Len Salisbury Acrefair
To K Garrett, Peter Cunningham is an old friend of mine as was his father Alec Cunningham who was a reporter for the Wrexham Leader.
Fri Dec 22 08:57:52 2006

Wil, Penycae.
For J.R.Griffiths. I too am impressed by this site, see below. About Plasbennion, I recall delivering coal there. Drive in through the gap between the houses, turn right, to the far end of one row then reverse to the end of the other row. 14 cwt. loose per month from Bersham, 10 cwt., bagged, every 3 weeks from Hafod, then best coal in the afternoon. First drove the lorry in gear along the back lane between the houses and the gardens there. Hard work for a 15 yr. old but the job I enjoyed most in my whole working career. Not yery popular with Bob (Jones) Plasbennion, you're own local coalman, first house on the left going from Wynne Hall towards Plas Madoc. Remember Plasbennion had their own quite good football team as did Stryt Isa and Penycae. Matches between these teams usually took place at Xmas/New Year. No holds barred and no complaints, just get up and get on with it. Database at www.rcahmw.org.uk (Ancient monuments records etc. Aberystwyth) records Plas Bennion Colliery, Mission Room, Explosives Factory building, Wynne Hall Spelter works and Colliery, plus Wynnstay and Afoneitha Collieries. Also remember two Marys from Plasbennion, one quite a bit smaller but both lovely, lively, characterful personalities. Maybe a possibility of pictures from that site (rcahmw....) or from Denbighshire Archives at Ruthin Gaol. Another good community gone, just a field with a couple of donkeys in it now. Why do we let it happen?
Fri Dec 22 08:57:09 2006

K Garrett, Plas Isaf, Rhosymedre
There was a Mr Cuningham, art teacher, taught at Ruabon.
Mon Dec 18 15:30:29 2006

J. R. Griffiths ex Bryn Eitha, Penycae, now Borras
What a great tribute to your website. I came accross this while looking for the earliest evidence of the three rows of cottages in Plasbenion. My Mother's family of Davies and Jones all began life in this area. Now all that remains of Plasbenion, a wonderful community that I enjoyed so much in the 40s & 50s, is a road from Penycae named Plasbenion Road. Is there anyone with memories or photographs of this friendly hamlet from its humble beginnings as miners' cottages to its final destruction in the 60s?
Thu Dec 14 08:24:36 2006

Julie Valentine
To Heather from Wrexham Would love to hear from you - could you please email me @ julievalentineiom@hotmail.com
Tue Dec 5 12:35:52 2006

Julie Valentine
To Heather from Wrexham - I would love to hear from you. If you could ring my Aunty Rose I am sure that she would give you my phone number. Look forward to speaking to you soon.
Tue Dec 5 12:34:58 2006

Norma King
I remember Mary Butler as the pianist for the Cefn Mawr Male Voice Choir, which was conducted by her father. Our Dad was a member. I also remember all the Saturday mornings when my brother and I, as little children, were sent to Butler's for 'The Rations'. Butter, bacon, marg, lard etc. We had a big leather bag in which to carry it all, over the railway line and 'Balas' to Bowers Road. It was heavy and as much as we could manage. Because of the difference in our ages and heights, we had trouble with this bag. We each thought we had the rough end of it and always argued fiercely all the way home.
Tue Dec 5 09:16:16 2006

Len Salisbury Acrefair
Peter Davies, Mary Butler Hughes was Wilfred Butler's daughter and she lived on Llangollen Road on the left just before the Duke of Wellington pub. If you walk along the footpath you will see a tinplate advert for Lyons Tea. Her father Wilfred had a small grocers shop and I remember him selling Kensistas cigarettes which had a pack of 4 stuck on the side. Mind you I am going back 60 years or more. What else do you require? She married Mr Hughes (Turner) who lived in the "RING" Bro Gwilym.
Mon Dec 4 10:59:07 2006

Ken Williams Ruabon
Mary Butler Hughes still lives in Trevor and Edgar Jarvis lives in Llangollen.
Mon Dec 4 09:21:50 2006

Len Salisbury Acrefair
Anna Lewis the other brother's name was Eric Jarvis and he lived in Tanygraig, Cefn.
Mon Nov 27 11:41:48 2006

Peter Davies Cefn mawr
Does any one here have any info on Mary Butler Hughes I think she used to teach at Acrefair School
Mon Nov 27 09:38:30 2006

Len Salisbury, Acrefair
To Anna Lewis I suggest that one name of two brothers that you might be searching for might be Edgar Jarvis of footballing fame i.e. Druids. His elder brother used to work in either Border Breweries or Wrexham Lager and I can't think of his name at the moment. Was it Cyril?
Fri Nov 24 15:36:50 2006

Heather from Wrexham
To Julie Valentine (nee Owen). It was strange reading your message. Your grandfather, Lloyd Owen, was my mother Nancy Owen's brother. I have not seen your father Roger for over 40 years. I have kept in touch with your Aunty Rose although lately it has just been by way of Christmas cards. Would love to hear more from you.
Tue Nov 21 14:46:05 2006

Anna Lewis
Does anyone remember anything about a Jarvis family that lived on Tower Hill, I think it was No 11? Any piece of info would be appreciated.
Tue Nov 21 09:14:29 2006

X
To Steffan Williams, Acrefair. If I am corrent Terrance Parry - Cefn Mawr, Norma Parry - Cefn Mawr (were married) were living in Ffordd Offa Cefn Mawr/Newbridge. Big friends of my parents - Terry died around 10 yrs back of MND I believe.
Fri Nov 17 11:38:09 2006

Ursula Richards (nee)Jones
To Richard Omotosho. Yes I remember you well also Peter, you would visit my parents in Rhosymedre, auntie Dylis & uncle Sid, sadly my dad past away nearly 4 years ago. Ask your parents they would remember us. How is Peter doing & what r you doing any family? Your grandparents where lovely couple, we send our love 2 u & your parents , iv just come accross this site by chance. oh before I forget where r your parents r they still abroad? Bye for now.
Thu Nov 16 08:07:13 2006

Stuart Jones Lanzarote
Many thanks to Len Salisbury and Gareth Davies for the information on the book written by Sir Miles Thomas D.F.C. I have found a copy in London. To Stuart Fawcett and Gareth Davies, Hope you had a good Eisteddfod and hope to be with you in 2007 Stuart (Tickets)
Mon Nov 13 09:03:25 2006

John F.Richards
Norma King did your name used to be Norma Griffiths? and you have a brother named Alan.
Thu Nov 9 14:14:32 2006

Wil, Penycae
Sorry to intrude after reading your excellent website. However, having been trawling the web for info on my old home, Plas Du/Ty in D/Trefechan I came across, at:- www.llgc.org.uk (National Library of Wales website) a catalogue of deeds and documents relating to the Jones family of Penybryn. Entry 5 dated Dec 1st. 1560, yes 1560, refers to "Gift of a parcel of land called Erw Leuku, bounding in length from a close called Kae ler' ap Meilir Issa to a close called Kae ler' ap Meilir Vcha and in breadth between Kae ler' ap Meilir Vcha and the highway called Yrystryd Karegog in CRISTIONITH KYNN". This had been translated from Latin. Kae is obviously Cae, Kynn is Kenrick (Cynrig) and is Meilir Maelor? I think V should be U making Ucha (higher), but I'm stumped by "ler'" and I assume that Erw LEUKU refers to the present day Erw Leicyn.Perusing my Geiriadur Mawr I found Lleucu, (Lucy) so could it be Lucy's Acre? Several versions of the word appear in the catalogue, i.e. 158! 2 Leyky, 1605 Leykie, 1612 Lleykie plus more variations, including 1657 Liki. Someone who knows more of Acrefair than I do can perhaps identify the "Kae" locations and confirm, or contradict, what are no more than assumptions. Having parked my bike in "Yr Erw", (Minshulls Croft) seven evenings a week during the middle 40's, my knowledge of Cefn and Acrefair is limited to the chippy opposite the George Edwards hall, the Salvation Army Chapel, Monsanto's carnival, admiring the new (then) council houses being built in Plas Isa, Rhosymedre and singing carols on our way home, to a very old lady in a cottage right by the line across the road from the Delph. Congrats. again on a first rate website, why can't Penycae and Rhos do this without criticising their places, and each other??? P.S. Lucy (Lucifer?) translates from Latin, (shades of R.G.S., aren't I sad), not only as the Devil but also as "bearing light" and "morning star". Best wishes, Bill.
Fri Nov 3 07:43:22 2006

Len Salisbury
To Trevor Jones Australia, the teacher that you refer to as Mr Cunningham should have read Mr Cunnington the woodwork teacher.
Tue Oct 10 08:34:13 2006

Alun Salisbury, Cefn Mawr & Cardiff
Trevor Jones, Toowooba. It's good to hear from you. As I recall Mr Williams and Mrs Rogers were also teachers at this time. Your photograph certainly brought back memories and I concur with the names you've identified. It'll be interesting to see whether other readers can put other names to faces. There is no doubt that our two Taids would have known each other for my Taid lived in the first cottage on the left hand side ascending Tower Hill. Unfortunately, I am unable to place your Taid. On looking up - http://www.old-maps.co.uk/ and typing in Acrefair I notice that it refers to the works as - Tref-y-Nant Fireclay Works (Tower Hill is opposite the works and close to the Duke of Wellington pub). As I recall they made bricks, earthenware pipes, mouldings, and tiles. You'll also find the maps, which are dated 1879, cover Rhosymedre and Cefn Mawr but in the search facility type Cefn-mawr as it is shown on the map. The pub at Trefor is the Australia Arms, which was next to Roberts and Maginnis Ltd, Australia Brickworks. Also, if you manipulate the map for Trevor-isaf you'll find the Australia Arms, but no level crossing or brickworks at this time. The level crossing at Trefor is the same level crossing that I refer to in my article covering the hosting of competitors to the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. See the Llangollen page: http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northeast/sites/denbighshire/pages/int-eist1.shtml The article is really about the people of Cefn Mawr and surrounding villages who hosted competitors in the early years of the Eisteddfod.
Mon Oct 2 11:55:47 2006

Trevor Jones, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
To Alun Salisbury; Looking at the dates you gave in your letter, you and I were in Acrefair School at the same time. After leaving Rhosymedre C of E School I was in the secondary school from 1950-54. We lived in Church Street, Rhosymedre, and we used to walk up Cae Coch and down into Acrefair. Turning left at the bridge we sometimes used to stop off at the little sweet shop for gobstoppers and then continue on to school. When I was 13 or 14 I used to walk to Plasbenion every morning at 5am to get the horse out of the field, then Dai Jones 'the milk' would put the horse in the shafts and off we would go to deliver the milk for the day. We would deliver to Rhosymedre, Cefn, Newbridge and Acrefair. Then I would get off the cart when the bell rang and go to school. All those early mornings for four pence pocket money which we used to spend on a Saturday afternoon at the Palace Cinema to watch Flash Gordon. Some of the teachers that come to mind are Miss Marsden, Mr Hafod! , Mr Dan Jones, Mr Griffiths, Mr Humphreys, Mr Cunningham and Mr Parry who took us in sport and used to pick the football team. On searching through some of my memorabilia I came across an old photograph of the team in 1954. I can place some of the players and was wondering if anyone can put names to the others. In the back row on the far left is Barry Page, third from the left is myself, fifth from the left is Carl Williams, and farthest on the right is Mr Parry. Front row on the far left is Mr Bowen (Headmaster), next is Maxi Bathers, then Joey Jones and David Lambert who has the ball between his knees, next along is Cyril Davis, and farthest on the right is Vernon Wright. We played Rhos Grango on this day and we won the game 2 -1 - happy memories. Alun, I notice you mentioned your Taid lived on Tower Hill, well my Grandfather also lived on Tower Hill, he was the Blacksmith in Trefnant Brickworks. His name was Tom Jones and later he moved to Trefor and lived in the first house over the railway crossing opposite a pub called the 'something Arms' I think. Well that is all I can remember about Acrefair Secondary School, I hope it brings back some memories for you all.
Thu Sep 21 11:50:30 2006

wendy molloy / Jones
To Julie Valentine / Owens
I remember your dad & grandparents very well, your dad & my brother were great friends they were both motorbike fanatics along with a few other lads in acrefair, there were many times either one or the other could be seen with legs & arms in plaster sitting on the seat by Ikes old shop by the old acrefair bridge. Ken ( my brother) & your dad were in school together, and I also remember your mum Val at acrefair school as well. your dad was a great lad & very well liked in the village, I think he broke a few hearts when he married your mum! your granparents were lovely people and I was very fond of them both, I very often used to have chats with them as I passed the house on my way up the road to the shop or to sit on the seat with your dad and Ken ( I only did it to annoy them ) being the younger sister. I hope this small insight into your dads younger years will please you, it has brought many happy memories for me of when we were all young and free from worries except who would be in plaster next. best wishes to you and your family
Tue Sep 19 08:09:49 2006

Julie Valentine nee Owens, ex Ruabon now Isle of M
Hello Norma. I have loved reading all these stories of Acrefair - my Nan and Grandad Lloyd and Win Owens with my Dad Roger and my Aunty Rose used to live in No 1 Brynview on Llangollen Road. I have many fond memories of staying there and can remember my Grandad always used to take us up the Ballast to play on all the old rocks that were there - we used to absolutely love it! I also remember Syd's Shop and there was also a shop lower down that used to have a lovely lady in - I can't remember her name though! Thank you for bringing back so many happy memories for me - you have made my day!
Thu Sep 14 15:42:59 2006

Peter Daniels, Abernant
Remember all of you, yourself, Simon and Peter, used to live next door. What memories you have just brought back of my early years in Springfield Villas.
Tue Aug 29 16:59:27 2006

Gareth Davies, ex-Top of Acrefair
Hi Peter. I too have often wondered the origin of the name Acrefair. I have in my possession a print by F Jukes from a painting by Thomas Walmsley dated Jan 10th 1794 entitled 'This view of Acrefair near Wynnstay on the River Dee'. Your guess of Mary's Acre may be accurate as the area could well have had some attachment (a Grange for example) belonging to Valle Crucis Abbey. The monastery in its heyday would have had extensive land holdings and there is no reason why they shouldn't have included "Acrefair" but it's supposition on my part. Honey, the shop is on the opposite side of the road to Lancaster Terrace and before the "flats" were built on the old "Druids" football pitch the entrance gates were still in existence as well as the "Black Houses" which were originally an engine shed. It may well have disappeared by now but opposite the Hampden Arms was another gate which must have been associated with the siding that ran along Coed Richard behind the stone wall. As children we called it the quarry, why I know not, but it was certainly edged with dressed stone. Re the photo of Monsanto drivers I am sure that Ike Evans (latterly of the Bridge Shop and Post Office) must be one of them. I used to deliver papers for Ike and my route was Llangollen Road, Abernant finishing at Tower Hill. The only person I can remember delivery the morning paper to was W T Evans (Cefn Chronicle) and he used to wait on the door-step for his Daily Express and always chastised me for being late, which I was. The Sunday round was much bigger - it covered all of Cefn, Acrefair, and Plas Madoc. On Saturdays we used to delivery bread, fresh from Williams the Bakers, to Penybryn, nipping off pieces as Ike taught me songs from Gilbert and Sullivan. No-one has yet refered to those most wonderful of Acrefair characters in the 1950/60s "Nanny the Post", Connie her daughter and "Em Tonk".
Tue Aug 29 16:58:21 2006

Peter Daniels, Cefn Mawr
Many memories of my 45 years as an Acrefair and Cefn boy and man. The old Acrefair infants and junior schools, Madoc and then Ruabon. School plays, school teachers, especially Denny Davies in the last year of juniors, with his fantastic stories of piecraft and the invisible man, his wonderful voice, and best of all, his spelling tests. Does anyone of my era remember the (mac) spelling test? What a teaser that was. Mrs Williams in the infants telling every pupil that they had to write with their right hand? Kids from farms not able to spell their own names, nitty nora, tracing paper in the (outside) toilets, and believe it or not they were great days...Madoc school with mr Petree, the mad Canadian maths teacher, Mr Noel Jones, what can be said against a man like that, Martin Richards, Nora Jones, and numerous others, who are remembered by the images in my memory, but not by name, but who none the less played their part in forming their charges into what they became. Mrs Williams' shop, crad the garth, tonks the barbers, with the ladies hairdressers in the same building run by Gaynor Davies's mum which was along the side entrance to the junior school, which sadly is not there now. Thankfully, for me, part of the brickwork of the school now resides in a wall at the back of my house (memories are only accessible if they are good).
Tue Aug 29 15:37:38 2006

Dafydd Wyn Phillips, Llundain/London
To Diane Powell: I'm researching my family history and noticed the reference to your great great grandfather Jonathan Powell. My great great grandfather was John Powell, Rhosllanerchrugog, Jonathan's brother. My late grandfather, Rev William Phillips refers to Jonathan in his book Atgofion (Rhos) published in 1955. Which of Jonathan's grandsons is your direct ancestor:- Jonathan, Thomas or Levi and are there any more Powell's in the Acrefair/Cefn Mawr area?
Tue Aug 29 11:02:38 2006

Kelly Griffiths, Acrefair
I was just wondering if anyone remembers my great grandad John Mayers who sadly passed away in September '98, he is greatly missed. It would be great to hear some stories about him and maybe his wife Violet Mayers who passed away before I was born. Maybe you would remember my mum Carol Powell now Turner and her brother Chris Powell who also passed away just before my grandad. John Mayers was 93 when he passed away, he enjoyed a pint in the oddeys with Gary Roller who still wanders around please let me know if you can remember anything about the family. My grandad's daughter was Evelyn Powell and she lived in Trevor.
Fri Aug 25 10:37:40 2006

Gareth Davies ex-Acrefair
To Stuart Jones. The book you want is: Out on a Wing, by Sir Miles Thomas Pub. Michael Joseph 1964. It's out of print but obtainable through inter-library loans.
Thu Aug 24 12:07:13 2006

Tesni Griffiths, Acrefair
I moved to Acrefair in November 2005. I have made lots of friends. I go to Acrefair school so does my brother Daniel, my baby brother Hari will go there too. My mum lived here when she was growing up and thought it would be a nice village for us to grow up in too. I play on the school field and go to my nanna's and grandad's, they live on Trefynant Park with my uncle Lee, he is 11 and plays with me and my brother. Acrefair is a great place to live.
Thu Aug 24 09:18:57 2006

Mark Jones
Really, really looking forward to your email Don, why is he known as crim lol, all I know at the moment is Emlyn's dad was a miner as well. Tried searching the net for info on my family but to no avail. On my dad's, mum's side I've got back to about 1870s I think...they are the porters and I've traced them back to Norfolk. Can't wait to hear of anyone who knows anything about my family. mark@markus20002.wanadoo.co.uk is email if anyone wants to get in touch.
Fri Aug 18 10:55:44 2006

Linda Hall (Jones) King Street
I orginate from Rhosymedre, but have lived in Acrefair for a number of years. Has anyone got any photos of King Street when the railway line went across the road where the junction is with Station Road nr St Paul's Church. I live at the property just where the railway used to cross and would love to show my children a picture of what it used to look like.
Wed Aug 16 13:04:48 2006

Don Jones (Delph) Gainsborough
For Mark Jones, Wrexham. I am a first cousin to your Grandad Emlyn (better known as Crim to the people of Cefn) as his Dad and mine were brothers. My dad was Danny. The whole family, which is a very large one, are known throughout the area as the Delphs. My daughter and I have been doing family history for many years and although Jones is a very difficult name to work with we have gone back quite a long way on my Dad's mother's side. My daughter has all the paper work at the moment but I will be seeeing her in a couple of weeks and get the information from her. I note that you have put your email adress on the website so I will send it direct to you. Best wishes. Don
Wed Aug 16 09:16:51 2006

Ian Hudson, Downham Market
To Eirlys J Roberts - do you have any recollection of any of the following names - Charlie, Peter, Dennis, Albert, Doris, Dora, Daisy and May Roberts from the 1920s/1930s? They are the brothers and sisters of John James Roberts who had connections with Sycamore Farm before moving to Poplar House, Plas Isa. They are related to my auntie and mother, Margaret and Joan Roberts, who were born in 1927 and 1928 respectively at Burton Terrace, Acrefair - their mother's name was Esther.
Wed Aug 16 09:06:17 2006

Eirlys J Roberts, Mold
To Norma, Gareth Davies and Ian Hudson. I am one of the daughters from Sycamore Farm. Sadly Dewi died in an accident in Cronospan, Chirk, about 7 years ago. His family are still in Penycae. One of my sisters lives in Acrefair near Coed Richard. Ceinwen lives in Norwich and Gwennol in Prestatyn. Mam and Dad moved to Penycae to live after the farm was sold. Mam died 3 years ago aged 88. As you see I live in Mold. We all took advantage of our musical upbringing and still sing.
Tue Aug 15 09:19:16 2006

Geraint Roberts, Holden, MA USA
David Hart - I certainly do remember going to Failsworth to see the LSF being manufactured at Hubron. It's nice to think now that that material is covering the cables in operation in the London Underground and Channel Tunnel. After BICC in Wrexham I moved to BICC in Indianapolis until they were taken over by General Cables. Then I moved to Buffalo New York to a new company Saint Gobain and now Massachusetts with the same company. This is a great site and I have printed it out and sent to my mum Beryl to read. I have great memories of Acrefair, Cefn and Rhosymedre and here are some things I recall when I start to think about the area: 1. The echo on Coed Richard. 2. The air raid shelter on Coed Richard. 3. The iron bridge and the clanking noise it would make when you walk across it. 4. Walking to Acrefair school from Plas Madoc across the old railway line, and at the rear of Air Products. 5. Painting steel work at Air Products for a summer job with my mum's cousin John Davies. 6. Getting the cane across the hand in Acrefair school because someone in the class threw a glass jar at another pupil and would not own up. The headmaster was summoned and everyone in the class had one swipe of his cane.
Mon Aug 14 09:36:36 2006

mark jones wrexham
hi i wonder if anyone can help,im doing a family tree and really just looking for stories or if anyone new my family 1st, my grandad emlyn jones,lived in cefn 97 high street to be exact,his parents where alfred and katie jones.i know he's still alive i see him now and then,he lost a leg in a pit accident.. 2nd, my nanna elsie jones who died earlyer this year.lived in new bridge with hesecond husband gwyn jones.. love to hear of someone who may of new them or could help with some stories of when they were younger
Thu Aug 10 10:58:28 2006

mark jones wrexham
hi i know ive posted before but also info on my taid would be great. his name was robert frances garrett. we all knew him as frank, lived in rhosymedre lived there with his second wife gwen, if anyone knew his first wife margaret may jones this would be fantastic as this is my mothers real mum who we do not know nothing about apart from she died not long after giving birth to my mum. please get in touch: mark@markus20002.wanadoo.co.uk
Thu Aug 10 10:57:48 2006

Norma
To Meg and your friends in Bowers Road.
I loved hearing that you children are still playing around the 'Old Man' as I did and that you like it too. I have not had the courage to come back to see it after all these years, in case it has changed too much. I love what I remember of it too much I think. We used to play road games, like 'Kick the Tin' under the gas light. There was hardly any traffic then - just the occasional pony and trap and sometimes a car. The coal and vegetables were delivered by horse and cart, so there was no real danger. Sometimes, there were tractors, but we could hear them coming long before they appeared. Do you still play road games like skipping together with a big heavy rope; tops and whips or hopscotch? There used to be seasons for doing all these things both in the school yard and on the road. Perhaps you are all such stars on computers that you don't get time these days.
Thu Aug 10 07:33:36 2006

Meg, Bowers Road
I love Acrefair. On hot days we still climb the old man and we make dens there. My dad works in Flexsys and my mum works in Ysgol Acrefair. Me and my brother go to Ysgol Acrefair school and my baby sister is soon to come. I have lots of friends here and I wouldn't want to leave :lil aled bethan rob sophie.
Mon Aug 7 08:44:29 2006

Len Salisbury, Acrefair
To Stuart Jones, the person that I think you mean was Sir Miles Thomas former chairman of BOAC now British Airways and lived in Kings Street. If you search for his name on a search engine you will find him. I think he had a decoration DFC or something. His mother was my father and mother's landlady, Mrs ME Thomas.
Thu Aug 3 12:20:00 2006

Stuart Jones. Acrefair, Garth, Lanzarote
I wonder if anyone can help please. I am trying to obtain a book on the locality written by Miles Thomas. I believe he lived on the road between Acrefair and Cefn and may well have been an MP. Any help would be much appreciated.
Thu Aug 3 10:17:34 2006

David Albert Hart
For Geraint Roberts. USA/Cefn/Acrefair Hello Geraint. Glad you have found this site, and settled the details about your Dad. You mentioned that you still have your piano. My wife, Hazel, remembers you taking piano lessons from her mother, when we lived in Cae Coch. We both remember your grandmother, Mrs Hughes, who lived near us in Ogwen, and were very fond of her. Do you remember our visit to Failsworth, from work, and checking that the manufacture of LSF was up to our specification? Quite a few years ago now! Regards to you and family.
Mon Jul 31 16:56:35 2006

Geraint Roberts Cefn Mawr, Plasmadoc and now Holde
To Derek Evans, Alun Salisbury and Dave Hart. You are spot on with the comments on my dad Arthur Roberts. Some more details. Arthur was one of about 15 children and lived his childhood in Church Street, Llangollen. After the war he worked as mentioned on "the bacon side" in Rhosymedre Co-op where he met my mum Beryl Hughes (daughter of Bert Hughes who had a green grocers High Street, Rhosymedre, and later was on the security gate in Monsanto until he retired). When mum and dad married they first lived in 'British House', Acrefair, before moving to Russel Street in Cefn where they lived in Graesar Villa. My dad worked in various Co-ops in Trevor, Overton, Cefn, Rhosymedre and Ruabon. In about 1965 when I was 5 years old they moved to Whalleys Way, Plasmadoc. I attended cefn school, Ysgol Madoc and finally Ysgol Rhiwabon. I know of David Hart and his brother Mike Hart who used to take me and my friends fishing. I was in school with Mike's daughter Jennifer and they lived about 3 doors away from me in Whalleys Way. David - I used to take piano lessons from your mother in law and still have my first piano which has travelled with me to the US. So far it has travelled from Plasmadoc to Indiana to New York and now Massachusetts. My own children now have the pleasure of using it. I recently mailed a copy of these memories of Rhosymedre and Cefn to my mum who now lives in Rhosymedre and it made her day. She has had such pleasure recalling all the people and places referred and has been sharing it with her friends.
Mon Jul 31 10:07:21 2006

Alun Salisbury, Cefn Mawr & Cardiff
Mystery Co-op employee named. For those who have been following the comments on this page will be aware that I was seeking the name of the tall man, with dark wavy hair and who wore horn-rimmed spectacles. He worked behind the counter at the Rhosymedre grocery department. Who was he? Best click on the Rhosymedre page and read the comment from his son.
Mon Jul 24 13:30:02 2006

Anna Turner
I have lived in this area for 16 years. The area is full of pleasant people, who are always willing to help you. I attended Ysgol Acrefair for seven years, yes, Sarah-Jayne, I do remember you - we were in the same class for years! Although I now have a new school and friends, I still often wonder how you and Nicola are getting on in Ruabon. It's good to hear from you after all these years apart.
Mon Jul 24 09:09:02 2006

Vicki Williams from Gwespyr
Just found the Acrefair website! According to family history, my Nain's parents ran The Eagles many years ago. She was Bertha Elizabeth Bowen, and was born around 1880; she married my Taid, Thomas Powell, and they left to live in Ellesmere Port on the Wirral, when he gained work as the Ellesmere Port Gaslamplighter and Knocker-upper.
Mon Jul 24 09:08:22 2006

Sarah-Jayne Pritchard, Plas Madoc
Acrefair is a lovely place. I lived there for 5 years and attended the primary school, where I enjoyed myself very much, making many friends, but after leaving there to go to secondary school we all split up! So if anyone remembers who I am write back! Thanx luv Sarah-Jayne age 16!
Tue Jul 11 11:51:30 2006

Alun Salisbury, Cefn Mawr & Cardiff
Bill, Froncysyllte. I agree the photos are small but I suspect it's a compromise between what the web team can fit on the page. What I've been doing is to right click the photo and save it to file where it can be expanded and viewed at leisure. Thanks for reminding everyone about all the photos on the Froncysyllte page. Under the heading - Monsanto / Useful sites I found a photo of my father, Edward (Ted) Salisbury - 2nd row from the front and second from the left hand side. It is interesting when comparing him in the Monsanto photo to that when he was serving in the TAs. See Rhosymedre page. My father is on the extreme right hand side of the TA photo. Bill said, if anyone wants to see lots of old pictures and comments about Froncysyllte. Log on to http://www.btinternet.com/~billevans/fron
Mon Jul 3 16:16:56 2006

Bill, Froncysyllte
Although I am not from Acrefair, I envy the number of contributors, I wish that Froncysyllte had as many. I do know many of the contributors and feel part of the community. However I do have a bee in my bonnet. I have contacted BBC North East Wales several times saying that the pictures are too small. It is a pity that all these wonderful pictures, especially the groups of people, are too small and the people are unrecogniseable. What a waste. If you agree, please register your comments to the BBC. If you do not agree please tell me, perhaps I need a new pair of specs.
Wed Jun 28 09:44:50 2006

Don Jones (Delph)
For Len Salisbury, Hello Len. Thanks for putting me right on the name Of Eric Jones. The old memory plays tricks now and again as I'm sure you know. I was also pleased to see the one you got David Hart to put on and in fact I had forgotten one or two of the players on that one. Did we have some good times or what. Our changing room facilities at Newbridge were somewhat basic but we loved our football. I managed to get up to Cefn at Easter after a gap of quite a few years but the only one of the old crowd I bumped into was Ken Blything and we instantly recognised each other after more than fifty years. Best wishes.
Mon Jun 26 10:03:01 2006

Len Salisbury
To Don Jones (Delph). In the photo of Newbridge Youth Fooball Team you have got the player as Eric Roberts, this should be Eric Jones front row second from right as you look at the picture. Dai Hart is going to submit another picture for me as my scanner is playing up. This will be the one that I promised since last year. Don't worry Don you also feature on it as well.
Thu Jun 22 14:41:09 2006

Nick, Web Team
As promised, you can now listen to the BBC Radio Wales interview from the mousemat programme featuring contributors Alun, Norma and David talking about why they use this website.
Click to listen
Wed Jun 7 10:00:35 2006

Nick Bourne, Web Team
Hi, a quick note to let you know that contributors Norma, Alun and David feature in a BBC Radio Wales programme this weekend talking about the popularity of the Cefn Mawr and Acrefair pages. You can listen online to mousemat on Sunday June 4 at 5pm. You can then use the 'listen again' service to hear it for the next seven days after which time we hope to make the interview available from this website.
Fri Jun 2 07:52:13 2006

Frazer Williams/Wellington, New Zealand
To Colin Roberts..thanks for sending in photo No2 of the Monsanto lorry drivers, can't seem to find my Grandad on that one but love to see all the photos on this site...it's great! Thanks again.
Wed May 31 09:54:25 2006

Wendy Molloy / Jones
to Colin Roberts,
thanks very much for posting the 2nd photograph of the monsanto drivers, unfortunately my father isn't on that one either, but the one 4th from the left is my uncle Cliff (corwen) Jones. Please give my best regards to your mum, I often used to have a chat with her & your Dad when I used to meet them, it always brought back so many memories of when my Dad was alive, I always felt there was a bond between us as your Dad & mine were very good friends. Once again many thanks for taking the time locating the photograph.
Wed May 31 07:16:33 2006

DARREN BATHER (CHARLIE BATHE
The photos are great! Acrefair is a great place, to grow up in, a real sense of community. I was wondering if anyone knew my dad Charlie Bather who lived in Lancaster Terrace, or if anyone may have any pictures of him. What a great website.
Wed May 31 07:13:32 2006

Norma
Yes Karen. You're right. Maureen is second from the left on the front row - next to me. I am the third one along. Annie is at the other end of the row, wearing a white ribbon in her hair. She was exactly the same age as I, if I remember correctly. I hope they are both well. Derek Case, who also lived in Brickfield Terrace is on the left of the top row. He was also in my class at Acrefair School.
Tue May 30 07:07:25 2006

karen brooks nee roberts acrefair
norma regarding the photograph dated 1946 i wonder if my mother maureen richards and her lifelong friend annie owens appear on it they both lived in brickfield terrace as did i until 1966
Fri May 26 07:56:56 2006

Honey Watton, Edinburgh
So interesting to read the comments here, particularly about Neville's bakehouse from Gareth Davies and Norma King: this is because my great-grandfather was Jack Neville, who ran the shop and bakehouse with his wife Minnie! I have a picture from about 5 years ago showing it as a takeway and newsagents/confectioners, and my great-aunt said she always thought it had something to do with a railway station - and you've pieced it all together for me, and thank you so much for helping me to place it on a map. I'm not from the area directly but I'm guessing from your comments and the photo that it's on the corner of Lancaster Terrace and the Llangollen Road? Is it still there? In Jack's day, the takeaway (the square building) was the bakehouse, with the flour in the attic and a crane at the back (next to his pigeons), and the shop was the triangular building next door - my great-gran raised 9 people there. The house is such an odd shape, and although I can't visit, it looks to me like a cut-up old building, so I'd be fascinated if it was an old signal-box. When you look at an 1853 map of Cefn from old-maps.co.uk (search for Garth and go east) I think you can even identify it with a 'Signal Post' back then, if I've got the location right. Minnie Neville (born Griffiths) kept 'illegal' non-rationed stuff in a hidden cupboard in that triangular corner of the shop, reputedly - probably the odd cake or treat for friends. I have a photo of her outside the shop, I guess in the 30s, just after the Neville sign was painted, if anyone's interested. My great-grandfather Jack kept a horse outside that regularly disrupted the Llangollen bus I'm told, and he eventually retired when he was 72 and the snow came up to his horse's belly one morning. I don't know anything about what happened to it afterwards, so it's so interesting to read it became Gale's after they sold it. Any other historical bits and pieces about the shop etc?
Wed May 17 09:41:41 2006

Scott Burnison from Washington
I lived in Acrefair for one year, August 1976 to August 1977, when my mother was on a teacher exchange program and taught in a school near Wrexham. My sister attended school in Ruabon and I went to school in Acrefair. Back then I was the only little Yank around. I actually won the school Eisteddfod contest that year for a poem I wrote and was awarded the Bard's chair. It was quite a year for a twelve year old from Minnesota. Reading some of these postings bring back some faded memories. Thank you.
Wed May 10 07:57:44 2006

Frazer Williams/wellington,New Zealand
Hi to the person who sent in the photos, I have just spotted my grandad Tommy (COUT) Williams on photo No12, the Monsanto lorry drivers. I still have his passport somewhere with all the stamps of places he delivered, Holland, Germany, Belgium, etc. I think his father was one of the first to own a lorry in the Cefn delivering bricks and stone to local builders! It would be good if anyone could give me any information on this. Thanks.
Wed Apr 12 10:42:51 2006

Alun Salisbury Cefn Mawr & Cardiff
Derek Evans, Johnstown. Thank you for the information. David Hart. Acrefair posted a note on the Cefn Mawr page. David said: 'From your description, it would almost certainly be a man named ARTHUR. I can't remember his surname, but remember him well. He had an artificial limb (foot)? and lived in Russell Street and then Plas Madoc. Some further info. is that his wife was called Beryl Hughes, who had a brother named Ken. They lived in Rhosymedre.' Derek. Does this information fit Arthur Roberts?
Wed Apr 12 08:10:57 2006

Derek Evans, Johnstown.
To Alun Salisbury regarding C0-OP employee,his name I think is Arthur Roberts, went on to be the manager at the Ruabon shop where I worked myself around 1963
Mon Apr 10 11:17:07 2006

Wendy Molloy/Jones. Abernant
to Colin Roberts. the only two i recognise are your dad & Ray Feildhouse, I was hoping to see my dad in the photograph, his name was Graham Jones &he drove one of the tankers it was no.48. Yiur dad &mine were co drivers on long hauls & he often called in at our house, the other drivers I remember were willy wood, tommy cout? cyril sayer,my uncle cliff(corwen)jones I also remember jackie morgan.we used to live next to the old co-op in 59 cae gwilym lane I have two brothers barry & ken jones. I have many happy memories from that time but my dad died in 1959 aged 43 and we moved to office house J.C.Edwards in trevor to live with my nain & taid Orlando & Elizabeth Jones where we spent many happy hours playing in the woods. my taid worked in J.C. Edwards all his life & he & my nain were caretakers of the works & offices until 1959. I would love to know if anyone has any photo's with my dad in them I only have a few. This site is bringing back so many memories of my childhood, many thanks
Thu Apr 6 10:26:23 2006

Gerald Bassett Jones Cefn/Redditch
Hello Len(Salisbury), welcome home to Acrefair, thanks for the 'missing' players name in the Maelor Y.C. Football Team. Hope you can make it to the R.G.S.O.B.A. dinner this year at the Wynnstay Ruabon, will look forward to seeing you as I`m sure will many others including Reg. Hayes son Brian.
Tue Mar 28 21:31:31 2006

Len Salisbury Acrefair
To Gerald Bassett Jones the missing player's name is Winston Edwards who came from Rhosymedre and had connections with Rhyl if my memory is not playing tricks.
Mon Mar 27 12:56:22 2006

Peter Lawrence
The origin of the name Cefn Mawr seems pretty obvious (he said), but can anyone explain where Acrefair comes from? Was a fair once held on an acre of land, or does it refer to Mary's acre, or.....
Sun Mar 26 15:04:45 2006

Gaynor Green Bowers Road
Thanks to David Hart for sending the picture of the 4 pals, great to see my Dad, Speedy at the age of 18. Dad originated from Cefn Mawr, his family lived on Bowers Road and although I was brought up in Chirk I have now happily lived on Bowers Road for 17 years, gone back to my roots!
Sat Mar 25 07:43:58 2006

Alun Salisbury Cefn Mawr & Cardiff
I am trying to identify the name of a man who worked behind the counter in the grocery department of the Co-operative at Rhosymedre. The person in question was tall and had dark wavy hair and wore horn rimmed spectacles. This was in the period the late 1940's and 1950's and perhaps even the 1960's. Could this be: Glynne Jones, Ernie Phillips, Redvers Evans or Don Evans. Perhaps someone can help identify the person.
Tue Mar 21 15:17:59 2006

Mike Edwards, Newbridge. 09/03/06
Hi, Don Jones (Delph). I remember you well, and all the good times we had with the gang. With regards to your comment recalling my transfer from Maelor to Newbridge, you forgot to mention the reason, which was, I always preferred to play with the 'best centre-half in the league' rather than against him! Hope to see you when you visit the Cefn.
Thu Mar 9 20:04:13 2006

Don Jones (Delph) Cefn Mawr, now Gainsborough
As an exile from Cefn Mawr, this web page and the one for Cefn give me a great deal of pleasure, especially when I see articles from people I have known just about all my life. I am grateful to David Hart for submitting the photograph of some of our old pals. The one of the Maelor Youth Club football team also brought back many memories. I played for Newbridge Youth Club and so they were our great rivals and I can remember each one of them. What Mike Edwards from Newbridge forgot to mention is that later he transferred to us and many a match we played in together. He and I went in to the RAF in the early 1950s and corresponded for a while but then he finished his National Service while I signed on and served for many more years. I met him a few times after I retired from the Force but then I moved to Gainsborough. Due to personal problems I have not been able to come back to Cefn for a long time but I will be there at Easter and hope that I will bump into some of my old friends.
Wed Mar 8 20:13:09 2006

David J. Griffiths (Chesterfield)
Does anyone have any information on the Wrexham Union Workhouse, please? My Grandma, Sarah Roden (nee Percival) was a labour mistress there from the 1890s onwards & I would love to find out what life was like there during that time.
Wed Mar 8 13:37:52 2006

David J. Griffiths (Chesterfield)
My dad - John Edward Griffiths, from Rhos - was in the Oswestry Home Guard at the beginning of WW2. I would love to hear from anyone else who had a close relative in at that time - or even from one of Dad's army. I have a photograph of him & his mates, & would be happy to pass on a copy to anyone who may be interested.
Wed Mar 8 13:32:34 2006

Alun Salisbury, Cefn Mawr & Cardiff
To Maggie from Ruabon. My apologies, you are correct, Margaret was the wife of Alf the gas. I would be interested to know whether Glenys can remember the three wheel car.
Wed Mar 8 09:26:47 2006

Maggie from Ruabon
For Alun Salisbury and Gareth Davies Hi thank you for the comments on Alfie the gas /moter bike 3 wheeler. The lady with the red hair is Glenys my mother in law who was alfie's sister. The person in the 3 wheeler car was Margaret his wife. Thanks for the comments I will pass them to Alf's sister glenys with the red hair Regards Maggie
Fri Mar 3 16:42:50 2006

Len Salisbury now of Acrefair
I too remember having to stand in front of the deacons at Seion Chapel and reciting my fourpenny worth on a Sunday morning. I recall psalm/hymn 939 and think the first word was 'Diolch'. I am sure there are readers out there will confirm this as they get their hymn books out.
Thu Mar 2 15:22:38 2006

wendy sharples nee arnold manchester
my mother was born 84 years ago and was brought up in brickfield terrace and now lives in bowers house on the same site. her name is irene arnold nee jones. her father was john ellis jones who i believe was the person who chased the children off the ballist. i also have a sister pat parry who lives on chapel street and a brother glenton arnold who lives in trevor.
Wed Mar 1 13:51:51 2006

Mike Davies.Rhyl
My mum was born in The Eagles Cottage,next to the pub.Her maiden name was Martha Rowlands,and she is now 89.After moving to Rhyl to work,she married and became a Davies,but when my Nain fell ill,she returned to help look after her.She took me with her,and I attended the local school.I have many happy memories of my time in Acrefair.The cottage was lit by gas,and cooking was done on a black coalrange .The was of type described as a Thunderbox.My two best mates were my cousins Alan and DavidJones,who live now,as then in Trevor.Dave still works at Air Products, and used to play football for a local team.
Tue Feb 28 20:00:36 2006

jean williams from Wrexham
I read with extreme interest the memories of my childhood, as developed by Norma King, Diane Powell and others. I remember playing on the fairy ring, sledging on Cae Bedw and having fun on the balast around the 'old man'. I was amazed to see myself on Norma's photograph along with my cousins, but who are the others present? (Dated 1949 or later I would say). We had such happy days, and were lucky to have the freedom and relative safety to go blackberry picking around the delph, pond dip for tiddlers in the Delph pool, passing by old Noah and his romany caravans on the way. The gypsies were no trouble, just asking locals for water. Cae Bedw is no longer there and the Delph area has been evacuated in recent years by the Coal Board. New houses have appeared on Bowers Road where the old caves and clinkers used to be. The little community of close families and friends living up Bowers Road has long since gone and is overgrown with brambles and willows, the stone houses have disappeared. I hope the new families enjoy their close friendships that I was part of when living in the area. Acrefair Primary School was a happy time- a wonderful yet hardworking environment in the days of 11+. I recall Dennis Davies and his stories, what a character he was. The steam trains passed by our school yard and would hoot and wave to us as we played with friends. It was quite a sad day when Acrefair Bridge was demolished, and I stood by and watched almost in disbelief at that time. We would run home from school up Chapel Street known to us as 'Smithy Hill' because it housed the old Smithy at the top. I spent long sessions patiently waiting to be served in Gostlers Shop, especially if Mrs. Jessie Williams of Erwlyken was relaying her shopping list from her pony and trap. I loved the smell of the warm fresh bread delivered there from the bakers in Cefn. I attended Sunday School in St. Paul's Church which in those days must have received about 200 children. As Susan Williams recalls, we had a safe and happy upbringing there, a family atmosphere with full churches in those days, and vibrant services. How times have changed. These are some of the memories that shaped our lives.
Mon Feb 27 18:27:12 2006

Ricky vaughan acrefair
To Gareth thanks for that info it is great to hear from you I am new to all this technology all these blasts from the past it is great I have recognised loads of old friends there is carol in oz you susan whitehead marylynne thomas great memories keep them coming O the band is no more I sing solo now see ya
Sat Feb 25 11:02:46 2006

Len Salisbury in Zanzibar
Thanks Mike Edwards for you input. It's many a year since we last met and same goes for Dave Hart. Hope to bump into you at Quickies or where ever you shop from March 12 onwards.
Fri Feb 24 19:16:16 2006

Mike Edwards, Newbridge
Re: Photograph of Maelor Y.C. football team. The outside-right (front left on photo) was Eddie Jones (Pope), Plasbennion. The match was the Welsh Junior Cup Final (N.Wales area) against Wrexham Boys Club. Wrexham B.C. won 1-0.
Wed Feb 22 20:47:35 2006

Glenton Arnold
Ref to Norma King: I was born in Brickfield Terrace in 1941. My mum's uncle was Bob chase me and my grandfather was the man you are referring to as Ned one eye and the bird catcher! He did used to chase people but I do not recall him grabbing people by the scruff of the neck! I used to take milk around Acrefair with him, with the horse and cart. The little farm was called Maple Farm.
Wed Feb 22 17:55:36 2006

Gareth Davies Acrefair and Newcastle upon Tyne
Ricky re the St Paul's Church photograph. The clergyman in the picture is the curate, the Rev Owen Jones, who hailed from Penycae who before entering the Church was a coalminer at Hafod Colliery. The Vicar was the Rev Canon David Rowlands who is buried in Rhosymedre Church-yard. There are a great many people I can identify. How's the Showband doing?
Wed Feb 22 09:33:56 2006

Alun Salisbury Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
To Maggie. I am a former colleague of your father-in-law - Alfie Gas. Please give my regards to Glenys and remind her of happier times when Alf had the Reliant three wheel car. For in those days (about 1965) the two of them often made the journey back to her home in Blaenau Ffestiniog. Alf's car was the fabric covered, soft top version and I well remember him returning to the gas yard one day complaining bitterly that the car bonnet had flown open, momentarily obstructing his view, but more importantly, shattering the fabric top. Following extensive DIY repairs, Alf was unable to make the top waterproof again which naturally led to some difficulties during inclement weather. This small detail didn't deter him, for being the resourceful chap that he was, he simply donned his old mackintosh and pulled it over his head when driving in rain. I recall one Saturday seeing Alf and Glenys setting off in the rain for Blaenau, both with macs pulled up over their heads. It would have made a wonderful sketch for the TV series, Only Fools and Horses but I don't believe anyone would have dreamed that it could possibly have happened, but it did. I know, for I was there. Similarly, came the day that the Reliant was put up for sale. Alf was concerned to present it in the best possible light to the prospective buyer. He asked my opinion which tyre I thought had more tread on it, the spare wheel tyre, compared to the three on the car. On examination I found that there was virtually nothing to choose between all four, for there wasn't any tread left on any of them. We were talking in degrees of canvas showing; naturally this was before the days of MOT's. Inform Glenys that I have laughter tears running down my cheeks just thinking of these two funny incidents, when there were so many.
Tue Feb 21 20:54:49 2006

Len Salisbury in Zanzibar
In the Maelor Youth FC picture who is the missing name of the guy front row left hand side as you look at the picture? We've managed to name ten out of the eleven by recognition so who is the missing man?
Tue Feb 21 17:39:26 2006

Tashie King
Hi Bubba! This website is really great! Hope to see you soon, love to Mikey! xx
Mon Feb 20 13:57:42 2006

Ricky Vaughan Acrefair
To Stuart Fawcett. Just seen the great photograph of St Pauls Church Christmas party. Spotted myself and my cousins Melba and Teresa and a load of old friends who I cannot put names to. Also who is the vicar or curate? I am the one in the tank top sitting on the chair two rows above you. I know its my tank top because I still wear it for best only! Cheers!
Sun Feb 19 20:59:10 2006

Maggie
To Gareth Davies, Acrefair, and Newcastle upon Tyne, and Len Salisbury. Hi Gareth and Len, the women in the caravan with flaming red hair is my mother in law Glenys Bowen. Sadley Alfie died a few years ago. Regards, Maggie.
Sun Feb 19 18:41:24 2006

Jan Hughes nee Evans / Cefn
To Carol Vickers nee Hart. I remember you in Ruabon school, I lived in Bryn Ffynon down the road from Cae Coch, we used to get on the bus together. I remember you telling me you went to see the Beatles! FANTASTIC!! Did you emigrate with your boyfriend's parents in about 1963/4? Are you keeping well and have you been back home since for a holiday?
Sat Feb 18 17:04:25 2006

Mike Edwards, Newbridge
Re: Photograph of Maelor Y.C. football team. The goalkeeper was Dai Edwards from Garth. He died from peritonitis a couple of months after that photo was taken.
Sat Feb 18 15:32:41 2006

David Hart. Acrefair/Cefn
In reply to Colin Roberts Re. Monsanto drivers. Some names I remember are:- From the Left:- Ray Fieldhouse, Trevor (your Dad)- ?- Les Edwards - Idris Thomas(?). I can't recognise the others, sorry! I'll tell your brother Gary that I have seen this.
Fri Feb 17 17:08:12 2006

Martin Twigg, Acrefair
I was born in 1963 and I have lived in Acrefair all my life. I have fond memories as a child playing on the ballast and often walk there now with my dog. How I'm still alive god only knows as we used to climb to the top of the old man when we were kids. I lived my early years in 24 Cae Bedw next door to Vicky Shy's mother and father, George and Kate Roberts and aunty May who was Kate's sister (I think). My grandfather was Idris Vaughan from Acrefair who passed away in 1956 and my nan was Elsie Parry from the top of Cefn who passed away in 1972 I think. Elsie married Sam Darlington who I knew as taid Sam. I know very little of Idris and Elsie as I was young when Elsie passed away. I would like to thank Norma King for her stories of Acrefair, I think they are wonderful and I too remember Denny Davies with his stories of pyecraft and invisible ink, and yes I did get clipped quite a few time with that board duster. Wonderful memories please keep them coming.
Thu Feb 16 18:09:55 2006

Len Salisbury, Acrefair
I think the goalkeeper centre back row was Dai Edwards from the Garth, who died quite young. If this is so, then he was a relative of mine.
Thu Feb 16 09:29:32 2006

Norma King
To Peter Lloyd. I was so pleased to read your latest message Peter, but sorry to know your silence was due to hospitalisation. Very glad you are better. When your father raised the original query about Bowers Road, I wrote the leading piece on this page just for him, very quickly and very late at night, thinking it would be for his eyes only! How wrong can one be? At that time he asked, through the webteam that we might meet and I happily agreed. I was living not too far from Derbyshire at the time. I sent my email address, but it could have gone astray. Or quite possibly circumstances overtook you. However, I would still like to meet him if he were so inclined. My very best wishes to you both.
Thu Feb 16 09:23:03 2006

Len Salisbury Acrefair
To all readers of the Acrefair and Cefn sites Alun Salisbury's christian name is Alun not Alan. Welsh you see.
Wed Feb 15 20:16:59 2006

Carol Vickers (Hart), Melbourne
I attended Acrefair Infants and Primary school from 1952 to 1960 and have many happy memories. I remember being in Dennis Davies' class, where he awarded each line of desks with points through the week, and on Fridays he sent two children to the garage to buy sweets for the winning row. I also remember collecting the dinner money from his room when I was in a lower class and felt quite intimidated by the older boys. He always remembered who you were long after leaving school. Happy days always with Miss Williams who taught us to knit. I also remember the babies class and having a sleep after which we were given orange juice and I think also castor oil. I seem to remember strawberry flavoured milk somewhere in those days. After Acrefair it was Ruabon Grammar and more happy days! Thank you Uncle David for reminding me to look at this fantastic site and thank you to all involved with it. The world is not such a big place after all!!
Wed Feb 15 03:52:31 2006

Bryn Jones, Coedpoeth
Could Norma King please contact me by e-mail. bj100247@onetel.com- regarding old photographs.
Tue Feb 14 16:55:59 2006

Colin Roberts
Regarding Photo 7, Monsanto Warehouse workers. The lady second from the right, back row, I believe is my mother, Mrs Margaret Roberts, possibly better known at the time as Peggy. She later went from the warehouse to drive the scammels (small lorries with detachable trailers) and was the only woman driver to do so. She said that for the photo she was probably standing on a box because she's only 5 feet nothing!
Tue Feb 14 08:11:40 2006

Carol Vickers (nee Hart) Melbourne
To Richard Omotosho: Yes Richard, I remember you. I used to live in Crane Terrace, Abernant, and when you were a baby, on visits to your grandparents, I would often take you for a walk down the canal or up gasworks hill and back through Acrefair. As I remember, you had a lovely pram! Your mother may remember my parents, Jack and Joan Hart, sadly now both passed away.
Tue Feb 14 04:39:17 2006

Susan Gordon Jones (Whitehead), SW France/ Cefn Mawr
To Len Salisbury: you asked who switched off the street lamps. The answer is in your brother Alan's page entitled Lamplighters, where he states that Reg Hayes went out between 3.30 and 5.30 to light the lamps and out again at 10.30 to put them out. Thank you to Len, Alan and David Hart for information about Well Street families.
Mon Feb 13 15:00:35 2006

Martin Lacey, Toronto, Canada
To William Russell Jones, Cefn Mawr. Hi (Bill?), yes "Aunty" Cilla was brought up by my Grandma, as her parents who were very close to Garnda/Grandad, were very sick at the time (~ late 1920's). In effect Cilla was brought up as my Dad's elder sister in Pretoria Villas. You are correct, Cilla was married to George Stephens of Newbridge, who owned the grengrocery nearby the "crane" in Cefn. They were both dedicated members of the Cefn Salvation army, if I remember correctly "uncle" George played a brass trumpet and Cilla occasionally supported the collection. Cilla and George were very warm and personable people, have a son (Tony) who was very well educated (PhD) as well as a very nice guy and a total credit to them. My dad (another Bill!) delighted that you are asking after Cilla, asked to convey that if you need more information he will be more than happy to oblige. Regards, Martin Lacey To Martin Lacey;Do you have a Cilla Lacey in your Family who was married to George Stephens of Newbridge? William Russell Jones Cefn Mawr
Sun Feb 12 16:48:20 2006

jordan jones x o x from acrefair , trefynant pk
i love it in acrefair its the best place to live i love going down to the field to play with my mates aka nia and emily !! i love acrefair love jordan x o x o
Sun Feb 12 16:45:12 2006

Miff - Acrefair
Acrefair is such a great place to grow up, as a kid spending hours on the ballast wondering if Joe C Dodd was watching. The bike tracks also in the same area wonderfull times. If anyone wants to get in touch then drop me an line and i'll mail you..
Fri Feb 10 15:37:15 2006

Len Salisbury
We have heard so much about the "old lamplighters" of long, long ago so who put the lights out?
Thu Feb 9 19:22:56 2006

Alun Salisbury, Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
I'd like to thank David Hart for submitting photograph #8 of Morris' steps. It brings back many happy memories of my youth and the hard work that my mother and father had carrying the coal delivery, which I refer to in my article on the Cefn Mawr page - The Cefn Chronicle.
Wed Feb 8 18:18:54 2006

Marilynne Strefford, Buckley and Cefn
For David Hart and Alun Salisbury. Thank you for the information about the Knocker-up. I too thought that the same person lit the lamps, especially the one near Temple Vale.
Wed Feb 8 15:26:20 2006

Marilynne Strefford, Buckley and Cefn
For Gareth Davies: Thank you for the information on the Blue Bell. My parents took over the Bell from Nancy. It was a lovely place to live and we were very happy there, until the night the bar was smashed up. This unnerved my mother, who was there all day by herself, so not long after that we moved to Ruabon. Nancy's brother, I think his name was Mr. Williams, was always the first customer of the night. He would have one pint, then try very hard to teach me to play fives and threes. The only time he missed an evening was if the weather was too bad to walk down the road from the farm.
Tue Feb 7 21:42:25 2006

David Hart. Acrefair
Gerald Bassett Jones. Ref. your query about the Maelor Youth Choir. My wife Hazel was a member, and her mother, Mrs. E. Gabriel-Edwards, was the accompanist. I have a few photographs with some of the members on, including one of Gerald 'Nago' Roberts in Dutch National Dress, posing with Hazel, also in National Dress! My cousin John Rowlands tells me he speaks to you occasionally so, if you give him your e-mail address, I will send you a copy. The story about the Cefn Chronicle brought back memories for me, as I also used to deliver them. One house on my round was yours, at the bottom of 'Aunty Mennas Hill'. This was about 1944/45, and I remember that I would have a pocket full of pennies which put a strain on my braces! It was a great relief to get back to the Chronicle Office to cash up.
Tue Feb 7 20:28:19 2006

Norma King
To Steffan Williams. I believe the house to which you refer could be Bro'r Awelon which we believe was built by the members of Tabernacle Baptist Chapel for their minister, the very eminent Dr EK Jones in the early part of the last century. I have posted a photograph of him with David Lloyd George, taken locally. That is all I can tell you about it. Possibly someone else may be able to recognise the occasion. It occurred to me that DLG may have stayed with Dr Jones at his home at this time and that it is the basis of the story you have heard.
Tue Feb 7 11:32:12 2006

Gerald Bassett Jones
Hello, thanks for your great site. I would like to know about any old members of Maelor Youth Club and Choir. The club was held at the Central School in Acrefair. I was a member from about 1950 until 1955. It was a great club, choir and football team, led in my time by Mr Sam Hughes and his wife. The choir went to sing in Holland three times during the 1950s, I was lucky enough to go on two of those trips. Thank you.
Mon Feb 6 17:05:34 2006

Len Salisbury, Acrefair
To David Hart. The Mr Williams that you refer to was John D the football referee's father. I think he was Herb (Muck's) brother. I certainly remember him igniting our lamp at the bottom of Morris's steps in Well Street and on a Sunday morning before "Chapel" would be seen sweeping the streets of Cefn. I shall have to have a word with John to confirm this. As for being a "knocker-up" I do not know.
Mon Feb 6 10:02:27 2006

David Hart. Acrefair
To Maryline Strefford. Ref. your query about the "Knocker-Up" in Cefn. I can remember the name of one who lived near the Queens Hotel in Cefn. He was employed as A road sweeper at one time, and I can well remember him wheeling his handcart around the area, making sure that everywhere was clean and tidy. We could do with one or two like him today !!. His name was Mr.Williams but I can't remember his Christian name. I am almost certain that he acted as a Lamplighter later on.
Sat Feb 4 15:08:35 2006

Steffan Williams, Acrefair
I would like to know if anyone remembers the street Coed Richard, which is next to Lancaster Terrace. If anyone does, please let me know. I would especially like to know any information on the end house, which is set back the most from the road. I would like to know the history of the house, and the reasons why the house and the one next to it were moved back. I would also like to know any information on the history of Coed Richard, which is the large field, and forested areas on the outer parts of Acrefair. Thank you.
Fri Feb 3 12:00:40 2006

Steffan Williams, Acrefair
Hello, I was just wondering if anyone remembers any of the following people: Terrance Parry-Cefn Mawr, Norma Parry-Cefn Mawr (were married). Margeret and Trevor Roberts-Acrefair. Son named Gary. Known around Acrefair as Gary Roller, as he used to work for the council driving steam engines. Please, if you have any information on the above people, let me know...
Fri Feb 3 11:59:39 2006

Alun Salisbury Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
To Marilyn Strefford RE: 'Knocker-Up'. The information you request has been provided by Cyril Jones (Delph) Cefn Mawr. It will be found on the Cefn Mawr page under; Your views.
Thu Feb 2 17:27:56 2006

Steffan Williams from Acrefair
Hello, i was wondering if anyone information on the street Coed Richard, especially the end house. I would like to know the reasons behind the house being set back from th road. I was always told that it was something to do with the road collapsing in. Also i would like to know the history behind the house, as i have heard that many famous people have taken residence there such as David Lloyd George. I myself have many adventures within the forseted area behind Lancaster Terrace. Inside the forest contains many brick kilns which used to be used by the Lancaser company i believe? I believe that someone died in one of the kilns, due to him being homeless, and seeking shelter. The workers didnt realise he was there, and the next morning they set it afire to harden the bricks. Has anyone got any other stories relating to this area?
Thu Feb 2 16:07:47 2006

Stuart Case - Penycae
Does anyone have any old pictures of Cae Coch Lane? In between Rhosymedre over the top to by the old RAFA club that I could please see? General interest of area. Many thanks.
Tue Jan 31 22:04:41 2006

Russell Owen, Wrexham
To Trevor Jones. I remember your dad Cliff, and the big spanners he used in his job as a fitter.I am Russell Owen, perhaps you would remember my older brother Keith Owen, Sharon Owen is our sister.We lived in the good old steel houses ours was 29, Heol Cefnydd. I now live at Tower Hill, Acrefair. I think my childhood was great growing up in THE CEFN.
Mon Jan 30 10:37:03 2006

Alun Salisbury Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
To Marilyne Strefford - Like you I also am aware of Knocker-ups in the Cefn Mawr area, but have no details. I've made contact with both my brother Leonard and good friend Mervyn Hughes of Tref-y-Nant Park, Acrefair. It would appear that there were two, but alas they have no details of names etc.. It would seem that the Knocker-ups vied with each other for the business, which was principally for coalminers on early shift at Wynnstay, Bersham and Hafod collieries.
Sat Jan 28 11:53:33 2006

Gareth Davies, Acrefair and Newcastle upon Tyne
I haven't been on the site for sometime but I can answer Len Salisbury's question. It was Alf Bowen (Alfie the Gas) who used to live in the caravan at the end of "Warner's" lane just before the railway line to the Delph. He had a sister Glenys who had flaming red hair. If my memory's accurate Alfie used to drive a motor-cycle combination. Again, if my memory's accurate Marilynne the Blue Bell was known locally as the Chesire because of the pit- shaft (coal or clay I'm not certain) that was on the bank directly opposite the pub. After Bill Cheetham died I used to go and sleep in the Blue Bell until his wife Nancy gave it up. Someone asked about the Roberts family from Sycamore Farm, now long demolished. I was in the scouts 1st Cefn Mawr with Dewi Roberts but he'd be older than me. The Roberts family were very talented musically and used to hold a Noson Lawen periodically at Bethania Chapel. Sorry Diane I can't remember the Yellow Peril unless it was the former flour lorry that the scouts purchased in the late 1950s. I can't remember the year but together with Mervyn Hughes and Gwilym Harris we spend a week in France, Belgium and Germany. I do remember the midnight hikes we used to enjoy in the Glyn Valley! I seem to remember that the Senior Scouts were a combination of 1st Cefn Mawr and 1st Llangollen and we met in the old JC Edward's Office in Trevor. I can't remember Peter Moore but I can certainly remember his dad "Paddy" Moore. Paddy was a great stalwart of the Royston Club - who remembers the old Wrexham tram that used for years as a shed in the Royston grounds? Although not strictly in Acrefair where was the Dafan Twll? Was it near Jack the Barbers? I got many a clout for going to Jack's to get my hair-cut instead of Em Tonk's (Emyr Tomkinson). Well, it was half the price leaving 9d which could be spent on sweets at Shirley's.
Tue Jan 24 14:29:19 2006

Peter Lloyd, Trevor
To Norma King.When I started my quest for information on Bowers Road. I was told to contact you,as you may be able to help. I only wanted a photograph of the cottages my father was born in(I think they were called "Hughes Cottages" at the top of the road.I must apologise for not contacting you throughout 2005. But hospitalisation prevented me doing so. On looking at the site now I want to congratulate you on starting a wonderful site, isn;t it popular!!!! I didn't think when I asked my question on my fathers behalf that there would be so much interest, especially from all over the globe. I will be taking all the 31 pages of comments over to show my dad in February. I will try to get him to tell some of his story. Like his wagging of school with his mate "Billy" Williams. His illness when he had scarlet fever and had to stay in his darkened bedroom and straw was laid outside to silence the horses hooves and the cart wheels as they passed by. As of my recollections. I was brought up in Creswell, Derbyshire. We would come to Cefn most years by train(steam). We stayed at my dad's uncle and aunt (Dai & Eddie) on Russell Street. I will relate my memories in later e-mails as the memory is not too good. Like going for the steri(sterilized) milk with a token from the coop at the top of Russell street. The rather ominious black chapel were the congregation would cross the road to the R.A.F.A. club when the service was over. The chippie on the top of the street, the old pidgeons pub with the long bar where we used to play before they pulled it down. The stone in the wall which I used to take out to leave notes for my childhood holiday romance(only 8). The visit of Her Majesty the Queen to Llangollen behind the two magnificent green locomotives (what year was that?) As I say my memories are about Cefn Mawr. But they are great memories of a place that I loved so much I decided to settle down here when I could a few years ago. Anyway thanks to you all for a smashing site.
Mon Jan 23 20:51:48 2006

luke price
Does anyone have any memories of stan price who was born in acrefair?
Thu Jan 1 01:00:00 1970

colin taylor
lived in acrefair all my life , married my wife tracy who as also lived here . me and my mates used to be on our motorbikes every weekends on the ballist can you still do it now ?
Thu Jan 19 22:03:46 2006

Stuart Fawcett from Chirk
Found a funeral card in my great grandfather Maurice Paddocks collection of old photos etc. In loving memory of Sarah Edith Hughes beloved daughter of WH Hughes Plaskynaston Foundry. Aged 42. Died January 7th 1903-interred at Berezino Russia on January 14th. I would like to know more of this event-any ideas?
Mon Jan 16 17:29:12 2006

Peter Lloyd, Trevor
I have been away for a while. On returning to Trevor I logged onto your site to see if anyone had been able to help me in my quest for a picture of Bowers Road in about 1924. I was surprised to see so many comments about Acrefair and Bowers Road on your site. But as of yet no photographs. My father was born in Bowers Road in 1919, he is now 86 years old (sorry young). I will pass on all the 31 pages of comments from your site and would ask that you thank all your locals for this response, you have made a very old man very happy. Thanks again. Still looking for the photographs though.
Mon Jan 16 16:54:46 2006

Marilyne Strefford, Buckley/Cefn
This web site brings back so many happy memories. As I stated before I lived in the Blue Bell, Acrefair in the 1960s. Can anyone please tell me why it was known locally as the 'Cheshire'? Also which pub was called the 'middle house', the Foresters or the Odd Fellows? To Susan Gordon Jones. I do remember our exploits down the Dolydd as a child, we spent many hours there. We did not realise then what a child's paradise it truly was, with acres of field, woods and a stream all virtually in our back yards. I'm sure like me you remember the picnics we had during the summer holidays when Karen Jones from Dolydd Farm joined in the fun. Did sandwiches and cake ever taste so good? Do you remember the row of cottages at the bottom of the Dolydd? They were occupied by a family called Eagan. They had the most amazing gardens and would sell their produce during the summer months especially their apples. There was no electricity or gas that far down, and the cottages always seemed to me to belong to another era. To Alun Salisbury. I also remember the lamp lighter or at least being told about him. I also recall being told about someone who would knock on doors and windows to get people up in the morning, have you any information on who this could be? To Alan Roberts. I remember Horace Rees at the Saturday afternoon rush in the Palace cinema. My friends and I called him Torchy because if anyone misbehaved during the performance he would shine his troch on the offender prior to a sharp eviction if the bad behaviour continued.
Mon Jan 16 12:15:15 2006

David Hart. Acrefair
To Rea Buller. I have sent a photo of the ODD FELLOWS to the WEB team, and asked them to forward it on to you. It is a general view, looking up Chapel St.in Acrefair. I will take another, closer, one when conditions are right, and pass a copy on.
Mon Jan 16 08:31:44 2006

Rea Buller
Thank you Diane Powell, Len Salisbury, David Hart, Stuart Fawcett for your help regarding Odd Fellows. David I have sent an email with my contact details to wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk. Stuart you have named my 3rd great grandfather Godfrey Evans who lived there in 1861 if you do know any information about him or his family I would be very interested in anything you can tell me. Until very recently I had never heard of Acrefair. Godfrey Evans' son Thomas later lived in Penycae is that close to Acrefair as I cannot find any information about that area either. Once again thank you for your help and I continue to welcome any further information on the areas.
Sat Jan 14 22:42:53 2006

Alun Salisbury Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
To Susan Gordon Jones. I'm pleased that you enjoyed the article I wrote about Reg Hayes - Lamp Lighter. Unfortunately I took up employment with the Rhos and Cefn Mawr Undertaking - Wales Gas in 1963 by which time there were no gas street lamps in Cefn or surrounding area. My old colleague, Tony Harcombe advises that there were also no street lamps when he joined in 1956. On further investigation, Mervyn Hughes, of Tref y Nant Park advises that the gas street lamps were replaced with electric lighting soon after the war, the replacement program probably commencing about 1948. So the likelihood is that Reg and his colleagues gradually finished their rounds at about this time or early 1950's. The electric street lighting began in Well St, with the first lamp fitted on the corner of the Hollybush pub and the second was by the clinic next to Tabernacle Chapel. Reg wasn't the only lamplighter, there were a number covering the district, but Reg is the one that I remember.
Fri Jan 13 15:04:15 2006

Marilynne Strefford, Buckley/Cefn Mawr
Over the past few months I have visited this site on a regular basis. I find it very interesting having lived in the area until my teens. I remember Susan (Whitehead) very well, in fact we were in the same class in Cefn School and played together often down the Dolydd, we also went to St Paul's Acrefair together. Although I lived in Cefn, as I said before I went to St Paul's Sunday School. At that time you were allowed to walk from Cefn to Acrefair through Monsanto, not a very pleasant experience at the best of times, but made worse on some occasions by the falls of sulphur which made your eyes sting and run and your throat sore. My parents and I left the area for a short time and returned when I was about 16 to The Blue Bell Delph Road Acrefair. It was lovely during the summer when the nights were light, but in the winter it was a different tale. It was a very lonely place, no houses and very little traffic. My parents and I had a code that I used when getting off the bus at the Eagles, I would call home and let the phone ring three times, my father would then send the dog to the end of Delph Road to meet me, (imagine that happening today). He was always there waiting and I was always more than glad to see him, but I think he must have been very thankful when I passed my driving test!
Fri Jan 13 14:03:36 2006

William Russell Jones Cefn Mawr
To Martin Lacey;Do you have a Cilla Lacey in your Family who was married to George Stephens of Newbridge? William Russell Jones Cefn Mawr
Thu Jan 12 13:29:24 2006

Lynne Edwards of Wrexham
To Diane Powell. Thank you for your reply - I wonder if the photos you mention are the same as some I have? Unfortunately, lots of mine have no info on them so I don't know who's on them or where and when they were taken!
Wed Jan 11 19:29:38 2006

Susan Gordon Jones (Whitehead) Cefn Mawr/SW France
This site has really revived some memories for me. To Len Salisbury: I remember you and your family very well living in the house on the steps just opposite to us. I used to take a short cut up the steps and 'over the Top' to St Paul's Church in Acrefair every Sunday. It never ceases to amaze me how the houses in Cefn were built into the side of the hill and on so many different levels. Our house was on four levels, one below road level but not underground. I remember too your long discussions with my father, yes he was very keen on photography and built his own developer, enlarger and studio lights. He used to transform the bathroom into a Dark Room on Sundays which could be very inconvenient at times!! My mother died in 1988 and my father in 2000. Diane Powell keeps me up to date with news and my 2 sons live in Johnstown and 'dwy'n wedi cadw dipyn bach o hiraeth yn fy nghalon' (I have retained my nostalgic memories of Cefn in my heart).

To Alan Salisbury: I read your very interesting article about Reg Hayes the Gas Lamp Lighter. Can you tell me when he stopped lighting the street lamps, please? I have a vivid picture of him on his bike with his long pole but do I remember him or was I told about him?

To Norma King: I remember Deena Gast, Pat MacPherson and Jean Roberts very well - 3 cousins the daughters of 3 sisters, Jean has a younger sister Susan, probably not born when the photo was taken. You have really kick-started my memory about Erw Lyken, I have been thinking about it and I do have a vague memory about Mrs Williams talking about an older girl there. I do not remember her, as you say, you are talking about the previous decade. She cannot have been a granddaughter as they only had one son, Wynn who married Bertha née Jones from Penycae. They lived in Liverpool and worked on the buses but came over to see Jennifer. I remember also David Hart, and Maxie Edwards who had a lovely singing voice and also his wife Shirley and daughter Lynne as a small child.

To Marilynne Strefford (Thomas): do you remember the hours we played down in the Dolydd and the Red Sea and the Blue Sea - why were they those colours? It does not bear thinking of - at least we had the sense not to paddle!!
Wed Jan 11 17:53:09 2006

Lynne Edwards of Wrexham
To David Hart Thanks very much for taking the trouble to tell me some stories I'd never heard about my dad. I didn't know he used to serve behind the bar at Monsanto club either, and I'm afraid I can't remember you visiting our house when I was a baby(it's a very long time ago)!
Tue Jan 10 18:41:41 2006

Norma
Diane Powell. You are quite right. Jean Roberts, Deena Ghast and Pat Macferson are all on the photo.
Tue Jan 10 11:35:59 2006

Norma King
To Susan in France. It is very special to hear from someone who lives abroad. Extraordinary how a small anecdote about a quiet road in a small village can bring reminiscences from Canada, the States, Australia, Germany and France. Not many more continents to go! It's interesting to know the history of the name Erw Lyken. I know that I and others had had no joy in finding a translation for any possible Welsh spellings. Wonderful to hear your memories of the animals and the way of life then. Regarding Hazel Hughes, she did indeed exist, but I knew her in the previous decade and sadly I have no recollection of her after we left Acrefair Junior School, which must have been in 1949. A different grandaughter possibly?
To Gwyneth in Australia. You are correct about Coach Road. In my growing up days, it branched acutely off to the left of Bowers road, just beyond a wooden bungalow and a style leading to a lovely walk across the fields. There were stout stone pillars on either side of the entrance to Coach Road. There was also a legend that there was a mosquitos' nest in the trees above the entrance, but I never saw any, because I always ran past it too quickly. During the war, a very nice man called Mr Edwards who bred rabbits I believe, lived in Coach Road, although it is a very long time ago and I could be wrong. Locally he was known as The Rabbit Man. During the war, he used to supply us with rabbits for the pot when mothers were required to be more resourceful about providing nutrition. We thought them a huge treat. He also provided us with a beautiful chocolate coloured pedigree pet rabbit called Benny. I remember too, that Jean Haggerty lived in Coach Road. And I am enclosing yet another taken in about 1946 where she can be seen middle row, second from the left (pic 3, above).
Tue Jan 10 09:27:56 2006

David Hart. Acrefair
To Lynne Edwards of Wrexham. I remember your father Max, very well, and worked with him at Monsanto warehouse for a number of years. We also sang together in the Fron Male Voice Choir where we had many "adventures" on our various trips. One notable occasion was crossing the channel on our way to Germany. Your Dad, sad to say, wasn't very keen on sailing, so to bolster his confidence he bought a bottle of duty free. We used to have a lot of fun and plenty of laughter together. Another story was about when he first served behind the bar at Monsanto club. My wife and I went to the club and naturally I ordered the drinks with Max. He drew my pint with no trouble but, when it came to putting the soda water in my wifes drink, disaster struck. He tipped the glass to one side and gave it a full blast of Soda Water. The Steward standing next to him got the short (all down his front) and my wife had a drop of Soda Water in the glass !!. I also your knew your Mother, Shirley, and worked with her in the warehouse office when she was Mr. Crewes' secretary. I was his Office Boy. I came to your house in Rhosymedre a few times, and remember you as a tiny baby !.
Mon Jan 9 19:38:14 2006

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
Rea Buller-the pub is called the Odd Fellows Arms. In 1861 a Godfrey Evans born in Chirk 1807 ran it together with his wife Ann-Born Ruabon 1813 with sons David,John and others. If you need further help let me know.
Mon Jan 9 19:29:22 2006

David Hart. Acrefair
To Rea Buller. Do you mean the ODD Fellows Arms on Chapel Street in Acrefair?. If so, I have a photograph of it that I took last year, and can email it to you. (Give your email address to the Web Team by email: wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk)
Mon Jan 9 19:06:00 2006

Len Salisbury Acrefair
To Rea Buller did you mean the Oddfellows pub and not the Old Fellows. There is a pub in Chapel Street named the Oddfellows.
Mon Jan 9 16:44:14 2006

Diane Powell
To Rea Buller. The public House which you refer to must I am sure be The Oddfellows, which is still in existence in Chapel Street Acrefair.It is a very lively and thriving establishment.Affectionately called The Oddie or sometimes The Middle House.It would be no problem to take a photograph for you as I pass there most days when out dog walking. To Lynne Edwards: I remember your Mum and Dad and yourself as a child.Our fathers were the same age went to school together,worked together in Monsanto, and certainly socialised together.My Dad was John Maldwyn Powell, called Maldwyn at home but John in work.I have a school Photograph, taken in Acrefair school on which your Dad appears, along with mine , and have recently been given a small snapshot of a pre second world war trip made to the Isle of Man, again both Dads are on them.
Mon Jan 9 16:16:54 2006

Rea Buller
Does anyone know anything about a public house called Old Fellows Arms. My ancestors lived there in 1861. Does anyone know if it is still there or does anyone have a photograpgh or image of the place. I've tried to search for it online with no luck so hopefully someone on this site has some recollection of it.
Mon Jan 9 11:18:08 2006

Len Salisbury Acrefair
To Susan Gordon Jones (nee Whitehead)I used to live on the steps just across the road from your grandparents shop in Well Street. My one and only drop handlebar bicycle was purchased from your dad. It was a Raleigh 4 speed and cost £19 19 6. Your father was interested in photography like myself and we were forever talking about it. I don't recall your grandfather selling sewing machines but what I do remember was that he had a battery charging facility for radios the same thing that Emlyn Evans had in Crane Street and at his house in Railway Road. In those days nearly everyone had two accumulators to run their radios, one on charge and one in the set. Are your parents still alive?
Sun Jan 8 11:20:43 2006

Diane Powell,Acrefair
I have enjoyed this site for some time,and thought that I really should contribute my "Ten pence worth." I have lived in Acrefair all my life,attending the Primary school in the 1950`s and then going on to Ruabon Grammar School.I still live in the same house on Llangollen Road where I did then. I remember many of the people and places mentioned.I remember Richard`s grandparents ,his Mum and his two Aunts and also his visits;I only lived around the corner.Gareth Davies will of course remember the Yellow Peril,in which we had great adventures when we were in Rangers and Senior Scouts, Susan Whitehead will also remember remember.It was quite a novelty in those days to have wheels! Sid`s shop was always an experience to visit, and you never left without being thanked for your kindness. Dennis Davies` Pycraft Stories were a highlight of my Primary School days too, I wasn`t so keen on the snake in the kilner jar which sat on the Nature Table in his room.I also remember being sent to the Post Office by him to purchase the weekly savings stamps. On the subject of J C Edwards Brickworks, my great,great grandfather Johnathan Powell was his Chief Engineer, working there for 46 years.His grave stone in Trefynant Cemetery was made by the employees. It was good to meet Bryn Jones near Acrefair School a couple of weeks ago. Still living where I do I am lucky enough to be able to take advantage of the newly restored footpath up to the Darkie. One last query for Norma King.Your photograph at the head of this item,Does it include Jean Roberts (who lived in Bowyers Road) and her cousins Pat and Deena ?
Sat Jan 7 21:19:23 2006

Lynne Edwards from Wrexham
I'd love to hear any stories about my late father,Max Edwards,and his family. He was born in Acrefair in 1915,worked in Monsanto,and was quite well known in the area as a Druids footballer then later as a member of Froncysyllte Male Voice Choir. Please tell me anything you know!
Sat Jan 7 17:19:03 2006

Len Salisbury Acrefair
How many readers of this site remember Mr and Mrs Warner Jones who had a smallholding behind the Hampden Arms. They too used to go around the area selling milk etc and they had some geese which used to frighten me out of my skin when I used to go there. I noticed when I passed the pub that there was a gate which had been placed across the track which led to their abode and also towards the Bluebell Inn. Alf ? used to live in a small gypsy type caravan alongside this track. He used to work for the gas company.
Fri Jan 6 09:56:14 2006

Bryn Jones, Coedpoeth
Len Salisbury - Thanks for responding, I had forgotten the Gravure! The other name was John Tansley who i've lost touch with but I have made contact with Phil Stringer who wishes to be remembered to you. He now lives in Cricceith. I have recently retired due to ill health and have started a small company called MEMORIES restoring old and damaged photographs.
Thu Jan 5 11:13:23 2006

Susan Gordon Jones SW France
Susan Gordon Jones (née Whitehead) Cefn Mawr and now SW France

I have recently discovered the Cefn Mawr and Acrefair websites and have been delighted to have news of so many people I remember well. I send my best wishes to all who remember me. I was fascinated by the correspondance about Erw Lyken which I knew very well as a child. I was told then that it was Erw Lyken ie an acre of land (erw) owned by someone called Lyken - Lyken is not a Welsh spelling. I remember it in the 1950s and early 1960s when it was two adjoining houses owned by an elderly couple Mr and Mrs Williams - I believe Mrs Williams name was Jessie. It was run as a smallholding rather than a farm. Mrs Williams travelled around in a horse and trap and had sold milk from the churn in the surrounding villages until new legislation after the Second War regulated the treatment of milk. This was how she knew my grandmother, Mrs Lucy Elliott who was the proprietor of the shop called A Elliott at Paris House Well Street, Cefn Mawr. In my grandparents' time they sold sewing machines and gramophones (what would they have made of CDs?) - the shop was later run by my parents when it was the original bicycle and toy shop in Well Street. The granddaughter of Mr and Mrs Williams was called Jennifer Williams, not Hazel Hughes as Norma King stated. She was a month older than me and when we were small Mrs Williams often took me to Erw Lyken in the trap to play with Jennifer. It was both magical and terrifying. The horse was called Dick (or Richard if she was cross with it!) and was getting old so had to stop and rest frequently when he somehow folded one leg under him which made the trap tip to one side alarmingly and I was always convinced I would fall out. The family lived in one house and let the other out to summer holidaymakers from Liverpool. Conditions were very primitive, there was no electricity or gas, but oil lamps and only one cold water tap outside and an earth closet some distance from the house - a delight to us children but must have been a nightmare for the adults. The garden was overgrown but a paradise of fruit trees and soft fruit bushes which we ate at will. There were one or two cows only by then and Mrs Williams made butter from their milk and gave us the buttermilk to drink. There were always hens and chicks wandering around and we collected the eggs very carefully but I learned to be very wary of the geese which could be very fierce and chased us. The billy goat was also to be given a wide berth. When I was last in Wales I drove past the property and was amazed at the changes. I would not have recognised it but it has to be said it could not have remained as it was and it is good to know that a new generation is enjoying what was and is still a lovely spot.
Wed Jan 4 15:20:47 2006

Len Salisbury now Acrefair
To Bryn Jones I remember the shoe repair shop where your dad had a business and I believe it was also your grandfather's. I think that I mentioned in a previous posting about playing snooker with your brother Donald when you lived in High Street near Seion chapel. As for Dobson and Crowther I do remember it very well and all the names that you mention. Alf Lloyd came from the Pandy near Glynceiriog and one of his tasks was to print the tea bags for Mantunna in blue etc. Alf Williams worked in the gravure department printing Birds custard powder bags and Johnny ???? printed McVitties wrappers on the other machine. The year was 1959 just after the strike.
Tue Jan 3 12:56:28 2006

Gwyneth Fail (nee Edwards) Camden NSW. Australia
Am I right in believing The Coach Road is off Bowers Road. You must forgive my memory but I was born in Pen-y-bryn Cottage on the Coach Road in 1923. My dad was born there and my eldest sister Elsie. My dad was Robert Ellis Edwards and his father Thomas was foreman of the brickworks. Apparently the Edwards family were either born there or the other cottage, Pen Bedw.Mam was Edith Vaughan and she was born in Brickfield Terrace and eventually lived in Glenbrook House ? 0n the main road. I visited there in 1985 and caught up with My Uncle Jack Vaughan who I hadn't seen for 41 years. My cousin Arthur Jaques was still alive at that time but they both died in the next five years. I could still have some relatives there.I only ever met two more cousins Olwen and Margaret Rose who was a Vaughan. Dad only had a sister married who became Palmer but they moved to Wrexham. Mam and Dad still spoke Welsh even after many years in England and Nain Edwards's control of transalation was not too good. All the places in your comments are still alive in my memory from the stories we heard.Mam working in The Red Lion. Having an Auntie Annie- Annie from the Vron. the other Annie Pretoria.and Dad was either Bob Coachroad or Robert Ellis never Bob Edwards.Back in the thirties I met Uncle Tom and Jeff and for the only time ever Taid Vaughan(Samuel) As you realise I am 82, I have lived in Australia 53 years but if anyone call me a pom my answer is don't be stupid I'm Australian first and Welsh second and yes I'm Nainy.If by any chance any one reads this and finds out that you might be my relation I would love to know also was I right with Bowers Road?
Sat Dec 31 03:26:21 2005

Bryn Jones
My dad had a shoe repair shop by the "laundry" between Acrefair and Cefn. Does any body remember? I went to Acrefair CP school untill 1958. I have an elder brother called Don who also went to both Acrefair schools. He is 13 years older than me. Does Len Salisbury remember working at Dobson and Crowther, I started as an apprentice in 1963 with Alf Lloyd, Geoff Taylor, Eddie Talor, Phil Stringer and Arthur Mattox. Wonderful memories, keep it going!
Wed Dec 28 15:36:58 2005

melvin griffiths penycae
can anybody remember my mothers family who lived next door to the bluebell.my mother,s sister jean williams(davies)now lives there.my mothers name is dilys griffiths(davies)
Tue Dec 20 19:47:33 2005

Chris Edwards from Trevor
What a wonderful site this is. I have fond memories of Acrefair. I went to school there in 1960 but only for a short time when my parents Nesta and Herbert Edwards from Trevor moved me to Garth CP. I played with my friends Malcolm Coull and Malcolm Miller in the darkie tunnel which is still there. I went there about two years ago with my own children, a bit of a nostalgia trip.. The walkway through the tunnel is still there and I remember watching the fish in the pool at the end of the tunnel. There are still fish in that pool. I now work for Vale Travel, formerly Theo's Coaches which was mentioned earlier in this site. I drive through Acrefair daily and always remember the bridge by the Eagles pub. We used to play on the bridge as kids and would drop Mint Imperials from the bridge onto the roof of Crosville double deckers as they slowed down to turn towards Cefn Mawr. Sometimes the driver would stop and shout at us.. My dad Herbert Edwards worked at Monsanto works in dept 4D I think. I would wait at the works gate on the new road for him to finish work at 2pm then we would ride home to Trevor with me on his crossbar. We would follow the road alongside the warehouses and onto the canal path to Trevor. I would love to hear from anyone who lived in Trevor Estate in the 1960-1970s. Christopher Edwards.
Mon Dec 19 22:44:54 2005

Ian Hudson, Downham Market
Seasons greetings to Norma King and many thanks for information about Sycamore Farm, Penycae which was very helpful. My mother's father, John James Roberts, lived and worked there in his youth. Have you any knowledge of Poplar House, Plas Isa in the Bowers Road area? We have enjoyed reading your memoirs of Acrefair; it brought back memories of places my mother knows well.
Thu Dec 15 11:25:51 2005

Marilynne Strefford
To Len Salisbury. Yes we did live in Temple Vale until I was 10years old, We then moved to the Dolydd in the bottom of Cefn. Do you remember my father?, when J.C's finished he went to manage Ruabon Brick until it was taken over by Dennis Ruabon. You might also remember my aunt Mrs M. Pritchard, who's father-in-law was somthing to do with The Cefn Cronical, she is still alive and coming up to her 93rd. birthday,her sister-in-law was Miss Bessie Pritchard the Head mistress of Cefn Infants school.
Sat Dec 10 16:45:55 2005

Emily Davies, Acrefair
Yes me and sophie do have a photo you could also find one on google on images if you type in bowers road thanx for asking Emily xx BOWERS ROAD xx
Fri Dec 9 14:40:49 2005

Norma King
It's lovely to hear from Sophie and Emily who are living in Bowers Road now. I wonder if you two have a photograph of today's Bowers Road children together, so that we could display it alongside that old photograph of my friends in 1945, when the war had just ended. How many children are living in Bowers Road now? Do they all like it as much as we did? Are you able to climb onto those big clinkers these days? And do you still slide down the steep slopes on cardboard, getting your clothes filthy dirty? To Ian Hudson. Bob "Chaseme" owned the lovely black shaggy dog to which I refer in the original piece on this page. Sadly, I can't write the dog's name, because it is non PC now, but he certainly deserves to be remembered. He, the dog, looked and was fabulous. Bob Chaseme himself lived in the tiny one storey, white washed farm opposite Brickfield terrace. Neither exists now. His field ran down as far as the railway. He had a smallholding and kept his cows in a small dairy adjacent to his house. We would buy milk fresh from his cows at his back door. I can remember the measure he used to pour the warm milk into the jug we would bring from home. The living room there was very dark. There was a tall settle beside the door and it all smelled of milk and of the yellow chicks which Bob and his wife reared by the fire. I never saw Bob's hair - he always wore a dirty grey trilby with a frilly brim and an old raincoat. He had very few teeth, but the few he had were memorable. He had a large grey stubble covered chin. I can't say I remember him being full of the joys of Spring. As for Sycamore Farm - I believe it was situated in the fields beyond The Blue Bell towards Penycae and that the Roberts family lived there. The whole family spoke a very pure Welsh and all the girls ( I think there were four or more ) excelled in all the local Eisteddfodau. If I have remembered correctly, the eldest daughter, Ceinwen Jones Roberts, was Head Girl and excellent hockey player at Ruabon Grammar School for Girls.
Tue Dec 6 11:15:23 2005

Len Salisbury Cefn & Surrey
To Marilynne Strefford did your father live in Temple Vale?
Fri Dec 2 20:29:51 2005

Nick Bourne, Web Team
Hi, we're looking for old photos of the area, the brickworks and other local scenes as well as village fetes etc. Can you help? Photos in your family albums are exactly what we're looking for. Also, can you tell us what photos from the area would make a good addition to this website. You can email us at: wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk. Thanks in advance.
Fri Dec 2 14:52:11 2005

Marilynne Strefford nee Thomas Buckley and Cefn M
My father Eddie Thomas was Manager of J.C. Edwards Brickworks during the 1950/1960's.This included the Penybont, Rhos and Trefynant Works. I often used to visit the brickworks as a Girl to watch the kilns being set and unpacked. I remember my father saying that the tiles that lined the Panama Canal came from J.C's. as well as the frontage at Ibrox Football Stadium. We later lived at The Blue Bell Inn. Delph Road Acrefair. I visit the area often because I still have relations living in the Cefn Area.
Fri Dec 2 14:33:15 2005

SOPHIE DAVIES , ACREFAIR
acrefair is a great place to live you have lots of friends and there's a lot to do.today we celebrated the 200th year of the aqueduct.i would never move from acrefair the road i am living on is called bowers road it is a lovely place to live and if you have seen this message come and visit acrefair it is lovely.i would like to say hello to:my mum,dad,sisters,papa,sue,nana,grandad and all my other relatives and my friends:lauren,bethan,gemmaand alice. hello
Sat Nov 26 19:55:34 2005

Emily Davies, Acrefair
I live on Bowers Road and i have for the 12 years of my life, I love living on Bowers Road it is a lovely place to live. People are nice and i never want to move. I like to go out with mates down to the park. GGGGGOOOO ACREFAIR !!!!!!
Sat Nov 26 19:47:04 2005

Fay Green, Chirk
My dad, Trevor Davies worked in J C Edwards' Brick Yard when he left school aged 14 in 1942. He has information about the brick yard which might satisfy Rachel Bowen's query.
Sat Nov 26 14:49:08 2005

Ian Hudson
Has anybody got any information or have any recollection of Sycamore Farm, Bowers Road from the 1930s and the name Roberts? Also has anyone any recollection of the milkman Bob Chase-me?
Fri Nov 25 15:06:34 2005

Mal Fisher, Acrefair
To Norma King, thanks for the information on Mrs Moyson. You have painted vivid images of yourself sledging down the lane at the side of Isfryn. I think that Mrs Moyson's husband had been gassed during the First World War and that as a result, his health was not good. I also believe that Mrs Moyson kept several cats. Regards, Mal Fisher.
Fri Nov 18 14:38:00 2005

Len Salisbury, Cefn & Camberley
I wonder if this Mrs Moyson was a relative of Ralph Moyson who lived on Tower Hill, Trefynant?
Thu Nov 17 19:48:24 2005

NE Web Team
Norma attached a photo to her previous comments and it can be seen by clicking the link at the top of this page.
Thu Nov 17 16:48:49 2005

Norma King
To Malcolm Fisher. I remember Mrs Moyson living in your house at Islwyn during the 1940s. She was in middle age at that time and had been widowed. She was very nicely spoken, always well dressed - quite formal and correct, but always very charming and smiley to me as a child. There was a pleasant young man named Frank Moyson, presumably her son, who lived there too. He was severely physically handicapped, but always beautifully turned out and well cared for. I understood that he was clever. There was another lady living there, too, but I can't remember her name. I have a slight recollection that she was a sister in law, also widowed. Can't be at all sure of that, I'm sorry. For a period, a little girl lived with them too. I understood that she was a relative, staying there for safe keeping during the war. Her name was Pat Faracher (?Farragher) and she was very pretty and beautifully brought up. I never knew which city she was escaping from. I was always running up and down the lane alongside your house, going to Cae Bedw, etc. to play and also sledging in the steep field at the left of the gate at the end. There used to be a garden gate onto the lane beside Mrs Moyson's back door. She would always give us a wave and a smile as we went by. She used to tend the garden and cut the long hedge by hand. That sledging up your lane was just great. We were there from early morning until dragged home when it was getting dark and really really cold. The problems arose when the snow was beginning to melt, my sledge eventually would always come to rest right in the middle of the swampy quagmire at the bottom of the field by the gate. Soaking wet mud from head to toe including the insides of the wellies and underwear. Oh dear - really big trouble to come! I never understood then why other kids never got in quite the same state as I did. But I think I do now!
Thu Nov 17 09:22:23 2005

Malcolm Fisher from Acrefair
I live in Isfryn in Bowers Rd. I think that it is a great place to live and I am enjoying reading people's comments about its past. I believe that a lady lived in my house called Mrs Dorothy Moison (or Moyson? - a Liverpudlian and a sea captain's daughter). My house was built in 1904 and I think that Mrs Moynson was the first occupant. Does anybody remember her? Any information/memories about the lady or about any other occupant would be appreciated. Thanks, Mal Fisher
Mon Nov 14 16:51:00 2005

Joan Hudson nee Roberts
To Martin Lacey:- I have a photograph of your grandfather William Lacey dated 1930. It was taken at Blackpool on an excursion with his friends, my uncle Johnnie Hewett, who lived at 23 Burton Terrace and his sister Mary Ann who lived in Manchester. My family now live in Downham Market, Norfolk but regularly visit relatives living in Cefn and to stay in Llangollen - my daughter has even named her house Acrefair.
Tue Nov 1 08:21:17 2005

Maureen Ball from Acrefair
To Peter Moore, Nice to hear from you Peter, you used to hang about with my brother Stephen Ball. I still remember those happy times in the terrace. Do you ever remember playing footy in the winter, rounders in the summer?
Thu Oct 27 22:49:34 2005

Keith Edwards, Acrefair
AS MY SON HAS SAID I HAVE LIVED IN ACREFAIR FOR 18 YRS AND HAVE WORKED IN AIR PRODUCTS FOR 32YRS. JUST HAD THE PC, SO PLEASE EXCUSE MY GRAMMER.
Wed Oct 19 16:44:49 2005

Toni Jones
Thank you Norma for that lovely tale. We have lived at Erw Leicyn (now known as Crud y Gwynt, Cradle of the Wind, which was renamed by the previous occupants to ourselves). Do you know the translation for Erw Leicyn? Even though I have a small knowledge of Welsh I am unsure of the meaning. It is still a very beautiful place and after living in the town of Wrexham for many years we find it a pleasure living up on the mountain and watching the bountiful nature around us and the changing seasons. Thanks, Toni
Tue Oct 18 15:14:37 2005

Norma King
Response to Toni Jones' query...I wonder if you mean the farm by that name, half way up the road to Penybryn. I have always thought it would be spelt Erw Leicyn, but could be wrong. During my time growing up in Bowers Road (probably too long ago to be relevant to you), a young girl in my class named Hazel Hughes lived there. Her grandmother used to drive a smart little pony and trap carrying a milk churn, up and down Bowers Road. She would sometimes stop to give me a lift to school, which was lovely. There was a fresh water spring at the roadside opposite the gate to Erw Leicyn. It was covered by a large flat stone which one could lift, to scoop up a cupped hand of the crystal clear water. Primroses and violets grew profusely along the bank just there. Once or twice, we went with neighbours to pick whimberries on that part of the mountain called ' Cloc 'd' Rhewi', up above Penybryn. I understood it was not too far from the place where the bomb fell, to which other people have referred on this page. We collected water from the Erw Leicyn spring in a big copper kettle on the way up. There was a vestige of an old house up there, near the whimberry bushes. The mothers made a fire within the ruined stone walls, where the grass was clipped short and shiny by the sheep which sheltered there. We boiled the kettle of spring water there for the tea for our picnic. The tea leaves were thrown into the kettle. Not Earl Grey, but the best tea I've ever tasted. This same copper kettle was used to make tea in the vestry of Bethel Chapel, half way up the hill from Acrefair bridge. There were wonderful evenings to be had there, in winters during the war and just after it, when people would perform sketches, sing, recite, tell jokes and all by a lovely roaring fire. We had home made cakes and sandwiches at 'refreshment time' with Aunty Matty's copper kettle tea. I realise absolutely, that this has no relevance whatsoever to your query, Toni, but your question, the name and its associations has brought back another lovely memory, which someone else may share.
Mon Oct 17 11:17:28 2005

Toni Jones
Can anyone remember who lived in the two cottages half way up Bowers Lane called Erw Liken.
Wed Oct 12 12:55:28 2005

Alun Salisbury Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
Martin Lacey - As a young boy attending Acrefair Central School 1950-53, I had a bicycle damaged in the school bike shed. My parents, Edward and Hannah Jane Salisbury replaced it with a new one. Concerned as to its safety they arranged with your parents for me to store my bike in the side yard of their home which, as you described, is directly opposite the petrol station. Viewed from the station it was the house on the right hand side. As I recall the connection between the parents was Mrs Phillips, originally from the Top of Cefn but who had moved to Rhosymedre. Mrs (aunty) Phillips brought me up when my mother was at work during and after the Second World War. Thanks for the memory.
Tue Oct 11 18:08:17 2005

Martin Lacey, Toronto, Canada
I lived with my parents and two siblings right opposite the petrol station in Llangollen Rd from 1953 to 78 having attended Acrefair CP and Ruabon GS. I consider it to have been a pretty good place to be brought up in those days, plenty of open space, good people, solid family values, never too hot and never too cold. Undoubtedly a major component of my educational experience was membership of the Acrefair Scout Troop, initially under the awesome Akela Rose Corbett and latterly under leadership of Bob Groves (?) and Ron WIlliams. I smoked my first cigarette on the ballast (quit 2001), downed my first pint in the Mill (didn't we all?) and had my first girlfriend encounter (Ms XXXXXX - still confidential) on Coed Richard. I get back to Acrefair about 4x per year, when home my Sunday morning itinerary consists of a walk past (usually into!) the Duke, thru the darkie, thru dodds field, via Cae Beddw, to Bowers Rd (middlehouse ?) then the Eagles and back home for lunch. A more adventurous jaunt would take me over the panaromama (via the australia arms), the Garth (via the rockmans) and down to Llangollen (via the Ponsomby) and back via the canal footpath, the Telford being a welcome new addition to the itinerary. Since leaving Acrefair I have lived in London, Scotland, S Wales, N Africa, Middle East, Thailand, Singapore, Chile, Venezuela, S Africa, USA and other places. I am in currently Canada. I remember a number of the contributors to this page to whom I extend very best wishes. Cheers -- Martin
Fri Oct 7 01:55:21 2005

Ian Hudson
My mother, Joan Roberts, was born at 23 Burton Terrace in 1928 and remembers playing with Ruby Matthews who lived at a grocers shop near to the Post Office. They kept a pig in a sty in the back garden and they used to walk around the brick wall surrounding the sty to see the pig. My mother remembers Jean Dixon who lived at 26 Burton Terrace; she had an older sister called Nona and they were related to Coates the Chipshop. My mother lived with her older sister Margaret (Roberts) who was born in 1927 and they attended Acrefair Infants School until 1935. They then left Acrefair for Manchester but returned every Summer to stay with Auntie Alice Hewett and Uncle Harry at 32 Burton Terrace until the year 1945. They still return to this day to look for changes in Cefn and Acrefair and to visit John and Margaret Turtons family. Their family lived at Heol Abon, Cefn Mawr; they are their cousins.
Sat Oct 1 11:19:56 2005

Len Salisbury, Cefn & Camberley
To Ruth Putt, success at last! Three weeks ago I was staying at Mervyn Hughes's house when he mentioned the Darkie tunnel which is a bridge in a bridge. He told me that the old wooden bridge had been replaced with a metal one. It has been over 50 years since I had been through it. So accompanied by Mervyn and Helen, a friend of mine, we visited the site. Considering the amount of money that must have been spent refurbishing the bridge I thought that the pathway would have been in a far better condition than it was. The approach from the Duke of Wellington pub was not too bad but once we had gone through it was non existent. It was like going through a jungle. We went through Joseph Dodds's farm and eventually came out on Tower Hill. I have always remembered a clearing by a stream but it was hard to see it. All overgrown.
Thu Sep 15 14:06:12 2005

Len Salisbury, Cefn & Camberley
To Ruth Putt, I wrote an article a week or so before you came on the scene about the Darkie tunnel but every time I submitted it, it did not go. If this goes now then I shall do it.
Thu Sep 15 13:51:06 2005

Peter Moore, Cape Cod, USA
I cannot believe I lived in Acrefair from 59 to 74 and never knew about all this history in the area! Grew up on Lancaster Terrace and have great memories of playing footy on coed richard, chopping tree branches for bonfire night and playing in the old black houses on the terrace. Love to hear from any one who remembers that time!
Mon Sep 12 03:54:54 2005

Stuart Jones - Garth
To Richard Omotosho. - Richard, I well remember your visits to Acrefair. You played football and cricket with the local boys during the school holidays. We played on an area of flattened ballast adjacent to the school.Teams were picked each day and we played until dark. I remember we all contributed pocket money to buy cricket and footballs and we shared batting pads. Monsanto gave us some leather gloves normally used by their chemical engineers and these became wicket keepers attire until one of us was fortunate to receive some as a birthday present and they then became batsmen's gloves. I remember the basic team comprised Martin & Howard Lacey, Barry Fowles, David Roberts, Hayden Roberts, Noel Taylor, Stuart Fawcett, Wynn Jones, Steven Parish, Graham & Colin Jones and others too numerous to remember. The long summer days of play were interrupted only by visits to Williams shop for frozen Calypso ices an pop!! Howard and Martin Lacey's dad was an accomplished Bee Keeper and we used to watch him extract honey from the combs using a centrifuge. We were often treated to a teapspoon of honey and on rare occasions a small glass of mead between us. With the Ballast behind the Railway Line, Acrefair provided a great childhood area in which to grow up with great pals. Having read the numerous comments on the site I am grateful for the wonderful "memory jogger" especially those relating to Dennis Davies and his wondeful tales of Pyecraft and Invisible Dick and on Fridays, penny arrows for the best section in his class that week. How very lucky we all are!
Sat Sep 10 08:03:27 2005

Ruth Putt, Wrexham
I am doing a project about The Darkie / Darky in Acrefair with the local school children. I would be very interested for any information that anybody can share - games played, news, people using the area. All of this will help to bring the subject alive a little for the children. Many thanks.
Mon Sep 5 11:57:15 2005

John R. Thomas, Bagillt
Info, JC Edwards, brickworks, Pen-y-Bont. Opening dates? Closure? Details of the narrow gauge tram-way to the S.U. canal? Standard gauge rail connection?
Wed Jul 27 21:11:05 2005

BBC Wales NE Web Team
We welcome photographs of the area, both old and new. They should be emailed to wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk Contact us at this email address if you have further queries. Thank you.
Wed Jul 27 16:09:15 2005

Alun Salisbury, Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
To Stuart Fawcett - This really is excellent service from the web team. I only posted my comment one hour ago. I am almost certain that I have photos somewhere. If I haven't, I suspect that my brother Leonard has many (amateur photographer). Perhaps the web team would like to comment how these could be produced. Perhaps a new page covering Cefn Mawr, Acrefair etc? Incidentally, family and friends have provided much more information on the German Air Raid but I have been waiting for the opportunity to respond to others' comments.
Fri Jul 22 12:05:18 2005

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
Alun Salisbury - excellent insight into what bricks came from where etc. As a young boy I used to visit my grandfather Jim who was foreman at Pen-y-Bont brickworks. I can still remember the smells of the sheds and the dust. He used to tell me of his old Indian motorbike which was left down in the clay hole - one day in years to come someone may dig it up! Any old photos to share?
Fri Jul 22 11:05:03 2005

Alun Salisbury, Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
To Rachel Bowen - Two years ago, I visited the Pier Head Building (Bute Docks Office) and viewed their historical computer records. The information was clear - Bricks and Mouldings by J C Edwards Ruabon. See my contribution using link BBC North East Wales - Seven Wonders of Wales - Your new wonders. Following your query, I have returned to the Pier Head Office. Unfortunately, the receptionist was unable to locate the historical records but did confirm, without prompting, that bricks and mouldings are by J C Edwards. On searching the web I found the following: James Coater Edwards (1828-96) followed his father into the clay business and his company - J. C. Edwards & Co. of Acrefair - had works on three sites: The Albert Works, Rhosllannerchrugog (brick production), the Pen-y-Bont works at Newbridge (clay) and the Tref-y-Nant Works (decorative tiles). Edwards was once described as 'perhaps the most successful producer of terra cotta in the world' and exported tiles all over the globe. Aware that family friend, Mervyn Hughes of Tref-y-Nant Park, Acrefair worked for J C Edwards I telephoned. Mervyn's information is as follows: "Bricks from Albert Works, Rhos (Pant Brickworks) were buff in colour. The Tref-y-Nant works produced decorative tiles, earthenware pipes and mouldings, whilst Pen-y-Bont produced the terra cotta bricks used to enhance prestigious buildings i.e. Pier Head Building, Cardiff. Another well-known example is the brickwork and mouldings at Blackpool Tower. Although Pen-y-Bont and Ruabon Brick and Terra Cotta Company tapped into the same vein of clay, the processing procedure was different at Pen-y-Bont, which generally resulted in a more consistent, quality product and probably the reason for its use at the Pier Head Building. Pen-y-Bont extracted different coloured clays; the red colour was found at the deepest part of the quarry and used for brick production, whilst the lighter (Adamantine) coloured clay was transferred to Tref-y-Nant and eventually pressed into tiles. It was also hand pressed into moulds to create panels and staircases. These moulds can still be found in the undergrowth at the Works site and surrounding area. Timothy Tudor and Erney Jervis were the principle tile layers from about 1890 until early 1950s." There are, incidentally, many examples of both manufacturers' products close to my home in Llandaf, Cardiff. One of the most popular items is the half-rounded capping, which adorn many walls. Sometimes the name, Dennis Ruabon is visible, and in the case of, I suspect, JCE, highly ornate gate cappings and bricks used to face other prestigious buildings in Cardiff City centre.
Fri Jul 22 10:33:02 2005

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
Rachel Bowen - Ruabon Brick and Terra-Cotta works - established by John William Haigh, Pen-y-Gardden in 1883. Known as the Jinks Works after Henry Jinks of Gardden Lodge. The original clay hole was reached via a tunnel under the road adjacent to Monks and Newells - in later years they used the disused clay hole of Tathams works - now land filled. An industrial estate now stands on the site. This works closed in 1976.
Tue Jul 19 18:57:23 2005

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
To Rachel Bowen - try Archives Network Wales. The works that may have been the supplier could have been Dennis's Clayworks, Hafod, Johnstown founded in 1879 by Henry Dennis.
Tue Jul 19 18:48:12 2005

Rachel Bowen, France, Formerly Ruabon
Thank you Stuart Fawcett from Chirk for your information. This is helpful. I am trying to trace who actually supplied the bricks and mouldings for the former Bute Docks office in Cardiff, now a beautiful centre linked to the Welsh Assembly. I think it was the Ruabon Brick and Terra Cotta Company situated at Gardden, Ruabon. The suggestion has been that it was J.C. Edwards, but I don't believe so as the style is that of the materials produced by the Ruabon Brick and Terra Cotta. The trade catalogue held in Wrexham would bear this out. There seems to be a paucity of accurate information about companies and buildings available on the net. As I live in France, although I visit the U.K., my time is limited when I get there, therefore I have to rely on published sources. Museums are not very co-operative, saying 'visit' - I'd like to, but rarely have the time. The Palmer centre in Wrexham offered to send me some scans of the RB&TC trade catalogue, but they never arrived. I wonder if you can help further?
Tue Jul 19 11:26:19 2005

Len Salisbury, Cefn & Camberley Surrey
Hi Richard, I certainly remember you as a little child and staying with your grandparents. You may have read some of my inputs either on the Acrefair or Cefn sites. I was apprenticed to your grandfather WT from 1948 until 1954 leaving to do National Service and for a couple of stints afterwards before joining-up as a regular soldier in 1962-85. Where do your mother's other two sisters live?
Mon Jul 18 08:03:56 2005

Richard Omotosho, London
My mum, Betty, was the daughter of Mr William & Mrs Evelyn Evans of Springfield Villas, Acrefair. She married my father, a Nigerian called Simon, in 1957. My grandfather was the printer, W.T. Evans. I spent some time with my grandparents when I was a baby. Anyone remember me or my mum? My parents remained happily maried until my father's death late last year.
Thu Jul 14 14:45:34 2005

Alun Salisbury Cardiff - Cefn Mawr
Stuart Fawcett - Following family discussions after the war and recently with family friend Mervyn Hughes of Tref-y-Nant Park, Acrefair, I understand that the Home Guard was deployed on Garth, Penycae and Minera Mountains. On word that an air raid was imminent, they set fire to the bracken and gorse. This tactical operation was aimed at drawing enemy bombers away from Liverpool and our local industries, such as Monsanto Chemicals and J C Edwards brickworks etc. Clearly, the pilot who dropped his bombs, one of which landed to the rear of my Taid's house was not deceived. There were a number of air raid shelters scattered about the district. I recall the shelter on the Banks at Cae Coch and another between High St and Rock Place, which is probably the one your mother used. Alternative shelters at the time were located, along with the sunken, fire, emergency water tank on that flat piece of ground at the top of Mount Pleasant. This water tank, along with another located alongside the dirt road, which ran from Theo's garage to the Library at Plas Kynaston, provided lots of 'sport' during the summer months when frogs and newts matured. Cae Glo brings back pleasant memories, particularly after the war. It was on the railway-cutting footbridge between Cae Coch and Coed Richard that I peeled and ate my first orange. After the austerity and rationing during the war, the orange tasted like nectar from heaven. Does anyone else have memories of their first exotic foods at this time?
Wed Jun 29 10:05:37 2005

Norma King
To Stuart Fawcett. Wonderful to hear all that. I remember my mother making Betty's dress, the feel of the fabric she chose and my mother 'dressing the bride' and attending the wedding in Seion. I also remember Graham really well and that his profession was known in those days as Sanitory Inspector. We were all very impressed by his qualifications and how young he seemed! I have a very nice photograph of their wedding in my mother's old box. Lyn and Laurie Evans lived in Porthill near Newcastle under Lyne. He owned a sweets factory, which was pretty good in those post war years. Lyn was my father's cousin on his mother's side - a Jarvis. My dad used to tell me that both Lyn and I had Jarvis eyes. I don't quite know what he meant, but he liked them a lot! Lyn and Laurie were wonderful to me while I was growing up, and particularly kind when I was on placements at various hospitals in Staffs during my training. Lovely to be reminded of them. Please give my kind regards to Betty.
Wed Jun 29 09:54:06 2005

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
Firstly to Norma King - my mother Betty knew your family quite well, your mother made her wedding dress in September 1951. On moving to Newcastle Under Lyne to live your mother's relatives, Mr and Mrs Evans, helped out with all the local knowledge with rationing/shops etc. My mum thinks that you may have visited her with your mother. Secondly to Len and Alun Salisbury - my mother Betty (Roberts of Cae Glo) remembers you living on Morris's steps but cannot remember the bomb incident you mention! Is it the night they bombed the mountain? To this day she cannot understand why, if there was a raid, she had to pass where she lived to go down Russell Street and some from there went to the shelter on the Banks. Keep up the interest, plus any photos.
Sun Jun 26 20:06:23 2005

Alun Salisbury Cardiff & Cefn Mawr
To Alan Roberts - John (Jack) Bartley was my Taid and lived at Bryn Melyn, Tower Hill. I have completed a synopsis of his military career when serving with the 4th Battalion R.W.F. 1914-19. In the synopsis, I refer to a well-known family story involving Taid and an air raid on Monsanto Chemicals and surrounding industries that occurred during World War Two. My late mother - Hannah Jane Salisbury often referred to this attack. Taid, having survived four years of WW1 trenches would have viewed, with disdain, the German air raid and ventured outside to view the spectacle, when a bomb fell in Parry's field, close to the rear of his house, which failed to explode. He set off in pursuit and located the entry hole close to the railway line. Returning home for pick and shovel, he extricated the bomb and manhandled it across the field were it was stored, overnight, in the outside toilet. The following morning he placed the bomb on a handcart and took it to Acrefair Police station, just up the road from the Duke of Wellington. Foolish? No question, but having survived four years of trench warfare he probably felt invincible to German ordnance. Is this the same air raid that caused damage to Cefn Gas Works (see link; Cefn Mawr - Lamplighter/Reg Hayes. As a child, I remember an air raid siren and my mother carrying me in her arms to the safety of Mrs Ellis's cellar, next to Midland Bank, Well Street, Cefn Mawr. Can anyone recall what year this was and bomb damage to the area, and was this the only raid? Mr W T Bowen was headmaster of Central School when I attended 1950-53. Other teachers' names I recall at this time were Ms Marsden (Cookery) Mrs Rogers (English) Mr's Williams (Welsh) Dan Jones (Music) W T Griffiths (Maths) Cunnington (Woodwork) J P Humphreys (Art) Harford? (Geometry). Can anyone remember other names? On a separate issue, whilst at Bethune Town Cemetery, France I located the grave of Lloyd, John L/Cpl 4th Battalion R.W.F. 4 Tower Hill, Tref-y-Nant, Acrefair. I have photographs of the headstone and cemetery book details should any family member be interested. Similarly, I have details for Parry, J 24 Rock Villa, High St, Cefn Mawr.
Fri Jun 17 11:09:20 2005

Norma King
To Paul Morris. I remember your mother Joan very well, both as a child living in Burton Terrace, attending Acrefair school and much later, when she helped my parents in their home in Bowers Road as they got older. She was very very kind to them. I also remember your grandma Lily who lived near my Nain in Burton Terrace. It seems incredible to me that you were taught by Dennis Davies too. We belong to different generations, you and I, but I too know all about Pyecraft! In my year, we had games on a Friday afternoon. The boys played football in the back yard and the girls played rounders in the front yard. The boys always got on and played well unsupervised, but the girls were always falling out with each other and questioning the rules! It could get pretty scary! The main suspects would run into school and Dennis would inevitably have to come out to arbitrate. There was no peace for him on Friday afternoons! If the weather was bad, we would take turns to stand in front of the class and improvise stories. The children would vote for a boy one week and a girl the next, to tell a story. Every now and again, we would have Pyecraft from Mr Davies. Pyecraft was definitely Boys' Stuff involving adventures in spacecrafts - the girls were not too keen, but he used to incorporate each child's name into the stories to give more interest. I should think by your day, the tale must have become extremely elaborate and intricate, after twenty odd years of honing. I remember Mr Davies starting as a teacher at Acrefair, following his demob after the war. He seemed such a gentle person to have been a soldier, but I agree he was pretty accurate with that board duster. It was usually thrown after his face had become a very vibrant red and one was anxious he might explode. Gostler's shop on Bethania Road was owned latterly by Hywel Edwards. When I was tiny, I used to be sent there for fresh bread, a crusty 'tin' loaf. I must have been very young, because I remember making a tiny hole in the side of it and managed to hollow it out and eat the middle entirely without making the hole any bigger. This all took place in the couple of hundred yards between the shop and my home. On the face of it, the loaf looked intact. Imagine the shock and horror of my mother when she started cutting the loaf and found nothing inside. Food was all very precious then. In spite of this awful trait of constant hunger, Mr Edwards treated me with great dignity and always addressed me as Miss Griffiths, even when I was about five years old.
Wed Jun 15 09:50:37 2005

Paul Morris, Wrexham, from Acrefair
I was born in 1963 and lived in Acrefair until 1984, my father is still living in Cea bedw, Gwyn Morris who was married to Joan Morris (maiden name Hughes). I lived for my early years at 4 Tower View, leading up to Acrefair school. I remember Denny well and his stories of pyecraft, also his gift of clipping you round the ear with a board duster from a 100 yards! I remember my mother taking me to Emrys the barbers for my hair cut, and how I used to cry my eye's out every time. i remember Sid's shop and vivid memories of the bacon slicer and the smell of the large joint of ham on the counter. My mum used to send me down to Sid's back door after closing because she had forgotten 10 fags and 2lb sugar. Does anyone remember my mother Joan Hughes? She lived in Burton Terrace. My nain's name was Lily Hughes her husband was Idris, he worked in the Delph Works and then Monsanto. My nain was one of the dinner ladies at Madoc school along with Agnes and Laura. I enjoyed Norma's story of Acrefair, it brought back a lot of memories of playing on the ballast, the fairy ring and the broken bridge and the characters of the area, John the Garage, Tony the Barber, Bobby Sprout who used to own Coserler's (spelling?) shop, Charlie Bathers riding his bike. What a fantastic place.
Mon Jun 13 20:25:50 2005

Gareth Davies, Acrefair and Newcastle upon Tyne
I have to echo the comments of my former next door neighbour Bill (William) Jones. I can remember Bill's dad telling me how he once received the telephone bill for Monsanto's by mistake (there was only one digit diffence between his 'phone number and Monsanto's). If I remember correctly it was for nearly four-thousand pounds and would have been the early sixties 'cause Bill taught me to drive, but we had to be back home for the six o'clock news without fail! Bill also used to tell the story of how he managed to get new uniforms and instruments for the Monsanto Brass/Silver Band. The instruments came from Boosie and Hawks in London and were playable in two keys. Only "old" Bill could have told me that fact. I don't suppose I have thought of that for decades. This brings to mind the Monsanto Galas which used to be held in Wynnstay Park - the entrance opposite Plas Isaf, Rhosymedre. I'm surprised that Bill makes no mention of his uncle John T Jones, a well known character in 'The Cefn'. When I used to deliver papers for Ike Evans (Bridge Shop) every Saturday I used to do the Penybryn round with him. We'd call first at Williams The Bakers for bread before heading off up the mountain and Ike would entertain me with songs and stories from the Cefntuckie Minstrels. John T or was it Jonty Jones used to play the drums. There was one occasion when he played the drums so loud that Ike chased him off the stage at the George Edwards Hall. Bill I too thought it was 'the ballast' until I came across the term 'y balast' in an article in the Denbighshire Historical Association Transaction. Norma: The Black Horse (I was always told that it was called the White Horse) is the first house on the right as you travel down Llangollen Road after Neville's (Gale's in my day) Shop. It was split into two houses Bill Jones' family lived in the one on Bethania Road and my family lived in the one on Llangollen Road. In my early years they were both called Glanllyn. You may have known my sister Eleanor and my brother Arthur, but I was only born in 1947! Ifor Edwards was the brother of Mona Edwards. Bob (Williams) did you change in the old air-raid shelter or coke-ovens? Was "old" Sam Hughes the Youth Club Leader in your day?
Thu Jun 9 15:26:30 2005

Len Salisbury, Cefn and Camberley
Bill (William) Jones are you a relative of Mr ? Jones who I believe was the first person to have a television in the area? Jack Davies (Gareth Davies) father also lived in Glanllyn.
Thu Jun 9 11:18:56 2005

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
Reply to Lin G-can you be more specific about ages? In 1901 Census there are 4 Rosina Jones living in Ruabon/Cefn area ranging from 4 to 34 years of age. If you have an idea where either Rosina or Richard was born will help.
Tue Jun 7 17:21:17 2005

Norma King
Bill Jones: I think your 'Ned one eye' must have been my bird catcher. He certainly did have one eye. The other was opaque white and he was certainly prone to catching children by the scruff of the neck. In my time, we had a different nick name, which I can't mention because it is definitely not lady like and would give away his surname! The head of Central School was Mr Bowen. He was a deacon at Tabernacle and was one of the people who might give us a lift on the Top road to chapel on Sundays. Gareth Davies: Could you tell me where the Black Horse Inn was, Gareth? I should know you if you were living in Acrefair from 1947. I do remember Godfrey Davies whose parents kept Neville's shop during my childhood. He was in my class. Was Ifor Edwards the brother of Mona Edwards, who lived in the avenue adjacent to the Drill Hall? She was a very good teacher and gave me extra tuition. I had very ambitious parents! Paul Jones: I remember Sid, Lizzie, Violet and Ruby really well. Sid was an incredible character, totally dedicated to running his shop. It was the centre of the universe. He was the classic grocer, hair slicked down with an immaculate centre parting, big white starched apron tied at the front, busy, busy, busy and counting aloud at an incredible speed. The shop was always full of women waiting, gossiping and teasing Sid, who took it all with a smile, concentrating only on his business. The women would often be wearing floppy carpet slippers, with all enveloping wrap around aprons and hair covered by headscarves hiding curlers. He would always end any transaction with 'Thank you. Thank you for your kindness' All said very quickly and breathlessly. Lovely. Lizzie had a hair salon behind the shop. There was an entrance at the side, but little girls like me were let in through the lift-up flap in the counter. The salon was quite extraordinary, dining room chairs all around the walls, with big bronze coloured hood dryers over them. There were one or two really strange electrical gadgets with many wires with sockets attached. I believed they were for perms, which were quite spectacular in those days. I think it was an act of faith to submit to having one, but plenty of women did! Lots of frizz abounding. There were small curtained cubicles for privacy and discretion and posters advertising glamorous Marcel waves on the walls. The strong aromas of ammonia would drift over Sid's bacon slicing machine. Violet was very pretty and Peter her boy friend had the current Hollywood good looks. I seem to seem remember Peter wearing white plimsolls and grey flannel with a white shirt for country dancing. Ruby went to a college of music and came back in style to sing at the esteemed Good Friday Sacred Concert at Bethel, the little Methodist chapel on the hill leading to Bethania Road and Bowers Road. She wore a pale green chiffony evening dress. I remember her very well and other soloists with whom she sang. Moyra Kempster: Lovely to hear of you Moyra. My parents were very fond of you. Great to know you are still in Bowers Road and hope you are keeping well. Len Salisbury: Regards to your friend Mervyn. I remember him as a boy, putting on a memorable performance at a social evening in Tabernacle vestry. He put up a sheet with a light behind it and proceeded to perform a critical surgical operation in which his removed everything but the kitchen sink from the unfortunate patient's dissected abdomen. We observed every grim detail in the shadows cast. I remember all his family - mother, sisters and father. Howard Paddock and Peter Lloyd: Where are you? I thought you were going to get in touch, but no joy yet. Looking forward to hearing from you sometime.
Wed Jun 1 16:21:20 2005

Lin G
Anyone know anything of Rosina Jones, Richard Jones back in 1900, 1910? They lived just outside of Acrefair I think, in a whitewashed farmhouse. Descendents may be called Pat and Ceirog (spelling?) who were twins. Do you know why they left the village?
Sun May 29 23:40:36 2005

Meg
I have always lived on Bowers Road. It is a great place to live.
Sun May 22 20:51:37 2005

Bob Williams, Hartlepool
Re "Top Ground", I played for The Druids in their last match there - we changed in somewhat less than salubrious buildings on the north side of the pitch! I also helped to lay and played on the football pitch on Cae Bedw as a member of the Maelor Youth Club. I remember we used a Caterpillar tractor from Monsanto for sound effects when we entered and won a "Youth club of the year" competition on BBC.
Fri May 20 14:54:13 2005

Marc Morris
I have lived here all my life and it is great. Me and my mates go to play on the ballast on hot days. It's GREAT.
Fri May 20 13:01:45 2005

Bill (William) Jones, was Acrefair now Shrewsbury
What a wonderful website, what memories. I thought the area between Bowers Road and the railway was called the ballast; my Dad told me it was something to do with railway ballast when they built the line to Barmouth. But as he also told me Father Christmas was a real person, I sometimes question his truthfulness. However, what an adventure playground it was. In the 1950s it was on the way home from school to our house at the top end of Bethania Road - Glanllyn. My friend Buffer (Christopher Hughes) and I would play there on our way home, even at lunchtime. I recall one day, playing hide and seek, and hiding behind one of the big lumps and being grasped by the collar by "Ned one-eye" with the words "Gotcha you bu****" Ned then frog-marched me back over the railway and straight to the Central School's headmaster's study. Shoved in front of the head's desk, with Ned triumphally saying how he had caught me waggin it (playing truant). The head looked straight into my tear-sodden eyes and asked "what have you got to say for yourself?" I mumbled something which was not understood through the tears and the grip Ned had on my neck. "What class are you in, boy?" I somehow got myself together to say "Mr Williams'" upon which the head looked puzzled, then realised I was a rather tall primary schoolboy, not one of his; and since the primary and secondary had to share a canteen, the primary finished at noon, but the central finished at 12:30 and I was in my lunchtime. It was evidently my fault for not explaining this earlier, so I was sent out with a "get out" from the head and a cuff from Ned. I ran home and told Mam I was late because I'd been playing. There is a happy ending: the head (sorry, never knew his name) put such fear of going to the Central School into me that I was determined to pass my 11plus and go to the grammar school, which I did. Anyone else remember Ned one-eye?
Mon May 16 23:25:09 2005

Alan Roberts, Tower Hill & Dolgellau
I was born and bred in Tower Hill. I lived almost opposite to Jack Bartley, also Agnes? Bartley lived further up at one time. My father Derek played piano in the Forresters, also Eagles,Ponsonby, Llann., Grosvenors, Cheshire (or Blue Bell), Kings Head & Holly Bush at various times. My grandad, Albert Hughes, played in the Railway. Anyone remember Pricey & Ernie, also pianists round the Cefn? My mother Audrey, nee Meredith, still lives in Tower Hill. "Denny" Davies, teacher, lived at 9 Maelor Terrace. Miss A.C.? Williams was headmistress of Acrefair Infants in the fifties. Mr. Charles, followed by J.Lewis Jones, was head of Junior school. I think Mr. Bowen was head of Central School. I don't remember a matinee in the George Edwards, "Old Hall", but certainly remember Horace? Rees (Be quiet please!) in the Palace. All this was in fifties & sixties.
Sun May 8 13:12:50 2005

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
Additional info for Rachel Bowen-by the early 1900,s the owners were Wyndham + Phillips, the works closed in 1955.
Tue May 3 21:58:37 2005

Stuart Fawcett of Chirk
In reply to Rachel Bowen the original owner of the Delph clay works was TH Seacome however by 1860,s HR Bowers opened up the terra cotta works. Hope this helps.
Tue May 3 21:33:20 2005

Gareth Davies, Acrefair and Newcastle upon Tyne
I lived in Acrefair from 1947 until 1971 when I left the district but still have connections with the area. Rachel asks about the Delph Brick and Tile Works. It was owned by Wyndham and Phillips and must have closed sometime in the late 1950s. I can just about remember it still working - Sid Pegg who lived next to the Forresters worked there and a Mr Meyers. There was a row of cottages just beyond the Delph pool - I remember many hidings for playing too near it and associating with the Gypsys who came each year. Who remembers Noah and his two daughters? The last manager of the Delph was John Edward Watkin who became manager in 1903 at a very young age. His eldest son George Watkin died last year - I wish now I had taken more notice of George when he told me about his father and the works. I'm sure that the late Ifor Edwards, formerly Headmaster of Acrefair School and a noted local historian wrote about the Delph. As Secretary of the Ruabon Grammar School Old Boys' Association I'm in touch with one of his sons so I'll try and find out more. Norma mentions the railway line and broken bridge that operated over 'the balas' (an old slag bank). There is a map of the very extensive railway network that operated in Acrefair in The Denbighshire Historical Transactions Vol 32, 1983; it's based on the 1873 Ordnance Survey. It was an incredable network built to service the Iron Works. My old family home is identified on the map as the Black Horse Inn now a private residence. (The sandstone inn sign was still attached to the house when I was a child). What was known as Neville's then Gale's shop now the Chinese take away was I believe the signal box for the railway network that operated opposite (Lancaster Terrace)and then went along the embankment known as Warner's Lane to join the mineral line at Eighteen Banks. The map shows the vast number of coal shafts in the area and if my memory is correct there was a brick-works behind Acre House opposite what would have been the entrance Lodge for Penybryn Hall. I understood it to have been Bower's Brickworks hence the name Bowers Road. I can vaguely remember freight trains going to the Delph and on one ocassion there was a derailment on the loop just before the the line crossed the Penycae road, and there was real excitment when a rail freight delivery to Hughes and Lancasters took place! The main road was closed whilst the guard shunted the train into the works yard. The steam crane was fired up to move the wagons and we children would be pop-eyed with excitment. What about the "Black Houses" which was the engine shed for the New British Ironworks and top ground where "The Druids" used to play now 'the flats' with the coke ovens and the old air-raid shelter on Coed Richard? An Aladin's Cave for us children to play in. I recently obtained through a good friend of mine an engraving dated 1794 entitled The View of ACREFAIR, near WYNNSTAY, on the River Dee. Unfortunately it's too big for me to scan. Incidentally the iron for the Aqueduct was cast almost on site at what became known to us a Diggory's Scrapyard and is now a small housing estate called Bron y Gamlas. Hope this is of some use
Wed Apr 20 20:12:48 2005

Rachel Bowen Ruabon and Cannes in France
Can anyone tell me the name of the owners of the Delph Works please? My grandfather also worked there for a while and I remember going there to see him and him putting a wet sack over his head to enter the still-hot kilns to get bricks out. I am doing research into the brickworks of the area and am not finding as much on the internet as I should and there are many innaccuracies even in the 'official' sites.
Tue Apr 5 08:43:58 2005

Paul Jones in London
This brings back memories of staying with my gran in Acrefair in the 60's. She was 'Lizzie' Matthews and lived with her cousin, Sidney Meyers, who ran the Mace shop next to the chapel, where he layed the organ. I am the son of her younger daughter, Violet Matthews, who married Peter Jones from Trevor. I don't know if anyone has any memories or photos of the above people (only my mother remains alive now) but I would love to know if anyone does. My aunt, Ruby Matthews, married a Dennis Lloyd and moved to Manchester. Some of you may also remember their son, Martin, who often used to spend holidays there. Although I was never educated in Acrefair, I can remember talking to Dennis Davies the teacher in the shop when I was staying there.
Mon Mar 28 23:17:58 2005

moyra kempster bowers road
it was great reading about Bowers Road. I have lived there for the past 41 years. I was friendly with Normas parents. I remember Norma also her brother Alan.
Fri Mar 25 14:47:09 2005

aimi broadhurst from acrefair
i lived in acrefair 18 year and i was just wondering if anyone remembered maelor store aka maelor house because i would love to know the history
Wed Mar 9 08:08:12 2005

Len Salisbury, Cefn & Camberley Surrey
I forgot to say (except for the picture that I mentioned of the Infants School) that I attended the school, I seem to recall a Miss Williams head teacher. I have in my possession an attendance card dated 1937 which one was given for attending school for a whole week. Does anyone remember these cards? As a small child I attended Trinity Chapel/Church and when I got married in 1958 my late wife Wray and I lived with her grandmother in the end house in Burton Terrace next to Trinity. The terrace is now demolished and is a car park. My late mother's funeral was conducted at Trinity in February last year and whilst we were at Trinity making funeral arrangements my brother and I noticed a Roll of Honour of the names of people who did some service in the Great War 1914-18. My taid, John Bartley from Tower Hill, Trefynant's name was on it. At this point my brother seemed to recall that he was baptised there on Christmas Day 1938. With the help of Mervyn Hughes we contacted the person who looks after Trinity records and the register was found with the entry of his baptism. I remember playing billiards and snooker at Trinity Institute when Sam Vaughan was looking after it and participating in various plays or watching films in the concert hall.
Thu Feb 10 07:52:34 2005

Len Salisbury Cefn & Camberley Surrey
To Norma King, thank you for replying to my questions regarding June Parry but it would also be interesting to see who were the other girls in the picture. I had a picture published in the Wrexham Leader a few years ago of a group in Acrefair Infants School (down memory lane)taken about 1937. I was in the picture with Mervyn Hughes (my son's godfather), Gary Fieldhouse, Donald Jones, Nigel Griffiths, Reggie Evans, Wilfred Evans? On the girls side there was Marjorie Jones (Jack the barber) grand daughter, Margaret Evans (Maes Madoc) a relative of mine. ---As for Carey Jones he wasn't a reporter as such but the editor of the Chronicle and did all the proof reading of all the work passing through the office. I recall the concerts that were put on at the George Edwards Hall and I remember Murray Dickie tenor singing there about 1950ish. --As for going over the top to go to Tabernacle via Mount Pleasant you obviously went down Morris' steps passing our front door. We lived on the steps and there were 14 steps from our front door to the bottom before you came to Willy Moreton's butcher shop. I used to go to Seion and afterwards Ebenezer in the High Street. During the war we used to go in the cellar of the chapel for refuge. WT Evans had three daughters and at one of his daughters wedding a bridesmaid was called Wray. Same name as my late wife whose grandfather owned the Eagles, Rhys Griffiths. I was born in Tower Hill, Trefynant 1933. I also remember walking through Monsanto before the road was closed. Of the times we swam in the cut (canal) near Monsanto and when the Lido was made by the Dancing Classes about 1949. All covered over now. During the war we used to walk from Cefn Junior School to the Drill Hall now Maelor Youth Club for lunch and when the British Restaurant opened in Tabernacle vestry often had lunch there. I think I remember learning how to eat with a knife and fork there. Do you remember when June Parry was crowned Miss Cefn? 1953/54. I took the photograph in black and white. I had just come on the scene taking pictures of anything that moved in the Cefn area and published in the Wrexham Leader. NOTE TO LEN: Can you share your old photos with us? Mail them to wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk
Mon Jan 31 18:43:00 2005

Norma King
To Len Salisbury: No, June Parry is not on the photograph, but I do have a picture of her when she and I were in the National Savings Queens' Retinue in 1949! She was a 'Maid of Honour' representing what we used to call the Central School in Acrefair, and I was the 'Queen' in the Primary School. We were all taken to the Saturday Matinee at the George Edwards Hall and had the privilege of watching the cowboy film from the front row of the balcony, before parading onto the stage in all our glory. The old photograph makes my family fall about with laughter. With regard to the Cefn Chronicle, I was at Ruabon Grammar with the daughters of Mr Evans, the proprietor. Mary and Bronwen, I think. I also remember Carey Jones, the reporter. He was a very clever man, I think, and was secretary of the Cefn Male Voice Choir. He used to arrange amazing Celebrity Concerts at George Edwards Hall. Singers from Covent Garden were invited, some of them world famous. My father was 'basso profundo' in the choir and I used to sell programmes. Carey would gather the money from us all on the stairs to the balcony during the performance. I remember how we all had to whisper and he was so careful not to clink the coins as he counted. To Howard Paddock: I remember you and your brother Maurice very well Howard. We used to walk to Tabernacle Baptist Chapel together, when there were no buses on a Sunday. I have a vivid memory of your lovely blond hair! We used to walk 'over the top' past your house, as a short cut, because the fumes and fall out from Monsanto were so terrible on the lower road, that you could hardly get your breath. On the other hand, elders of the chapel travelling in cars along the bottom road would sometimes give you a lift, if you were very polite and lucky. We did this journey three times every Sunday from a very early age. Character building stuff. To Linda GT: I remember your teacher Miss Nancy Williams very well indeed. Before her headship at Acrefair, she taught at Cefn School and also ran the Sunday school at Tabernacle. Her commitment was amazing. Everything had to be done to a high standard and any competition entered, or concert arranged involved extra practises at her house. She must have devoted the whole of her life and energy into getting the best out of children. Each Sunday night the Tabernacle children would sing a hymn to the congregation. It was always done in harmony, even from the earliest age. The most inspirational teacher I ever had was Mr Dennis Davies, who taught the scholarship class in Acrefair Primary school. He too was a member at Tabernacle. I'm sure many many of us who have gone on to further education will feel privileged to have been taught in such a magical way. I wish I had told him how much his teaching meant to me. Regarding your reference to your childhood playing area, I too collected tadpoles, frogs and many a stickleback from the Delph Pool. I was always in big trouble for coming home wet through!
Wed Jan 26 16:48:00 2005

Linda GT from Germany
Amazed to find anything about Acrefair on the Internet! I lived there until 1965 and was very sad to leave Acrefair infants' school. Does anyone remember Miss Williams, the teacher? We children of Lancaster Terrace used to collect frogs from the lake near the slag heap and take them home! I am glad we enjoyed so much safe freedom playing in the woods at the back of our house - we didn't have a lot of money then but it was a fantastic childhood.
Thu Jan 13 22:40:34 2005

Pat Hill (nee Jones)
I didn't actually live on Bowers Rd (Cae Coch) but brought back happy memories of the past. My sister Moyra lives at Bryn Terr.
Wed Jan 12 11:07:15 2005

Len Salisbury Cefn and Surrey
Brilliant article! I too, used to work in the Cefn Chronicle under W.T. Evans 1948 onwards. I might be wrong but Ben Pritchard had something to do with the Cefn Chronicle and had ordered a Linotype typesetting machine but never saw it installed. He had died just before delivery. He produced the Chronicle in premises near the Crane.
Tue Jan 4 16:34:08 2005

Len Salisbury from Cefn and Surrey
In the picture of Bowers Road is that June Parry, Ian Parry's late sister back row right?
Tue Jan 4 16:23:22 2005

Howard Paddock, Acrefair
This is a lovely description of Acrefair during the post war period. Although my childhood home was in neighbouring Cefn Mawr, my grandmother lived in Cae Bedw and there I would often be given a glass of 'nettle-beer'. As its name suggests, the 'Fairy Ring' was a truly magical place. I remember the grass was always short and this gave it a neat and 'cared for' quality. As a child, I believed this to be the work of the mystical folk who danced around the circle while the rest of us slept. However, the events that created the 'Fairy Ring' would probably have been somewhat different. In this barren windswept place, at that time, there would perhaps have been a great deal of noise and smoke. I wonder, was a poor unfortunate animal shackled to some kind of primitive winding-gear? Was the circular path it trod left as a record of its misery?
Mon Oct 11 19:51:33 2004

Derek Williams from Nottingham
I am trying to trace my ancestors who I beleive lived in Chapel Street Acrefair, & possibly Acre house. My great, great uncle was editor or similar of the cCfn Chronicle, his name, Ebenezer Williams (Ben). My great grandfather's name was Daniel Williams. His wife, Margaret, & my grandfather's name was Herbert Williams, his sister Sarah Ann, last known of Acrefair. My father's name was Raymondm Williams, one brother Daniel, who spent part of their childhood in Chapel Street. they had strong connections to the Methodist Church. Any information would be most welcome. Yours faithfully Derek Williams.
Mon Sep 20 19:40:17 2004

Nick Evans
I live here and it is mintos.
Thu Jun 24 13:11:02 2004

Rowena Kerswell
I have lived in Acrefair since the age of 10 and have many happy memories. I have recently returned with my husband and 3yr old son (to Maelor Terrace). I love the area and hope my son will enjoy stories such as yours Norma, I really enjoyed reading it.
Thu Mar 11 21:48:18 2004