your comments
Jan Hughes, Cefn
To G Roberts... The only Dolydd I know was Joe. He used to collect insurance in the 50s. He had 2 children, Carol and Neville, his wife was called Sadie. I was in school with Carol also known as Kookie.
Thu Apr 30 08:31:12 2009
Ian Edwards, Trevor
To G Roberts, Dolydd in Welsh means meadow so the nickname may well come from this; Meadow Farm, Meadow Road or Meadow Lane etc.
Tue Mar 31 08:03:11 2009
Wil, Wrexham.
For G.Roberts. Opposite the Queens pub on Queen Street, Cefn, is Dolydd Road. A short way along, towards Bro Gwilym and on the right side is Dolydd Lane leading between some houses to Dolydd Farm. Sure to be some connection? Someone more local than I may know better but hope this helps. Wil.
Mon Mar 23 13:57:29 2009
G Roberts
Does anyone know anything about The 'Dolydds' a nickname for a Cefn family? I believe my grandmother belonged to them and whilst researching my family history, the name appeared on a grave stone in Trevynant cemetery of my great, great grandmother, Margaret Jones (Dolydd).
Wed Mar 18 09:25:40 2009
Jeff Blythin (Rhyl)
To Rob Harrison. Rob I recall your father's farm very well and your father, mother and grqandmother. I used to go to the farm from the huts to fetch milk. I also recall your father skinning a rabbit my step-father Noel Smith had shot. It was over and done with in about 10 seconds - a work of art. A very nice guy, and a very nice place to stay. I can also recall a tall young man working on the farm - I assume it was you. I hope the people who frequent the place now enjoy themselves as much as I did.
Tue Jan 6 08:02:08 2009
Spud, Cefn
Kev was not wrong, we're all mad from this village. We are proper friends all of us and we should be proud of where we're from. I love this village, you couldn't beat it. When it's snowing we'll all meet on sledges bank.
Mon Dec 29 11:26:18 2008
Alun Salisbury, Cardiff formerly Cefn Mawr
Family tree – In the early 1950s my mother took me to visit her cousin, Maldwyn, and wife Winney Jones at the Corn Mill, Mill Lane, Llangollen. I understand that Maldwyn, wife Winney and family lived at the mill for Maldwyn was foreman. My understanding is that they had three children, two daughters, one named Susan and a son Phillip. Any help tracing the family would be appreciated.
Tue Dec 9 08:51:23 2008
Genny Guy - Tarbert
To Pete, Cefn, hello. I would love to see some old photos. My dad has some old cinefilms that have been put on to dvds and I am sure David and Minnie are on these. I am the granddaughter of David and Minnie's son, Eric.
Tue Nov 11 08:21:42 2008
William Russell Jones, Cefn Mawr
Well Viv, if it isn't Agnes Breeze's grandaughter! I even know who her mother was, they are in my family tree.
Thu Oct 23 09:50:00 2008
Harrisons, Cefn
To Jeff Blythin. My dad was the farmer when you stayed at Ty Mawr Farm. His name was Cyril Harrison. He passed away in 1970, it is now a country park. The public really enjoy visiting there. From Rob Harrison.
Tue Oct 21 10:29:00 2008
Viv Davis nee Francis, Cefn Mawr
Does anyone remember me? Brothers Nigel (sings in Fron choir) and Gordon in Rhos. Sister Lorraine ex landlady of Oddfellows and Railway pubs from 1982/1986. Mother Noreen Francis nee Jones dad Fred Francis still living in Cefn Mawr. Married to Tony Davis, would like to hear from old friends and neighbours.
Thu Oct 16 10:00:09 2008
Bryn Parry
Has anyone got any old photos of the top of Browns Lane, particularly by where Les and Clara Edwards lived.
Wed Oct 8 14:45:14 2008
Nick, Webteam
The Evening Leader is seeking your views on the suggestion that upper Cefn has become the forgotten part of Wrexham and has been left to go into decline.
Wed Oct 8 14:29:11 2008
Pete Cefn
To Genny Guy, you left a message for Sal Raven about maybe having the same great grandad. Get in touch if you read this. I'm Sal's brother and I have some old family photos and stuff but would be great if I could find more photos of the family.
Sat Sep 27 09:42:48 2008
Nicola Wheeler {Hughes}
Can anyone tell me about the Hughes that were at the Vivod estate mill as woollen manufacturers in the 1840s please?
Mon Sep 22 08:41:30 2008
Teresa Russell, Australia
To Chris Ladkin. Hi, I lived in Jubilee Terrace as a baby & a toddler but cannot remember it. My dad worked in Monsanto(John Hart) so did all my uncles. My uncle David Hart would be able to tell you more as he lives in Acrefair. We moved to Cefn, lived at Cae Coch till 1968 then emigrated to Brisbane.
Mon Sep 15 08:21:35 2008
Chris Ladkin (nee Cowsill)
Is there anybody out there who remembers Jubilee Terrace Abernant, where my dad, Arthur Cowsill, and his siblings grew up?
Wed Sep 10 08:46:08 2008
Kath Jones/Roux
To Joyce Jones - Penycae. I know my brother Trevor Jones (Trout) went to school with a Peter Bartley. If it's the same family, Peter would be about 49.
Mon Sep 1 11:41:28 2008
Rose - Cefn (now Penycae)
Re: Lester in Devon, yes, I am the famous Rose from Cefn ¦D I do apologize for the delay in replying but been dead busy. Sorry, I can't place you, but then again I've always been hopeless with names, did you have a nickname? And yes, I did hang around with Barbara Barton (still see her on occasions), which gets me even more curious as to who you are (if that doesn't sound too rude!). Can you think of any occasion in particular that would jog my memory? (But nothing too sordid as my mum reads this page - ha-ha!)
Thu Aug 28 07:04:53 2008
Tom Hughes, Doncaster
Steve Williams. Your grandmother was my mother's sister, knew her very well. Aunty Flo, had many a good dinner at her house. We went up to n Wales to see uncle Henry your gran's brother. He lived with us in Doncaster for many years.
Thu Aug 21 09:17:59 2008
Dave Wright, Ruabon
Russell, I was playing for Llangollen in 1965 when that photo was taken, the goalkeeper is Alan Horne, who lives in Ruabon. It was your father, Jack, who I worked with in Air Prodcts who got me to come back to play for Druids after they were relegated to div 2 of the WNL. We had a very good team that year & came straight back up, players like Herbie Rogers from Llan, Dave Evans, Terry Evans, Mark Jones, Pete crazy horse, the list goes on & on. Lets hope those good days come back soon &, hopefully, in a new stadium.
Mon Aug 18 08:31:33 2008
Dave Wright, Ruabon
Peter, Colwyn Bay. Hi Peter, Good to hear from you. John is fine. I leave here early September & return again in October for a couple of weeks. It's great we only live 20/30 miles from each other yet we get to talk from 4,000 miles away. How things have changed. I also saw your comments regarding St John's Church. Don't know what to think of it myself.
Thu Aug 14 08:24:23 2008
William Russell Jones, Cefn Mawr
Hello Dal, the last time I saw you was in the supermarket in Rhosymedre. Have a look at the feature on Druids on the Cefn Mawr page, you might know one or two of the faces. Not the very old ones of course!
Wed Aug 13 07:43:48 2008
Peter Lawrence, Colwyn Bay
Hello David (Ruabon and island hopper), good to hear from you. Hope the family (and your bros) are well - give my regards. Only the other day I was reminiscing about those trips to Cymau and Llay - c'mon the Druids!
Mon Aug 11 11:39:17 2008
Dai Wright, Ruabon
Lester, good to see you keep in touch with Cefn. I am at present on the Ascension Island in the south Atlantic. It's rather a boring night, so was browsing & thought I would look up Druids on the web. I was rather surprised to see so much info on there, even my cousin Peter now living n Colwyn Bay & have not seen for a few years was on there. Dai potty now lives in Hereford but comes up & plays golf at Llangollen. I see him quite often so will pass on your regards to him, great to see you still have the crack with the Albion lads, Pete Val also plays golf down Llan. Take care of yourself & hopefully speak again soon.
Thu Aug 7 17:20:40 2008
Wil, Wrexham
For Chris Ladkin & Don Jones, (Delph). 1940s, Sally "Sticks" and husband Tommy lived in Maelor Ave. Penycae. Tommy was the main local distributor of Sunday papers at the time and there were NO shops legally open Sundays, although I recall turning by the phone box in Bro Gwilym to get cigarettes and bread on a Sunday. With an old banger of a car Tommy would drop the papers off for sale from several houses locally. I recall one "drop-off" house at the bottom of Cemetery Road, Rhos, from where I would have to fetch the Empire News and the News of the World for my parents, passing, I know not why, Sticks' house on the way. I believe the nickname came from selling fire (lighting) sticks. I can't remember their surname clearly but I'll find it out. Sammy was their son but I have no recent knowledge of him and there is also a daughter still living in the area. Stryt Isa football team, and it was a tidy team, was centred on Maelor Avenue then and the festive season's derby games against Penycae and Plasbennion would be an education for today's footballers.
Mon Aug 4 10:28:36 2008
Sylvia Wooding
Just got onto the internet with my new computer and Ken Math told me about this site and I love reading all the comments about the old Cefn and the people who used and are still living there. I will be using this site often and look forward to communicating with all of you.
Thu Jul 17 13:39:05 2008
Ian Davies, Cefn Mawr
To Lester in Devon: I was talking to Ann some time ago and she was planning to move back to Greece where she had many happy years in her youth. Hope this clears up your query.
Mon Jul 14 08:56:00 2008
Lester in Devon
Hi Rose! Is this the famous Rose of Cefn? Friend of Barbara Barton by any chance? If so, hiya.
Fri Jul 11 09:33:09 2008
Lester in Devon
I agree there Kath! Maybe they don't care? But as in my post, I made my comments. Hope you are well etc. Keep posting! I am still awaiting a reply to my post about Ann Francis. ;) email me Kath?
Wed Jul 9 15:05:32 2008
Dave of Crane Lane
Looking for information on Crane Lane, the Crane, Railway Cottages and Grapes Row. I have some information already if anyone is interested?
Wed Jul 9 11:22:42 2008
Lester in Devon
To Kath... so am I! Monsanto/Flexsys in Cefn was the reason Cefn flourished wasn't it? Hope you are ok. Keep in touch!
Wed Jul 9 11:00:29 2008
KathJones/Roux
Quite surprised that so few people responded to the closing of the "Monsanto - Flexsys" chemical company.
Thu Jul 3 09:15:28 2008
Joyce Jones / Penycae
To Kath Jones/Roux, my maiden name was Bartley, and I'm sure you will know my nephews and nieces of that name; Denise, Peter, Elizabeth, David, Michael and Samantha. Would be around your age.
Thu Jul 3 08:32:37 2008
Lester in Devon
Help please! On travelling to work near Tavistock in Devon last week, end of June, I was convinced I saw Ann Francis walking along a footpath! She was a good friend, and used to be the hairdresser in Cefn, her and her mother Joyce lived down from The Queens, next door to Robin John. Can anyone let me know if she has moved down to Devon, or is she still living in Cefn? Thanks for any replies.
Tue Jul 1 08:09:42 2008
Matt Cunningham
To Lester Jones. I'll tell my dad you're asking for him. He lives in Rhos these days.
Mon Jun 30 10:17:02 2008
Kath Jones/Roux
Joyce Jones, Penycae. Was your maiden name Jones? Who were your parents? I'm sure I would know them.
Tue Jun 24 09:10:06 2008
Chris Ladkibn (nee Cowsill)
Me again, is there anybody out who remembers Abernant, my Dad Arthur Cowsill lived there as a child, and used to tell us stories of the characters who lived there? I remember him tell us stories about the family known as the "Fluffies" (!). Hope there is someone who has other stories about that little area.
Mon Jun 23 09:29:52 2008
Joyce Jones, Penycae
To Kath Jones, my parents lived in 86 Heol Cefnydd. I left there in 1951 when I married my husband, Ray, was in the RAF so we spent the next 19 years living in various places, but used to descend on my parents between postings occasionally. You may remember our daughters who used to go to the local schools at those times, Carol, Marilyn and Rosemary. All born in the fifties.
Mon Jun 23 09:00:08 2008
William Russell Jones, Cefn Mawr
I remember Herbert Edwards, he used to play bowls for Monsanto.
Wed Jun 18 08:37:57 2008
Don Jones (Delph) Gainsborough
To Chris Ladkin, Sally Sticks and her husband Sammy used to go around Cefn on a Saturday night selling the evening newspapers. I believe they actually lived in the Rhos. When I used to go home on leave I would spend Saturday night in The Hollybush with my dad and other members of my family. Sally always came in there with her papers and one of my brothers always got her to sing Mother Machree for us. That's all I know about her and hope it is of some help to you. Best wishes.
Tue Jun 17 08:21:41 2008
Chris Ladkin nee Cowsill.
My dad, Arthur Cowsill, used to talk of Sally Sticks. Who was she and why the name? Also, I had an aunty & uncle who lived on Coronation Street, Daisy And Herbert Edwards. Does anyone remember them?
Mon Jun 16 09:23:07 2008
Kath Jones/Roux
Joyce Jones Penycae, I used to live at 50 Heol Cefnydd. My parents were Clifton and Edna Jones. They were married in 1949, I have two older sisters, and I was born in 1953. When did you leave Heol Cefnydd?
Mon Jun 9 07:58:58 2008
Joyce Jones, Penycae
To Steve Williams, you were asking if anyone remembered your mum some time ago, I do remember her very well, along with the rest of the family, we were all brought up together, and were friends from when the Bowen family lived in the first cottage in Grapes row, on the Crane and my Taid lived in The Old Grapes pub (all demolished now). Then in 1939 we all moved to Heol Cefnydd. We all had a great time growing up there, all the families were good friends as well as neighbours. I last saw your mum when we lived in the Royston, she was always a lovely person, give my regards to your dad.
Mon Jun 2 16:07:00 2008
Lester in Devon
Hi Joyce. I am shocked to hear about the closure of Flexsys (Monsanto) - that must have a bad effect on the community and the local people that work there. And a lot of them will now find it difficult to find jobs. Having lived there for a fair few years in the '70s, this is bad news for Cefn I think. What else is there job wise in the area? Anyway, thanks for posting and keeping people like me informed.
Mon Jun 2 09:31:03 2008
Rose Thomas from Cefn (now Penycae)
This message is regarding 'Steve Williams'. You say you have some old tatty photos of your rellies, well I just happen to dabble with a bit of airbrushing, and am not bad though I say so myself. If you wish to email me the pics, I will gladly have a look what I can do. Don't worry, I make copies, not go over the originals ;-)
Mon Jun 2 09:13:46 2008
Chris Madsen
My father worked in Monsanto most of his working life. People suffered ill health through the firm but people also benefitted. One felt proud to say one worked in Monsanto. Usually one had to have a relative already there to get employment, however the works was a blot on the landscape. As a child though I thought it looked like fairy land viewed from Fron! My daughter brought home the Graesser family tree. I cannot remember where she worked then but he was a charming man. I enjoyed reading all about them. I think most of us will have mixed feelings on the closure.
Web Team replies: We've just put together a page about Monsanto where you can offer your comments and memories
Wed May 28 08:23:29 2008
Joyce Jones, Penycae/ex Cefn
I am surprised there have been no comments about the closure of Flexsys (still always known as Monsanto to us locals) as it has played such a big part in the lives of all of us who were born and brought up in Cefn. Just about every family in the area had a member working there, and it's hard to imagine Cefn without it, even though we used to moan about the terrible smells, and goodness knows what falling on us from above. Looking at a picture in the local paper today, taken some years ago, with smoke belching out of the chimneys, things have improved a lot but it really is the end of an era, and a lot of people will be sad to see the old place go.
Wed May 28 08:21:07 2008
Ann, Cefn
we have a lovely view at back of house but can't see for trees
Tue May 27 09:39:29 2008
Julie Austin
Hi Ian, I thought it was you. Thanks for letting me know where your parents' nicknames came from. Hope you are keeping well.
Thu May 1 08:50:39 2008
Ian Davies
To Julie, that's me still driving taxis in Cefn. The nicknames, I am lead to believe, came from; the oldest brother in my taid's family was called Bossiph, so hence Bossy came. My dad's uncle used to sell pork pies so that's where that came from.
Mon Apr 28 08:19:51 2008
Julie Austin
Hi Ian Davies, where did your parents get their nicknames from? I know that nicknames are passed down to generations but where do they derive from? I think I know who you are. Did you drive the taxis in Cefn and drink in the Black Lion, Newbridge?
Thu Apr 24 08:46:50 2008
Ian Davies, Cefn Mawr
Hi Col, I am part of two families with nicknames. My mum's family were called "Bossys" and my dad's were "Pork Pies".
Tue Apr 22 07:19:27 2008
Colin Heyward, Cefn Mawr
For Lester: Everyone you mention are still within the community and as far as I know are well. Keith Morris and Dai Potty have left the area sometime ago. Dick's Shop is no more, is the Tony Davies you refer to the brother of Brian 'Bingo' Davies? If so he passed away a few years back - he was a lovely lad. I can see him now puffing away on his pipe in the Hollybush. God bless him.
Mon Apr 14 14:58:28 2008
Lester in Devon
Are they well? Can you please let me know if the following people are alive and well in Cefn Mawr please?...all friends of mine I have lost touch with.ANN FRANCIS, CHRIS WRIGHT and his sister?, ROBIN JOHN, KEITH FRANCIS, SMODGE,MASSIVE,LENNY KEMPSTER, CHARLIE BLAIN, PEGGY Teacup, The BRENNANS (from Dick's shop). KEITH MORRIS, LEENA LANGA (Halina?) DAI WRIGHT (Druids FC), DAI POTTS (Druids FC), TONY DAVIES , ROB GABRIEL, ALAN and PETE DAVIES, thank you.
Mon Apr 14 08:58:16 2008
Lester in Devon
Colin Heyward - There is "Dai the Death" the undertaker, "Evans Above" the Vicar, (only joking). But there was "Joan the Post" and "Massive" as far as I remember.
Mon Apr 14 08:53:59 2008
Sheree Kirk (Cheshire)
Hello Susan (Kennedy) my dear cousin, Thanks for replying I've been trying to find you and Mark, Aubrey and Stephen and your mum and dad since I was 18 and I'm now 41. Would love to speak to you. My email address is with the webteam.
Mon Apr 14 08:35:12 2008
Workmate of Keith, Cefn
Reply to Colin. Colin, the only person that comes to mind is Keith Owens, also known as Slow Puncture. The reason being that a slow puncture is faster than him. In the last couple of months he has been upgraded to Flat Tyre. But he's a good lad, no1 bricky. Let's have some more.
Wed Apr 9 17:09:28 2008
Colin Heyward/Cefn Mawr
What's in a nickname? There are many, many in Cefn Mawr - past and present, Bonzo, BD, Stu Chips, Joe Dolydd, Smodge, Pip, Spike and many more. Why were they given these names, how many more can you mention with the reason they were given their nicknames? I really look forward to hearing them.
Mon Apr 7 09:50:18 2008
Kath Jones/Roux
Lester in Devon, yes I was there, no Dewi Sant Pudding. Cold and rainy but everyone very hospitable and friendly. What's the big news?
Tue Mar 25 11:13:41 2008
Lester in Devon
Hi Kath, did you get to Wales? and home? Let me know how it went, and keep in touch. I have some news for you!
Wed Mar 12 09:48:03 2008
Mair
On my walks around Ty Mawr I have noticed that the animals that have died have not been replaced. There are only 4 goats, 4 guinea pigs and some chickens and ducks on the top area. There is only 1 horse and a llama with some sheep. Surely they could get some rabbits like they had before from a rescue centre and some donkeys from a sanctuary and get people to adopt a donkey to help pay for them. Also, the pot bellied pigs are sadly missed. Children who come from cities do not see many animals these days. Is there any chance to see new animals in the near future? From a Cefn native who enjoys seeing more varied kind of animals.
Thu Feb 21 08:46:42 2008
Susan Kennedy (Kynaston) Devon
Hi Sheree, What a blast from the past? Of course I remember your dad as he was my dad's brother, Roderick Kynaston. What's your email address to catch up!
Thu Feb 21 08:18:22 2008
Sheree, Cheshire
Thanks anon, would love to hear more, can't remember much of when we were at Coronation Street.
Wed Feb 20 11:01:03 2008
Kath Jones/Roux
Lester Jones. I'm visiting Cefn on St David's Day. Don't know if any of the local establishments will be serving Dewi Sant pudding, but if they do I will be sure to give you an unbiased opinion on who wins.
Tue Feb 19 09:18:34 2008
Kath Jones/Roux
Hello Lester, Glad to hear you are still in Devon.
Fri Feb 1 08:18:44 2008
Glyn Jones, Aus
Firstly, thanks to Kath Jones and Alun Salisbury for your interest. We have death certificate for a Fred Harry who we believe to be our maternal grandfather, died 8/6/1920 in the Cefn and the cert. was signed by a Annie Harry, wife. However, my grandmother's name was Sarah Harry nee Webster. This is what led us to believe that she lived in the Cefn at some stage.
Thu Jan 31 08:46:12 2008
Lester Jones, Devon
To Kath/Roux. Hi Kath, let me know your new email addy? I am back online after a 4 month absence. I will try to contact Trevor. Good luck to The Druids this year.
Tue Jan 29 08:23:13 2008
Lester Jones in Devon
To Peter Valentine...you never did get the better of us at the mighty Druids though. Hope you are well Peter, all the best from me.
Tue Jan 29 08:22:58 2008
Kath Jones
Alun Salisbury, My intention was not to obligate you to a response to Glyn Jones in Australia, merely to refer someone with a vast knowledge of the local history. However, once again you have been more than gracious. I believe the plaudits are yours to embrace. Thank You.
Fri Jan 25 12:08:03 2008
Peter Valentine
I was the manager of Cefn Albion for many years when we won many league titles and trophies. I was lucky enough to have local players in the team who all gelled together and worked very hard. Maybe this was because they regarded me as strict manager but at the end of the day they thanked me for it.
Tue Jan 22 09:08:44 2008
Alun Salisbury, Cardiff formerly Cefn Mawr
Glyn Jones, Aus. Despite the plaudits expressed by Kath Jones/Roux I have failed to trace anyone by the name of Sarah Harry or Webster living in the Cefn Mawr area. I have however traced a Sarah Harry on the 1891 census. She was aged 32, married and lived at Mold. There is also a Sarah A Harry 1891 census that lived at Lower road, Summer Hill, Gwersyllt, whose father's name was John, but nothing else. I used the 1851 to 1901 census forms inclusive and I've also done a search of births 1837 to 1983, which also drew a blank. These are the only two entries with the surname Harry in North Wales although it is a very popular surname in South Wales. On the Webster front there seems to be quite a number by the name of S Webster in the Flint, Northop area. To make further progress I would need more details of her and/or her family etc.
Fri Jan 11 10:02:08 2008
Ian Gough, Tainant
To David Parry Evans Croydon, I live at the cottage called Woodview just down from the phone box which is still the original red box.
Fri Jan 11 09:44:43 2008
David Hart. Acrefair/Cefn
To Glyn Jones. Aus. Further to the reply from Kath Jones/Roux. The shop that Kath refers to was known as "Harry Hughes'" shop. It was on the corner, opposite the Holly Bush Pub, and below Will "Cornelius" Jones chip shop. If you look at the Ebenezer Development site, picture No. 2, the white building attached to Ebenezer was the site of this shop. It was a very well known and popular shop, and Mr & Mrs Hughes were a friendly couple.
Thu Jan 10 11:46:30 2008
Kath Jones/Roux
Glyn Jones, Aus. There was a shop that sold sweets and ice-cream on the corner of Well Street and Crane Street. I remember two older ladies and Mr Hughes. Maybe Alun Salisbury could possibly shed some light on Ms Harry. He has a very entertaining and informative view of Cefn on this site.
Tue Jan 8 09:41:30 2008
Glyn Jones, Aus
Does anyone have any info on a Sarah Harry or Webster being in Cefn some time in 1920/30. She supposedly had a shop in Cefn.
Mon Dec 31 08:46:07 2007
Kath Jones/Roux USA
My Grandad Allen Jones was a member of the National Guard that used to meet at the Tally Ho. My Dad was Clifton Jones. I remember eing shown a photograph of my Grandad and about ten other men in uniform next to the bridge. Does anyone have any photographs?
Mon Dec 24 09:23:14 2007
Steve Williams
Hi, My mother's family are from Cefn Mawr. My mother's name was Joan Bowen and she worked in Pen Y Bont brickworks for several years. I have one or two poor quality photos of her working in Pen Y Bont and seeing some more better quality ones would be great. My grandfather's name was Arthur Bowen (died 1967) and my grandmother Florence Bowen (died 1972). Any information about them would be very much appreciated.
Tue Dec 18 08:41:29 2007
Vicky Williams
Does anyone have any information about 4 Vale View, Cefn Mawr? We have been trying to find where abouts it was/ is in Cefn Mawr and we have drawn a blank.
Fri Dec 7 10:26:29 2007
John Lewis, Carmarthenshire
Re-visited Cefn Mawr today, was last here in the 50s as a child visiting my aunt Iris who kept the Rafa Club after leaving Manstone Cottage, Acrefair now sadly demolished. Remember my uncle Tommy flying over in his Spitfire. Found his grave nearby (after crashing in Pulverbatch on Met. duties). Monsanto certainly smelled!
Thu Nov 1 12:27:05 2007
Kath Jones/Roux
Lester Jones. Read your comments, know you're still in contact with Cefn. Changed my e-mail address. Contact Trevor. Kath.
Fri Oct 19 14:03:41 2007
Chris M
Hi Lester, Peter Cunningham did have a son called Matthew.
Fri Oct 5 08:14:58 2007
Rose
In part answer to your question, (Ian Owens, that is) Carl is still in Cefn. He's with Kay and got kids.
Wed Sep 12 08:07:01 2007
Len Salisbury, Acrefair
To 'W' the name of the shop was the 'Coco Room' or the 'Cocoa Room' next door to the Holly Bush. Mrs Davies was the owner and she lived at Bank View off Well Street, (the red bricked terrace) and her daughter Megan (your gran) was also involved in running the shop.
Tue Sep 4 09:52:31 2007
W
My nanna was Megan, she maried Joe Hughes. She had a sweet shop in the Cefn. Does anyone have any info?
Mon Sep 3 09:53:10 2007
David Parry Evans, Croydon
Ian Gough Tainant. Which house do you live in at Tainant? My family had four homes there. Tan Yr Allt was one. My aunt had a place in the dip where the local bus turned arround. My uncle had a house down from us across the river, and another aunt had a cottage (now demolished) up from the bridge in the dip by the telephone box. I am interested to know. I visit every year as my father and mother's ashes are scattered on the Tainant mountain by the reservoir.
Mon Sep 3 09:39:58 2007
Jeff Blythin, Rhyl
I can recall going to Cefn as a teenager in the early 60s. We used to stay weekends in two huts at the bottom of the field as shown in the panoramic view of the country park. There was a farm at the top of the hill, obviously behind the photographer. I can only remember the farmer's name was Cyril. It was great to wake up to the sound of the river with the mist hanging lightly over the field between the 2 huts and the river. It was a lovely place to holiday, with some fantastic walks and scenery. Happy days.
Thu Aug 30 08:09:25 2007
Gavin from Rhos
I must say that I drove through Cefn for the first time in a while this week, and I was absolutely stunned by the new glass structure. Absolutely beautiful building. The most impressive thing for me was the fact that there were people sat outside, drinking tea/coffee, chatting. Surely this is a good start to regenerating what has long been a dead village?
Wed Aug 22 09:40:28 2007
Elaine Lloyd nee Jones (twin) Acrefair
I disagree with the comment made by 'A resident of Cefn Mawr' regarding the re-vamp of Ebenezer chapel. I think it looks great and makes a great meeting place for people. It's about time we had something decent in the Cefn, and I'm sure that when the rest of Crane Street is developed it will make locals proud of their village again. Why shouldn't we have money spent on making the village centre look better?
Tue Aug 14 09:56:29 2007
Cefn Resident
I agree that the new glass building in Cefn has been a complete waste of money, but there again so has the revamp of the ground at the back of Druids. I have heard on the grapevine that Cefn council are going to sell off Druids pitch so that a supermarket can be built there. The Cefn can't support the shops it has now let alone another supermarket. You have to question the common sense of the councillors, but let's be fair most are over the hill and should retire anyway. What the Cefn needs is some young blood on the council and to get rid of those who have been in power way too long.
Mon Aug 13 09:57:30 2007
Genny Guy from Scotland
This is for Sal Raven, my great grandad was David Griffiths who married the German cook, Minnie Pfieffer at Argoed hall, would really love to talk to you about this as we must be related.
Tue Aug 7 13:35:11 2007
Anon, Cefn Mawr
Does anybody else like me think that the Ebenezer chapel project is a total waste of money? While it looks nice what purpose does it serve? Also to spend money on this project and in the same breath talk about closing Plas Madoc leisure centre, do the people who make these decisions know what they are doing?
Mon Aug 6 16:43:27 2007
Laura Roberts - Cefn Mawr
One thing that always interests me is Cefn station, I think it's the one thing I would like to see re-open.I heard a couple of years back that they wanted to re-open Cefn Station...Why didn't they? I think it would be a great idea!
Mon Aug 6 11:35:45 2007
Sandra, Newbridge
To Kath Jones/Roux I knew a Jennifer Gough from Cefn. She married my dad's brother Colin Gough. She has sadly passed away nearly 12 months ago now.
Mon Jun 11 08:34:12 2007
Vicky Blaze
I am helping Ty Mawr Country Park in finding old pictures of the park because this year its been open 21 years and they would like to make a scrap book. If anyone can help can you take them to Ty Mawr please?
Mon Jun 4 07:53:19 2007
Lester Jones
Cheers Paul. Thanks for that info.
Wed May 30 08:13:34 2007
Paul Griffiths
To Pip - my dad reckons that he can do more work than you if he was covered in plaster from head to toe but I'll back ya up.
Tue May 29 10:39:02 2007
Paul Griffiths
Hey Lester. I showed my dad your comments and he said to tell ya that yes Judith and Massive did get married and they got 3 kids! And they still live in the Cefn and as for Brian Makkie he is living in Acrefair and is working for an engineering firm in Wrexham and he is currently chairman of Newi Cefn Druids who play in the League of Wales the highest league in the area and has one of the stands named after him.
Tue May 29 10:38:21 2007
Sam (Newbridge Arms new landlady)
Hello Cefn Mawr and Newbridge! Well just to say hello and thanks to our locals for a very warm welcome. I am really interested in getting old photos of Newbridge/Cefn and of our pub to display in our bar area. Does anybody have any? Old football team or from when the pub used to be cottages?Lots of great entertainment going on here so drop in for a great real ale. Sam and Nik xx
Tue May 29 10:29:09 2007
Lester Jones
Hi again Trevor ;) Bathers still runs the water it seems?..lol I have had contact with Kath and her daughter in the USA by the way. Has Alan Davies gone quiet re Cefn Albion? the "2nd division side, when Druids were 1st division?"
Fri May 25 15:16:58 2007
Lester Jones
To Paul, Willums lad - Hi mate, yeh I remember that day, we had half the reserve side out, as the Albion were a 2nd division side, no Dai Potts, Kenny Morris, etc.lol. Alan may remember we turned them over in a cup match later in the season 3-1. ;0Yeh he was a bit of a hard case with no shin pads, and also no front teeth. Pete was a brilliant winger, did he also play for Oswestry? Give them both my regards mate. Also ask him if "Massive" married Judith, and where are they nowadays? Also what happened to Brian Mackie, the Albions keeper? Cheers mate. P.S. they were always good at bragging each other up. lol. I am now living in Devon.
Tue May 22 10:01:47 2007
Trevor Jones, formerly Heol Cefnydd
To Dave (from The Cefn). Is there any decent coarse fishing down the Dolydd these days? The late 60s early 70s used to be quite good for dace with fish up to 1lb and tons of them around the 3 - 6 oz mark. Around the mid 70s it seemed to decline and I haven't fished there since.
Mon May 21 14:26:53 2007
Pip, Cefner
To Paul. You would think he was still in plaster the way he performs in work. Oh, and he is still scared of mice.
Tue May 15 08:36:20 2007
DAVE FROM THE CEFN
Bathers it would be nice if you stocked the river.
Fri May 11 12:27:15 2007
Paul Griffiths 10-04-1985
Hey Kelly, it's Paul Griffiths here. I'm the youngest of Alan's (Willum) sons! I have been reading various comments made on here about my dad after my brother Kev wrote in and I was very intrigued to know about the dead rat from his Chester City days - ha ha!! All I seem to remember is him sitting at home in plaster from his ankle to his hip, scratching his leg with an old wire coat hanger! Any how he told me about the dead rat which lived in the boot room. He says it was about 1ft long. It's probably the reason why I can remember from a very early age we had a little mouse about 3 inches long under our cooker, and every time it came out my dad would be up on the kitchen work tops like a big girl calling for my mam! ha ha. Anyhow he has asked me to remind you that it was him who taught you everything you knew about playing footy, back in the days playing on the bank between your old house and my nan's (his mum Shirley who still lives there) especially taking shots at the ledgendary goalie Arthur ( Spring ) Williams! Hope to hear back from you.
Fri May 11 08:16:37 2007
Paul Griffiths, Cefn, 10-04-1985
To Lester, as you have probably read, I am the youngest son of Alan - Paul! Just writing to say that my brother Kev got the contents wrong he should of wrote he HAS a bro called Peter! Not he HAD a brother called Peter! My dad has just told me to mention if you recall being in goal at Johnstown when the ledgendary CEFN ALBION mauled the mighty druids 6 1! All we ever get off my dad is that he was a bit of a brute (hardknock) getting stuck into challenges without any shin pads on! As for my uncle Pete, I hear he was like a salmon in the air beating anyone to the ball and scoring some spectacular goals! The worst part is when they are both together they are thick as thieves bragging them themselves up something rottern. The only thing I got to say is let the new boys take over (Cefn United, my team). Ya both a thing of the past - stick to doms on a Tuesday night in the Cefn Mawr Royal British Legion! You can't even win that! Long live the MIGHTY DAVIES BROTHERS! Hope that helps Lester.
Fri May 11 08:09:27 2007
Lester Jones
To KEVIN and PIP - I played many times against Alan and Peter Davies, deadly enemies really as I was 'keeper for the mighty DRUIDS UNITED! Also played against them Sunday League, they played for the Eagles Acrefair, and me for the Jolly Masons, Rhosymedre. I did win two medals with Cefn Albion though when I played for them for a season.Send him my regards, please. (What happened to Peter?)
Tue May 8 10:21:14 2007
Yvonne Pryce, Acrefair
To Teresa I am sorry to hear about the death of your cousin Peter. Your message is very touching, my love to you Carol and Auntie Rosemarie at this awful time for you all. E mail me as I have got the wrong e mail adress again!
Tue May 8 09:57:27 2007
Kelly Arthur (Kent)
Hi Kevin,Your dad (Willum as I remember him) was indeed a fine footballer but not the best in the Cefn at that time as that honour fell to me! We honed our skills for many hours on the banks of the river Dee and your Dad signed for Chester at 16. I went to Sheffield Utd at the same age and met Billy Deardon at the club. Your Dad used to clean his boots at Chester - ask him about the story of the dead rat! I have not heard from your dad for years but he was a top man!
Fri May 4 10:37:48 2007
Teresa Russell, Brisbane, Queensland
Peter Davis of Coronation Street, Cefn, will be sadly missed by his cousins from Australia Carol and Teresa. When I came over (Teresa) we had so many good times in Wrexham, different night clubs going out with him and partner Samantha. I will treasure them always. We love you Peter xxxx
Mon Apr 30 09:00:32 2007
Pip Hughes [Cefner]
To Kev, as you know I work with your dad. Don't know about him being the best footballer in Cefn, but he thinks he is the best tea maker on the council but it tastes like its just come out the canal, we tell him. We just humour him. Mind you, he as got grammar school education, so he tells us. I don't think he went to scool much. We usually thrash him in quiz - that's myself, Bernard and Butch. Fellow Evertonian, Pip.
Thu Apr 26 07:29:21 2007
Kevin Griffifhs
Does anyone remember my dad, Alan Davies? He had a brother called Peter Davies. Well, he reckons that they are the two best footballers to grace the Cefn? He, as he calls it, played for the great Cefn Albion side of the early '80s who used to thrash teams week in week out. Peter Valentine was the manager at the time. Cefn as always had a reputation of producing good footballers and teams over the years. I know he has got lots of trophies. Can anyone recall a better set of players or a better football side please?
Wed Apr 25 10:11:34 2007
Teresa Russell, Brisbane, Australia
To Heather nee Pennington: How are you? Of course I remember you. Do you remember Saturday afternoons you me and Paula meeting up in Cefn to go to the pictures with our 6 pence? Oh, them were the days and we still had money for sweets. I am glad I caught up with you on my visit to Llan. I would love to come back to visit as the family is getting smaller with the lose of uncle George, aunty Elenor and uncle Mike. When I look at this site I get so homesick. Love Teresa xx
Mon Apr 23 09:16:53 2007
Kev Griffiths, Cefn Mawr
U canna bt the Cefn, I've lived in Heol Cefnydd all my life. I have really good memories of the place: me, Ishy Evans (dead now, bless him), Dush, Whackey, Nicky, Ghost and Spud, we knew every hiding place in Cefn when we were wagging school, hiding down dicks bank, hanging around the river all day trying to keep clean so our mums didn't catch us. During the day 2 used to sneak up to find Ronnie so he could go to Dick's shop cuz we were all gasping, no wonder I'm on the dole oh well can't have it all.
Fri Apr 20 16:31:56 2007
Liz from Cardiff
My grandmother's parents were David W & Catharine Roberts. In the 1891 census they were in the 'Bazaar' in Crane St, occupation draper. In 1901 (my grandmother was born in 1898) they were in Holly Cottage in Trevor Isa. They had daughters, Catharine, Eveline, Jane & Mary Gwendoline and a son Evan T H. I found a picture of William Roberts' shop in Crane St in Ben Powells' collection. Does anybody have any knowledge of this family? My grandmother was Mary Gwendoline, she married Thomas Stephen Jenkins and lived in Bridgend where he was a schoolmaster. Thanks.
Fri Apr 20 07:23:34 2007
Anon, Wrexham
Sheree Kirk, Weren't you the family who painted your alsation dog red? Had a sister called Googie? My family remember all of you very well!
Thu Mar 29 08:18:11 2007
Lester Jones
Where is everyone? It seems to have gone quiet of late? I miss all the posts on here.
Mon Mar 12 09:29:58 2007
Sheree Kirk (Kynaston), Winsford, Cheshire
Does anyone in Cefn Mawr remember my mother and father, Albert Stanley Kynaston and Margaret? They lived in Coronation Street, dad was from Overton and mum's maiden name was Coffin. Would love to hear any stories that you may have of them.
Fri Mar 9 13:09:55 2007
Ian Owens
Does anyone remember when Sunday night on Cefn used to be best night of the week, when all the pubs were jam packed? Going a bit further back how many of you went to the Woodlands nightclub in Llangollen? What a place that was. Has anyone got any pictures of the Druids team from the very late eighties when we used to go for a pint before the match? Never did win many games but what a superb bunch of lads to play football with. I can remember a lad called Karl who was covered from head to toe in tattoes and had his own tattoo place, but what a superb player and a really top lad. There was a lad who played in defence called Gary. A lad played in goal called Frankie, that's me. I hope someone can remember these lads and the rest of the team and if they are still in the locality. Those were the days. Great memories.
Thu Feb 15 10:47:09 2007
Mike Edwards from Wolverhampton
I am very much a novice family historian who started with the assumption that my Welsh connection was purely with South Wales (my father being from Ebbw Vale). In fact I find that my small section of the Edwards tribe can be traced back to Cefn Mawr, having moved South in the second half of the Nineteeenth Century via a thirty year stop-over in Shrewsbury. My great great grandparents were William Edwards and Mary Davies. What really intrigues me is that when their son, my great grandfather John Thomas Edwards, was born in February 1841, his place of birth was reported (in the sub-district of Ruabon) as being Plas Kynaston and his father William's occupation being that of Gardener. Is there any way of checking (any staff lists etc) whether William was both working and living at Plas Kynaston itself?
Just by way of rounding off the picture - John Thomas was the one who moved to Shrewsbury working for the GWR. His son Frederick John moved to Ebbw Vale seeking work in the Steelworks. His son William Henry left Ebbw Vale seeking work and eventually ended up bricklaying in Wolverhampton -thence his son yours truly! Any comment or help on the Cefn Mawr/Plas Kynaston connection would be truly appreciated.
Wed Feb 14 17:49:55 2007
Sonia, South Africa
I'm looking for any info on distant relations of my late great grandpa. They were known as the "Watties". They lived by the queens? pub before moving to the "top of cefn" maybe 50 or 60 years ago. I think there may have been 4 or 5 brothers? Any help gratefully recieved. P.S does the name Bourne or Vorn ring any bells???
Wed Feb 14 10:51:09 2007
Margaret, Cheshire
Will Jones lodged in a house in Trevor. He was in his late fifties when I worked in his shop. He sold the credit business on about 1965, but kept the shop open for a few years after that. He had a brother and niece who lived in Acrefair.
Fri Feb 2 08:07:50 2007
Lester Jones
To - Peter Lawrence, Hi mate, yes Peter did marry Barbara, both teachers at the time. They never had any children though, and as far as I know he is still local to the area. I myself live in Cornwall, near to Bude, now, and visit this site regularly. ;)
As an extra - just to let anyone who knew my mother HILDA JONES ( she and my dad RAY ran the post office on the Crane for several years ) she passed away last week aged 79. A peaceful end though.
Thu Feb 1 13:08:27 2007
Derek Evans Johnstown.
Re. Drapers shop. Thanks for the replies. Anyone have any idea about what age William Jones would have been or what other family he had around that time. I did live in Heol Cefnydd Wendy.
Thu Feb 1 08:13:43 2007
Wendy Molloy/Jones, Abernant
The drapers shop you were asking about was Will Jones'. Did you live in Heol Cefnydd? I used to live next door to the Co-op. I have two brothers Barry & Ken.
Wed Jan 31 11:46:45 2007
Margaret, Cheshire
Info for Derek Evans, the shop you are talking about was Jones, The Mart. It was a drapers, also gents outfitters. It was owned by a Will Jones, he was also a tally man. People used to buy clothes from him and he would collect the money weekly.
Wed Jan 31 08:43:00 2007
David Hart. Acrefair/Cefn
Reply to two queries.
For SPILSBURY. No.1 Cae Coch is still standing. I lived at No.12 from 1936 onwards, but can't remember anyone named Roberts living at No.1. The only family I remember was Williams.
For DEREK EVANS. The drapers shop you asked about was owned by WILLIAM JONES. The shop was known locally as Will Jones (The Mart). Hope this helps
Wed Jan 31 08:30:11 2007
Phil, Cefn Mawr
Hyfryd-le Chapel, Well Street, Cefn Mawr.
I'm trying to find old pictures and history of our new home (1861-on) and its immediate surroundings - the quarry, the railway/tramway, even the Rhosymedre end of Well Street. I've found many more pictures around the area, but not close or specific enough.
Tue Jan 30 15:47:41 2007
Peter Lawrence, Colwyn Bay
To Len Salisbury/Lester Jones - did Peter Cunningham marry my Geology teacher, Barbara Sedgewick(?)?
Tue Jan 30 14:55:15 2007
Martin.
Peter drinks in the Wynnstay, Ruabon, sometimes, and I believe he now lives in Rhos.
Tue Jan 30 08:54:22 2007
Derek Evans, Johnstown.
Does anyone have any recollection of a drapers shop between Williams the Bakers and the Milk Bar in the early 50s? If so, what was the shop called and who owned it. Many thanks.
Tue Jan 30 08:53:19 2007
William Russell Jones
To Sal Raven; What was the name of your Grandad and Great-Grandad?
Mon Jan 29 15:40:51 2007
Lester Jones
To Len Salisbury - What has happened to Peter Cunningham, an old drinking partner from my days in Cefn Mawr area. He had the house at the side of the aqueduct in Trevor. He was an art teacher at Ruabon. If you have contact with him please say hello from Lester, that will make him smile!
Mon Jan 29 11:16:10 2007
Lester Jones
Hi again to everyone, it seems to have gone quiet here!
Here is a thought for you, - would it be possible to get a WEBCAM for Cefn Mawr? maybe Flexsys or whoever could organise it? I am sure it would be of great interest to everyone to have a webcam on Cefn Mawr! Any ideas on where it could be located? How about the top of the Crane?
Mon Jan 29 10:08:21 2007
Terry, Acrefair
To Tony Valentine. Hi there just read your question. I knew Uncle George very well. His wife Liz is now passed away my mum's sister. Renee Heyward. I can't place you but think you are John (my cousin's son?). Anyway that's it for now all the best. Terry Heyward.
Mon Jan 29 10:00:04 2007
John Hunt now living in Germany
Hello, I wonder if anyone can help me? Does anyone know how or where I could obtain a copy of Dennis Davies's work on the history of Plas Kynaston? My gtgt grandma was Ann (or Sarah Ann) Kynaston born in Ruabon in 1828, who married Simeon Jones in Rhos in 1847. They were living in Stryt Issa, Ruabon in 1861 and 71. Family stories say that her family were at one time the 'Squires' of Plas Kynaston Hall, Cefn Mawr (or Cristionydd as I believe it was once called) and I'm trying to trace her roots back to the earlier Kynastons mentioned in the BBC Wales north east website article on Plas Kynaston. If not, are there any Kynastons out there who might know something about her and her parents/ancestors, or the family? Ann & Simeon had 3 children: Caleb Jones-a miner, James Jones, and Sarah Ann Jones (my gt grandma who married Tranmer Spaven in Yorkshire, but returned to live at 'Rhosllyn',Froncysyllte in old age where they died and are buried. After his wife's death in R! uabon, Simeon Jones moved away with his 3 children to Yorkshire. I stayed with my greataunt and uncle in Froncysyllte many times as a kid and have many happy memories of your lovely area. I remember a wooden 'draw bridge' over the canal and jumping up for the rope to pull it open. My great uncle Austin Brown retired from Monsanto Chemicals in 1954. He was married to Essie (nee Spaven) and they lived in the main street in Fron. My mum, Joan Spaven, lived with them during the war and recalls cycling over the aqueduct (in the blackout!) to work at the Hughes & Lancasters factory in Acrefair. (She'still in contact with some of her old workmates from that time and over the years they've had reunions in Llangollen - now sadly only a few left.) She married my dad, a soldier based at Park Hall? camp, Oswestry, in Chirk Chapel (which, last time I was there was now a bedding store) before he left to go overseas. My great aunt Essie Brown was sadly run over and killed outside her front door in Fron in 1966, apparently by a car full of vicars going to a funeral in Llangollen. (It sounds funny now, but it was very sad at the time.) - maybe someone might remember them? You live in a lovely area and, reading through all your notes, it seems you have a great 'community'. Thanks if you can help me. John Hunt, Haupststrasse 124, 74889 Sinsheim, Germany.
Fri Jan 26 16:58:00 2007
IAN GOUGH Tainant
To Kath Jones /Roux, No I don't have a sister, I have two brothers - Martyn & Alan
Thu Jan 25 08:01:25 2007
Sal Raven, Cefn Mawr
My grandad was born in Rhosymedre and my great grandad's surname was Griffiths and married a woman people called the German cook. They married from Argoed Hall. Can anyone tell me any more?
Wed Jan 24 08:46:47 2007
Kath Jones/Roux
To Ian Gough, do you have a sister, Jennifer?
Fri Jan 19 11:19:42 2007
Gareth Buffey
To Frazer Williams, New Zeland
Hi Fraz, it's Gareth Buffey. Been on the old Cefn site and seen your comments. I remember the picture that you refer to. I have moved from Cefn to Rhos (24 yrs ago). Stopped playing football at 27 yrs old then went to play Rugby for Rhos. Still playing for 1st team (at 44yrs old). Please get in touch.
Tue Jan 16 08:28:40 2007
Martin
This is a picture of the Palace cinema, Cefn. It's about circa 1930. I have taken the picture off Ifor Edwards site. most people have probably seen the book which have lots of interesting photos of Rhosymedre and Cefn. The book is now online, email me if you want the url to the site.
Wed Jan 10 11:09:09 2007
Nicola Wheeler formerly Hughes
Trying to research Hughes, David and Ann of Rhinault Mill 1835 to --- in Chirk, Llangollen, any information please.
Mon Jan 8 10:15:47 2007
Deedee Pritchard, Calgary
Hi Heather,
I may not be from the Cefn, but I certainly remember you as a parent at Ysgol Bryn Collen; the PTA meetings in the Wine Bar were great fun. Hope you're well.
Mon Jan 8 10:03:49 2007
Jan Hughes...Cefn
To Cyril Jones (Delph), re the poem from your brother Colin, the Snibs of Cefn is my Uncle John (Valentine) a brother to my Mam, quite a character!
And to Tony Val in the Isle of Man, why haven't you asked your Dad or Uncle Alec or Aunty Anna about your Granddad George? He was another brother to my Mam. There were 8 children, 4 boys, 4 girls, my Mam being the youngest. Sadly all passed away now. I have a lovely photo of your Granddad with my lads when they were little, also photos of him with his sister Emily. Get in touch Tony, your Dad knows where I live!
Mon Jan 8 09:58:23 2007
Heather Maybury (Pennington), Llangollen
Does anyone remember me? I went to Cefn Infant and Junior school. My friends were Sandra York, Jill Davis, Lesley, Wyn, Linda Hughes (Pip).
Tue Jan 2 10:34:28 2007
Peter Lawrence, Colwyn Bay
To Tony Valentine, I assume that George was your grandfather that lived in the 'Ring' as Len has indicated. I can't remember all his children - Owen was one, and Anna and Gareth were I think twins. I think they lived at 36 Bro Gwilym. Gareth might have posted here somewhere - he is now a very successful musical director in the West End (if you weren't already aware!). My aunty lived next door at 34. I'm sure I could dig out some more info if you want.
Fri Dec 29 09:22:21 2006
Len Salisbury, Acrefair
I can't remember where Owen Valentine would have been in your family but they lived in the "RING" and he was one of George's sons. Knibbs, I believe, was part of your family with a kneckerchief as part of his dress.
Wed Dec 20 08:24:50 2006
Kath Jones/Roux Cefn/USA
Cyril Jones (Delph), Cefn Mawr. I was extremely amused by the poem of nicknames. It takes a creative mind to give any-one a nickname, but I think people of Cefn are the most creative of all. Cefn humour is something most people don't understand, but it is priceless to us. Do you know anything about Paragon cottage which was on or near the Crane?
Mon Dec 11 09:01:14 2006
Tony Valentine - Isle of Man
I would love to hear from anyone who can tell me any information on my grandad George Valentine (Todder) and his family - I would love to trace my family tree and any information would be welcomed.
Many Thanks
Fri Dec 8 10:46:47 2006
Ian Gough
Hi Hadyn, (Calgary) you are quite right we should not use nicknames. No we have not moved again we are still in Tainant and are all fine. The weather is just a little warmer over here, 10 degrees. I have just used the last of the wimberries picked on the Garth! Do you get them in Canada or do they only have blue berries? Can you just taste them like the ones you used to have in the cafe by the black wood? Great memories. Speak again soon, have a great new year. PS. My apologies Len Salisbury.
Thu Dec 7 08:54:29 2006
Len Salisbury, Acrefair
To Ian Gough look at the title of the Fron Choir label. There is only one VALLEY in the title. Have a guess which one it is.
Wed Dec 6 10:54:22 2006
Haydn Morris, Calgary
Hi Ian, let's not refer to nicknames, shall we? Great to hear from you. Hope the family is well. Have you moved house again? I know all about Fron Choir, as Deedee keeps an eye on all of the websites. It's amazing to think that that choir is the reason that I married a Canadian and am living in -30 degrees... Hope you have a great Christmas.
Wed Dec 6 09:23:20 2006
Ian Gough, ex Cefn
Hi HADYN Do you remember welding for me in Monsanto. Ian Gough (SHEP/Lassie)! to you, Nice to hear from you heard lots from Chris Jones trip to Canada last year.
Have you heard about the Fron Choir in the Album charts at number 13 with the CD THE VOICES OF THE VALLEYS above Robbie Williams! Happy Christmas to you DeeDee and the family.
Friday 1/12/06
Mon Dec 4 16:49:41 2006
Cyril Jones (Delph), Cefn Mawr
Some time ago my brother Donald (Don Jones [Delph]) listed a number of nicknames of people who have lived in Cefn. Perhaps some of the older readers of this page will like the following poem which was written by another of our brothers, Colin Jones (Delph), who lives in Chirk. Colin wrote this poem in November 1996. He called his poem A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA ABOUT THE CEFN. 'As I sit here thinking of names in the Cefn, The list it seems without end, I just hope that when I write them down, There is no one there I'll offend. Do you remember the lady, called Long Kate? No relation to Sammy Long Will, Sammy had a brother called Slogger, Who lived on the American Hill. Then there was old Will Hard Hat, Now he was a classy dresser, And how about old Crad The Garth, Now this one we called the Professor. Old Jack Watt was the knocker up, he would rise at four every morn, He'd knock you up for a few bob a week God, we do not know we've been born. There were some hard men in the Cefn then, and they all thought they were the nibs, But there was one they never bothered with, He was the best, his name? Ned Snibbs. In the Holly Bush on a Saturday night was the lady they called Sally Sticks, She sang at the piano, bag around her neck, Then sell her papers outside the Flicks. Top of the Cefn lived dear Tilly Bathers, And she lived to be quite old, Now Tilly is one I will never forget, For her heart it was made of pure gold. It's hard sometimes for words to rhyme, But I know one that rhymes with custard, Yes my friends you have got it right, I'm thinking of old Hughie Mustard. In a little house by the Queens Hotel Lived Clogger who made all our clogs, Then there's dear old Reggie Cockerel, Who goes around selling his logs. Do you remember Morgan Jones the minister? He was like the Exchange and Mart, And then there was Georgie Kenyon, He went around on his horse and cart. I remember Sammy Powell in the Eagles Pub, It's no wonder his sales went down, For when you told him his beer was off He'd say I know lad just try a small brown. When Fred the Grosvenors went to his loo, There was no toilet roll to be found, And we heard him shout to a man outside, Have you got two ten bob notes for a pound? There was Georgie Fish and Annie Chips And a man they called 'By the Frost', Also Will Absolutely and Will Patagonia, But alas most of these we have lost. Do you recall old Idris the post? He would deliver through fire and flood, If you wanted help, send for Nurse Jolliff, For helping was in her blood. When most of us got married first, We went to see Bob Water Rabbit, The things he sold were all second hand, Lack of money was quite a bad habit. Now you've heard of old Ellis Hallelujah And the one called Bob Cock up Toes, And they named this one chap The Aga Khan, For what reason God only knows. Then came Joe Fantail His mate Nacky Noo, Also Will Cocksh*t and Ned Skylark too. There was John Cefn Bychan and Bob Tuluneb, One from Newbridge they called John Cuckoo. I hope I've revived some memories friends, Yes and added a touch of mirth, but I'll tell you what I really believe, These people were the salt of the earth.' My brother Colin asked me to put his poem on this site because as he has said all of the people mentioned have enriched our lives and made Cefn such a great place inhabited by so many fantastic characters. They don't make them like that any more.
Mon Dec 4 16:21:08 2006
Dave Roberts, Staffordshire
I am researching my family history and have found my great grandfather, Shem Roberts, was born in Cefn Mawr, approx January 1857. His father was Enoch Roberts a Furnaceman and his mother was Mary Roberts formerly Jones, also had brothers and sisters, Steven, Isaac, Mary Jane and John H. If there is by any small chance any one has any information I would be very grateful. Thank you.
Wed Nov 29 07:48:14 2006
Ursula Richards(nee)Jones
For Hayden Morris Calgary, Hi its great to hear off you. Well, what great weather you have. I bet your family are loving the snow. We don't get much snow, as you know. You asked about Chris. I've not seen him in 18 years. I've been married the 2nd time - 17 years next year. He's from Cefner Terry, got a brother, Smilie. They lived the top of Coronation street. There's a few brothers. My mum was asking after your sister. Is her name Alison? Moved to Isle of Man. I will close for now. Wishing you & family the best for xmas & new year.
Wed Nov 29 07:47:40 2006
Haydn Morris (Mangle), Calgary
Shep - I'm not sure who you are. Perhaps you could elaborate? Hello again to all in the Cefn. It's -24 degrees in Calgary today, with the wind chill taking it down to -40. But not a cloud in the sky and the Rockies look stunning. My wife still says that it's warmer than Wales because it's so dry!
Wed Nov 29 07:45:18 2006
Carol Condon nee Jones Melbourne
Hi great to hear from you all, Don, Len & Glyn. It was lovely to log on at work & see the replies as it was a dull day and it brightened up considerably. Glyn it would be great to meet up maybe around the city as we live in Mount Martha. We have passed through Castlemaine a few times over the years and it looks a nice place to live. Len I do remember meeting you at the Mona Dam, hard to believe it's all those years ago. Don, I remember going to the house near Dick's shop and the name Alice May but my memory is not the best. Anyway great to hear from you all, I will be watching the site in the future, best wishes Carol.
Tue Nov 28 07:42:50 2006
Ian Davies from Cefn
It's so interesting reading about everybody's memories, Fraze you must have it written down mate I'm so impressed you remember so much, cos I've an awful memory. It's nice to be mentioned too, thank you Mrs Brooks, yr hubby isn't bad either for a scouse fan.
Fri Nov 24 13:39:03 2006
Joyce Jones nee Bartley, Penycae
To Glyn Jones, Victoria, so nice to hear from you, is it really six years since you were over here? We met in Mair & Graham Bithell's house in Ruabon, and we all had a great family reunion in Chirk legion a while later. It's been good to hear news of some of our cousins on this site, Len and Alan Salisbury are my cousins on my father's side, I will be meeting up with most of the Jones family at a funeral tomorrow. All the best to your family, will be in touch soon.
Thu Nov 23 16:39:44 2006
Glyn Jones, Australia
Sorry Len but you've got the wrong Glyn. Would love to have lived in the Cefn but it was not to be. My Dad was Robert or Bob Jones married Eva Harry and moved to Staffs. He was stepson to Jack Evans and stepbrother to Wilf and Jack Evans. Young Jack lost his life sadly on the Burma railway.
We were over in the Cefn in 2000 and met many of my cousins. We were made very welcome. Lovely people the Cefn people. Glyn, Aus.
Wed Nov 22 09:25:16 2006
Phil Morris, Jacko-land!
Hi again to everyone who knows me - Elaine & Ali twin - you two must have memories like piggin elephants! 'Hit the pondo'- WOW aint heard that since Hector was a puppy!! PLUS, ya can even remember about the old fridge we used to dive off down the Sandy in the summer ( I can too now you've mentioned it, but it was right at the very back of my absolutely useless memory bank)... I took my 2 kids for a walk down the Dol with my dad in that dead hot weather last July in the school hols...I was telling the kids how the Dol used to be like blackpool in the summer but when we got there, there wasn't a soul in sight!! Not only that, it didn't look like the Sandy I remembered at all....in fact, I think it should be re-named The Grassy, coz it's just all totally overgrown! How times have changed. Now - 'IF' they can be dragged off their console games - they get run everywhere in cars and dropped off with some dosh for the day and then picked up again later...sheesh! We had to walk everywhere (or bike it if ya were lucky) and make all our own fun... Laughed when I read about when we used to make tunnels on the bank, play Tally (Ally Oak Boy), knock and run, then there was Jack shines the light, British Bulldog (Charge)...draggin branches and stuff up from the dol for our bonfire on the bank..kickin 'ell out of the old clapped out Galaxy machine on the wall of the old co-op to get freebies,following the ol' dears all the way up to the G Edwards hall hoping to get their stump when they flicked it away - lipstick an' all - ...then whoever got it would get the pleas for Young uns,last drag and caterpillars wotsits :) Great memories eh?
Wed Nov 22 08:15:55 2006
Glyn Jones, Australia
Hi Carol. Sorry I got it wrong. It should read my dad Robert Jones and your Grandma Dylis were brother and sister. Hi to all my many cousins there. Just had a 38deg. day, just a bit warm. Glyn Jones. Aus.
Tue Nov 21 09:25:21 2006
Len Salisbury, Acrefair
To Glyn Jones, Victoria, I put a posting here several months ago about you but did not get a response asking if your dad was Joe Fantail. If so you lived on Kings Street by the old Foresters pub opposite the black towers of Monsanto.
Tue Nov 21 09:18:54 2006
Len Salisbury Acrefair
Hi Carol Condon, yes we are related as you have said and the first time we met you had only been born a matter of hours or days. Ask your mum if there was a thunderstorm around about the time that you came on the scene! You must have been around when your dad was in the RAF and we met in Germany on the Mohne Dam about 1970/71. Same goes for Don Jones he is related to me along the way through marriage. Fancy being in the Delphs' line! Ah well why not.
Mon Nov 20 10:01:50 2006
Glyn Jones Vic
Hi Carol nee Jones. Been here for 37 years now and have 3 kids and 10 grandkids so you may have a few cousins here as my Dad, Robert Jones, and your mother Dilys were brother and sister. You might remember your aunt Eve, my mother. Would like to get in touch. Do you know where Castlemaine is? Glyn Jones
Mon Nov 20 09:52:48 2006
Don Jones (Delph), Gainsborough
For Carol Condon. My what a small world this is and how great the Cefn Mawr website. I too am a first cousin to your mother. My mother, Alice May, was a sister to your Grandmother Dilys and we lived just around the corner from her in Heol Berwyn in the last house on the left going towards Dick's shop. Like your dad I spent many years in the RAF and our paths crossed occasionally. I met him at RAF Padgate soon after I enlisted in 1951. Then in 1954 I met your Mother in Aden. I was stationed there and she was travelling, by Troopship, to join your dad in Singapore. I had been asked to meet her and I took her to look at some of the Arab shops and being an old hand by then I got her a good price on a blouse. I seem to remember that she had left you on board the ship with a child minder as it was pretty hot out there. Around about 1960 you all came to visit me and my family at RAF Coltishall when you were at RAF Marham. Do you remember that? I saw your Dad in Cefn Mawr when I was up there for a few days at Easter and we swapped our usual friendly insults and went on our way. It was nice to see him again though. The family is certainly spread around the world now. Another cousin of your Mother and me, who put me on to this web page, lives in Australia but I'm not sure where. He is one of the Stoke branch of the Jones family. I have a son who lives near Annapolis in America and two months ago my brother Cyril and I went out there to visit his wife and himself and also spent a week at their time share in Florida. It was really nice to see your article and I hope it will be the first of many. I visit this site almost every night. Best wishes to you and your family.
Fri Nov 17 10:17:26 2006
Carol Condon nee Jones Melbourne
Hi everyone just loved reading about Cefn and all the memories of you all. Len Salisbury, hi we are related but I don't think we've met but I remember your mum really well as she was my Taid's sister. I was born in Heol Cefnydd in 1952 the home of my grandparents Edwin and Dilys Bartley to Joyce and Raymond Jones. We never lived full time in Cefn as my father was in the air force so we travelled around the world but we always returned to Cefn with such excitement at seeing all our family. I remember Dicks shop and the big jars of sweets, Dens chip shop and the smell of monsantos as well as the summers down the dolydd swimming in the river. I have been living in a suburb of Melbourne now for 25 years and have 3 children who are grown up and very much Aussies. I still have some family living in Cefn, Dennis Bartley, Denise, Peter, David, Elizabeth and Sam who we caught up with at the British Legion when we paid a visit in June 2006. Ty Mawr was also a great place to visit. Look forward to reading the website from now on as my mother put me on to it, regards Carol Condon.
Wed Nov 15 08:16:20 2006
Peter Lawrence
Ben Powell - a big thank you for scanning 'the book' in.
Tue Nov 14 13:21:51 2006
(SHEP)! CEFN
Hello (Mangle)! Nice to read your comments all the way from Calgary, Canada. It's good to hear from old friends and family members on what has to be the best commented on community in Britain. Best wishes to you all for xmas.
Tue Nov 14 10:46:34 2006
Emma Wood
To Alun Salisbury, thank you very much, my mother and her family lived there when they were young and I know she would love a pic of it so many thanks.
Mon Nov 13 12:56:33 2006
Haydn Morris, Calgary
Hello to Ursula. I wasn't sure about the Aque pub - I thought that the last time we had spoken was in Oswestry in the '70s. Never mind. Incredible to hear from you. Not sure as to what you're doing these days. So long ago since we used to play in Fron up at Auntie's and Uncle George's. I remember your mom and dad well, I worked with your dad in Monsanto. Kindest regards to your mom. As for your brother, Christopher, what's he up to these days? We're doing well here. There's four inches of snow and it's about -10 celsius. Life is certainly different to Wales - cold! but very, very dry! Best wishes, Haydn.
Mon Nov 13 08:41:22 2006
Ursula Richards nee (Jones)
hi Haydn, how do u like living in Canada? My mum & me was only talking about times when i came to Fron to visit my Dads sister ginnie. we had some good times in them days. The last time we saw each other was in the AqiePub
back in mid 1987ish, we did chat about the old times then, my mam is asking after you. i told her that i was going to send u a message. Enjoy your new life in Canada hope to keep in touch. Bye
Fri Nov 10 08:11:46 2006
Alun Salisbury Cefn Mawr & Cardiff
Emma Wood. There is a photograph of Tabernacle Chapel on this page. See Ben Powell, Bangor (ex Cefn) comment, third comment below yours. Ben has a compilation of photos of Cefn Mawr and surrounding villages. Tabernacle is number 38.
Wed Nov 8 08:47:40 2006
Len Salisbury, Acrefair
There is a stone building in Well Street opposite Tabernacle Chapel which has the word carved in stone "BANK". Can anyone throw any light on this building? I don't recall it operating as a bank. I know that a Mr (Albert?) Jones carried on a business as a dry cleaner and lived across the road. He had a daughter.
Tue Nov 7 11:04:58 2006
Ali
What about the druggy? You couldn't beat it, then to den the chippy for chips and fish bits, the camps we made on the bank with tunnels going though, tally, knock and run, we always made our own fun eh?
Tue Nov 7 09:43:55 2006
David (Dai) Hart
To Jim from Chirk. Yes, I do remember working in 41's at Monsanto, amongst the Chlorine, Cyanide, Caustic, Sulphuric Acid and Aniline, but with good mates. I had no trouble drawing you, you could sleep through a thunderstorm! The best STILL life subject I ever had! Hope you are keeping well and good to hear from you. Take care.
Tue Nov 7 09:42:38 2006
Jim from Chirk
to Dai Hart Remember working in 41's and drawing a very handsome portrait of me asleep Hope you are well and in good health
Mon Nov 6 08:36:32 2006
Jo Wright (nee Hughes) Somerset
Researching family from Cefn Mawr and Ruabon. Need help tracing EDWARD RICHARDS and wife Mary A. 1840-1905. He ended up a grocer. They brought up my g grandmother Elizabeth Jones b 1863 Llangollen. He and Elizabeth were cousins. Can't find Edward Richards pre 1871. There is a family story that the 3 of them went to America/Patagonia for several years. However, in 1901 they are still in Ruabon and appear to have a daughter Kate who is only 6. (Edward was now 60 and his wife 59). Had they taken in another little girl as they did my g grandmother? Has anyone heard of Kate Richards?
Other family there includes George BOWEN - grocer in Well St. My mother was his granddaughter, Mair Bowen born Cefn Mawr, daughter of Benjamin Ryland Bowen and his wife Blodwyn Bowen (nee Jones). Any info much appreciated.
Tue Oct 31 09:25:22 2006
Ben Powell, Bangor (ex cefn)
I have scanned the book "Cefn Mawr In Old Picture Postcards" and put it online for people to
see here. Hope you like it.
Mon Oct 30 09:41:20 2006
Alison Bowen, nee Jones (Twin)
Hi To Fraser Williams - Didn't know you had emigrated to NZ , when was that? Last time I saw you, you were working in the Leisure centre. I always thought you were part of the fixtures and fittings there.
Isn't it a small old world, where a little web site can tell you things you didn't know!
I remember Pete Bathers dad's old bus and all the stories we used to tell, we were all too scared to walk home afterwards cause we would scare the life out of one another.
I also remember playing Truth, Dare, kiss command or promise on coppers bank, that was always a good laugh.
I especially remember going swimming down the Dol and jumping off the old fridge that someone had thrown in there and shouting "Hit the PONDO" as you jumped, and I remember the tale of Herman jumping off the fridge and getting his head stuck in the sand in the river bed! Not sure if that story was true, but I believed it at the time.
Fri Oct 27 10:02:32 2006
David Hart. Acrefair/Cefn
To Kath Jones/Roux. Unfortunately, I have reached the age where I can't be considered as a member of the "Boy Band", so am now an EX! I did however spend 20 years or more with them, and know how much hard work and dedication is needed to reach the heights. I have many memories of the Choir. Amongst them, taking part in live broadcasts from Fron School, complete with creaking floorboards, and applauding ourselves, as there was no room for an audience. On another occasion, singing in a broadcast from Carmel Chapel with the BBC Welsh Orchestra. The only one who could hear the orchestra was the conductor, Lloyd Edwards, who was wearing headphones. The Orchestra was in Cardiff! As a matter of interest, I knew your father, Clifton, and also your mother.
Tue Oct 24 08:17:31 2006
Kath Jones/Roux Cefn/USA
David Hart, Are you soon to be one of the infamous members of the Fron 'Boy Band'?
I feel fortunate to have grown up in an area where singing was a passion of not only those who had an inordinate amount of talent, but to be surrounded by people who appreciated it.
Mon Oct 23 09:58:51 2006
Ken Bathers
To Kath Jones, nice to hear the Maelor Angling Association mentioned. I am still the chairman of the Maelor and along with Eifion Evans have run the club for over forty years, I am proud to say the water from the bont bridge to below the viaduct now belongs to us and is now called the bathers beat.
Mon Oct 23 09:24:39 2006
Elaine Lloyd nee Jones (twin) Acrefair
Hi Phil Morris and Frazer Williams, 'what a blast from the past' Frazer; I remember Pete Bather's dad's bus very well!! what a scream, always the same gang on it, playing love, truth, dare etc... When did you desert us and move to the other side of the planet? Good luck to you. Phil Morris, you were one of the funniest people I've ever known, brilliant sense of humour and always up to no good. Great to hear from you both. There are hundreds of stories we could tell about our youth growing up in Cefn isn't there. No time to think of any at moment but definitely will! be back on to tell some stories. Suppose you both heard the sad news about Bridget, devastating. Take care and I will be looking more often on this site as I haven't looked on it for ages, its GREAT!!
Mon Oct 9 07:57:37 2006
A Brooks (nee Buffey)
I have lived in Cefn all my life. A better bunch of people you will not meet anywhere in the world. My husband is from Brynteg, but loves living in Cefn and like myself wouldn't consider living anywhere else. Even ended up living next door to a lad I went all the way through school with, Ian Davies. Anyone else out there remember the likes of Susan Cox, Maria Willilams, Ian Laitey, James Jones (Charlie). We gave Titch Edwards in Cefn Junior School hell, but we had fun. Remember Mrs Kath Brown? Mr Arthur - looking back some good times, if we but knew it then.
Mon Oct 2 10:57:07 2006
Kath Jones/Roux
Jonathan Cuffin Evans, Thankyou for the information on the Tom & Jerry. Do you have the title of the book by Dennis Davies? Also do you know anything about him? {Birthplace, birth or death year?} I appreciate your input. Do you have any information on Paragon Cottage in Cefn?
Mon Sep 11 08:20:19 2006
Jonathan Cuffin Evans, Cefn Mawr
Guys, I have read your comments on this great web site and have actually got information passed to me regarding all the taverns in Cefn Mawr and area, which has been translated from the book by Dennis Davies: The Tom and Jerry stood on Black Lion Rd (Bethania Rd, Acrefair) (opposite and close to the turning for Penycae). It is not mentioned in official records. It was an old house marked on the tithe map of 1844 and may be on the Plas Kynaston map of 1804. It was probably in business from the end of the C18th to the end of the First World War. The building was divided into two houses in 1916 and families lived in them til sometime in the 2nd World War. The tithe map shows a cluster of cottages around it and they all bore its name. A man called John Hughes wrote a Welsh novel which implied or imagined that the early Methodists met there! He called it "a very unsuitable place". The derivation of the name is interesting. The origin was a hot drink of rum and water with ! sugar, spice and egg mixed together. It is suggested that Tom and Jerry were two young men who were very fond of this drink and who patronised London taverns in the middle of the C18th, giving their names to the drink. The name was used to described pubs who sold cheap liquor, particularly gin. It developed into a name for gin shops such as the one in Acrefair. Apparently the name "Old Tom" for gin had nothing to do with this. It was a haven for drunkards and no doubt the customers said, "Get drunk for a penny, get drunk for tuppence, straw for nothing". They could sleep on straw in the cellar and start drinking again in the morning! In an effort to turn workers away from gin, laws were passed in 1830 and 1834 permitting anyone to sell beer with an excise payment of only 2 guineas a year. This resulted in a huge growth in sellers of beer, and the laws were repealed in 1869. (Ifor Edwards said the building was originally the Tommy Shop and later Ivy View).
Thu Sep 7 14:10:55 2006
