Richard Jones, Llanfacs, Richard Williams, Llwynon, and Richard Wilson, Frongain. The chief mourners were:- Mr. and Mrs. John Asthon (son and daughter in law), Mr. Richard Ashton (son), Mr. and Mrs Davies (son in law and daughter), Mrs. Thomas (daughter), Mr. and Mrs. Martin Ashton (son and daughter in law), Mr. Idwal Ashton and Mr. Douglas Ashton (sons), Mr. and Mrs. Idris Williams (son in law and daughter), Miss. Lily Ashton (daughter),, Mesrs. Walford Ashton, John Davies, Allun Davies, Wynn Ashton, Lewis Ashton, Tom Thomas, Bernard Asthon, and John Ashton Williams (grandsons), Misses. Hannah Davies, Nesta Davies, Eirlys Thomas, Betty Ashton (grand-daughters) and several other relatives. Wreaths were sent by the following:- With ever fond and loving memories of a most dear and faithful father, From all at home and Chapel House, where he will be greatly missed With fond rememberance of dear father, but God will link the broken chaiin; In loveing memory of dear father, from Martin, Sarah and family; In loving memory of dear father, from John, Bessie and Walford; In loving memory of dear father, from Maglona, Idris and Baby John; In deep sympathy, from all at Post Office and Rhiewgriafel; With deepest sympathy from Mr. and Mrs. Hamer, Station House; In fond rememberance, from David, Cross Gates. -Messrs. D. Lewis and Son, Newtown, superintended the funeral arrangements.

The Express 30 March 1940

Page 13

CLATTER

WEDDING - The wedding took place in Shiloh Methodist Church on Easter Monday, of Miss Maglona Ashton, daughter of Mr. John Ashton and the late Mrs. Ashton, 3 Clatter Terrace and Mr. Idris Williams, son of Mrs. E. A. Williams and the late Mr. D. Williams, Old School House, Trefeglwys. The Rev. D. T. Rees, Caersws, officiated. The bride was given away by her brother (Mr. John Ashton). She was attired in a blue floral dress with coat and hat to match, and carried a spray of poink carnations. She was attended by Miss Lily Ashton (sister), who was dressed in a blue costume with hat and gloves to match, and carried a spray of pink carnations. The best man was Mr. W. G. Williams (brother of the bridgegroom(, and the ushers were, Messrs R. T. Ashton and Walford G. Ashton (brothers of the bride). A large number of guest attended a reception at Pontdolgoch, after which Mr. and Mrs. Williams left on a touring honeymoon. Amongst the numerous wedding presents were a mirror from the Matron and staff of Caersws Institution (where the bridge was formely employed), and a cheque from the bridgegroom's employers (Messrs T. R. Evans and Son, Llanidloes).

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday June 30th 1874 Page 8

Marriage Rejoicings and Presentation

In our impression of the 16th inst,, we inserted a notice of the marriage of Edward Bennett, Esq., of Glanyrafon, to Miss Elizabeth Savage, of Rhydycarw, which took place on June 5th. In that notice it was stated that greater rejoicings would take place, and a presentation of place would be made on the return home of the happy pair from their marriage tour. So far as we can understand, the marriage was intended to be strickly private, or as private as matters of the kind under the laws which regulate such affairs can be, but notwithsanding all the secrecy, the public were equal to the occasion, and so far as we can learn, no marriage in the place was ever celebrated amidst so much eclat. A turn such as this may have been expected, when the position of the families of both bride and bridegroom are taken into consideration, and we may add, nothwithstanding the wishes of the parties to the contarary, that anything less than was done would not have been commensurate with the respect which was justly due. The suddenness of the event preventing the celebration thereof in a manner equal to the wishes of the public, it was resolved to defer the more public part of the proceedings till (as before stated), after the return home of the newly wedded pair. For this purpose a committee of the most respectable inhavitants of the parish, with assistance from Llanidloes, Newtown, and elsewhere, was formed, having for their chairman the Rev. W. S. Williams, vicar, Mr. Tudor, treasurer, Mr. W. Savage, secretary. Committee - Mr. R. Greenhow, Llanidloes; Dr. Shiels, Llanidloes; William Mills, Matthew H. Davies, James Davies (Church Farm), Charles Evans (Finnant), and Mr E. H. Jones (Newtown). Collectors were appointed, who shortly were able to report subscriptions amounting to over ?60, and up to the latest moments letters were received containing subscriptions, thus evincing the sympathy of distant, as well as local friends in the event. At the committee meetings which were held, it was resolved to apply part of the money to the purchase of an elegant time piece, for a marriage present to the bride, to purchase an ox for distribution among the poor of the parish, to employ a band to give life to the proceedings, and to wind up the whole by a subscribers dinner to which the bridgegroom and members of the families were to be invited. In what follows, it will appear that the intentions of the committee were carried out, if not exceeded. It may be further started, that the ox, a fine animal, was purchased from the stock of Mr George Pryce, Penygelly, Kerry, who, as a breeder and feeder, has no superior in the county of Montgomery. The animal was consigned to the tender mercies of Mrs Edmund Bumford, Great Oak Street, Llanidloes, who admirably succeeded in making it fit for the position it was to fill in the proceedings of the day. The time piece, an exceedingly handsome article, in gilt, and onyx, with glass shade, was selected for the stock of Mr. Richard Jones, watchmakers, Llanidloes, and was worthy of the occasion.

We believe that it has not yet been mentioned that Thursday last was the day for the rejoicings, and it was only just to state, that a finer day for such a purpose could not have been selected. The sun shone brilliantly, and the fields, refreshed by the rains of the previous days, presented a most beautiful appearance, and it may be truly said that the romantic village and magnificient scenery surrounding it never looked in better trim. In keeping with the natural conditions presented, the human denizens of the neighbourhood had donned their holiday attire, and appeared determined to make the day one in reality of festivity and rejoicing. The only matter of regret is that the proceedings did not commence at an earlier hour in the day, and thus allow greater scope for those outbursts of feeling and respect which such occasions are calculated to evoke.

To describe the events of the day in their natural order, it may be necessary to say that the day opened with the ringing of the Church bells, upon which whether as regards depth or beauty of tone or the manner in which they were handled, the inhabitants can not be complimented. But the ringers did the best they could with the materials they had in hand, and the will may be fairly accepted for the deed. The next order was the arrival of the ox, duly decorated, and placed on a "bran new waggon" drawn by tree splendid animals, the property of Mr. Davies, Church Farm. The next to arrive was the Llanidloes brass band, whose sonorous tones as heard in the distance, put the villagers alive, and sent the youngesters in a crowd towards the place from whence the sound proceeded. The next was the arrival of a waggon drawn by a smart little team, the property of Mr. Evans, of Brynderwen, intended for the use of the band. Then came the hurry and bustle of forming the procession, which was not a little matter - the horses being a trifle "frangy" at frist, being unaccustomed to the noise of the band, an the "taps" on the drum. This little difficulty was soon got over, and the animals soon settled down to their work with all the steadiness of old troopers. The members of the committee and managers of the day's proceedings, beyond wearing matrimonial favours, were conspicious by the activity and earnestness with which they went about their respectives duties. By and by, all was pronounced ready, and the order to proceed being given off started the procession en route for the Finnant, a beautiful farm residence in the occupation of Mr. Thomas Evans, some half mile out of the village, on the Caersws road. At the Finnant, we understand, the band and crowd were handsomely received by Mr Evans. It may be stated that it was intended to visit Bodaiach, but on account of the serious illness of the housekeeper, this part of the performance was wisely left out. After having done the village, where a copious supply of beer to the band and others was issued by the Hostess of the Red Lion, whose hostelry was the grand centre of the day's proceedings. Matters completed here the procession started off for Rhyd-y-carw, in doing so, those who were strangers to the neighbourhood had a sample of the roads in the upper part of Montgomeryshire, and the necessity which existed for the adoption of the Highways Acts. Here it may be said that any little labour which was end tired trudging after the waggon was amply for the first time in panoramic fashion, may have been unfolded to the eye. We ask those who are fond of prying into the nooks and valleys of Wales to give the valleys of the Trannon and the Cerist a visit, and if they, with ourselves, do not arrive at the conclusion that the scenery herein displayed does not equal, if not surpass, anything that they have previously seen, it is very evident that they have no eye for the beautiful. Arrived at Rhyd-y-Carw, those who had the courage to find their way there had the mortification to find that Mr. Bennett, unaware of the intended visit, had left home for Glanyrafon in the morning, and had not yet returned when the procession arrived. However, Mrs. Bennett was equal to the occasion, and discharged the duties of host and hostess with fitting liberality. Upon leaving Rhyd-y-Carw the procession returned to the village, where the process of cutting up and dividing the ox was commenced, and for upwards of two hours the knight of the cleaver and the distributor committee had a warn and arduous task f it, but this was eventually got through, the list made out by Mr William Jones enabling the distributors to despatch the affair with celerity and satisfaction. It may now be stated that the committee, finding in the afternoon that they had surplus funds at their command, resolved to expend part therof in rural sports, and, withdrawing the company from the village to a field at the back thereof, for nearly two hours some spirited races for teac and tobacco were run, and other sports indulged in, not forgetting the never-to-be-forgotten game of "kiss in the ring", which on this occasion had its admirers and participants; the band being fixed in one of the rings, gave the game an unusual interest. It may be stated, and it is a fact which redounds to the credit of the committee, that although the public houses did a good business during the day, none of the subscribers' money was expended in beer. This is an example worthy of emulation.

At the time it may be said that the labours of our reporter came to an end, the arrangements of the train necessitating him to leave whilst the dinner (which to many by this time had become a necessity) was still in prospective. It will thus be seen that the remaining parts of this report have been supplied by esteemed correspondents in the neighbourhood.

The Dinner

took place about 6.30, at the Red Lion Hotel, when a sumptuous and highly commendable supply of the best was served up by Mrs Humphreys. About 60 persons sat down. Owing to the smallness of the room the company had to sit down in relays, the first consisting of the Rev. D. S. Williams, vicar, who presided; E. Bennett, Esq., Nicholas Bennett, Esq., Evan Woosnam Savage, Esq., Mr Greenhow, Dr. Shiels, Llanidloes, &c., &c. For the reason above stated the dinner was a long affair, and had not closed when the presentation was made,

The Presentation

was arranged to take place in the National Schools, at 8 o' clock. At the time appointed the room was densely crowded, so much so that it was with difficulty that those who were appointed to take part in the proceedings could proceed to their proper places. This company included, the bride and bridgegroom, N. Bennett, Esq., Mr. and Mrs. Woosnam Savage, Mr. and Mrs. Greenhow, Mr. and Mrs. Ceiriog Hughes, and a large number of the elite of the neighbourhood. When all was in readiness, the Vicar, who was deputed to make the presentation said: Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, - I have been highly honoured by the committee of to-day's proceedings in being appointed their representative to present you with this elegant time-piece, for a memorial in your family of the happy and important event of your marriage. As a comparative stranger within the parish I have had in the last few weeks ample proof that you both and your respective families stand eminently high in the estimation of your neighbours in general, as well as in the affection of readiness exhibited in subscribing and willingness in co-operating to celebrate our marriage rejoicing in great respect your acquaintances have for you. And now, on behalf of the subscribers, I desire you to accept this small tribute of respect at our hands. May your late marriage be the means of adding much to your future happiness; and may God, in his mercy, grant you a long and prosperous life, to enjoy the company of each other. And when this life will be at an end, may you both meet together in a happier world, as a brother and sister of your Lord and Saviour, to live for ever with Him. Again I say that I, in the name of the numerious subscribers, and on behalf of the committee, present you with this handsome and elegant time-piece.

Mr. Edward Bennett, in accepting the valuable and beautiful time piece, and he was deeply impressed in two way, for he never believed he had half the number of friends around him. It grieved him greatly to find the trouble which had been taken, and the kindness from its excessiveness and unmeritedness, was in some respects unkind and a source of pain. To soothe that pain he had he pleasure of believing that the number of his friends and well-wishers were twenty times as large as he anticipated. On behalf of Mrs. Bennett and himself he begged to tender his most sincere thanks. (Loud applause).

Complimentary remarks were afterwards made by Mr. R. Greenhow and Mr. J. Ceiriog Hughes, after which these proceedings closed, the Vicar and his company returning to the dining room, where the usual after dinner speeches were made.

Another dinner was provided for the occasion by Mr. and Mrs. Evans, of he Belle Vue, to which a large number sat down.

It may be stated that before parting it was proposed by Mr. Ceiriog Hughes, seconded my Mr. W. Savage, that votes of thanks be given to Mr. Davies, Church farm, and Mr. Evans, Brynderwen for the loan of their teams and waggons. The vote was ably acknowledged by Mr. James Davies.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express May 26th 1874 Page 8

Trefeglwys The late accident - we are much pleased to find that the sufferers in the later trap accident have or are fastly recovering. Mr David Evans of the Belle Vue Inn, about whose condition many fears were expressed, having almost wonderfully recovered. Though weak, he is able to do business.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday June 2nd 1874 Page 8

The Van Mines

Typhoid Fever - we are sorry to be informed that typhoid fever in a malignant form has broken out in this neighbourhood, this being attributed to a defect in the drainage.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday June 16th 1874 Page 6

Trefeglwys

Marriage Rejoicing - Friday June 5th was a day of musical rejoicing in the quiet village, being the celebration of the marriage of Mr E. Bennett of Glanyrafon and Miss E. Savage, of Rhydycarw. At the break of day scores of willing hands were to be seen erecting arches &c, along the route leading to the church. The first one, as the carriages entered Trefeglwys, was a good substantial arch with a well executed motto of crimson letters on a white ground, "Long life and happiness to Mr and Mrs Bennett", and on the other side an elegant design in ivy leaves on a pink ground of two hearts united with wreaths and monogram, the handiwork of Miss Lizzie Savage, Mr W Savage and Mr John Savage, Pwllglass. In the church the choir had assembled and led by Mrs Ashton, Llanidloes, sang sweetly "The Marriage Hymn" from "Hymns Ancient and Modern", Miss Ashton presiding at the harmonium. That lady also played with much taste "The Wedding March" on the wedding party leaving the church. The church was neatly decorated with flowers by Mrs Ceiriog Hughes, especially the altar and east window, and the lamps on the aisle with pretty leaves of ferns and flowers. The booming of the cannon announced the arrival of the first carriage, containing Messrs N. Bennett, E. Bennett, and E. W. Savage. The bride was given away by her uncle, the much respected Squire Woosnam of Bodaioch Hall. She wore a rich dress of grey moire with Honiton lace mantle, bonnet, and fall. On leaving the church, the wedding party were hailed with a shower of roses, while little girls dressed in white strewed flowers the whole length of the path. At the entrance of the churchyard Mr and Mrs Lloyd of Talgarth, had made a pretty floral bower with appropriate motto. Mrs Hughes, The Green had a flag with the words "May God Bless Them" worked in a laurel of leaves and flowers. A handsome arch was erected by Mr Mills and his friends with the motto "Let us be merry", and another arch on a similar scale by Mr Humphries (smith's shop), completed the village's decorations; but we hear that Mr Tudor had erected some elaborate bowers near Bodaioch Hall. The wedding party drove off to the hall where a magnificant luncheon awaited them, prepared by Mrs E.W. Savage and the Miss Pryce, Maes Mawr, which for elegance and taste would perhaps astonish even Bolland. The health of the bride and bridgegroom having being proposed by the worthy vicar, the Rev. W. S. Williams, it was as warmly and as pithily responded to by Mr E. Bennett. Appropriate speeches were also made by Mr N. Bennett, Mr Woosnam and Mr E. W. Savage. The bridal pair left early in the afternoon for Caersws en route for London, amid showers of old slippers, the firing of a cannon, and ringing of bells. When we look at the position of both parties, and the fact that the two families are the oldest in the neighbourhood, we cannot wonder at the great heartiness of the demonstrations. Similar rejoicings were held at Llawryglyn. We understand there is to be a presentation of plate (subscribed for by their very numerous friends) to Mr and Mrs Bennett on their return.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday March 24th 1874 Page 5

Trefeglwys

Meeting of the School Board

A special meeting of the Board was held on the 19th inst. Present: N Bennett Esq, chairman; M. H. Davies Esq; Mr David Vaughan; Mr Thos Ashton. The Chairman in the opening the proceedings explained that the cause of convening the meeting was for the purpose of winding up their accounts, before going out of office; and addressing the other members, said - Gentlemen, this meeting, you are aware, will terminate our services for the three years, we are elected members of this Board. Or reappointment goes far to say that what we have done has given generosity to our parishoners. I am sorry to learn that Mr Savage is unable to continue to be a member of our Board. I shall sincerely say that I shall very much feel his loss. I believe that we all felt when first appointed that we had an onerous duty to perform; and by looking back and reviewing our three years work we can congratulate each other that much has been done and done well, the Board having met for the dispatch of business not less than 43 times; and it is gratifying to observe that all resolutions that are passed in our term of office have been unanimously carried out, without at all dinding the the Board. I believe that all present will agree with me that great praise is due for Mr W. Jones for the able manned in which he discharged the duties devolving upon him as clerk to our Board; the great mass of correspondence which has been carried on in transacting our business must have severely taxed his energies, and yet the work of our Board was ahead of all our neighbours. We opened the first new Board school in Wales I believe. This shows that we did not cowardly lurk to watch the progress of other Boards, and afterwards try to do what they did. No, we moved on in the path of duty with rapid strides, until we accomplished the work set out for us by the Elementary Education Act. We have provided school accomodation for all the children of school age - or in other words, we have made good the deficiency that existed; but we cannot afford to rest here. Certainly, we have erected the machinery and set it in motion, and have the gratification to see that it works admirably well, but we must still exercise diligance and care to keep it in working order. That, I am confident that we can accomplish by continuation of that mutual co-operation which has hitherto existed and the further assistance which we expect to have from the new member. Although we all regret the loss of Mr Savage's services, I think a better selection could not have been made, Mr Davies being a man of sterling worth, a man that will not flinch from his post in time of need; and as there was the necessity of having new blood infused into the Board; it must be gratifying to behold that it is healthy blood. There is one thing of vital importance which I cannot well pass unnoticed i.e. the expense of putting up this machinery. The next thing that will command our attention will be the expense of working it. Although, in the one sense we are the guardians of Education in the parish, we must not overide our hobby and forget the ratepayers, as you are aware we have been obliged to borrow ?1,563 for building purposes, the repayment to be spread over 50 years which will annually cost the ratepayers of this parish 2 3/4d in the pound during that period. Unfortunately the parish is extensive in area, and the ratable value not high in proportion. It is also naturally divided into three centres of population which compelled us to provide three schools. Had we been able to do with two, it would have been very different, not only in the building but in the working also; and I think the time is not far distant when we must seriously take into consideration the interests of the ratepayers as regards to the working of these schools, and as far as practicable, to combine utility with economy. In concluding I wish most sincerly to thank all for the cordail feeling that has hitherto existed, and the valuable services you have rendered, and I am also quite confident of a continuation of the same. (Hear, hear).

Mr THOMAS ASHTON: on behalf of myself, and brother members I beg to return thannks for the very complimentary manner in which our worthy Chairman has addressed us, and rather feat that we have had more than our due. But I think we shall be wanting in courtesy if we pass over in silence the duties performed by our Treasurer. The able manner in which Mr Davies has done his work must be viewed with general satisfaction. It must take up considerable time and care to collect the school fees from the teachers, and to forward them to his banker, and to keep the books correct respecting these and other monies. When we consider that this is done without any remuneration, the least we can do is to sincerely thank him, and at the same time to solicit the continuance of his services under the new Board; but properly speaking, this belongs more to the work of the next meeting. I can fully endorse all that our worthy Chairman has said, and beg to return my sincerest thanksfor the able and impartial manner he has conducted his business of the Board for the last 3 years. He has punctually attended nearly every meeting, never forsaking the helm in time of need; the result is that our ship is safely moored in the harbour in good condition, and ready for another voyage.

Mr W. JONES: My Chairman and gentlemen, I beg to return my sincerest thanks for the very flattering expressions used in reference to my humble and imperfect services as your Clerk. It appears that you are much better pleased with my work than I am myself. I wish I had been able to do my work better, and in that case there would have been no further praise due to me than that of doing my duty. The deep interest taken and the active part displayed by you, has rendered my work comparatively light and easy to what it might have otherwise been.

Cheques were drawn upon the treasurer to pay all outstanding liabilities, there leaving the road clear for the new Board. -The new Board will meet for the first time on the 2nd April.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday February 10th 1874

Trefeglwys

Meeting of the School Board

A meeting of the Board was held on Thursday last, Mr E. W. Savage, the vice chairman presiding. -The minutes of the preceding meeting were taken as read, and signed. -Mr Savage, in opening the proceedings, said that he deeply regretted the circumstance which compelled him to occupy the chair upon the present occasion, that the gentleman who so ably and faithfully filled the same from the commencement (nearly three years ago) up to the present time was now prevented from attending due to a severe indisposition; that it was an undeniable fact that much credit is due to Mr Bennett for the candid and straightforward manner in which the business of this Board has hitherto conducted. It is gratifying to behold that the means of education were placed within the reach of every child in the parish. The Staylittle school had been opened on the 26th ultimo under the most promising auspices. A great number of grown up young men attended the evening school, among the number were several married men. Even one married woman availed herself the opportunity of attending the day school. This may appear rather strange, as it is unusual; but the woman is right enough at last. She accepted of a husband when she had the chance, and she does the same with education. No one can deny but that she had gone to school sooner had there been one in reach. Now that all the schools in the parish were in full working order, the next duty devolving the Board was to convince careless parents that it was their duty to cause their children to attend. -Mr E. Richard, the school warden, was called in to report for the first time on the attendance of the children at the school. The officer explained that he had not visited any houses in the neighbourhood of Staylittle, as the school had only been opened a few days ago. His book had recorded that he had visitied the parents of 68 children not attending school, 16 of which have attended since and the greatest part had promised to do so as soon as circumstances would permit. Some could not be sent until supplied with new shoes, coats &c. Some desired leave for their children to attend every other week, their services being required to nurse baby, or a sick mother. One parent was willing for the children to go to school when they had othing else to do. Another complained that he could not find proper clothing for all the children to appear decently at school, while it is known that he found the means of paying for a gun licence and the tax upon a game dog. Edward Evans of Cwmpellaf attended the meeting to show cause why his children did not attend school, he having being served by the officer with a notice, which contained a footnote to the following effect - "That if he desired to give any reason or explanation, for not complying to attend a meeting of the Board to do so, and that full consideration would be given to any statement he might think fit to make". Accordingly he attended to inform the Board that he had five children between the ages of six and twelve years, that he was too poor to properly clothe any of them so as to be fit to appear in society, and besides he could not spare any of them. He occupied a few acres of land, kept a cow or two, and the fences were imperfect, and he wanted the children to take care of them and to keep the sheep and cattle of his neighbours off the land. He was himself bound to go from home to gather food for them. As a rule the family was supplied with bread by appealing to the benevolence of the neighbouring farmers for corn. The clothes, or rather rags, that covered the kids came from a similar source. He had never been able to find anyone of them with a new suit of clothes at once; consequently not one of them had ever been to Sunday School, although there is one ketp at a cottage in the immediate vicinity. Not one of them had ever attended a place of worship from the time of their birth and he most emphatically declared that, unless he was allowed to keep his children in his own way, without at all being interfered with, he would be bound to become a pauper at once. He could not even promise to send one to school under present circumstances, although he admitted that it would be well if the the children were educated. -The Board was startled at the disclosure, and found no difficulty in unanimously passing a resolution that his case merited their most earnest attention. Such cases as this had been the means of calling the Education Act into existence, and if this be allowed to pass the power to deal with others will be lost. The Board is resolved to do the work it is undertaken to do, irrespective of the consequences taking for granted that the indigency of the parents will be looked into by the proper authorities.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday March 17th 1874 Page 6

Trefeglwys

Education Matters - The day for retirement for members the School Board is on 24th March. A new Board will be elected on the 19th March. A meeting of the ratepayers was held at the New Board School, Llawyrglyn, on Thursday the 5th instant, for the purpose of agreeing who should be nominated as members to constitute the new Board and if possible to avoid the expense and turmoil of going to the poll. The Rev. W. S. Williams vicar presided. The attendance was large in comparison to other church vesteries - Mr G. W. Savage, vice chairman, the only member of the School Board, that attended the meeting said that he was determined to retire on the account of the pressure of business which prevented him from attending to his duties devolving upon him as a member of the Board. As the other members did not attend it was at once taken for granted that they were open to be re-elected - Mr R. Jones, the chairman of the Board be nominated for re-election - Mr J. Jones Cwmgwernog seconded that the motion, which had been unanmiously carried. Three other members of the Board were also nominated and Mr Edward Davies of Cyffiah to fill up the vacancy caused by the retirement of Mr Savage, thus making up the required number and no more. While the Clerk was preparing nomination papers, the subject of the amount of fees paid by children in the Board schools was moted by the chairman. It was shown that the fees were lower than the neighbouring parishes; the result was an undue pressure on the ratepayers, and whether or not it would be desirable that this meeting should pass a resolution to ask the new Board, when constituted, to rescind that part of the rules laid down by the old Board as regards to payment of school fees, and to substitute them with new rules, whereby these parents that can afford may be called upon to pay the full amount of costs of educating their children. A long and free discussion followed when Mr David Evans, Belle Vue, moved "That it is desirable that this meeting should pass a resolution disapproving of the amount of fees as now paid by the children in the Board schools. And that the new Board be called upon to take the same into consideration with the view of compelling such parents that can afford the means to pay in full". -Mr Thomas Bennett, Cilhaul, seconded the motion - Mr E. W. Savage reminded the gentlemen present that they had at that meeting nominated the whole of the members of the Board, excepting himself, for reelection, which in effect, was a vote of confidence, and he considered that it would be inconsistent that the ratepayers should put a number of gentlemen in office and after were to dictate to them how they were to do their work. Several others took the same view of the matter. The Chairman, however not considering it an amendment pro formac consequently did not put it to the meeting. -Mr Benjamin Brunt, of Maes-y-blawd, proposed an amendment to the effect that this meeting fully approve of the rule laid down by the old Board respecting the school fees, and that as far as brought to bear upon the action of the new Board, that no alteration be made. -This was seconded by Mr W. Jones, Esceirieth. -The chairman in an impartial manner put the amendment first to the meeting, when several hands were instantly held up. The original motion was afterwards offered only three voting for it. The Chairman declared the amendment carried. The vote of thanks to the Chairman terminated the proceedings.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday January 27 1874 Page 5

Llanidloes

Testimonial to Miss Margaret Ashton

On Thursday last, this young lady was presented with a purse containing ?10 10s which had been subscribed by a number of principal ladies and gentleman of the town and neighbourhood, as well as few friends on the occasion of her leaving the Infant National Schools at the expiration of her apprenticeship, and also as a testimony and recognition of her services as a singer in the choir of the parish church of Llanidloes.

We subjoin the address of Lient. Col. Hunter, who very kindly consented to make the presentaion, the following ladies and gentleman being present: - Rev. R. H. Jones, rector, occupying the chair, Mrs and Miss Hunter, Mrs R. Harris Jones, Mrs Marshall and Miss Bailey, John Jenkins, Esq., Penygreen, Samuel Ikin Esq., Mr David Lloyd Kinsey, &c.

"At the request, Miss Ashton, of the ladies and gentleman here present, it will be my pleasing privilege before we part to place in your hands a purse, the contents of which have been contributed by your friends, as a token of their esteem, their regard, and the interest they take in your welfare, as a token moreover of their appreciation of the zeal and ability of which you have a considerable time performed the important duties of a teacher in our National School, as a token too of their appreciation of the good, kind and amiable qualities which have gained for you the affection and respect, I understand of all the young persons who have been placed in your care and superintendence. You are now about to enter upon a new course of studies, to reap the benefits, let us hope, of the inestimable benefits of a liberal education. In the prosecution of your new studies, you must be prepared to meet with far from discouraging you, ought only to act as a stimulus to greater exertions, and such greater exertions will not be without their reward, for rely upon it, few things are found to add so keen a zest to the enjoyments of our chequered existence, or so swely to console us for its disappointments, as the consiousness of difficulities encountered and overcome in the patient, zealous, and conscientious discharge of our respective duties, and to ensure this happy result our only requisite allies are industry and perseverance. I cannot say goodbye to you Miss Ashton without expressing the hope that it may please God to bless you with health and strength sufficient to enable you to cope with the duties, however arduous, of any position in which you may hereafter be placed without expressing the hope that in your future career you may be destined to obtain all the success, to enjoy all the happiness and prosperity which your best friends could desire.

Miss Margaret Ashton in very appropriate terms, expressed her gratitude for the great kindness shewn to her.

A very coordial vote of thanks was accorded to Mr Ikin for the active part which he took in collecting subscriptions to Col. Hunter for making the presentation, and to the Rev. R.H. Jones for occupying the Chair.

The Newtown and Welshpool Express Tuesday February 10th 1874

Page 6

Llanidloes

Working Men's Institute. An entertainment in connection with the above institution was given at the Public Rooms. W. A. Davies Esq. mayor in the chair. In every respect it certainly was one of the best committees had ever got up. There was a good attendance with the whole front seats being quite filled. The following programme, An address on Egypt and the Holy Land, illustrated by costumes and manners of the country, also various representations of different objects by Mr. E. R. Cleaton; duet "When the swallow homeward fly" the Misses Ashton; song "Kitty Tyrrel", Mrs Ikin; duet "Music on the waves", the Misses Marshall; song "Let me like a solider fall", Mr. G. Webb; song "Within a mile", Miss M. Ashton; song "Warrier bold", Mr. J. D. Davies; duet "Country courtship", Miss M. E. Ikin and Mr. Ikin; son "I really don't think", Miss Rees; song Mr. J. O. Pugh; duet "The minute gun", Misses Ashton; trio Messrs Pugh, Davies and Hamer. Mr. E. R. Cleaton (who takes deep interest in the welfare of the Institute) is deserving of very great praise for the trouble he took in connection with the lecture of the Holy Land &c. It was delivered in his usual good style, and the costumes, &c, were very magnificant indeed. The address throughout was most instructive and amusing and very unanimous vote of thanks was recorded to him at the close of the meeting. The musical portion of the programme cannot be too highly spoken of and almost everything received an encore, for so well did the performers all acquit themselves.

RG12-4400-f110-p4 ED47B

Grangetown, Canton, Cardiff 36, Clive Street

John Ashton h m 36 lab Tredegar English Jemimah Ashton w m 36 Tredegar Both Eliz Ashton d 12 Cardiff English Ada Ashton d 7 Cardiff English Beatrice Ashton d 5 Cardiff English

RG12-4400-f131-p15 ED 47c

Grangemouth, Canton, Cardiff

13, St Mathias? Terrace

Roger Ashtwn h m 70 labourer Newtown, MTG (both Welsh + English) Eliz. Ashton w m 67 Nantmel, RAD, English William Ashton s u 24 labourer Tredegar, MON English Mary Dyke? sis w 69 Nantmel, RAD English

Roger ASHTON Head M Male 59 Cashire, Montgomery, Wales Dock Labourer Elizabeth ASHTON Wife M Female 50 Nanturgh, Radnorshire, Wales William ASHTON Son U Male 15 Tredegar David ASHTON Son U Male 13 Tredegar Thomas ASHTON Son U Male 11 Tredegar

Source Information: Dwelling 74 Holmesdale St Census Place Llandaff, Glamorgan, Wales Family History Library Film 1342271 Public Records Office Reference RG11 Piece / Folio 5283 / 61 Page Number 19

14, West Lane, Tredegar

Roger Ashton h m 50 Fireman Treveglais (sic), Montgomery Elizabeth Ashton w m 40 Firemans wife Poh? Nantmill (sic) RAD John Ashton s u 17 Fireman Tredegar, MON Elizabeth Ashton s 15 Scholar Tredegar, MON Edward Ashton s 13 Scholar Tredegar, MON Jane Ashton d 10 Scholar Tredegar, MON Matilda Ashton d 8 - Tredegar, MON Ann Ashton d 6 - Tredegar, MON William Ashton s 4 - Tredegar, MON David Ashton s 2 - Tredegar, MON Thomas Ashton s 6m - Tredegar, MON

Newtown Enumeration District, Parish of Trefeglwys

Bronhaul, H0107-2496/f329/p4

ASHTON Jane, h, m, 57, Weaver, flannel, MGY Trefeglwys ASHTON Richard, s, u, 17, Weaver, flannel, MGY Trefeglwys ASHTON William, s, u, 15, Deaf & Dumb, MGY Trefeglwys

H0107-1436 ED7

description:- From Penycor to Cwmbwnant in an easterly direction RD of Llanidloes Lower. Parish of Trefeglwys, Township of Dolgwden and Bodaioch (part of) Township.

Place was called Grand....?? not very clear. There was a place called Talgarth Mill nearby.

Thomas Ashton 45 Weaver Y Jane Ashton 45 Y David Ashton 10 Y Richard Ashton 7 Y William Ashton 5 Y

H0107-2448-167-9

20, Queens Square, Tredegar

Ashton Thomas h m 57 Grocer's Porter Trefeglwys, MGY Ashton Roger s u 30 Coacher Trefeglwys, MGY Ashton John s u 23 Coacher Trefeglwys, MGY Ashton David s u 21 Dragger Trefeglwys, MGY Ashton Ann d u 26 Trefeglwys, MGY

Ty Isaf, Llangynidr, Breconshire

RG9 4216/f113/p44

HOWELLS Richard, h, m, 49, farmer, BRE Llangynidr, HOWELLS Jennet, w, m, 35, , BRE Cantref, HOWELLS John, s, u, 23, farmer's son, BRE Llangynidr, HOWELLS David, s, , 1, , BRE Llangynidr, HOWELLS Jemima, d, , 9, , BRE Llangynidr, JAMES Elizabeth, sv, u, 16, domestic servant, BRE Llangynidr, ASHTON Thomas, sv, m, 67, farm labourer, MGY Trefeglwys,

RG10-5584/f96/p29

Prince Town, Llangynidr, Breconshire

DAVIES Benjamin, h, m, 39, farm labourer, BRE Llangynidr DAVIES Jane, w, m, 47,, BRE Llangynidr ASHTON Thomas, ld, w, 76, farm labourer, MGY Llanidloes

Edward HAMER Head M Male 44 Llanidloes, Montgomery, Wales Hotel Proprietor Louisa HAMER Wife M Female 43 Llanidloes, Montgomery, Wales Edward Davies HAMER Son U Male 20 Llanidloes, Montgomery, Wales Student Of Theology Frederick HAMER Son U Male 18 Llanidloes, Montgomery, Wales Apprentice Chemist George HAMER Son U Male 16 Llanidloes, Montgomery, Wales Scholar David Davies HAMER Son Male 12 Aberystwith, Cardigan, Wales Scholar Marie Louisa HAMER Daur Female 2 Aberystwith, Cardigan, Wales John HAMER Brother Male 25 Llanidoes, Montgomery, Wales Accountant Sarah Anne POWELL Serv U Female 28 Aberdare, Glamorgan, Wales Assistant Housekeeper William Kennie BURMAN Visitor M Male 57 London Aldgate, Middlesex, England Commercial Traveller (Chemist) Frank Jackson BRIGGS Visitor M Male 31 Sheffield, York, England Commercial Traveller (Cutlery) Samuel WADE Visitor M Male 35 Truro, Cornwall, England Commercial Traveller (Mineral Water) Thomas Jenkin WILLIAMS Visitor U Male 29 Pembroke Dock, Pembroke, Wales Commercial Traveller (Drapery) Philip CARPENTER Visitor U Male 25 Huntingdon, England Commercial Traveller Publishing Louisa Anne DEAKIN Serv W Female 39 Castle Town, Isle of Man, England Cook (Dom) Catherine EVANS Serv U Female 28 Llanychaiarn, Cardigan, Wales General Servant (Dom) Susan PRITCHARD Serv U Male 27 Llancynfelin, Cardigan, Wales General Servant (Dom) Jane EDWARDS Serv U Female 21 Llanfihangel, Cardigan, Wales General Servant (Dom) Sarah LLOYD Serv U Female 24 Llanrhystid, Cardigan, Wales General Servant (Dom) Margaret E. JAMES Serv U Female 18 Llanbrynmair, Montgomery, Wales General Servant (Dom) Margaret JONES Serv U Female 18 Llancynfelin, Cardigan, Wales General Servant (Dom) Catherine REES Serv U Female 17 Aberystwith, Cardigan, Wales General Servant (Dom) Margaret JONES Serv U Female 20 Llanfihangel, Cardigan, Wales General Servant (Dom) William JONES Serv U Male 30 Tregaron, Cardigan, Wales Porter (Inn Serv) James THOMAS Serv U Male 24 Fishguard, Pembroke, Wales Billiard Marker Mary THEOPHILUS Serv U Female 19 Llanbadarnfawr, Cardigan, Wales General Servant

Dwelling 21 & 22 Marine Terrace (Belle View Royal Hotel) Census Place Aberystwith, Cardigan, Wales Family History Library Film 1342310 Public Records Office Reference RG11 Piece / Folio 5445 / 61 Page Number 17

Mary THEOPHILUS Female

Other Information: Birth Year <1862> Birthplace Llanbadarnfawr, Cardigan, Wales Age 19 Occupation General Servant Marital Status U Head of Household Edward HAMER Relation Serv Disability

Mary EDWARDS Wife (Head) M Female 46 Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Charwoman Isaac EDWARDS Son U Male 17 Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Iron Foundryman Richard EDWARDS Son Male 4 Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales

Source Information: Dwelling 19 Mill St Census Place Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Family History Library Film 1342310 Public Records Office Reference RG11 Piece / Folio 5445 / 91 Page Number 17

Mary EDWARDS Female

Other Information: Birth Year <1835> Birthplace Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Age 46 Occupation Charwoman Marital Status M Head of Household Mary EDWARDS Relation Wife (Head) Disability

Isaac EDWARDS Male

Other Information: Birth Year <1864> Birthplace Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Age 17 Occupation Iron Foundryman Marital Status U Head of Household Mary EDWARDS Relation Son Disability

Richard EDWARDS Male

Other Information: Birth Year <1877> Birthplace Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Age 4 Occupation Marital Status Head of Household Mary EDWARDS Relation Son Disability

David THEOPHILUS Head U Male 75 Llanbadarnfawr, Cardigan, Wales Shoemaker John W. EVANS Nephew U Male 16 Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Mariner

Source Information: Dwelling 8 Mill St Census Place Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Family History Library Film 1342310 Public Records Office Reference RG11 Piece / Folio 5445 / 89 Page Number 14

David THEOPHILUS Male

Other Information: Birth Year <1806> Birthplace Llanbadarnfawr, Cardigan, Wales Age 75 Occupation Shoemaker Marital Status U Head of Household David THEOPHILUS Relation Head Disability

John W. EVANS Male

Other Information: Birth Year <1865> Birthplace Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales Age 16 Occupation Mariner Marital Status U Head of Household David THEOPHILUS Relation Nephew Disability

Y

Deonglydd Berniadol

Neu

Eglurhad Manel Ar Bob Adnod

Yn Y

Testament Newydd,

Er Gwasanaeth

Yr Ysgolion Sabbothol

Gan Y Parch. John Jones, (Idrisyn) Ficer Llandysilio, Ceredigion

Y Pumed Agradffiad

Wrexham Argaffwyd a Chyhoeddwyd Gan Hughes & Son

E. A. Williams Born in the Year 1865

Sarah Anne Williams the daughter of David and Elizath Ann Williams his wife was born at 34 Church Road Ton Ystrad on the 18th August 1885 (Tuesday)

D Wms

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Mary Elizabeth the daughter of David and Elizabeth Ann Williams was born at 31 Victoria St Ton Ystrad on the 4th September 1887 (Sunday)

D Wms

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Willam Thomas Williams the Son of David and Elizabeth Ann Williams born at 28 Victoria St Ton Pentre on Marsh the 6 1890, died on the 19th June 1890 and buried on June 23rd in The Tresoky Cemetry. Deep regret

D Wms

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David Stanley Williams the Son of David and Elizabeth Anne Williams was born at 28 Victoria St Ton Ystrad Rhondda Valley Glam on the 12th April 1891 (Saturday). Was christended on the 30th of May by Revd J Rees ?Curble at Ystradfodwg Parish Church

D Wms

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Gwen Williams the Daughter of David and Elizth Ann Williams was born on the 25 day of June 1893 at 28 Victoria St Ton (Sunday)

D Wmns

Gladys Williams the daughter of David and Elizabeth Anne Williams his wife was born at 33 Thompson St Ynysyb__ on the 7th Sept 1895 (Saturday 11pm)

D Wms

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Blodwen Wylde the daughter of David and Elizabeth Ann Williams his wife was born at the Belle Vue Trefeglwys Mont on Wednesday the 9th day of Nov 1898 at 11.15pm

D Wms

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Victor Robert the son of David and Elizabeth Anne Williams his wife was born at The Belle Vue Inn Trefeglwys on Oct 14th 1900 at 15 minutes to 12pm (Sunday night)

D Wms

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Phyllis May the daughter of David and Elizabeth Ann Williams his wife was born at the Belle Vue Inn Trefeglwys on Friday the 14 day of Feb 1902 at 7am. Christened on the 23rd March by Rev E Edwards Vicar (Palm Sunday)

D Wms

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Blanche Elvira the daughter of David and Elizabeth Anne Williams his wife was born at the Belle Vue Inn Trefeglwys on Tuesday Feb 16 1904 at 11am. Christened on 27th of March by the Rev JH Rowlands (Palm Sunday)

D Wms

Gladys Williams the daughter of David and Elizabeth Ann Williams died on Tuesday morning April 25 from Croup and was enterred at Trefeglwys Church Yard on Friday April 28th 1899 aged 3yrs and 7 months. With deep regret from all who knew her

D Wms

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Victor Robert Williams the son of David and Elizabeth Ann Williams his wife died on Sunday morning Dec 30 1900 probably from internal convulsions and was enterred at Trefeglwys Church Yard on Wednesday Jan 2nd 1901 aged 11 weeks (deeply regretted)

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Trevor Reginald Williams the son of David and Elizabeth Ann his wife was born at the Belle Vue Inn Trefeglwys on Monday the 1st day of Janry 1906 at 12.20pm

D Wms

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Wheldon Glynn Williams the son of David and Elizabeth Ann his wife was born at the Pleasant View Trefeglwys on Sunday Jan 16th 1910 at 8pm. Christened Mar 20th 1910. Palm Sun

D Wms

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Idris Williams Born at Pleasant View Trefeglwys on July 22nd 1906 2.30pm Sun

Matthew Williams Nanty Derw Trefeglwys was killed at the spot in the Van Mines underground on the 9 of August 1888 and was enterred in Trefeglwys church yard on Sunday the 12th of August 1888 with 480 friends accompaning his corps to its everlasting place (D Williams)

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In Loving Memory of Dear Dada (David Williams) who departed this life February 7th 1920 age 63 years was interred at Trefeglwys Church Yard on the following Wednesday. The Vicar Rev J H Rowlands Officiating

Deep regret

E. A. Williams

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(David Stanley Williams)

In Loving Memory of Dear Stanley who was killed on the spot on Oct 16 1929 and was interred at Treorky Cemetery on Oct 19 1929

Deep Regret

E. A. Williams

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(Elizabeth Ann Williams)

In loving memory of Dear Mama who departed this Life November 15th 1946 age 80 years was interred at Trefeglwys Church yard on Tuesday 19 Nov The Rev. E. Evans officiating

Deep regrets from all children

In Loving Memory of Dear Phyllis who Died on April 29th 1967 Was Cremated 5th May 1967

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In Memory of Dear Wheldon who Died on Nov 20th 1970 & was buried at Dolhafren Cemetery Nov 24th

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In memory of Dear Mary Elizabeth who Died on May 25th 1966 and was buried at Dolhafren Cemetery May 27th 1966

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In memory of Dear Henry James Castle (husband of Mary Elizabeth) who Died on September 23rd 1965 and was buried at Dolhafren Cemetery Sept 25th

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In memory of Dear Blodwen Wilde Pryce who Died on September 5th 1971 and was buried at Trefeglwys Churchyard Sept 8th

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In memory of Dear James Purcell Williams (husband of Gwen) who Died on January 21st 1971 and was Committal at Elemstrey Crematorium on Jan 26th 1971

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In Memory Sarah Owen who Died on Monday ?5th March 1976 and was buried at Dolhafren Cemetery 10 March 1976

In loving memory of Maglona (wife of Idris) who Died on and was buried at Dolhafren Cemetery

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In memory of Dear Alf (husband of Phyllis) who died September 19th 1980 was Cremated 29th September 1980

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In memory of Dear Trevor Reginald who died on May 12th 1982 and was buried at Trefeglwys Churchyard May 17th 1982

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In memory of Gwen who died on October 30th 1983 and was committal at Clenstrey Crematorium on Friday 4th November 1983

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In memory of Dear Idris who died on June 3rd 1988 and was buried at Dolhafren Cemetary on June 8th 1988

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In Loving memory of Dear Maud Elizabeth (wife of Trevor Reginald) who died on 15th September 1992 and was buried at Trefelwys Churchyard

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In memory of Dear Blanche Elvira who died on 16th December 2000 and was buried and service at Trefeglwys Church on January 5th 2001 96 years old

Mama Born 1865

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Trevor Reginald Williams married Elizabeth Maud Jones on April 1933 at the Congregational Chapel Newtown

This then contains information on living family members, and on this basis I will not reproduce the full entries here.

Christian names are:

Esme Elizabeth David Benjamin Gwyneth Rosemarie Esme Elizabeth Edward Glyn Shirley Elizabeth David Glyn David Benjamin Mary Elizabeth Francis Andrew Robert

This contains information on living family members, and on this basis I will not reproduce the full entries here.

Christian names are:

Gwyneth Rosemarie Ivan Owen Jayne Louise Shirley Elizabeth Martin Edward John Damian Shane Adam James

Cwrtycadno Llanilar

Richard THEOPHILUS Head of Family Mar 60 Farmer of 70 acres Cardiganshire Llanbadarn Fawr Elizabeth THEOPHILUS Wife Mar 54 Farmer's wife Cardiganshire Llanilar Richard THEOPHILUS Son Unmar 24 Farmer's son Cardiganshire Llanilar Margaret THEOPHILUS Daur Unmar 18 Farmer's daur Cardiganshire Llanilar Thomas MATTHEW Servant Unmar 18 Farmer's servant Cardiganshire Llanilar Richard MATTHEW Servant Unmar 12 Farmer's servant Cardiganshire Llanilar Jane WILLIAMS Servant Unmar 16 Farmer's servant Cardiganshire Llangrwyfon Richard JONES Grandson Unmar 8 Scholar Cardiganshire Llanilar

Jane JENKINS 35 Charwoman Jane JENKINS 1 - Sarah THEOPHILUS 65 -

Belle Vue Llanilar

John THEOPHILUS Head Mar 55 Farmer of 70 acres Cardiganshire Llanbadarn Fawr Mary THEOPHILUS Wife Mar 54 Farmer's wife Cardiganshire Llanilar Anne THEOPHILUS Daur Unmar 30 Farmer's daur Cardiganshire Llanbadarn Fawr Jane ARCHER Daur Mar 32 Bailiff's wife Cardiganshire Llanbadarn Fawr Mary Ann Jane ARCHER Grand Daur Unmar 3 Bailiff's daur Cardiganshire Llanilar Elizabeth Emma ARCHER Grand Daur 7mo Bailiff's daur Cardiganshire Llanilar Daniel WRIGHT Serv Unmarr 15 Farmer's Farm Servant Cardiganshire Llanfihangel Catherine EVANS Serv Unmarr 15 Farmer's Farm Servant Cardiganshire Rhostie

Penyllallt

John THEOPHILUS 35 Farmer Mary THEOPHILUS 35 - Jane THEOPHILUS 14 - Mary THEOPHILUS 10 - Anne THEOPHILUS 4 - Elizabeth THEOPHILUS 1 - Richard JENKINS 20 M. S. Lewis MORGAN 15 M. S. ?Mosley DAVIES 20 Labourer

Pantmawr

Richard THEOPHILUS 65 Farmer Jane THEOPHILUS 65 - Nicholas THEOPHILUS 20 - Jane THEOPHILUS 20 - William JONES 25 M. S. Issac WILLIAMS 16 M. S. Ann EVANS 15 F. S.

Sea View Place

Issac EDWARDS Head Mar 38 Stoker Cardigan Llanbadarn Mary EDWARDS Wife Mar 35 - Cardigan Aberystwith Mary Ann EDWARDS Daur U 9 Scholar Cardigan Aberystwith Isaac EDWARDS Son U 8 Scholar Cardigan Aberystwith Elizabeth EDWARDS Daur U 5 Scholar Cardigan Aberystwith David THEOPHILUS Widow Father in Law 65 Cordwainer Cardigan Llanbadarn

High Street

David THEOPHILUS 30 Shoemaker Mary THEOPHILUS 30 John THEOPHILUS 6 Mary THEOPHILUS 5 Margaret THEOPHILUS 4 Ann THEOPHILUS 1

NLW B/1818/171 W

ELIZABETH SAVAGE OF STONEBRIDGE IN THE parish of Trefeglwys on the C- of Mont- WIDOW

29 4 1815

To grandau ELIZABETH LLOYD dau of RICHARD LLOYD by ANN HIS WIFE Clock and clock-case

To dau MARY BREES ?120-0-0

To dau ANN LLOYD ?120-0-0

To grandau ELIZABETH CHAPMAN wife of EVAN CHAPMAN 310-0-0

To the sons and daughters of JOHN ASHTON OF GESEILFA IN THE SAID PARISH BY ELIZABETH his wife WHOM I SHALL NAME

?10-0- EACH

EDWARD, JOHN, RICHARD, MARY, GEORGE, EVAN, THOMAS, ANDREW, ANN

To dau in law DOROTHY SAVAGE "the house that I now dwell in called Stondbridge, together with garden etc belonging to same, and to her heirs and assighns"

The rest to her 2 daughters Mary Brees and Ann Lloyd, who are joint executixes

Elizabeth Savage (mark)

Wit Richard Davies and William Tilsley and David Davies, stone-cutter

B/1818/171 I

Inventory of Elizabeth Savage

Wearing apparel ?1-5-0,: Old clock and dresser ?6-10-0: 2 bedsteads and bed clothes.?4-10-0: 2 old chests and timber ?2019-0: Money at Interest ?300-0-0 Total ?314-15-0

1 6 1817

Appraisers Evan Evans Finnant, and Matthew Davies