Minera

Last updated: 28 April 2009

Minera local historian J. Clifford Davies looks back on his village's development down the ages...

Minera school days

your comments

Marion Wrexham
Yvonne Davidson from St Helens. Great to have some other names on the family tree.
Thu Apr 30 17:17:36 2009

Yvonne Davidson from St Helens
Message for Marion Lawson and June. I don't know much about the Williams or Lee families other than what has already been posted. Emma Lee married George Williams sometime after 1901 they had two girls, Edith and Ruby. They both married and had 3 children each. Edith had Tom, Ronny and Jean. Ruby had Brian, June and Alan, all have married and have had children themselves. I think George Williams died about 1935 and his wife Emma in 1946.
Tue Apr 28 09:56:17 2009

Lawson Pritchard, Rhos
Message for Yvonne Davidson, St Helens. I read your message, please get in touch via this site.
Mon Apr 20 11:09:06 2009

Yvonne Davidson from St Helens
Message for June Phillips. Thank you so much for all the info. We had not heard of Sissy one of May's sisters. We were not sure of Dilys' date of birth. We think Dilys your mother may have been the sister May and her husband Tom stayed with when they were first married about 1935. It was at Rhostyllen. 24 years later in 1961 their son Doug my husband was taking them for a day out when his dad rememberd the area where they had stayed. So they called on the way home. That is all we know. We would be v grateful for any more info. We are going to make a visit to Coedpoeth and Minera early this summer. We would like to see the resting places of Jemima and John and any of the family we never knew until now. Thank you again from Yvonne and Doug.
Mon Apr 20 10:42:20 2009

Marion from Wexham
Message for June Phillips and Yvonne Davidson. Would love to know if anyone has any information on the Lee side of the family - Jemima's brothers, sisters and parents. You can contact me via the site.
Fri Apr 17 10:40:55 2009

Geoff B Evans, Wrexham
Dave Hardman, would that be the White Horse, Holt St, Wrexham?
Tue Apr 14 10:51:10 2009

Neena Barlow, Llandegla
Both my parents lived in Minera. My father, Samuel Bellis, was born in Gwynfryn then lived at the Wiltons, Limeworks Road. My mother, Elizabeth Mary Morgan, was an orphan and lived with her grandmother Jane Jones at Berwig Farm, Limeworks Road. My parents married in May 1938. My father died in 1968, my mother is 98 and lives in Chester. My cousin Trefor is researching our grandparents' history the Bellis and Cartwright side.
Tue Apr 14 10:45:27 2009

June Phillips
Message for Yvonne Davidson, St Helens. Your mother in law was my mother's sister. My mother's name was Dilys and was born on September 10 1906 to John and Jemima Pritchard, the address of birth was Twenty Houses, Minera, Wrexham. My grandparents, John and Jemima, were married in Minera church on may 27 1893, he was 26 and she was 24. When they wed John's address was given as Nant Coedpoeth, and Jemima (Williams) address at time of wedding was Victoria Terrace, Minera. John's father's name was Richard Pritchard and Jemima's father's name was Isaac Williams. The names of their children are Annie (first born), Catherine, Jane who was called Kate, Mary, Isaac, Sissy, Wilfred (Lawson's father), Dilys (my mother), May (your mother in law).I have more to tell if you could contact me via this site. Hope this will help in your research.
Tue Apr 14 10:39:35 2009

Marion, Wrexham
Yvonne Davidson from St Helens. Yes my father and his sister remember visiting Sutton Manor. 1 Heol Hyfrydle would be about 200 yards away from Victoria Terrace. Perhaps they were in that house at the time of the census. It would be great for you to see the Welsh bible with family names in it.
Mon Apr 6 10:16:11 2009

Yvonne Davidson from St Helens
To Lawson and Marion re- Pritchard family. I am looking into the Pritchard family my mother in law was the last child of John and Jemimah. Her mother died during orafter giving birth to her in April 1911. She was also babtised Jemimah. Shortly after her birth she was taken back to Sutton Manor, St Helens, by her uncle George Williams and his wife Emma. They brought her up with their two girls as their own child. Jemimah, who was always known as May, didn't know about this till she was 14 and needed her birth certificate to start work. The address we have of her place of birth is 1 Heol Hyfrydle, Coedpoeth. This is the only difference from your results with the 1901census. We think George Williams married Emma Lee and they moved to Burnely where their two daughters where born, Edith and Ruby were born before moving to St Helens.
Thu Mar 12 07:41:52 2009

Lynn, Yorkshire
Hi Ann, I am related to John Owen Griffiths x2! Perhaps we could help each other? Try the "Minerancestry" website as it is a good website for both local and family history which inc many Kelly researchers!
Mon Mar 2 10:31:01 2009

Ann, Warwickshire
Message for Jane from Wrexham Hi I am tracking the Kellys linked to my grandfather John Griffiths. His father was John Owen Griffiths and his mother Ann Kelly (b abt 1863). Her father was John Kelly (b abt 1841) and mother Elizabeth Williams. His father was Edward Kelly. Any information on the Kellys would be useful.
Thu Feb 26 14:46:46 2009

Ian in Minera
Message for Ann Parry. Ann, good to hear from you but I'm afraid I can't help with your family history research. I don't remember as much as you might think and I've only researched my own family (Abels and Macdonalds) in Minera. I know next to nothing about the families you and your sister are chasing. I assume you know how to look at Census records, and records of births, deaths and marriages. Sorry not to be of more help, Ian.
Tue Feb 17 09:11:32 2009

Jane, Wrexham
Message for Ann in Warwickshire. I am also researching the Kellys from Coedpoeth/Minera. I have got back to about 1837. Which Kellys are you from?
Wed Feb 11 16:34:45 2009

Ann from Warwickshire
Message for Ian Greatorex. Hi Ian! I remember you from around the village and the bus to Grove Park. My name was formerly Ann Parry and I lived with my younger sister Susan on Vicarage Hill, then in Maes Meillion. Sue and I are currently researching our family history. We are particularly keen to make links between the many Griffiths and Parry families and the Kelly families in the Minera and Coedpoeth area and our own. We are quite good on direct ancestors, but are trying to broaden this to find the extended family links. We know that one branch based on our grandmother Ann Williams and grandfather Richard William Parry only came to the area from Flintshire as children, then moved around the Talwrn, Castle Road Coedpoeth, Twenty Houses Minera and Bersham area, but think that they had local family links. However the Griffiths branch based on great grandfather John Owen Griffiths and his father William is local from way back, with links to Minera, Coedpoeth and Esclusham Above. Also in this family are a Kelly branch based in Minera. You seem to know a lot about the local history of the area. Any information on these would be useful - but anyway it was great to see a name from the past whilst idly flicking through sites about Minera!
Mon Feb 9 10:08:44 2009

Joyce Davis nee Challoner
Message to Elaine Sheldon nee Drury. Hi, I do remember you well. Why didn't you approach me when you recognised me? Would love to catch up with you. I live in Chester now but come to Wrexham very often. Remember the bikes that we both had - you had a pink witch, me a palm beach blue one! Now a grandmother of 2.
Mon Feb 2 08:31:03 2009

Dave Hardman
Hello. My father in law is trying to find out about his father, Alfred John Hall, and grandfather, William Henry Hall, who lived close to the White Horse Inn according to the 1901 census. Has anyone any information about the Halls please? Thanks.
Mon Jan 19 09:33:32 2009

Tracey Smith, Minera
To Jo from Wolverhampton. I live in the old railway cottage and have one old photo and a couple of new ones. It hasn't changed much at all. I am trying to find out when it was built and have the deeds for the land sale in 1848 but no mention of when the cottage was built. It is very interesting to find out about your great grandad. If anyone else has any pictures I would be very grateful.
Wed Nov 5 14:48:56 2008

Pritchard
Anyone know of George Pritchard? Would have been in the Rhos male voice choir around 1926.
Wed Aug 6 10:42:19 2008

EE from Chester
To JJ from Shrewsbury. Contact me by e-mail re: your research on Taylor family - may be of some assistance. Webteam have my e-mail address.
Thu Jul 31 09:26:46 2008

Joan Jacks from West Kirby, Wirral
I am trying to find info regarding George Harrison who married Ann Williams 1755. They had a large family including Elizabeth who married James Barlow from Chirk. The Harrison family were lead miners living in Minera and my ancestors were the Barlow family Chirk, Wrexham and then Liverpool 1845.
Thu Jul 31 09:25:36 2008

JJ from Shrewsbury
To JCB MINERA. Hi, many thanks for your reply. Your mother has the right family. My uncle's name was Leonard. He married Celia. They had a son Leslie (all now deseased). Bill Taylor, my Taid, adopted my father as a baby when Leonard was 21 years old. Does your Mum remember him? His name was Thomas Taylor. I am researching Bill and his wife Elizabeth or Annie and have no information whatsoever. I would be very grateful for any of your mum's memories. The butcher's shop she talks about was owned by Celia's brother, Phil. Are you connected to the Taylor family in any way?
Thu Jul 3 09:07:48 2008

Ray JCB
Nice to see you Garry Owen on the website. I remember the Ivy cottages very well. Somebody must have photos of them - perhaps the council.
Wed Jul 2 08:51:01 2008

JJ from Shrewsbury
Very interesting site. I lived at Mostyn View with parents and grandfather William Taylor until moving in 1952. He died in 1954. Has anyone any photos or information on him as I was only 4 when he passed away. My father was Thomas Taylor and his brother was Leonard who both sadly died many years ago.
Tue May 20 07:20:37 2008

Gary Owen, Minera
First time on this site and very good it is to nice to see a few names I know. Has anyone out there got any photos of Ivy Cottages, Hall Road, Minera?
Thu May 8 08:24:06 2008

Ian Greatorex, Minera
Message for Sharon, Wrexham. Yes, I'm Lillian's son. Are you a granddaughter of Ida? I'd be interested in sharing information with you about Mathias's family if you'd care to let me have contact details.
Mon Apr 28 09:50:57 2008

Ian Greatorex, Minera
Message for Peter Griffiths, USA: I believe Edward & Mary did have ten children, although Edward's 1st daughter, Mary Jane, was baptised on 18 April, 1846, before Edward and Mary's marriage on 14 November that year and could have been by a different mother (information about the baptism provided by Leonard Macdonald of Llanasa). The remaining nine children in birth order were: Jemimah born 1848/49, who was buried in Minera on 25 June, 1864; John; Susannah, who was buried in Minera on 3 Feb, 1852 aged 7 weeks; Jane (my great grandmother); Harriet, bapt. 14 Oct, 1865; Edward; Thomas Jemimah (buried 22 Feb, 1865 aged 3 weeks; and Hannah. I obtained the information you don't have from the Minera parish records, now held at the Wrexham Maelor Borough Council archive (except for the first, as above). Hope this helps you in your research.
Mon Apr 28 09:44:17 2008

Mike Hughes, Coedpoeth
Message for Nick Bartlett. My mother-in-law lived in the 'White Lion Pub' in New Brighton and after talking to her she recalls another pub called the 'White Horse'. There was quite a lot of pubs around in those days. She can't remember the exact position of the 'White Horse' but the 'White Lion Pub' is now named White Lion Cottages.
Mon Apr 14 09:05:27 2008

Brian, Lakes Entrance, Australia
Hi, I am chasing any info of a Tredgold Mathew Williams born in Minera around 1852, his father being Robert who married Frances Cotton. At the time of the 1901 census he resided in London I think.
Tue Apr 1 09:18:13 2008

Gareth Davies, Minera
To Nick Bartlett. I think the pub in New Brighton was called the White Lion. The last person living there was a Doris Jones who had a son called Peter, who I believe is still alive and lives in Coedpoeth.
Mon Mar 31 09:57:09 2008

Nick Bartlett, New Brighton, Minera
I am interested in the history of my house and the people who lived there in the past. It was built in 1850s as a pub called The White Horse, New Brighton, Minera, and at one time was a shop. I know from the census that Job Davies lived here in 1901 and learned a little more about the house from J Clifford Davies' Pubs & Inquests book. Does anyone have any more info about the place or the people who lived here in the past?
Thu Mar 13 08:54:02 2008

Ray, Minera
To Leanne, your grandfather was killed in a mining accident in 1953 due to a roof fall in Llay Main colliery and another man was injured, your mum was born 2 weeks after.
Wed Mar 5 09:09:23 2008

Pam Craven
Hi Vic/Helen and all the other Macdonalds following this thread. I have lots on Macdonalds my gt granny was Hannah Macdonald b1868. The first Macdonald is not John. John was baptised 17 March 1756 Halkyn Parish Church. His father was Michael MacDonald and mother Elizabeth Davies bap 6 March 1725 Halkyn. Michael is buried 15 July 1774 Llanasa Graveyard. In the Halkyn PR Michael's son John (1756)is transcribed as MacDaniel but his other son Edward (4 December 1757)as Macdonald. I am intrigued by Edward I would love someone to find him to see what folklore his family have spun. Our cousin Douglas has had a DNA test and finds he is related to a MacDonald from Inverness, he is currently waiting contact from him and another person in USA to see if we can tie up any loose ends further back than Michael. Vic I think I read you are living in Chester, so is Douglas, so you may want to meet up sometime and compare notes? I also have a picture of the Gwaenysgor Choir with three of the Macdonald lads on it. Contact me if you want any further info.
Mon Feb 4 09:29:54 2008

Marion - Wrexham
Lisa Winson from Wirral. Lisa hope you still read this site. I am from 2 families of Robert's perhaps we could chat. The names Lydia and Cordelia ring a bell. Why, I don't know. But they do. I know that ancestors of mine went to America. Just wish I had listened to the stories when they were told. From what I remember something to do wth entertainment.
Fri Jan 25 10:19:40 2008

Marion (Wrexham)
Message for John Owens, Conwy, with regards to David Pugh. There was someone researching the same person on the Minera Ancestry site. ( David Wilson Pugh). I took interest as my Great Grandfather (David Pugh) was from Coedpoeth however as far as I know he didn't have anything to do with the public house mentioned.
Fri Jan 25 09:57:29 2008

Vic Tyler-Jones, Chester
Message for Peter Griffiths and Helen MacDonald. My uncle Gordon MacDonald is a look alike for his namesake and probable ancestor Sir Gordon MacDonald. Uncle G's father Edward (1883-1960) was a miner who lived in Llay. He and his wife Margaret were stalwarts of Glanaber, the Welsh Presbyterian Chapel in the village. Edward's father was Thomas MacDonald (born 1862)also a miner in Minera. Thomas was son of Edward, born about 1822 in Llanasa. My uncle tells me that his father's brother Enoch Thomas left the Coedpoeth area under a cloud after a liaison with a renowned local singer. I have traced him to Dover where in 1916 he married the daughter of a sergeant major in the Buffs (East Kent) regiment. At the time Enoch was a private in the 3rd Battalion of the Black Watch. I would be happy for Peter and Helen to have my email address so that we may correspond further.
Wed Jan 23 08:26:15 2008

Col Davies, Wrexham
Does anybody have any info on the Hand (I think) Inn, Bylchgwyn? In the 1871 census my ancestors John Davies and Jane Davies with their children William and John are recorded as renting a room/s there. John is working as a Lead Miner having not long moved there from Llanelidan. I think it says 'Hand Inn Public House' and if the census follows street plans it was next door to the grocers. I can find no other reference to the Hand Inn anywhere. Thanks.
Mon Jan 21 09:08:29 2008

Helen Macdonald, California
Message for Ian Greatorex. My grandfather was the supposedly unpopular Governor of Newfoundland! Gordon - Baron Macdonald of Gwaenysgor. It's interesting to read all this history. Thanks for your input, and everyone else's.
Mon Jan 14 08:36:45 2008

Elaine Sheldon nee Drury
JOYCE ORIGINALLY FROM MINERA AND THE WERN
I don't know if you will recognise the name, my dad was Albert Drury, my mum, Eth. We lived in Wrexham and I came to stay with you on the farm many times and have very happy memories. I have seen you in Wrexham and recognised you immediately, but didn't like to approach you as you clearly hadn't recognised me. (Your next sister was nearer my age - I'm ashamed to say I can't remeber her name, though of course, I remember Aunty Dilys, Uncle Sam and Joyce - I should add that we were not related). My dad was an agricultural engineer for many years, working for Burgess and then, the other one in Wrexham! We went to look at the old farm (nostalgia), my goodness it's changed hasn't it? It was nice to see your name and relive such happy times!
Thu Jan 10 08:37:24 2008

Peter Griffiths, USA
Message to Ian Greatorex - I too am researching the Macdonalds. Edward b.1822 is my first cousin, 5 times removed! Your earlier post said that Edward and Mary had 10 children. I only have Jemima, John, Jane, Edward, Thomas and Hannah in my tree. I'd love to know who the other 4 were. Many thanks - Pete
Mon Dec 31 08:55:21 2007

Dewi Davies from Wrexham
To Jo Watten. I have a couple of photos of the cottage taken in the mid 1960s. They are not good quality but would be happy to let you have a copy. My email address is with the web team.
Wed Dec 19 09:06:37 2007

Jo Watton, Wolverhamptom
I am trying to get old photos of Railway Cottage, Vicarage Crossing as my great grandad James William Uren was born there in 1863. He was the son of Jame Uren (lead miner) and Sarah Uren (late Brandwood and nee Fleet). If anyone has any info etc please contact me.
Mon Dec 17 08:32:41 2007

Sharon from Wrexham
Message for Ian Greatorex. Is it possible that you are a relation of Lilian Greatorex (nee Cotton) and therefore grandson of Mathias Cotton who, I believe, lived in the Minera area for some time? I am in the process of tracing my family tree. Mathias Cotton would have been a brother to my great grandfather.
Mon Dec 10 09:14:45 2007

Vic Tyler-Jones
Message for Ian Greatorex.Thanks for your excellent information which I will pass on to my uncle and his brother Hayden. Were you at Grove Park at my time (1957-64)? I did Zoo and Bot with Tom Ken.Hopefully, you may get my email address from this website.RegardsVic
Fri Nov 23 08:23:30 2007

John Owens from Conwy
Hi. Some of my ancestors lived in Coedpoeth and I would welcome any information on photos, books etc. which are available which would cover the Minera/Coedpoeth area. My ggfather David Pugh kept the Queen's Head pub around 1890-1900. My gfather, Merdith Jones, lived in the Prince of Wales pub around 1890s.
Sun Nov 18 16:46:53 2007

Lawson Pritchard
For Joeguy, Plymouth, regarding Plas Power Hall, it was built in 1757 by the Myddleton family, its name cameone of its early owners, Sir Henry Power. Sadly it was demolished in 1951. I actually saw it in 1949. If you can let me have your email address I can send you a photo.
Tue Nov 13 09:54:50 2007

Joyce originally from Minera and the Wern
Nice to see some old names that I remember. Hello to Terry Wood, remember me Joyce Challoner? My mum & your mum were best friends. Dilys, eh - just been to Minera today. Happy memories. Just passed your old house, Terry!
Mon Nov 12 09:27:54 2007

Joeguy, Plymouth
June Phillips, Ponciau. Have just learnt my father lived at Plas Power Hall when he married in April 1931. What was Plas Power hall and does it still exist, photos etc?
Fri Nov 2 12:26:56 2007

Gwenda Parry Strong (nee Jones) Gresford.
A message for Leanne - I still have a vivid memory of the day your grandfather was killed in a mining accident. I along with his sons (your uncles) attended Minera Primary School. The morning of the accident a policeman came to the classroom door, and spoke to Mrs John our teacher. She came back into the classroom in tears, and your uncles went home with the policeman. It was much later when I found out the reason why they went home that day. The village, which was a very close community at that time, was shocked that this could have happened to such a nice family. Your grandmother was expecting their third child when the accident happened. It was so sad that his daughter was born a few months later. As far as I know your grandfather was the only one involved in the accident of a fall of coal. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Her sons were very supportive of their mother and sister from a very early age. I can understand why the family are reluctant to speak about this time in their lives as it took them a long time to get over the shock of what had happened to them.
Tue Oct 30 10:28:35 2007

Ian Greatorex from Minera/Salford
Message for Vic Tyler-Jones re Macdonalds. Your uncle Gordon's father, Edward Macdonald, was the eldest of four children and I remember the youngest, Frances, who was the cousin of my grandmother and her neighbour in Coedpoeth and who used to visit from time to time. Your uncle is not quite right in his information. The family came from the coast in North Wales, in Llanasa where some Macdonalds still live. The first to arrive was John Macdonald (b about 1752), who sired a dynasty after marrying Mary Proffit, a local girl. The story in the family is that John fetched up on the beach after the wrecking of a boat/ship bringing cattle (presumably breeding stock) to the local Estate. It is said he and Mary worked on the estate. The Macdonalds were Welsh speaking, but not John 1752, i.e. they acquired Welsh. There is a Macdonald museum in Skye but whether or not John hailed originally from Scotland or Northern Ireland it is impossible to say. John's grandson, Edward born 1822 in Llanasa, and son of Edward born 1780, moved to this area probably following his brother Thomas. Edward 1822 was my great great grandfather and is a common ancestor of your uncle and I. He married Mary Lloyd in Minera on 14.11.1846 and they had ten children, one of whom was Jane Macdonald born 1853, my great grandmother. Jane's younger brother was Thomas 1861, your uncle's taid. I think this makes me Gordon's 3rd cousin, once removed! Jane and Thomas's father, Edward, was killed in a mining accident (roof fall) at the Fron colliery in 1875 and is buried in Minera church yard, although the gravestone of sandstone is now virtually illegible. He left a widow and six children and Mary Macdonald died in the Smelt in 1903. None of my family knew of the mining accident and there is no existing record of the inquest into his death, which may well have been held in a local hostelry. Edward and Mary lived in the Gegin cottages at the time of his untimely death. The descendants of John Macdonald 1752 included a former trades union official and north west MP who became a peer of the realm (Baron Macdonald of Gwaenysgor) and I gather a not very popular governor of a Canadian province.
Tue Oct 23 10:12:53 2007

Susan Richards
Further to my enquiry about my grandmother dated 9th of October 2007, I would like to add that she used to live in a house called Ty Brith in Minera.
Oes gen rhywun llun o nain fi, ei enw oedd Herchelly Samuels ac oedd hi'n fyw yn Ty Brith yn Mwynglawdd.
Tue Oct 23 08:28:07 2007

Susan Richards, Coedpoeth
Does anyone have any photographs of my grandmother, Herchelly Samuels (nee Davies), from Minera?
Tue Oct 9 10:12:44 2007

Jednny Robertson from Stroud, Australia
Thanks for this web site, it is great. I am trying to find information about my ancestors, John Edwards and his wife Sarah (nee Jones). They came from Wrexham and came to Australia in 1826. Does anyone know of this family?
Thu Sep 27 08:36:27 2007

John Edwards, Wrexham
I am re-submitting a bit of information in relation to the Gladstone Arms, Gwynfryn, as it was not shown when I first responded to a query about the pub. I was born in the Gladstone and so was my father, Thomas Conah Edwards. His mother was the landlady before him. The pub closed in 1954 when my father was finding it difficult to manage as well as working down the quarry. He worked on 'Little Olwen' the steam engine. My mother died at the age of 47 years, when I was five and my older sister Rosemary had to leave school at the age of 14 to look after my older brothers, Derek and Ken as well as me and my twin, David, who has learning difficulties. Trade wasn't sufficient at the time and the Border Brewery decided to close the pub and sell it as a private house. The house itself hasn't changed much and the cellar remains. At the location of the steps leading to the front door used to be the gents toilets and to the right where the lawn is at present, used to be an open area where the village telephone kiosk was situated. At the rear of that was a narrow path which lead to our private toilet. You didn't spend much time reading the paper on a cold winters night in those days. The village name was changed from Pentre Bais (petticoat hill) to Gwynfryn because the school headmaster, who was a staunch chapel man, thought the name petticoat was rude as it referred to an undergarment. I regret that I didn't seek more information in relation to my family and the village whilst my father was alive. He died in 1982. My uncle, Arthur Sutton, was the office manager when the quarry was run by the Minera Lime company. The house where the family lived is currently being restored. The railway line used to run in front of the house and the office was situated between the house (Linwood) and the next building which was used for repairing sheets for the wagons amongst other things. The next property, Rock Cottage, was occupied by a Mr Beech and his wife and daughter. He was a foreman in the quarry.
Tue Aug 28 10:38:03 2007

Vic Tyler-Jones
Message for Ian. I am researching the MacDonalds of Minera/Bwlchgwyn for my uncle Gordon MacDonald (born 1920). His dad was Edward (1883-1960) and his taid was Thomas (c1862-?). At the time of the 1901 census they lived at 24, Talwrn road. Thomas was a collier and was born in Minera. All the family were Welsh only speakers. Any idea where 24 Talwrn road was? Uncle G says that the MacDonalds came from a seaside resort in Scotland but doesn't know which one. Ian do you have any leads? Regards, Vic Tyler-Jones (Llai)
Tue Aug 21 15:21:33 2007

Lyn Jones, Llanfairpwll, Anglesey
Message for Ian Greatorex...was scrolling through to see if I could find anyone associated with my family and spotted your name. Hope you are well. I still live in the little cottage down the lane with all my animals though it's 20 years since you left so not sure if you'll remember me.
Mon Aug 20 12:16:19 2007

Ian Greatorex
Message for Leanne - I remember well the day of your grandfather's funeral. I was a boy living in the council houses in Minera - his sudden death was a terrible shock to us all and I remember all the curtains were drawn on the estate, as was the custom, as the funeral cortege left his house. At the time, people did not discuss such things with the children and no doubt your mother and uncles, one of whom I met recently, were discouraged from discussing such things. Mining accidents were common - my great great grandfather Edward Macdonald was killed in a mining accident at the Fron colliery in 1875, a fact which no current members of the family knew til I did some research. If it helps, you should be able to get hold of an inquest report (the death certificate would be the starting point, and then the local archive in Wrexham), although suggest you proceed with care so as not to upset your grandmother and her children.
Wed Jul 25 09:24:50 2007

Dewi Davies, Wrexham
To Jason Phoenix. I have tried to send you a photo I have of Vicarage Crossing but your email address appears to be invalid.
Mon Jun 25 09:23:06 2007

JASON PHOENIX, MINERA
I have been looking for any pictures and info about the old railway cottage on Vicarage Crossing, Minera. If anybody can help me out please get in touch. Thanks.
Fri Jun 22 15:20:06 2007

John, Liverpool
Thanks for looking for my family Geoff. My problem is so many Hughes' in Wales! What I know is my ggrandfather Thomas Hughes was born about 1862, in the Mold area (so would be about 9 in 1871), and may have a sister called Ellen (or Helen). I think his dad, Edward's wife (Thomas' mother) might be called Ann (going from family names). I had Edward as a coalminer (but I may be wrong?) born about 1840 (so would be about 30 in 1871). I know he had died when Thomas married in 1889. Once again, many thanks and I will follow up your suggestions about the books/pamphlets.
Fri Jun 22 07:32:14 2007

Geoff, Wrexham
John, I would try the Wrexham Museum. A late friend of mine (J.C. Davies) published a couple of small books & pamphlets on Minera, which you may find useful. I can't recall their titles, but I know that one dealt in particular with inquests & such. Alternatively, pose the same question on the Minerahistory site and I'm sure that one of our "Experts" will recall the title for you.
Thu Jun 21 08:36:11 2007

Geoff, Wrexham
John (Liverpool) - On the 1871 census I have located an Edward Hughes (a leadminer) residing at Bwlchgwyn Mountain, which is in the vicinity that you enquired about. The census reference is RG10/5656 Page 20 entry 102. He is aged 55 at this time and his wife (Elizabeth) is 47 they have two daughters, both are named Elizabeth, one aged 15 and the other aged 9. If he is too old there is another Edward Hughes on the same census living at Gegin Wen Cottage, still in the same area. The reference is RG10/5656 page28 entry 149. This family has John aged 59 as Head of the family a widower, with sons Robert 25, Edward 19 & Hannah (17) daughter. This Edward was at this time a Labourer. Probably farm worker. A lot of men left the land around this time to go mining, in this area, for better wages. This may or may not be helpful but with limited info., merely suggestions.
Thu Jun 21 08:35:32 2007

John, Liverpool
Thanks for the info Geoff. I have been on the Minera history site and find it really good. Any idea where the records for Minera (such as mining accidents) would be kept, as my gggrandfather (Edward Hughes, a miner) died fairly young (about 1870-80)?
Wed Jun 20 08:37:38 2007

Dewi Davies from Wrexham
I have read in Wikipaedia that there is some film in existence of trains running along the old branch line from Minera to New Brighton to the Dellafield mines. Can anyone confirm this?
Tue Jun 19 08:39:00 2007

Geoff Evans, Wrexham
John, Liverpool: Yes the Gladstone was a public house, in the village which is now known as Gwynfryn. Minera is about 9 miles from Mold, as the crow would fly. The Gladstone, has long since disappeared, but it was well known over 100 years ago, and was used to convene inquests due to accidents at the neighbouring quarries and lead mines. The hospital would probably have been the Wrexhan Infirmary, the present hospital and the War Memorial Hospital came later. The Infirmary was located at the junction of Bradley Road, and regent Street, where the Art College is now; when next on the internet try "Minerahistory" - a brilliant site full of local experts when researching family history.
Mon Jun 18 08:54:05 2007

John Duvall from Liverpool
Hi, In the 1881 census I had my great grandad possibly listed as living at Pentre Bais (Gladstone Arms), Minera, Denbigh. Listed were Ann Hughes [60, probably about 40?], widow), Thomas Hughes (20, quarryman [my ggrandad?]), Ellen Hughes(13) and Joseph Hughes(11). Ann was in hospital at the time of the census (any idea which it would be?). Thomas later married an Elizabeth Foulkes (a butcher's daughter, from New Road Castle, Denbigh) and moved to Liverpool by 1891. Can anyone help me fill in a few details - was the Gladstone Arms a pub? Thomas was born in Mold - is this close to Minera? Any help is appreciated, John.
Thu Jun 14 08:34:32 2007

Geoff Evans
Jan Oldham, Can I recomend the " MineraHistory" website, may well be worth a look and we have some excellent researchers on this site. The site also covers Coedpoeth and other villages in the near vicinity. There are at least three first class contributors to this site and if they can help I'm sure they will. Well worth a try. Good Luck.
Mon Jun 4 08:27:56 2007

Jan, Oldham
Sept 27 1819, the colliery at the Pentre Fram Pit/Coedpoeth was flooded, trapping 19 miners. John Evans was found 13 days later and had survived on candle wax and the occasional drop of water that dropped from the roof. I am fairly sure he is one of my ancestors as the story as been passed down through generations, but I'm trying to establish the facts. To piece everything together I now need to establish who his children were. He was born 1793c and married to Elizabeth. I cannot trace him on 1841 census record and the children listed on 1851 record are nieces?Does anyone have any information, or can they point me in the right direction?
Fri Jun 1 08:22:40 2007

Geoff Evans, Wrexham
--j--o-- Yes it certainly has changed! The Post Office was in fact the Old Post Office even in my day, the actual Post Office was on the hill leading to Minera Church on the R/H side, next to a small cobblers shop, name of Parsonage (I think).
Fri Jun 1 08:17:14 2007

Gwen Kermode, Liverpool
To D Wynne, my ancestors were also called Wynne but came from Coedpoeth, they owned a paint shop in the high street, my great grandfather was called Richard Mainwaring Wynne, his father was George Wynne, whether we are related I do not know. My grandfather sailed to America in the late 1800s. Why is still a family mystery.
Wed May 23 09:24:07 2007

Susan Davies
I have my x2 gt grandparents with their family living at number 5 Victoria Terrace in 1871 name of Davies. Head and son's occupation was Dealer in Wares, basically a Hawker. Would love any information on them.
Tue May 22 10:06:43 2007

-j--o--
I live in Minera and it has changed a lot, the post office is still there but it is now a house.
Wed May 16 15:01:59 2007

Jayne Bodell, Blackpool
Message for L Prichard, Rhos. Thank you for the information regarding the frozen clock.
Wed May 2 08:17:13 2007

L. Pritchard, Rhos
Message for Jayne Bodell, Blackpool. Frozen Clock is on Penycae Mountain. You will find it on the Ordinance Survey Map for Wrexham and Llangollen, Scale 2 inch to the mile.
Mon Apr 30 14:21:10 2007

Ann, Canada
Appreciate receiving information on my great, great grandfather Robert Griffths, father of my great grandmother, Hannah Griffiths. She was born 1841 or 1842, either Rhos or Minera, Denbighshire. Robert was a labourer and deceased prior to Hannah's wedding Dec. 20, 1864 in All Souls Church, Liverpool. Robert may have been buried 1853 in Ruabon, St. Mary but not sure. Need BMD info on Robert, his daughter Hannah Griffiths, plus Robert's wife's name and BMD info. It would be great to have info on Hannah's siblings! I have no access to Wales church records. Hannah married a man from Elton Green, Cheshire. Thank you.
Mon Apr 30 08:48:27 2007

Beverley Jones, Minera
Message for Paula Roscoe. I lived at the City Arms Minera with my parents Stan & Lil Brookfield from 1980 until I married in 1984. My parents, however, remained there until 1991. Whilst we were there we ran a small brewery alongside the pub where we brewed Minera Bitter & Minera Winter Warmer.
Mon Apr 23 09:06:20 2007

Jayne Bodell. Blackpool
I would like information about a place called the frozen clock on Minera, my great grand parents lived there in the 1800s named Jackson. They had one daughter and my great grandfather was a bisson maker, it is believed he hung himself.
Mon Apr 16 09:15:50 2007

Leanne, Coedpoeth
Does anyone have any information regarding a mining accident in 1953. My grandfather died in this accident, he was married to Mary Challoner of Minera. I'd just like to know more about it, as no one in my family talks about it much.
Thu Apr 12 09:13:15 2007

Sam Evans, Winchester
I have a birth certificate dated 18/3/1869 showing Peter Jones as the innkeeper, City Arms, Minera.
Tue Apr 10 09:41:12 2007

Lawson
Thanks Natalie for the information on PlasPower. I have just received a very good photo from my cousin. Thanks again, Lawson Pritchard.
Thu Apr 5 12:51:34 2007

June Phillips, Ponciau
Lawson, a photo of Plas Power Hall will be in your mail.
Thu Apr 5 11:26:15 2007

Natalie Jones, Coedpoeth.
A comment for L. Prichard, who wanted photographs of Plas Power Hall. The book 'Lost houses of Wrexham' has some wonderful photographs of Plas Power as well as many other beautiful old buildings now gone. It is available for purchase at Wrexham public library!
Wed Apr 4 10:31:52 2007

Marion Barnes
Message for Lawson Pritchard. Have searched everywhere for the book on Houses of Wrexham. I am most dissapointed in not finding it. That's what travelling does. Only hope I am able to fit together as much info for my descendants. They'll have a hard time piecing my life together. If you are able to scan the photo of John Prichard and George, I'd love a copy. Regards, Marion
Tue Apr 3 11:23:35 2007

Lawson Pritchard, Rhos
Hi Arthur, I had quite a shock to see your name. I would like to keep in touch.
Mon Apr 2 13:33:08 2007

A. Simpkins, Appleton, Warrington.
Hi Lawson, If you would like to get in touch after all these years, I'll give you my eail address.
Mon Apr 2 09:36:03 2007

Lawson Pritchard, Rhos
Hi Marion, thanks for getting in touch. I have a photo of miners in which I believe one is John pritchard, Jemimah's husband and I think George Williams may be on it.
Fri Mar 30 07:51:13 2007

Marion Barnes
Hi Lawson, I have a book somewhere in the loft on Houses of Wrexham. Will dig it out and see if there is a photo of it in there. Watch this space.
Thu Mar 29 08:18:42 2007

Lawson Pritchard from Rhos.
Has anyone got a photo of Plas Power hall? I remember seeing it about 1949 and nobody seems to have seen it. Thanks, Lawson
Mon Mar 26 15:49:48 2007

Marion (Wrexham)
Julie McKay WA. Do you have any info. other than Wales. Area etc.. DOB. If so I'll try and help.
Mon Feb 12 17:14:51 2007

Julie McKay from WA
Hi, I am trying to find information on my great-great grandmother who was born in Wales. Her name was Emily May Roberts. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Julie
Mon Feb 12 11:02:11 2007

Emily Satterthwaite, Coedpoeth
Hey this page is really interesting, I go up to Minera to hang with my mates, Edward, Dewi, Jo, Gordon, and it looks nothing like the pictures on the page. The post office ain't there but the first page as you click on with the houses in the background they are still there.
Wed Jan 24 09:16:27 2007

Marion (Wrexham)
Message for Lawson Pritchard. Have had a look on ancestry census 1901 and found John and Jemimah in Twenty Houses, following the census for that year Victoria Terrace must have been in very close proximity as it is within a couple of pages. In 1891 Jemimah lived in Victoria with her parents Isaac and Annie Williams. John Pritchard wasn't in Twenty Houses or Victoria Terrace. May have solved the death of John Pritchard 1900. In the bible under Annie Pritchard 1893 is mentioned a John born 1895 (no surname written) I can only presume it is this John that died. Would fit in with the dates as your grandfather was on the census 1901. On the census it is written he was born in Wrexham whereas Jemimah was born in Minera. Yes Jemimah did have a brother George born 1872, so that fits. Isaac Junior was the eldest born 1860 he was my g grandfather and my father's maternal grandfather. Other Williams children were Jane, William, Catherine, Annie and Robert John, who also died at an early age. Your father isn't mentioned or Dylis. However nothing was logged other than Jemimah's children. The bible also states the date it was purchased By Isaac Wiiliams Senior my G G Grandfather and his wife Annie 1880. My aunty from Coedpoeth to prove it was our family did ask if there were any Pritchards mentioned in it and mentioned Isaac Pritchard. To prove where John was born you would have to get a copy of John and Jemimahs's marriage certificate to get his parents' names. Jemimah's parent came to Minera/Coedpoeth from the area between Denbigh and Mold 1860 just afet the birth of the first child Isaac. That's how far I have reached on this leg of my family. I look forward to your comments.
Thu Jan 18 13:45:07 2007

Lawson, Rhos
Message for Marion, Wrexham. Thanks for reply, John and Jemimah are grandparents, I have all the imfo. from the 1901 census, Jemimah died 1911, but her husband was still alive in 1945 because I met him. Here are the children I know: Anne 1893, Catherine J 1897, Isaac 1900, Mary E 1898, my father Wilfred 1902, and Dilys approx. 1904, and address given was 20 houses. Also living there as boarder is a George Williams coal miner aged 29, I think it may be Jemimah's brother. I wonder if the John Pritchard who died in 1900 was my great grandfather?
Tue Jan 16 14:34:01 2007

Marion (Wrexham)
Message for Lawson Pritchard. Thanks for getting back, was John and Jemimah your grandparents or great granparents? You are definitely a descendant of the Williams family mentioned in the bible. Jemimah is the eldest daughter of Isaac Williams. Jemimah born 18/06/1870 and married John 27/5/1893 and their daughter Annie born a month later June 1893. Annie married a Wynne Williams 1921 in Llangollen. No mention of other children of Jemimah and John. It also mentions Eirianwen and Isfryn born to Annie and Wynne Williams. I also have somewhere stuck to one of the pages a copy of Wynne's obituary. John died Nov. 27 1900 and Jemimah 1911, May I think. It is in faint pencil, and hard to read. Talking to an aunty of mine there was an Isaac Pritchard too. If you have any information that would help me with my search that differs to what I already have it would gratefully received.
Tue Jan 16 09:32:18 2007

Lawson Pritchard
Message for Marion Barnes, my grandfather's name was John Pritchard whose wife was Jemima, don't know maiden name. They had 6 children and she died 1911. I think where they lived was 20 cottages.
Mon Jan 15 09:10:10 2007

Terry Wood, Coedpoeth
I am trying to get information on my family. I am particularly interested in my grandfather Richard Wood although most people called him Leakie - not sure of the spelling. I was born in 1955 and lived in Cae Mynydd cottage. We moved to the council houses in 1960 (approx). My father and mother were Desmond and Elsie. If anyone can be of assistance I would be most grateful.
Thu Jan 11 08:12:47 2007

Marion, Wrexham
Message for Geoff Evans
Sorry didn't get back earlier, needs must and work comes before pleasure. Yes, the Lee family and Williams family. No 3 were my ancestors, finding where they all dispursed to could be a nightmare. I know that Mary Lee moved to the Talwrn with her daughter living next door with Isaac Williams Junior son on of Annie and Isaac Williams Senior. I have just purchased a Welsh Bible off the Ebay dated 1880 belonging to Isaac Williams Senior and it has been a tough one to prove it was my ancestor, but I believe it to belong to Isaac Senior. Husband of Annie who lived in No 3 Victoria Cottages. Prior to Victoria they lived around the New Brighton / Wern area. Thanks for getting back to me, it was much appreciated.
Thu Jan 11 08:12:27 2007

Marion, Wrexham
Message for Lawson Pritchard
Could you tell me the names of your grandparents. One of my ancestors who lived in Victoria Terrace was a Williams and married a Pritchard. Could they be of the same family?
Thu Jan 11 08:11:14 2007

Marion Barnes
Message for Lawson Pritchard. The row of cottages above 5 crosses was named Victoria Terrace. I am researching my g g grandparents from there, Williams and Lee.
Wed Jan 10 12:25:23 2007

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