your comments
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
For Lynda Boydell. I have gone through old photographs in my possession and have one photo of Brian as a 2 year old. The photo is a small black and white and is taken at Rhyl I think. It depicts Brian and I hand in hand walking along the prom. On the back is written Brian 2 years 6 months Larry 1 year 10 months. He is blonde and I am dark haired. If this is of interest to you get in touch. Web team have my email address.
Thu Jun 4 08:01:57 2009
Lynda Boydell, Maesteg, South Wales
Message for Dennis Vaughan. Thank you for the information, I thought perhaps the sisters may have died, I can now try and look for the deaths. It would be great if you could contact Peter for me. I have a photo, that was passed down to me, and I think it could be of the 3 sisters and would like to confirm it. Thanks again hope to hear from you soon.
Mon May 11 09:08:44 2009
Lynda Boydell, Maesteg, South Wales
To Larry Pritchard, Thanks Larry for your information. I don't suppose you have any photographs of Gwennie or her sons? Or if you should ever meet Brian or Peter perhaps you could mention this page, and the fact that I am tracing the family history.
Thu May 7 09:42:13 2009
Dennis Vaughan, Llandegfan, Anglesey
For Lynda Boydell. As Larry Pritchard's comment the three sisters have passed away. I used to work with Peter, I moved from the area over 20 years ago, I still have contacts in my old workplace, I think I can contact Peter if you want me to.
Mon Apr 27 09:21:52 2009
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
For Lynda Boydell. Gwennie McCormick was a good friend of my mother. Gwennie had two sons Brian and Peter. Brian is the same age as me (65) and as babies we were pushed side by side in our prams around Johnstown as our mothers chatted away. To my knowledge none of the sisters are alive now.
Thu Apr 23 10:13:49 2009
Lynda Boydell, Maesteg, South Wales
Hi does anyone reading this know of Kate and Nora Griffiths from Johnstown or their sister Gwennie McCormick? They would be in their eighties and nineties now. I believe they are relatives of my husband who I would like to contact for information on my family history. Many thanks.
Fri Apr 17 10:34:24 2009
Janet Edwards (nee Matthias)
I am trying to get hold of 'old' friends from Johnstown, and wondering if any of you were connected to this site? I lived in Victoria Ave, and remember the youth club on Friday nights, at the Church Hall, and of course 'Green's Chippy' after Y/Club - 1967-1971 (great memories)! I now live in Canada, and would like to hear from anyone who remembers me! It would be nice to connect with you on my next visit to Johnstown, I am thinking of coming over in Oct of this year!
Tue Apr 14 11:15:22 2009
Sandra Kempster
Hi Dave, great to here from you. I only came by the site by accident! Spooky! Hope you and your family are well. We are all ok here, children growing really fast.
Wed Mar 18 09:22:36 2009
Dave Williams, Butcher, Canada
Hi Sandra Kempster, Of course I remember you. What a coincidence, it must be 12 months since I checked out this site! As I write this my mind is full of all the good laughs that were to be had in Kwiks. Several others also keep in touch, some have even been out here to stay with us 'on the ranch'. Remember I used to sing in the shop? Well, now I sing in a REAL choir (bass).
Mon Mar 16 08:47:24 2009
David Hart. Acrefair/Cefn
Reply to George Wong/Johnstown. Hello George. What a surprise to see your comments and questions, and so good to hear from you. Hope you and the family are well. Are you a grandad yet? I've got two grandaughters and two great grandchildren, so not doing too bad for an "OLD 'UN". Big Jack is still with us but doesn't do much fishing now, only on the Lakes. I don't think our bones would stand up to the rocking of the boats for long! Regarding the sketch of you over the side - the video was better, especially when it was played in reverse. Do you remember it being viewed in the Black Lion? Take care and regards to the family. David (Dai) Hart.
Tue Mar 10 10:10:37 2009
Donald Edwards, Rhosllanerchrugog
Hi Yvonne, sorry Keith is not too well at the moment, tell him I am asking for him. Marlene and myself are both asking how you are, Donald and Marlene.
Mon Mar 9 15:37:15 2009
George Wong, Johnstown
For David Hart, Acrefair/Cefn. Will that be the same David Hart, the foreman of PVC Oversheathing, BICC? We spent many a good day sea fishing together until he sketched me being sea-sick overside. How is big Jack, he was not a bad fisherman as well? I am old and retired now!
Mon Mar 9 09:51:14 2009
Sandra Kempster nee Jervis
Hi Dave Williams butcher from Canada. Not sure if you remember me. I worked for you in Llangollen Kwiks as well as Johnstown it would be great to talk to you again to see how well your doing in Canada!
Fri Mar 6 08:17:09 2009
Sue Cole Roberts, Wrexham
Although born in Gardden Road I have great memories of Johnstown - going to the youth club, I'm talking about the 'Mary Hopkins' era, going for a walk with your boyfriend down the path towards where the Crosville buses were kept - if caught I would have been in big trouble coz my dad Jack Cole drove for Crosville for many years. When I was little I had to run down to the Crosville depot with sandwiches for my dad if he was working overtime.
Mon Mar 2 10:32:17 2009
Wil, Wrexham.
For Susan, Alicante. February issue of Nene carries a picture of local inn-keepers and members of the Buffs taken in 1926 during the strike. Something to do with funding soup-kitchens to help feed the families of the strikers. Far right, front row, seated, Jack Bishop. Just thought it may be of interest to you through your Dad, Keep well, Bill.
Fri Feb 27 08:59:32 2009
Dennis Vaughan, Llandegfan, Anglesey
For Yvonne Barratt. Hi Yvonne, sorry Keith is not too well at the moment. Tell him I am asking after him.
Mon Feb 16 08:34:41 2009
Yvonne Barratt
Hi Dennis Vaughan, saw this site on Johnstown, told Keith Barratt about it, as at the moment he's not very well. He said you and him had good times playing in the avenue when you where both very young. He lived in the Red Lion.H e sends his regards and hope you are keeping well.
Thu Feb 5 10:12:28 2009
David Hart. Acrefair/Cefn
For David Haynes - Rhostyllen. Yes, I did take photographs, many years ago, and did all of my own developing and printing. I can't remember taking your sister's photo but probably did, as I knew your father Reg from my Monsanto days, and enjoyed listening to him playing his trumpet. We used to meet occasionally in the Monsanto Club during one of the concert evenings. Was it you or a brother who worked at BICC for a while? Regards, David Hart.
Tue Feb 3 10:18:43 2009
David Haynes, Rhostyllen
David Hart, Acrefair / Cefn. Do you happen to be the David Hart who was a photographer and who also took photographs of my sister, Janice, when she was young. My dad was Reg Haynes who used to work in Monsanto and my mum Joan. Sadly my dad passed away in November 2004.
Wed Jan 28 08:53:27 2009
Bryan Jones, Vancouver
Hi David Haynes. Congratulations on raising so much money for charity. Sadly, I never did see your dad's band as the only dances my friends went to were in a hall above Burtons the tailors in Wrexham. My first wife also worked in the silicon plant on the evening shift along with a few other wives of my friends. It is a shame to hear that Monsanto is closing as I have many happy memories of working there as a welder.
Wed Jan 28 08:44:37 2009
Bryan Jones, Vancouver
Hi Sue Mclelland. I also sang in the choir and remember the wonderful solo voice of Jean Rogers. She lived two doors down from me in Eyton View. I seem to think my play friend David Holt was her cousin. I remember Mr Theadford very well because as well as being a fellow choirmember I also worked with him in Monsanto where he was a foreman along with my uncle Bill Jenkins. There was a little stream that ran from the brandie past Cliff's house that used to flood his house when the culvert got jammed with debris. I seem to remember that my old woodwork teacher from Ruabon Grammar, Mr JT Jones lived in the same area of Avon Goch.
Wed Jan 28 08:32:48 2009
GLYN BELLIS, RHOSLLANERCHRUGOG
Hi, I lived in the New Inn, Johnstown, from 1932-48. There was a shelter at the back. Good fun there with the evacuees. I left the New Inn to live in DARBY TERRACE then moved to RHOS in 1959. I married in St MARY'S, 1951. The New Inn was run by my grandfather, WILLIAM WILLIAMS. I met many miners from the Hafod.
Mon Jan 26 08:32:32 2009
David Haynes, Rhostyllen
Hi Bryan Jones, Cloverdale, Vancouver. Yes, that's my dad alright. Joe was his uncle and my great uncle. Joe's brother was Harry who was my grandad. Unfortunately my dad passed away in November 2004. He is sadly missed by all including his friends and fellow musicians. One of the musicians used to play with my dad, Des Jones, aka Des Hayward, organised a memorial night at Llay legion. Several bands took part free of charge including my brother John who, along with his wife, Shiela, form the duo Penny Black. Unfortunately, John is the only one to take after my dad much to my disappointment. Do you remember a singer called Colin Holt? Well, he came across from Spain to take part. We filled the legion which was donated for the night by the manager who also played with my dad. Together with the raffle, whose prizes were all donated, we raised over £700 for various charities. When did you leave Monsanto, which is now closing down? Do you remember the dances on Friday nights which my dad also played at? My mum also used to work in Monsanto in the silicon plant.
Fri Jan 23 08:03:42 2009
David Haynes, Rhostyllen, Wrexham
Bryan Jones, Cloverdale, Vancouver. Thanks for the info, my mum remembers a couple of the names you mentioned. She used to visit my great gran with my dad, Reg Haynes, do you remember him? It's a great pity that they pulled down all those old houses to make way for flats. The only consolation I suppose is that you can still see what they used to look like by walking down the road a few hundred yards. I suppose that it would have taken too much to renovate them to bring indoor toilets etc instead of privvies at the bottom of the garden. My mum's brother lives in the Vancouver area but I suppose it's like asking someone if they know a person in Essex. He lives in Powell River area, his name is Marles.
Wed Jan 21 09:29:41 2009
Janet, Johnstown
To Jackie Snape. Many thanks Jackie for your information about Gyfelia Terrace. It was a bit further away than you said, at the area of Gyfelia, on the lane behind the Waggoners old pub. It was demolished many years ago as I was told by an old inhabitant of Eyton, Joe Jones. Thanks for trying to help, Janet.
Wed Jan 21 09:14:02 2009
Bryan Jones, Cloverdale, Canada
Hi again David Haynes. I used to work with a pipefitter in Monsanto named Reg Haynes who also played trumpet in a dance band. I seem to remember that he was a relative of Joey Haynes.
Wed Jan 21 09:10:48 2009
Gaynor Jones from Johnstown
With regards to the air raid shelter in Offa Street. As a young child in the '60s, I can remember my mother (Marjorie, nee Rogers) showing me the shelter which was in the side garden of the last house of the row in Merlin St, then possibly the home of a lady called Katie Smith. I used to live in "Pops row" from the '60s to the early '70s and would like to know if anyone has any memories of the houses or neighbours to share.
Fri Jan 16 09:31:32 2009
Joan Prys Jones nee Rogers
Re air raid shelter by the Grapes Inn: it is still there of a sort but is known now as the British Legion. I also remember the other one in Offa Street. Great stories were told in both places.
Wed Jan 14 10:05:04 2009
Jacqueline Elizabeth Snape
Hi Janet. Unless there was another row of houses in Johnstown known as Gyfelia Terrace the area known as Gyfelia can be found if you travel down Bangor Road, go straight over the crossroads, stay on the road past the slipways that now lead to the by-pass and after about a mile you will come to a row of red brick terrace houses on the left hand side.
Wed Jan 14 09:41:56 2009
David Hart, Acrefair/Cefn
For Dennis Vaughan, Landegfan. Hi Den. I was browsing the site when I saw your name, and thought about the times we spent sea fishing on Starida. We spent many happy hours on the Menai Straits, catching a few fish for the freezer. Do you remember the Fonz and the time he "hooked" the skipper's son? Jack Thelwell is still around but only fishing the lakes now, old age is catching up with all of us. Hope that you and Fran are well and your family. Regards, Dai Hart.
Wed Jan 14 09:18:25 2009
Bryan Jones, Cloverdale, Vancouver
Hi David Haynes. I remember Joey Haynes very well. He lived at 8 Eyton View. I lived at no 5 with my mother and step father Mr and Mrs Jenkins. I remember most of the neighbours. 9 Eric Hatton, 7 Len Davies, 4 the Morrises, 3 the Rodgers, 1 the Threadgolds, 6 Joe Conde, I can't remember the name of the lady at 2. These houses were torn down to build the flats now called Cwm Glas.
Tue Jan 13 10:11:05 2009
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
Phil once again from the depth of my Johnstown memories. Laurence Pritchard's son was World Cup Willie the mascot for the 1966 world cup held in Britain.
Tue Jan 13 09:59:04 2009
Janet, Vancouver CA.
After 'much' researching I now know where the 'Air Raid Shelter' was in Victoria Avenue! It was on the right, half-way down the Avenue, where Vaughn's and "Bernie Coal" used to live. I thought it was behind Victoria Ave - towards Ponciau steps, but that was NOT the Air Raid Shelter. I remember well, the bottom of the Avenue was a big field, always grew lots of buttercups. I loved to play there especially when the grass was so high, 'one could hide' :) Oh what fun, does anyone remember a Bethan Hughes, lived at (I think) number 8 Vic Ave? We used to play together as little ones! Hope you are enjoying this site, Glyn. It's lovely to 'take a stroll' back in time to those Oh such 'carefree days', don't you agree?
Mon Jan 12 09:15:43 2009
Bryan Jones, Cloverdale, Canada
Hi Janet, Johnstown. If you want to get in touch with old schoolmates there is a very good free site called Friends Reunited where you can send messages directly to a person.
Mon Jan 12 09:13:24 2009
Jacqueline Elizabeth Snape
Hi Bruni, I'm sorry but as you suspected Noddfa Chapel does not exist any more (just to the side of the primary school on Bangor Road). It was replaced by houses some years ago now. I have a few memories of attending Sunday School there. The only names I can remember are Mrs Laura Roberts and her husband and a gentleman by the name of Amos.
Fri Jan 9 07:59:44 2009
Phil Davies, Llangollen
Yes Glyn and Wil, it was the office and showroom of the Rhos Undertaking of the Gas Board, with fitters like Jack Cound and others, and quite right, Jairus was a stoker.(Somewhere I have a photograph of a lorry which skidded on ice and embedded itself in the showroom window) Yes the air raid shelter was next door to no. 9 Merlin Street and the land has now been incorporated into their garden. I never remember another one in Victoria Ave. Glyn, nice to see that you like me have come to terms with the technology of the 21st century! Ok another teaser, Laurence Pritchard owner of a very busy greengrocers and sweet shop by the War Memorial (now the dentist) had a son who was an actor and became world famous in 1966, for what? Leon Broadbent, I'm sure you know this one...
Fri Jan 9 07:49:02 2009
Janet , Johnstown
Can anyone tell me where Gyfelia terrace is or was? My grandparents lived there many years ago and as I am researching my family history I would be interested to know.
Thu Jan 8 15:36:04 2009
Bruni Nolan, Manchester
I've enjoyed reading about everyone's memories and wondered if some kind soul can help me? I used to visit my granny who lived in Johnstown, Florrie Jones who was married to John Emlyn Jones (Jack Em) and I'm now doing my family history (I know, I know, everyone's at it!) and want to know if the Noddfa chapel is there any more? Think not from what I've gleaned from comments here. My grandad played the organ there for 17 years (in between playing piano at the Travellors pub!) and wanted to track any info about him. He died before I was born in the 60s. He married granny in 1930. My mum was Beryl Jones (she said there were 3 Beryl Joneses in her class!). Thanks if anyone can help. Hir oes! Bruni.
Thu Jan 8 11:30:56 2009
Wil, Wrexham
Glyn Evans and Phil Davies, yes, it would have been the Gas Board shop as the Gasworks was on the site now occupied by Tudor Evans' car electricians and the Fire Station. Chap named Jerus from Mountain Street, Rhos, was a stoker there, memorable for bulging eyes due to his job. Used to collect half a ton of coke, the proper stuff not the powder, from there about every fortnight to deliver to (Joe?) Williams's bakery in Hall Street where the Chinese take-away is now.
Thu Jan 8 10:14:17 2009
Wil, Wrexham
Hello Susan in Alicante. Remember when your mum kept a pint of milk in the fridge for me after work, rather than a cup of tea, when handing delivery notes to your dad? We'll never forget your dad paying for a train ticket for Mary when her dad died in Bangor and I was away down south somewhere. Title Wil, Penycae was being used by someone else when I first had a computer so used Wil, Wrexham instead. you know who I am now. Glad you are enjoying the sunshine, look after yourself, all our very best wishes to yourself and Tony. Bill.
Thu Jan 8 10:13:36 2009
Janet, Vancouver
Hi Glyn, Pleased to see you on J. Memories. I think the Air Raid Shelter was behind Vic Ave, between the Grapes Inn and Ponciau Steps! I seem to remember nana speaking about it, and of course I might be wrong, so if there is anyone who does recall that site, we would like to hear from you! I remember well Greens fish & chip shop, we would go there after youth night at the Church Hall (Friday). If we asked politely, we would get batter bits too, (what a treat)! Oh so many wonderful memories! I think Sandra would remember it too!
Thu Jan 8 10:12:53 2009
Matt Roberts, Colwyn Bay
Nice web page, I remember the paraffin sales at the Post Office when my parents (Teg and Audrey Roberts) ran the Post Office. I called at the shop just before xmas. It seems very different these days but still brought back many memories of happy times.
Wed Jan 7 08:43:24 2009
Glyn Evans
To Phil Davies. The shop over the railway line was the Gas Board shop. I think I am right, please correct me if I am wrong.
Tue Jan 6 08:09:34 2009
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
David Haynes. I remember Joe very well as I would visit him and his mother with my father. Visits were on Saturday evening as we went from Yale St to Gardden Road. Maggie and Mary also came to Johnstown to see the mother. Broad Lancashire accents both had. He was friendly with Bill Bowen (my uncle) George Massey, Llew (who lived where the club is now), Idwal Vaughan and many more. Eric Hatton lived next door. Ah, such memories.
Tue Jan 6 08:06:18 2009
Dennis Vaughan, Llandegfan, Anglesey
Hi Sue McClelland. Been trying to contact you via email, but must have wrong address. Nice to know that you are happy in Spain. Off to Australia in April to see James (son). Look forward to hearing off you again soon, I hope. Best wishes, Dennis.
Tue Jan 6 08:04:03 2009
Sue McClelland (nee Owen), Spain
Hi Dennis Vaughan and Frances. Lovely to see your name pop up Dennis and your dad, "Bernie the coal". When are you going to come and see us here in Alicante? There is a nice little apartment awaiting you both. I can recommend the weather!
Mon Jan 5 09:56:05 2009
Glyn Evans, Ruabon
I don't remember the airraid shelter in Victoria Ave, but I do remember playing cricket in that strip of land, with all the children from the Ave. I also remember a shelter by Phil Davies, does anyone remember that one?
Mon Jan 5 09:53:53 2009
Dennis Vaughan, Llandegfan, Anglesey
For Wil. Nice to hear from you Wil. I think it was Trefor who used to work with Bernie. I remember David Holt helping on the coal when he was still in school. Anybody in contact with David now? I know he is living in Tasmania. Wil you are right the lorry was parked opposite the sawmill. The address was 5 High Street.
Mon Jan 5 09:53:13 2009
David Haynes, Rhostyllen
Larry Pritchard, Gresford, 2 Eyton View was where the flats are now. Part of Eyton View still stands and the houses are identical to what they used to be. Yes, my uncle Joe did have a twin sister whose name was Maggie and she was married to another Joe. There was also an auntie Mary and they lived in Hollingwood, Oldham, which, of course, was Lancashire before it became Greater Manchester.
Mon Jan 5 09:22:59 2009
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
To David Haynes. There were no houses where Somerfields now stands. Eyton View was nearer the Travellers pub. If your Joe Haynes had a twin sister who lived in Lancashire then I can tell you a bit more about the family. Let me know.
Fri Jan 2 10:01:01 2009
Andrew Roberts
Just found the web page, very interesting reading everyone's memories of Johnstown. Mum and dad (Teg and Audrey Roberts) bought the Post Office from Mr Shorrocks in 1962, so remember so well the paraffin sales and many of the names that you mention.
Fri Jan 2 09:45:51 2009
Janet, Vancouver, Canada
Don't know how your name got into my BLOG Phil Davies! I seem to think I made a mention to you, that Glyn was wondering how to get into this site! Sorry for any confusion. Of course I know that I did not visit you, but had to laugh when I read it! Happy new year!
Fri Jan 2 09:39:15 2009
David Haynes, Wrexham (Rhostyllen)
Does anyone remember any of my family who used to live in Eyton View (the section where Somerfield is now)? My grandad's name was Harry and he used to play football for Johnstown and I think Rhos. He worked in Hafod Colliery before moving to Rhostyllen. His brother was Joseph.
Wed Dec 31 09:46:38 2008
Janet, Vancouver, Canada
Happy New Year to you all...:)I have not been on this site for quite a while, so lovely to catch up on all your 'news' from all you 'ex-Johnstownites'. I was over this past October, had a lovely visit with Glyn & Sandra (Evans), Phil Davies Llangollen.
Mon Dec 29 11:15:19 2008
Janet, Johnstown
Does anyone in Johnstown know anyone who went to Marchwiel school from 1950 to 1959? I grew up in the village and went to school there and would like to know what happened to some of the old pupils, maybe someone else moved to live in Johnstown. Let me know if you do.
Thu Dec 18 14:54:56 2008
Wil, Wrexham.
For Dennis Vaughan, you wouldn't know me but I remamber your Dad working out of Hafod Landsale with, I think, a lorry painted two shades of brown with a growling differential bearing. One of the very popular Lloyd (Oswald and Trevor) twins worked for him. Was the lorry kept down the bank on the Hafod side of the main road in Johnstown opposite Jenkins sawmill? Nice chap and one of the people who used to muck in to help each other. I was fourteen/fifteen at that time but enjoyed my time as a coal-person. I wasn't yet a man but doing a man's job while the men were in the services or down the pit.
Thu Dec 18 09:00:12 2008
Phil Davies, Llangollen
Quite right Larry, the line into Hafod was immediately above the tunnel exit and Frances Valerie often stopped there waiting to pick up trucks from the main line. You win the anorak, I'll pass it on when the weather gets warmer! Have a good Christmas and New Year.
Wed Dec 17 08:12:01 2008
Dennis Vaughan
What a nice surprise to find the Johnstown site, and seeing so many familar names. My father was Bernie Vaughan the coal merchant. I was sometimes called Bernie. My sister Sandra lives in Nantwich. I live in Llandegfan, Anglesey.
Wed Dec 17 07:59:12 2008
Larry Pritchard
A thought from the back of my mind, Phil. Was Francis Valerie the name of the shunting engine on Hafod sidings?
Mon Dec 15 08:06:17 2008
Phil Davies, Llangollen
The pub was the Red Lion, it had a bowling green, and was run by Foster Barrett for many years.
Fri Dec 12 14:38:59 2008
Janet & John Ready
We have been trying to remember the name of the pub which was at the back of the New Inn, Johnstown. Can anyone tell us what it was?
Fri Dec 12 12:01:49 2008
Phil Davies, Llangollen.
You are of course right about the cricket fields and the rec. As a boy I watched your dad, Harold, hit many a 'six' in his elegant, effective style on the Bangor Road field. I helped with the scoring for a couple of seasons, and remember the names well. Many good sportsmen, such as Peter Pritchard, the very lamented Bert Smith, Garfield Johnson, and Arthur Edwards, Wilf Parrish, Ossie Hughes and many others. Even my dad George played occasionally.
Mon Dec 8 09:00:38 2008
Phil Davies, Llangollen.
OK Leon Broadbent, Larry Pritchard, Michael Leslie Jones,etc., let's see how good you are. Don Parrish should be able to do this one! In relation to Hafod Fields who or what was 'Frances Valerie'? Think about it... there was the first stile with the oak tree, the second stile in the mushroom fields, the third stile opposite the Bangor Road allotments, then the tunnel under the railway, and quite often beautiful FRANCES VALERIE. If you wore an anorak or can use the internet you may solve this one easily. Enough clues...
Mon Dec 8 08:51:38 2008
Larry Pritchard
I remember the cricket field down Bangor Road after the railway bridge. I played there a couple of times although my father played many times before me. The field by the war memorial was known as "the rec" and was a football field. The original cricket field was in the Moreton, roughly where the houses butt up against the Moreton pub.
Wed Nov 12 08:51:34 2008
Lyn Evans (nee Griffiths), Heol Ddyfrdwyn
Hi Lynn Edwards/Allmand - yes, of course, I remember your family. Nice to know you are OK. I was never so adventurous and still live in the village. It's surprising how many went abroad to live and work. I saw Geraldine (formerly Wynne) the other day and she asked to be remembered to you. Thanks to the site for all the memories - it's surprising what comes back to you about the old village life. I remember too that there was no extra charge for the fag ash at Lloyds! Do you remember the big celebration the day they opened the new park on the circle and how there was man who supervised and locked up? It's still there but modernised, of course. I wonder how many remember the cricket fields, one by the memorial on the main road and one down Bangor Road on the right just after the bridge.
Tue Oct 28 10:11:03 2008
Mervyn Parry
Hello Lynn,pleasant memories from a lifetime ago. South Africa must be good.
Fri Oct 17 09:08:25 2008
Wil, Wrexham.
For Chris Madsen, again. Esclusham Above and Below are basically above and below Offa's Dyke with "Below" being east of the dyke. For fair amount of info. and map Google Esclusham Below, click "Esclusham Below Th/CP Denbighshire through time / Local History", then "Historic Boundaries". Further info., censuses etc. as you turn the pages on that site.
Thu Oct 2 08:15:25 2008
Alex Evans, Bryn-Crug
Myself and Colin were talking about when we worked with John Evans, a builder from Bryn-Crug, and we ended up talking about 2 bricklayers who worked with John Evans in the late '60s early '70s. Their names were Raymond Green from Johnstown and Reg Evans from Chirk.
Tue Sep 30 08:05:14 2008
Chris Madsen
Does anyone know where Esclusham below was? Also, there was an Esclusham above. The "below" one seems to have been near the Hafod. I have relations on my tree who come from Hafod Cottages Esclusham below and worked in the Hafod aged 10!
Mon Sep 22 08:28:20 2008
Len Broadbent - Johnstown
Dear Pilgrims...Congratulations to BETHAN GOLBY who was the only one to get the correct answer to the Johnstown Fun Quiz - BEER - BIRMINGHAM - JULIUS CAESAR - ARISTOTLE... What have these four things got in common?In the event of nobody else getting the correct answer in the near future, Bethan will post the answer with a full explanation in the next two weeks.Regards to all Pilgrims. Len B.
Mon Sep 1 09:11:00 2008
Gwynne Jones
My grandparents were Henry Jones and Elizabeth Ann Jones, formerly Thomas. If anyone has information on them or are my long lost cousins of my father's brothers and sister would like to catch up on family history. It's been a long time - can't remember much about this side of my family.
Tue Aug 19 08:09:48 2008
Peter Prydderch, Stockport
Regarding the reminiscences of Enid Davies (as was) during the Rhyl holiday, we're all alive and well. Tony Owen in Rhos-on-sea, I've been in Stockport for 33 years. The third member of the Rhyl trippers was Terry Smith (Beanie) from Ruabon. He married Christine Edwards from Ruabon, and has lived in France for over 12 months. Bleddyn Williams lives in Southend-on-Sea, but, spends a large part of his time in Spain. The common thread was Johnstown Church Youth Club run by Sandra and Terry Owens's parents.
Wed Aug 13 07:44:53 2008
Enid Warburton (Davies), Malpas, Cheshire
Sue (nee) Owen nice to read Tony is living in Colwyn Bay, also news of Peter Prytherch. They were in a caravan during the summer of 1959 in Rhyl when I was on holiday with my parents and grandmother. Peter used to come most mornings for the loan of Nain's comb, he had not brought one with him, such a super week. Does anyone have news of Blethyn Williams (I still remeber him as Lady Macbeth, Ruabon Grammar School play)? The parties at his house were quite something at that time. I have been away from Rhos and Johnstown for some years but still call it home and am often there. This site is so good and is a good way to remember people and places.
Thu Aug 7 17:22:03 2008
Len Broadbent - Johnstown
Hello Johnstown Pilgrims. Here as promised is the next clue to the Johnstown Fun Puzzle... BEER - BIRMINGHAM - ARISTOTLE - JULIUS CAESAR - what do these four things have in common? The next clue lies in the realms of Engliush Literature in the works of English poet Alfred Noyes (1880 - 1958): "It was a ghostly galleon tosed upon cloudy seas".Looking forward to your answers. Goodluck and best wishes, Len B.P.S. Another separate clue appears on blog "Acrefair Bridge" on this NE Wales BBC site.
Mon Aug 4 09:27:53 2008
Len Broadbent - Johnstown
To readers of Johnstown Memories...a further clue to Johnstown fun puzzle will be given this weekend. Put your thinking caps on Bethan and John Golby - EBJ - Stewart E - Andy H - Ian R - Edgar P - and many more. Best wishes...Len B.
Thu Jul 31 09:21:47 2008
Lynn Edwards/Allmand
I'm an ex Johnstown girl. I lived in Moreton Avenue, went to Johnstown CP, then Ruabon Girls Grammar. I've lived in South Africa 31 years. Does anyone remember Jack Allmand and family? Would love to hear from old friends.
Tue Jul 22 08:33:03 2008
Sandra Moyer, Fleetwood PA, USA
Is there anyone who can tell me about the Pritchard family who left Ruabon in the late 1800's to come to the coal regions of PA? Edward Pritchard was my great great grandfather and his mother's name was Margaret.
Mon Jul 14 08:08:20 2008
G J Hawarden
My grandparents lived in Johnstown but in the early '50s my dad died and we lost contact. They used to live down the road which was by the level crossing and opposite the chippy. My dad's name was Maelor Jones.
Thu Jun 19 07:59:42 2008
Len Broadbent - Johnstown
To Jackie Snape - nee Duckett. Hi Jackie - full marks for imagination and a bold effort. Your memory on church hymnal knowledge is excellent. Unfortunately you are on the wrong track with spitfires and beer this time. The answer is simpler than that. Have another try. Come on Phillip, Larry, Patrick and also Dafydd Edwards. David Hart of Acrefair should be able to suss this one out. Regards and best wishes, Len.
Tue May 27 08:54:09 2008
Jackie Snape (nee Duckett)
Hi Sue McClelland, Hope you've settled in Alicante. I can never thank you enough for letting me see round our old house before you moved to Spain. It was always a dream of mine to move back to that house if it ever became available. In reality I know that I could not afford to do that, but it meant so much to revisit where, in my opinion, I spent the first idyllic 10 years of my life. Mum and Dad wouldn't agree. Outside loo, no hot water supply etc etc. You did so much to the cottage but retained many of the old features. It was good to see the fireplace my dad had from Dennis Ruabon, to stand in the bedroom I used to share with my brother. I have many memories from those 10 years in that house, the Brandy, our neighbours, the Williams and then the Povahs, making friends with Eluned from Gardden Farm, Rocky Woods. I could go on but would bore everyone. Thanks once again and hope you have a happy life in Alicante.
Tue May 20 07:33:49 2008
Jackie Snape
Hi Len, Don't know whether I'm on the right track or not, but I'll give it a go. This is the verse you were referring to:
O happy band of pilgrims,
Look upward to the skies,
Where such a light affliction
Shall win you such a prize
I think the connection may be
Pilgrim are brewers of beer
If you look upward to the skies you may see spitfires, spitfires were manufactured in Birmingham and Spitfire is a Cask Ale.
Aristotle discovered a treatise on palmistry, Palm are brewers of beer.
Caeser crossed the river Rubicon in 49BC, with his army, causing civil war, and then toasted his success by drinking beer with his officers.
Don't know if this is correct, but there seems to be a definite link with beer!
Tue May 20 07:29:45 2008
Len Broadbent - Johnstown
Another Johnstown Fun Quiz. What do the following four things have in common?:- BEER..BIRMINGHAM..ARISTOTLE..JULIUS CAESAR
The clue lies in the church hymnal...Hymn number 364... O Happy Band of Pilgrims...Verse 8
Come on all you RGS and St Mary's church choir members, you have sung this hymn dozens of times.
Good luck and
best wishes.
Mon May 19 09:15:53 2008
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
Yes, Patrick I lived in Ffordd Offa off Gardden Road until my father died. We then moved to Heol Offa in Johnstown. Aged 13 when we moved. Lived at Heol Offa until I was 27 when I married. Names of lads around that time David Holt (Tasmania), Ken Thomas (Canada), Richard Thomas, Brian Griffiths, Tony Jones, Derek Richards, David Jones (Cochyn), John Coeshot. Forgotten others if anyone else remembers.
Mon May 12 08:46:51 2008
Patrick Williams, Rhos
Larry, did you live in the prefabs when you were younger? I can recall my brother Vaughan having a pal called Larry & I was wondering if you were one & the same. I also have a sister called Glenda who married Stan Rowlands.
Fri May 9 10:03:00 2008
Len Broadbent, Johnstown.
Mr Shorrocks, The Johnstown Post Office's bull terrier dog's name was "PATCH". Correct name remembered by Eddie Jones (Eddie Windows), Johnstown. The dog was called Patch because he was an all white dog but had a black patch over one eye.
Thu May 8 14:45:08 2008
Kay, London
I am currently trying to trace my family history. I was born in Wrexham in 1951 and lived there until the mid 1970s and again in the early 1980s. I would be very interested in getting in touch with anybody who knew my grandfather who passed away not long before I was born. His name was David Francis Williams who lived in Bradley, Heol-y-Wal.
Thu May 8 08:10:44 2008
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
David, Patrick and Len. Why I am so sure of the breed of Mr Shorrock's dog was a Staffordshire bull terrier. I remember asking him what type of dog it was and that was the reply. Although I am approaching 65 my memory is still intact (I think).
Thu May 8 08:10:26 2008
David Griffiths (ex Heol Ddyfrdwy)
Hello Larry, I am intrigued about the mini debate over Mr Shorrocks' dog but I am certain that it was an English Terrier.
Tue May 6 08:37:39 2008
Larry Pritchard, Gresford
Patrick you are right about Mr Shorrocks dog. It was a Staffordshire bull terrier but I do not know its name either.
Fri Apr 25 09:31:19 2008
Patrick Williams, Rhos
Len, I don't remember Mr Shorrocks' dog's name but I'm pretty sure it was a bull terrier not a bulldog. I remember going for paraffin to the post office & can see it now behind the counter. I also remember going to Bob Parry's shop on the Circle & the Co-op next door. Mr Davies was the manager. What a shame there are no shops like that around now.
Thu Apr 24 08:49:56 2008
Sue McClelland (nee Owen) Brandy, now Alicante SPA
My son, Daniel Hughes of Nant Parc, put me onto your site and what a lovely time I have had reading all your comments about our village. I was a member of Johnstown Church Choir for many years with Enid Matthews, Edna Hughes, Jean Rogers, David Holt, Leonard and Clivedon Flavell, Richard, Wynne and Tegid Evans and the late Valerie Vaughan (a lovely lady). Our choir master was Mr Theadford. A few of us choir members used to troop down to Corner Cafe after church on a Sunday evening for a chat and soft drink.
Jackie Duckett - I remember you and your family so well. You all used to live in my former home, Brandy Cottage. I am amazed at your recollection of all the old shops (I expect you had some help from your dad). Please remember me to him. I remember Karen winning a gold mini.
Phil Davies - I have fond memories of shopping at The Bon with my dad and chatting to your father George - such a gentleman. Doreen Hughes worked there too.
Larry Pritchard - Peter Prydderch is still very good friends with my brother Tony Owen, now living in Colwyn Bay, (fondly known in Ruabon Grammar school as Ernie!).
Thu Apr 24 08:37:25 2008
Claire Mclellan
Can anyone tell me more information on the Travellers, when it opened, and what was it? I'm Roger Hatton's daughter and Stanley Hatton's granddaughter.
Mon Apr 21 09:48:44 2008
Len Broadbent, Johnstown
Interesting mention by Bryan Jones of Vancouver about working for Mr Shorrock delivering newspapers.
Johstown memory fun quiz question:
What was the name of Mr Shorrock's black and white bulldog?
No prizes for correct answers... just a bit of Johnstown fun. Good Luck.
Thu Apr 17 08:52:00 2008
Jackie Snape (nee Duckett)
Hello to everyone who remembers me. I was talking to Len Broadbent yesterday and he would like to see more people reminiscing about Johnstown on this site. Perhaps after referring to Len's excellent site johnstown2000.co.uk - this might prompt a few memories.
Tue Apr 15 08:31:14 2008
Len Broadbent, Johnstown
So nice to read so many interesting stories about Johnstown past. Would like to mention that Johnstown 2000 website is still online since year 2000. Over 20,000 readers from all over the world have logged on in the past 8 years. It really is amazing where people from Johnstown have gone to in the past years. If you have not seen the Johnstown websitelog on to... Google.. johnstown2000.
Tue Mar 25 10:05:50 2008
Phil, Llangollen
To Tom Smith. I'm sure that if you supply more details of your ancestry someone from the village will respond to your enquiry.
Fri Feb 22 10:51:04 2008
Tom Smith, Johnstown
Is there a web site or link that could tell me some history for my ancestors from Johnstown? Please reply. Thanks.
Mon Feb 18 10:31:35 2008
Rob (butcher)
To Dave Canada. Yes, number still the same, some things don't change. Not tenderbeef / Fribo. Now perdegao (Brazilian). How times have changed, sometimes not for the better. Hear from you soon then. Your old mucker, Rob
Wed Feb 6 08:39:46 2008
Bryan Jones, Langley, Canada
Hi Janet Edwards, Vancouver. Nice to hear from an ex Johnstownite. I have not visited for about three years but my sister visits every year as her daughter lives in Rhostyllen.
Wed Feb 6 08:34:13 2008
Elsie McVittie
As a child I used to go and stay with my granny Jessie Jones of Victora Avenue. I remember all the shopes there and the Coop on the corner Eleanor. Used to work there. Does any one remember the street party in Victoria Avenue for the Queen's coronation, Norman Jones the coal man, the Gittings family the Pritchards? Does anyone remember the air raid shelter in the avenue?
Wed Feb 6 08:33:09 2008
Larry Pritchard Gresford
I am sorry to hear that Dennis Ruabon has gone into liquidation. My grandfather Alfred Bowen, of Yale Street, was a Foreman Master Moulder there. He retired in the early fifties. All his sons started there before moving on. Two ended in Manweb and one at Rubery Owens. My cousins still have the models he made and are treasured. It is a sad loss.
Mon Feb 4 09:24:07 2008
Dave Williams, Butcher/Canada
Hi Rob Jones, will contact you by snail mail or will phone. Hope your number is still the same! If you don't hear by middle of Feb. contact Sue, Coedpoeth, who has all the info you need, via anglia tendabeef, or whatever they call themselves these days. Sue is coming out here to Canada in June.
Thu Jan 31 08:33:16 2008
Rob Jones (Butcher)
To Little Dave in Canada. How are you doing? Keep asking that lady that works in Asda's how you are. I bumped into Chris Kelly in 2005 he was talking of old times, ie Kwiks, Rhosymedre. Met Arthur working on the fish stall in town. I still have that photo of us camping in Tenby somewhere.
Mon Jan 28 08:55:40 2008
Dave Williams, Butcher/ Canada
Hello Rob & Janet Jones. Yes, it's Dave here. Just in case everybody else in Johnstown thinks we've gone nuts, I'm Dave Williams, The Butcher, who used to own the Butchery dept. in Kwiks, Johnstown. I was there from when it opened until 2003 (about 2 years before it went over to Somerfield) - that is when I came to Canada. I was there for quite a few years, as I'm sure a lot of you are aware. Rob Jones & I used to work (and play) together a lot in the early 1970s, when Kwiks was a new company. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people of Johnstown & surrounding areas for supporting me all those years, and I would love to hear from anybody who might remember me. Of all the shops I had in Kwiks (and I've had a lot since 1979) Johnstown was always THE BEST. I am now a cattle rancher in the mid-west of Canada, running several hundred head of cattle on a large ranch. I don't sell steaks to the public any more, I sell them on the hoof down to the States. I am enjoying it here most of the time, but when you get a bit fed up, as most people do, guess where I would rather be? Yes, back in that busy shop in Johnstown. Regards to you all.
Mon Jan 21 09:41:08 2008
Patrick Williams from Rhos
Stumbled on to this site by accident & it took me back to the "good old days". I lived at 40 Heol Offa & remember John Tunnah living next door. I used to work for Copelands on a Saturday for 15 bob, along with my old mate Phil Hatton. I was a lot slimmer in those days.
Mon Jan 14 09:01:12 2008
Phil Davies, Llangollen
Hi Larry. In the 1920s, it was in the building behind Jim Williams' Garage (Later the SHELL garage) on the main road. The building later became car workshops. My father told me that as a teenager he would work in the garden of Oswald Hughes the Solicitor all day on Saturday, to get just enough money to go to the cinema the same night.
Wed Jan 9 09:37:52 2008
Jackie Snape (nee Duckett), Johnstown
Hi Phil You seem to be doing a lot of reminiscing in your old age! You certainly made me think back over the years. Shops I remember in the village include Yorkie's, with Glenys serving, Nan's, where we used to buy our sweets, the butcher's shop, run by one of Glenys' sisters, Pat or Muriel, and later by David Thomas, Nell Lloyd's fish and chip shop, cigarette ash extra, Dai the cobblers, another shop selling sweets near the cobblers, Joss's, the post office, Broadbent's, the barbers, run by Ted Partridge, where I used to have to take my brothers to get their hair cut, the Co-op, I think I remember a children's clothes shop as well, a green grocer's near the monument and Green's fish and chip shop. Then there were the 2 shops on Bangor Road, owned by I think a family called Parry and then by Selwyn and his wife (sorry can't remember their surname). The paper shop was then run by Tony Butler and his wife and the grocery store by Donald and Ivy Davies. There was also a Spar shop in Johnstown on the circle. I'm sure there were many other shops that I have forgotten and that there have been many more shops in the village since my youth. Perhaps another line of interest would be to remember some of the long standing families from the village. My father, Bill Duckett, is 80 later this year and he has lived in Johnstown all his life and I know there are many other families with a such histories. It would be interesting to hear from people about this.
Fri Jan 4 10:58:19 2008
Phil Davies, Llangollen
It's good that my initial thoughts about a village and people I enjoyed so much when growing up, and later returning to, and then once again leaving, have engendered such responses from friends old (yes some of us are!) and new... My initial thoughts over 12 months ago, most likely fuelled by red wine (my 'Johnstown' doctor tells me it is good for my blood pressure) have, it seems, encouraged all of you to think and write about a village and people you also have much affection for. Terrig, it was good to see you and all the family however briefly in Llangollen earlier this year. I remember the history of your mum's shop, Miss Harvey and Miss Plain and their Airdale Timmy, Merlin Wool/Clothes/haberdashery shop. Horace Williams Radio and TV, your mum, wool embroidery etc., and then I think Gareth Thomas Insurance. Thinking back, as one does, I tried to remember the shops in Johnstown in 1952, there were I think 25 including one just over 'the line gates' and two others who only opened 'as and when they felt like it'. There was one underneath a Chemist. Think about it... Don Parrish, David Holt, Larry Pritchard, Wynne, Terrig and John Evans, Karen Hughes, Carol Williams, Michael Leslie Jones, Glyn Evans, (Edward Stewart Pritchard, my mate, unfortunately can't, he sadly passed away in 1982) and maybe many others can have a go at this question. Incidentally does anybody know where the Johnstown Cinema was situated? I do, my dad (George the Bon) spent many happy hours there??? Please keep this site going, I will, if only when I have tanked up on the red stuff!
Wed Jan 2 14:16:21 2008
Larry Pritchard
Hi Terrig, remember me? Out in your first car with Peter Prydderch. What a time we had driving around Rhos, Ruabon and Penycae. Are you in touch with Dave Holt who lives in Tasmania?
Mon Dec 17 08:09:16 2007
Matthew Roberts, Colwyn Bay
I'm the son of Teg and Audrey Roberts who were the owners of Johnstown Post Office from 1962 onwards. I have many happy memories of Johnstown although it's now some 22 years since I lived there. My main memory was how hard dad and mum worked in the Post Office and their great sense of belonging and service to the community. Also to the old great characters I remember from childhood such as George Massey, Ern Parrish, Ellen "nurse" Parrish and Mrs Mair "Noel" Hughes, unsung heroes all.
Sun Dec 2 16:46:30 2007
Becca Gilpin (Youth Worker)
Hi all, I work in the youth club in Johnstown, I am currently doing a community profile of the area and just wanted to ask what people's perceptions of the young people are? And also how they feel about the youth club...and if they have any recommendations for the future! Any help is appreciated and I will feed comments back! Thanks.
Sun Dec 2 16:19:26 2007
John Elwyn Tunnah, Latheronwheel, Caithness
Memories of Johnstown include Greens Fish & Chip Shop and "Yorkies" shop. The Timber Yard and Johnstown Primary School. I lived at 39 Heol Offa and we moved from Rhos to what were called the "Steel Houses" when I was about 9 years old. From then it was Grango School, Wrexham Tech and then a career in the RAF. I well remember the walks down to the Radio Cafe on a Sunday evening after chapel and the bike rides down to the river at Bryn y Pys for the fishing.
Tue Nov 27 10:13:25 2007
Janet, Vancouver, Canada
Rob Jones, I just went on to the Ruabon Comp web, "took a bit of finding"! It comes under Ruabon Grammer school. Wonder if we could locate any other 'friends', from the area? If so, it would be wonderful if we could have a re-union I would love to see everyone again, I am hoping to come over to Johnstown next May-April. Maybe it could be arranged? How do you feel about it Rob?
Fri Nov 2 10:23:21 2007
Janet Edwards, Canada
Bryan Jones Vancouver. Good to read about another memory from Johnstown, and from my part of the world Vancouver Canada! My mother delivered papers for Shorrocks and so did my uncles, Evans family of Victoria Avenue. Maybe you can remember them, my mum Dorreen is still living in Johnstown!
Thu Nov 1 12:32:04 2007
Terrig Evans, New Zealand
Hello Joan, what a surprise to see Radio Corner mentioned, I lived there with my two brothers Wynne and John. I went to Johnstown primary then Grango for a couple of years then the Yale grammar tech...phew all that was quite a few years ago now. Remember buying "Wagon wheels" at the sweet shop on the main road just by the primary school... they seemed so much bigger then. When we first moved into Radio Corner my mother (Alwen), still going strong at 97, ran it as a wool shop for a while then if my memory is right it was a radio/record shop for a while. Remember the Co-Op across the road before it became a laundry. My gran lived in Yale St and as it happens a friend of mine, David Holt, ex Yale St now living in Tasmania. It's a small world. Have many memories of Johnstown, also lived in Park Rd Ponciau for a time before coming to NZ in 1976.
Wed Oct 31 10:08:07 2007
Bryan Jones, Vancouver, Canada
I have many fond memories of Johnstown, drinking in the Travellers, Nell Lloyd's chippie, Hafod fields, the Stiwt in Rhos, playing on the Brandy, the twins' sweet shop and doing my paper round for Mr Shorrocks who ran the Post Office.
Mon Oct 29 08:35:53 2007
Janet, Canada
Joan Prys Jones, Rodgers. I remember a Mr & Mrs Jones who used to own the post office, a Mr & Mrs Roberts bought it! I used to go to the 'post office' to buy paraffin, which was then sold by the gallon, for small heaters. I would take a container to be filled, then have a milky-way to eat on the way back to my grandparents' house in Victoria Avenue. This was in the sixties early seventies. How things have changed! I went to the post office last year when I was over, and they have altered the shop a lot. When I was a child, the counter was to the right as you opened the door, with a long counter and the most friendly welcome that one would expect from a 'small village' shop! I always liked going on 'Nana's' errands and even as a child felt 'welcome' to be there. Please fill me in on your memories Joan. My mother remembers the Jones family, she is still alive, and I go back to visit almost every year, she has so many wonderful memories of 'old' Johnstown, and the people who made it a warm, welcoming place to live. My grandparents lived in Victoria Avenue, and I for the most part lived with them. I have so many memories of old friends, and the way we all lived. I am about to write a "memory book", so my children and grandchildren will have a history of their "old country", so they too will have an understanding of their 'roots'. I have to thank the BBC for their web site. It certainly rekindles old memories!
Thu Oct 25 11:46:38 2007
Janet Edwards (nee Matthias)Canada
Hi Rob, Yes I am John's sister! Would I remember you? I am really bad at remembering names! Did you go to Ruabon COMP school, and were you in 'John's' year? I am 54! This is a great site, and I'm pleased that I stumbled across it a few months ago! Which butcher's shop did you work for? I have so many wonderful memories of Johnstown, and always enjoy my trips back 'home'!
Fri Sep 28 08:57:30 2007
Janet Edwards Canada
Thanks Phil for your reply! Yes, I remember now that Taid did indeed work for Phillips. I am sure you would know me also, I lived for the most part with my grandparents, and Glyn and I are more like 'brother and sister' than niece and uncle, maybe it's to do with having just ten years between us! I am Doreen's daughter, she lives in Johnstown!I visit 'good olde Wales', every year around this time, but unfortunately missing this year's beautiful fall colours!Shall look forward to going over in the Spring! We often stay with Glyn and Sandra, and have many a good laugh, when recalling the 'days gone by'! I remember so well walking down Hafod Fields, and the "Tunnel of Love"! It was a wonderful place to grown up in, and I ALWAYS enjoy my visits back to Johnstown! Remember Die the Cobbler? I used to love the AROMA of his little shop, and Jos's shop, I would go with 'nana' every Saturday for the weekend groceries, and I got to weigh the potatoes. It was a 'great thrill' and that is where everyone caught up on village gossip, if you will! So thank you Phil for reviving those 'long ago memories'! I shall let Glyn know that we have corresponded! Or maybe you will see him first?
Tue Sep 18 08:47:05 2007
Phil Davies, Llangollen
Hi Janet. Your Taid, Dick, I think also worked for Phillips Rhostyllen. They ran a regular service from Wrexham to Rhos and occasionally to Tai Nant. Your uncle? Glyn and I were good friends and in Johnstown school together. Glyn now works for the Ambulance Service.
Mon Sep 10 09:15:55 2007
Janet Edwards (nee) Matthias
I lived at my grandparents' house Victoria Ave, Johnstown, (Sal and Dick Evans). Taid drove for Tommy Williams and another firm, not too sure of the name. I would be interested to hear from any past friends who went to Ruabon comp school up to 1968. I worked for Manweb, as it was called then. Had many wonderful (Friday) nights at St Mary's Church Hall youth club run by Herbert Haycock! I now live in B.C. Canada, have done for the past 21 years, and frequently come back for a visit to Johnstown, where my mother still lives. Would love to hear from you. Thanks! I enjoyed reading the many wonderful memories, thanks for this webpage.
Tue Jul 17 08:40:30 2007
Dafydd (Dave) Edwards of Blyth, Northumberland
I used to spend many happy holidays in Johnstown, with my Nain and Taid, Harriet Louisa (nee Williams) and Edward Charles Edwards of 13 Heol Maelor. They later moved to 28 Heol Maelor. In 1957, I attended Johnstown School for a few weeks and throughly enjoyed it. My Taid would take me to Noddfa Baptist Chapel. I do family history and have traced my Nain's family back to the mid 1600s on the Woodfine side. I am eager to trace members of my Nain's family who may be still living in the area. In 1991 I corresponded with my Nain's niece, Betty Jones, of Ffordd Estyn, Garden Village, Wrexham. I used to love visiting her family in the 1950s and 60s. I don't know if they will remember me, but they are a lovely family. Betty's oldest is Christine. I don't know her married name, but in the early 1990s she taught at a school in Johnstown and her siblings are Sheila, Ken and Keith. Ken moved to Nottingham, but I believe the others are still in the Wrexham area. My Nain's niece Sylvia Jones, of Ponciau, married John Alun Owens and they had a son called Ian. I have very few photos of my ancestors and apart from a photo or two of my Nain's nephew, Idwal Jones of Ponciau, I have no photos of the Jones/Williams/Woodfine side of the family and would love to get copies of some. I am not a scrounger and would happily pay for copies, but don't know how to trace my living relatives in Wales. My only contact on my dad's side is Noel Brookfield, whose wife was my Dad's cousin Margaret. Margaret and Noel and their children were one of the nicest families anyone could hope to meet (and still are). If anyone in Johnstown has a computer which is hooked up to the internet, I'd love to hear from you as I love reminiscing of the old days. Dave (Dafydd) Edwards.
Mon Jul 16 10:44:23 2007
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