WALTER HERBERT JEFFREYS (1870-1910)

WALTER HERBERT JEFFREYS

Walter Herbert Jeffreys entered this world April 24, 1870

Dundee Courier, 27 April 1870

BIRTHS

At Henllys, near Llandovery, South Wales, on the 24^th instant, the wife of Walter Powell Jeffreys, Esq., of a son.

Welshman, 27 September 1872

CILYCWM

SCHOOL TREAT - On Thursday, the 19th instant, Mr and Mrs Jeffreys, of Henllys Fawr, gave a treat to the children of Cilcywm Church of England school. At one o'clock on the above day upwards of 80 of the children met in the schoolroom, and from there they walked in procession by Erryd, and reached Henllys soon after 2, when they were received by Mr and Mrs Jeffreys, and were led to a field in front of the house, where various athletic sports were gone into. After amusing themselves for nearly two hours, they were taken to a large and convenient room, handsomely decorated for the occasion with flowers and evergreens, where they were most liberally supplied with tea and cake. After they had done justice to the delicious cake and sung the grace, they returned to the field and resumed their amusements for another hour. Then Mrs Jeffreys gave each of the children a present (which consisted of books and some useful articles of clothing), likewise a piece of cake to take home, as well as the prizes she had kindly given during the sports. After the distribution of presents, the school children sung a few pieces of music, being led by Mr Joseph J. Jones, their energetic schoolmaster. Mr Jeffreys then addressed the children in a short but very appropriate speech on the occasion. Afterwards the children gave three cheers for Mr and Mrs Jeffreys for their great kindness and liberality, and another three cheers for the highly-respected Mr Jeffreys, of Llandovery, for honouring them with his presence, and for the active part which he had so generously taken in amusing them on the field. Before parting the children sung the National Anthem, and returned home highly delighted with the treat they had had at Henllys-Fawr.

[This was Walter Powell, Jr and wife, Agnes (Robinson) Jeffreys entertaining the local school children, with a special visit by his father, Walter P Jeffreys, Sr to amuse the kids.  Herbert would have been just 2 years old at the time)

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Local newspapers reported the late summer vacation of the young family:

Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard, 21 September 1877

            Visitors to Borth, a seaside village in Wales, included:  Captain Walter P. Jeffreys, Mrs. Jeffreys, nurse, and family, Henllys, Llandovery, Wales.

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Tragedy struck on December 1, 1877 when Herbert’s mother died just after the birth of her fifth child, Charles Nicholas Theodore Jeffreys.  Herbert was 7 years old at the time.

Dundee Courier, 7 December 1877

DEATHS

At Henllys, Carmarthenshire, on the 1^st inst., Agnes, the beloved wife of Walter Powell Jeffreys, Esq., and only daughter of C. B. Robinson, Esq., Frankton Grange, Salop.

Walter Herbert Jeffreys attended Harrow, and the entry in the Harrow register reads as reproduced below with an explanatory footnote from the archivist:

Jeffreys, Walter Herbert (Small Houses and The Park 1884/3) Son of W P Jeffreys Esq., Cynghordy, Llandovery, South Wales. Left 1886/2. Lieut. 3^rd (militia) Batt. S wales borderers. Died - December 16^th 1910.

To avoid any confusion, I will explain the entry and what we know. Walter Herbert Jeffreys started at Harrow during the third term (September-December) of 1884 and was at Harrow for 2 years leaving in the second term (April – July) of 1886. During the 19^th Century Harrow did not have the boarding facilities to house every boy at the school so School Masters and local property owners would take boys in until space was available within the main Boarding Houses. Today we use the term Small Houses to identify these boys and from your Uncles register entry we can see that he was one that stayed in a Small house and then went onto board more permanently in The Park House. You may be interested to know that The Park is still a boarding House here today and you can find some information about the house here: http://www.harrowschool.org.uk/1706/boarding/the-park/history-of-the-house/

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U.K. Census for the year 1891

Herbert is living with his grandparents on the Frankton Grange estate

Frankton Grange, Ellesmere, Shropshire (home of Herbert’s grandparents)

Western Mail, 1 Sept 1893

PONY SHOW AND GYMKHANA AT ABERGAVENNY

On Thursday a show of ponies was held in Bailey Park in connection with the twenty-second annual polo tournament of the Monmouthshire Polo Club. The ponies brought into the ring were in most cases of special merit, some valuable animals competing. In the committee's tent a number of cups won by the Monmouthshire team were exhibited, and in the centre was placed a splendid silver salver, which was presented to Colonel Wheeley by the members of the club and friends on his retiring from the hon. secretaryship after having held that post for over twenty years. The salver bore about 70 facsimile autographs of the ladies and gentlemen by whom it was presented. The judges of the pony show were Sir C. Wolseley, Bart., Mr. J. Monteith, and Captain Partridge; field stewards, Captain R. Powell Rees, Colonel W. H. Wheeley, and Mr. C. Kennard; for the gymkhana Colonel Wheeley acted as starter, and Mr. H. Stanley as judge. Amongst the drags on the ground were those of Mr. F. L. Davis (Maindiff Court), Mr. Gwynne Holford, Mr. C. Crawshay, Mr. W. B. Partridge, and Mr. R. W. Kennard. The results of the pony show were:   Arab or Barb stallion, not exceeding 14-1: 1st, Mr E. Herbert's " Ephraim"; 2nd, National Pony Stud Company's "The Sheik”; 3rd, Mr P. A. Davis's "Babybingo."

Brood Mare, not exceeding 14-1: lst, Mr Kohler's "Brown Bess", 2nd, Mr Moon's " Ruby"; 3rd, Mr W. H. Jeffreys' Lady Nettie."

English-bred polo pony, not exceeding 14-1: 1st, Mr W. H. Cartland's "Carbine"; 2nd, Mr H. Cartland's "Coracle", 3rd, Mr E. T. Kohler's "Grasshopper.”

Foreign-bred pony, suitable for polo, not exceeding 14.1: 1st, Mr A. G. Moon's "Bushman"; 2nd, Mr G. N. Baring's “Peter”; National Pony Stud Company’s “Caliph.”

Harness pony, not exceeding 14-2: 1st, Captain Partridge's " Nun"; 2nd, Mr F. L. Davis's "May queen.”

The Gymkhana commenced about half-past two. The bending competition occupied a considerable time, there being eighteen competitors. The prize was won by Captain the Hon. R. Greville's "Vixen."  The ball race, the polo ball to be played in and out of the posts, was won by Mr. A. G. Moon on "Ruby."  In the tandem race, each competitor had to ride one pony and drive another round the course. Mr. Moon's tandem won.  The mounted potato race was won by Mr. Milne.  The postillion race, riding one pony and lead another round the course, was won by Mr. Milne.  In the side-saddle race each rider had to ride to the post dressed in a costume (female), light a cigar, open an umbrella, and thus ride round the course and over one flight of hurdles. Mr. Milne won the race easily in a girl's white muslin robe, with blue sash, and a white lace Kate Greenaway bonnet. The bareback hurdle race over four flights of hurdles was won by Mr. Milne's "Silkstocking," ridden by Mr. Jeffreys, Mr. Moon's "Bushman" (owner) being second. Mr. Milne's "Blackthorn " fell at the hurdles.  A donkey race in costume was won by Mr. R. W. Kennard. The prizes consisted of cups, etc.

Evening Express, 10 July 1894

THE WELSH REGIMENT.

Annual Training of the Third Battalion at Cardiff.

The officers and men connected with the 3rd Battalion Welsh Regiment met on Monday at the Barracks Field, Cardiff, for their annual training, which extends for 27 days. The tents are pitched to accommodate about twelve companies, the normal strength of the regiment, and during the day a large number of men arrived. The following officers are in charge: Commanding officer Colonel J. C. R. Reade, Lieutenant-colonel A. T. Perkins, Major W. Watts, Captains W. Forrest, T. W. Jones (3rd South Wales Borderers, attached), S. M. Thomas, J. W. Aldridge, D. G. Lamb (Severn Miners Brigade, attached), C. M. Hastings, W. H. Griffiths (3rd Gloucester, Regiment, attached), and C. D. Carleton Smith, Captain and Hon. Majors E. P. Dash- wood and H. Huntingdon, Lieutenants W. H. Jeffreys, R. G. Hooper, J. H. Prior, R. W. Taylor, and G. T. Brett (3rd Gloucester, attached), Second Lieutenant R. J. Sincock, Lieutenants Sharp, B. T. Perkins (1st Volunteer Battalion Somerset Light Infantry, attached), and D. How, Second Lieutenant, F. A. Lethbridge, Lieutenant H. H. Brom- field (3rd South Wales Borderers, attached). Second Lieutenant R. G. Nivison, Surgeon Lieutenant-Colonel W. Taylor, Captain and Adjutant A. H. Tindal. Lieutenant and Quartermaster T. G. Yinnock.

An officer’s dress in the South Wales Borderers

Western Mail, 15 April 1895

Herbert Jeffreys, along with his father, will serve as Stewards of Llwynybrain Hunt Steeplechases, which will take place on Tuesday April 30, 1895

The course, which is all grass on the level, is one of the finest in England.

Evening Express, 26 October 1895

LOCAL COMMISSIONS

MILITIA INFANTRY. 3rd Battalion South Wales Borderers.—Lieutenant W. H. Jeffreys to be captain.  Lieutenant C. H. Armitage to be captain, and to remain seconded; dated 23rd inst.

London Standard, 7 December 1895

ARMY LISTS

Contained in the list of those “Receiving Orders” is “Jeffreys, Walter Herbert, 89, Jermyn-street, St. James’s, Nov. 29.”

Carmarthen Weekly Reporter, 31 January 1896

LLANDOVERY

AFFAIRS OF MR. JEFFREYS, LATE OF LLANDOVERY.—LIABILITIES OVER £ 1,000.-At the London Bankruptcy-court on Tuesday the adjourned meeting was held (before Mr Brougham, official receiver) of the creditors of W. H. Jeffreys, captain in the Militia, late of Cynghordy, Llandovery, South Wales, now of Jermyn-street, W. The receiving order was made upon a creditor's petition. It appears that the debtor came into a legacy at the end of the date of 1891 with the result that from that date to the date of the failure he had been living at the rate of £ 3,000 a year, and has expended some £ 8,400. He returns his debts at £ 1,039 and his assets disclosed a surplus of £ 300. — Upon the proofs being gone through, the Chairman stated that the debtor's offer made on the last occasion had been withdrawn, the debtor finding himself unable to provide the £ 160 in accordance with the terms of the proposal. It was rather a pity, because, as it appeared to him, there was every prospect of the creditors getting 20s in the £.  The case was left to the Official Receiver to wind up in bankruptcy.

Morning Post, 4 April, 1896

THE LONDON GAZETTE.  Foreign Office, April 1

3rd Batt. the South Wales Borderers— Capt. W. H. Jeffreys resigns his commission.

London Standard, 2 July 1896

Law Notices – This Day

Bankruptcy – Discharges

W. H. Jeffreys

Western Mail, 15 April 1895

Herbert Jeffreys, along with his father, will serve as Stewards of Llwynybrain Hunt Steeplechases, which will take place on Tuesday April 30, 1895

The course, which is all grass on the level, is one of the finest in England.

Gloucester Journal, 13 August 1892

Herefordshire Horse Show

Mr. W. H. Jeffreys, Llandovery, competed in jumping, placing in thirds group.

Evening Express, 2 May 1894

Llwynybrain Steeplechases

Stewards: Sir William H Curtis, Bart., M.F. & Sir James Drummond, Bart., Mr P Sanders Davies, Mr Walter P Jeffreys, Mr Herbert Jeffreys, Mr Thomas Jones, Mr E P Lloyd, Mr Morris Owen, Mr F Lort Phillips, M.F.H., and Mr John Williams.  Judge: Sir Martene Lloyd, Bart. Starter Mr J C P V Pryce-Rice.  Stakes holder, clerk of the course, and hon. secretary: Mr H Wardell, Velindre, Llandovery.  Although the Llwynybrain meeting has bee in existence for only three years, it has already established for itself a prominent place among kindred meetings in West Wales.  Its rapid growth been due, in the first place, to the enterprising spirit displayed by sportsmen at Llandovery, and especially by Mr. Pryce-Rice, of Llwynybrain, and, secondly, to the excellence of the course, which can hardly be beaten.  The meeting this afternoon passed off very successfully, the racing on the whole being very good, though the fields were smaller than the number of entries justified.  (details omitted here).

Welshman, 3 May 1895

LLWYNYBRAIN HUNT STEEPLECHASES.

The Llwynybrain Hunt Steeplechases came off on Tuesday last, at the new racecourse, about a mile from Llandovery. The meeting, held under the National Hunt Rules, is immensely popular with the sporting fraternity of the three adjoining counties. The course, marked out with flags, is situated on the estate of Mr C Vaughan Pryse-Rice, and is admirably adapted in every way for racing purposes. Right behind the winning post rises a high bank, from the top of which can be seen the whole progress of the races. This portion of the field was used to a great extent by the visitors. A good number of pencillers put in an appearance, the accommodation for them being very satisfactory.

On the previous day most of the horses had arrived, and the clerk of the course (Mr Pratt, London), together with Mr Morris Owen, Mr Lort Phillips, Sir William Curtis, Bart., M.F. H., and Mr Vaughan Pryse-Rice, went over the course, and found that everything was satisfactory. It may be mentioned that the entries were not so numerous as in former years, but one was led to judge, by the fact of some of the best hunting blood in the counties of Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Cardiganshire being entered, that even better sport than usual would be seen. The weather, which is a most important factor in these fixtures, was all that could be desired. A few days previous to the meeting several showers had fallen, and the prospect was certainly not very encouraging. On the morning of the meeting, however, the rain cleared off, and the sun shone out occasionally. The ground was in a splendid going condition, and although a few showers of rain fell during some of the events they did not affect the condition of the course in the slightest degree. Special trains conveyed large numbers of visitors to the town, while quite a large array of private carriages brought several of the county families, who made their luncheon arrangements on Cree Hill.

Only three horses went to the post in the Llwynybrain Steeplechase, and Mars, who made the running after the start, fell after having covered about a mile, and did not again put in an appearance. Evan won easily, the Mitcher making a good second. In the Llandovery Selling Hurdle Race, Barbara kept in the rear, but won after putting in some good work at the finish. Mare, in the Foxhunters' Steeplechase, led until a short distance from the winning post, when he was challenged by Lazy Bones, who, after a tight race, won by a head. Evan, in the Tally-Ho Plate, again took premier honours, after a capital race. The finish of the Maiden Hurdle Race was, perhaps, one of the most exciting of the races on the card. On reaching the straight, the race was between Eglinton and Madam. The latter was ahead, but the former crept up and won by just a bare head, amid the greatest excitement.

The officials, who carried out their various duties with every efficiency and promptitude, were as follows:— Stewards: Sir Wm M Curtis, Bart., MFH; Sir James Drummond, Bart., Edwinsford; Colonel W Gwynne Hughes, Glancothi; Mr Walter P Jeffreys, Cynghordy; Mr Herbert Jeffreys; Mr Morris Owen, Haverfordwest; Mr St Vincent Peel, Danyrallt; Mr F Lort Phillips, M.F.H., Lawrenny; Mr C Vaughan Pryse-Rice, Llwynybrain; Colonel J C Richardson, Glanbrydan Park; and Mr J Williams.  Judge: Sir Marteine Lloyd, Bart., Bronwydd. Starter: Mr W Phillips, chief-constable of Carmarthenshire.  Clerk of the scales: Mr H Alfred Thomas, solicitor, Llandovery.  Secretary Mr C V Pryse-Rice. Clerks of the course and stakeholders: Messrs Pratt & Co., London. 

(part of the article is missing)

Capt. Homfray's Lazy Bones, aged, 13st .(Mr G S Davies) 1

Mr J W Colby's Mars, 6 yrs, 13st (Oxenham) 2

Mrs Jeffrey's Discord, aged __ , 13st .(Mr H Gurney) 3

Capt. E Goldschmidt's Robin Hood, 5 years, 13st. (T Phillips) 0

Betting 2 to 1 on Lazy Bones, and 4 to 1 agst the others.

Mars led off from Robin Hood, with Lazy Bones and Discord following. Mars did all the running until the straight for home, where the field came well together, and when nearing the winning post, the race was between Mars, Lazy Bones, And Robin Hood. Lazy Bones, coming along, forged in front of Mars and won by a head, amid the greatest excitement.

The TALLY-HO SELLING STEEPLECHASE PLATE of 30 sovs; four years old, 10st 10lbs; five years, list 11st 10lbs; six and aged, 12st 31bs.  The winner to be sold by auction for 150 sovs; if entered to be sold for 100 sovs; allowed 5lbs; if for 50 sovs. lOlbs.  Two miles over the flying course.  

Gen. Watson's Evan (£ 100), 11st 12lbs, aged __ (Craike) 1

Mr W E Drury's Analysis (£ 50), 6yrs, 12st (Mr Jeffreys) 2

Mr C H Firbank's Red Pepper, llst 7lbs (D Davies) 3

Mr T C Nott's Morton (£ 50), aged __, 11st 7lbs ..(Owner) 0

Sir W M Curtis's Cough Drop (£ 50), aged __, 11st 8lbs (C Galvin) 0

Mr D Evans's Cheltenham (£1OO), 5 yrs, 11st 61bs (W Murphy) 0

Betting-2 to 1 agst Red Pepper and Cheltenham, 3 to 1 agst Evan, and 4 to 1 agst Analysis.

Evan, Cheltenham, and Red Pepper kept well in each other's company for most part of the journey.  Just before entering the run home, Cheltenham fell and hurt his rider. Morton also came down, and very nearly knocked Red Pepper over, who afterwards broke down. Evan, in the straight, took up the lead, and won by a length, Red Pepper being third.  The winner was not sold.

A MAIDEN (AT ENTRY) HURDLE RACE of 30 sovs; four years old, 11st; five years, 11st lOlbs; six and aged 12st; for horses (maidens at the time of entry) that have never started in a handicap steeplechase or hurdle race, or ran under the recognised Rules of Flat Racing in any country after three years old.  Winners (after time of entry) once, 7lbs; twice, 14lbs extra.  Two miles over eight flights of hurdles.

Mr G S Davies's Eglinton, 4 yrs, 11st 71bs (Owner) 1

Mr B Jones's Madam, 4 yrs, 11st (Owner) 2

Mr Williams's Village Belle, 11st .(T Jones) 3

Mr Jeffreys’s Dewdrop, 4 yrs, 11st (Mr Grundry) 0

Betting - Evens each on Eglinton and Dewdrop, and 10 to 1 bar two.  After a good start, the field kept together until the return for the winning post.  When about a quarter of a mile away, Madam was leading, followed by Eglinton, Dewdrop, and Village Belle.  Madam was challenged by Eglinton, and came together neck to neck, when, at the winning post, Eglinton won by a short head; a poor third.

Carmarthen Weekly Reporter, 31 March 1899

Carmarthenshire Sport

POINT TO POINT RACES NEAR CARMARTHEN

These races were held near Carmarthen on Monday week. The meeting was at Coedwalter-fawr Gate, near Llangendeirne. The course led off from Pistyllgwyn across Closteg, over the turnpike road which makes for Llangendeirne, thence to Coedwalter-fawr, Werneli, and Pencelly farms, and on to Glanrhydw, in the grounds of which the turning flag was hoisted. The same ground was covered in returning as far as Coedwalter-fawr, where the winning post was fixed. There was a good attendance, among those present being Mr W J Buckley and party, Penyfai; Captain Grismond Philipps and Mrs Philipps, Cwmgwili; Mr Hugh Waddle and party; Mr B W Valentine and Mrs Valentine; Mr H W Pryse and party, Ystrad-wrallt; Mr E H Morris and party, Brynmyrddin; Mr W V H Thomas and party, Carmarthen; Mr F F Mason, Swansea; Captain E C Harries and party, Bryntowy; Mr R R Carver and party, Wenallt; Mr John Francis and party, Myrtle Hill; Mr T Morris and party, Coomb; Mr D H Thomas and party, Starling Park; Dr Bowen Jones, Carmarthen; Mr and Mrs S W Thomas, Rushmoor Mr and Mrs E W Francis, Penygraig; Mr Delme Davies-Evans; Mr W P Jeffreys, Cynghordy; Mr Bertie Davies-Evans, Highmead; Mr John Carver, Trecadwgan; Mr H J Gregory, Tenby; Miss Roch, Maesgwynne; Miss Howell, Penrheol, etc.

RESULTS.

POINT-TO POINT STEEPLECHASE

Over about 3 miles of fair hunting country, open to members of all hunts in the Counties of Carmarthen, Pembroke, and Cardigan. Horses to be ridden by members of the Hunt or their sons, or farmers or farmers' sons over whose hounds the said hounds hunt. No paid servant, or any person who had ridden for hire since January 1st, 1897, was allowed to ride. Weights, 12st. 7lbs. Winner of any race to carry 7lbs extra 1, cup value 12 sovs., or money value; 2, 2 sovs; 3rd, to save his stakes.

Mr R H Harries' False Prophet - Owner 1

Mr John Francis' Florence - Mr Jack Francis 2

Col. W P Howell's Patch - Mr Shams Thomas 3

Col. the Hon. F. C. Morgan, M.P., Hippacca - Mr Percy Thomas 0

Mr E C Harris' Marigold - Mr Robin Harris 0

Mr B W Valentin's Meg - Owner 0

Mr T Parkinson's Honest Tom - Mr E W Francis 0

Mrs Jeffreys' Francesca - Mr Jeffreys 0  [the rider would be Uncle Herbert]

Mr F F Mason's Stockings - Owner 0

Mr Gregory’s Alnwick - Mr D Harrison 0

Mr D R Thomas' Dandy - Owner 0

Mr T Morris' Mrs Tom - Owner 0

Mr R R Carver's Whalebone - Mr J Carver 0

Mr B Davies-Evans’ Canonical - Owner 0

Mr B Davies-Evans' Father 0’Flynn - Mr D Davies-Evans 0

Mr John Anthony's Old Fashion -  Mr Ivor Anthony 0

Mr John Anthony's Charlie - Owner 0

Mr W V H Thomas' Bridesman - Mr Brychan Rees 0

Riders all 12 7 with Alnwick 13.

Eighteen starters got well away, being led by Mr Valentine's Meg with Mr Robin Harris’ Marigold next, and all in close attendance. This order was maintained till two or three fields after crossing the main-road; Mr Robin Harris on Marigold then took the lead, and was closely followed by False Prophet and the others. Florence was first round the turning-post, and from here on, False Prophet came well to the front with Canonical, Marigold, and Florence. These kept together till the end, and about three fields from home False Prophet drew away to the front, but lost a good bit of ground in jumping. She jumped the last bank but a little in front of Florence, and with Marigold close behind, followed by Canonical. Marigold was unfortunate, and came down over this fence. False Prophet won in the end by two lengths. Patch being third, and Canonical fourth, with Honest Tom fifth.  The pace was fast throughout, and it is surprising how all the horses kept so well together.

A FARMERS' AND TRADESMEN' RACE

(Made up on the ground)

Open to farmers and farmers' sons and tradesmen residing in the district, where the Carmarthenshire Hounds hunt, ridden by farmers or farmers' sons who earn their living entirely by farming, or by such riders as would be approved of by the stewards. 1, 4 sovs; 2, 1 sov.

Mr J Anthony's Charlie.Mr Gwynne Anthony 1

Mr J Anthony's St. Bride's .Mr Ivor Anthony 2

Mr J. Anthony's Pathfinder Mr Harry Anthony 3

Mr J Anthony's Little Galtee More 0

Mr J. Anthony's Lady Lambton, 0

Mr J Anthony's Narberth 0

Mr J Carver's Fancy 0

Mr J Carver's Curate 0

Mr D H Williams, Penycoed's Duke of York 0

Mr W Thomas' Careful 0

Mr Percy Thomas' Look Alive II 0

This was run over the same course as the Member’s Race. St. Bride's, Charlie, and Pathfinder all led in turn at intervals throughout the race. St. Bride s and Charlie coming over the last bank close together, but Charlie managed to pull it off by three lengths.

A FOXHUNTER'S SCURRY

Was made up on the ground, for which there were twelve starters, the course being from Coedwalter round the turning flag and back.

Mr B W Valentin's Meg 1

Mr Gibson's Experimentor 2

Miss Howell's Patch 0

Mr Lloyd's Violet 0

Mr J Anthony's Lady Lambton 0

Mr J Anthony's Little Galtee More 0

Mr J Anthony's Old Fashion 0

Mr W Thomas' Careful 0

Mr Lawrence's Birthday 0

Mr J F Rees’ Useful Boy 0

Mr Davies' May Bang 0

Mr Gibson's Hereford 0

The course was extremely suitable for the purpose, and Mr J F Rees and Capt. Grismond Philipps are to be congratulated on their good taste in the selection. The other officials, all of whom exercised their duties admirably, were : Mr John Francis, Myrtle Hill (hon. sec.); Mr W Vincent Howell Thomas (clerk of the scales); and the judge (Mr W J Buckley).  This was the most successful of the point-to-point races held at Carmarthen for many years.

Death certificate:

cause of Herbert’s death

1.    Cellulitis, 2. Toxaemia

He died in London at St. Thomas’ Hospital, just south of the River Thames.

Many years ago my uncle told me that he was never allowed to have a motorcycle because his Uncle Herbert had been involved in a bad motorcycle accident.  My uncle believed that it was the accident and ensuing leg problems which led to Herbert’s death at the age of 40.

The Hereford Times, 24 December 1910

DEATHS

JEFFREYS – December 16.  Walter Herbert, eldest son of Walter Powell Jeffreys, D.L., of Cynghordy, Llandovery South Wales, in his 41^st year.

My cousin, Sally (Price) Bell, gave me a copy of a letter, the first page of which is missing, that was written sometime in the 1930s by Mr. Sydney L. R. Price to a cousin, Mr. H. Price.  In part, from pages 4-5, it reads as follows, with a few corrections made by me to errors in spellings and places:

      Since writing the above (which I fear you will be getting tired of) I have just received a further note from my sister to say that, with regard to the question as to who “Mary” was, it has just occurred to her that the eldest son Daniel [Price] also had a daughter called Mary.  Her sister, Anne, was married to a Mr. Walter Jeffries [Jeffreys], a large Liverpool Merchant, where he lived and died, so “Anne” is probably buried with him there.  His son, also Walter, lived at a place called Hentlas [Henllys], near Llandovery, there being three children of the marriage, Herbert, Sophy, and Effie.  On the death of his wife he married again, a Miss Robinson [actually Miss Jones, sister-in-law to Mr. Robinson].  Shortly after this he built himself another place called Kinghordy [Cynghordy Hall], situated quite close to the Station of that name next to Llandovery on the up line.  I remember their staying at Glanmorlais occasionally when I was quite young, and my mother used to stay there.  Herbert went wrong at Eton [Harrow], and after his father’s death, went quite to the bad, and the place has been sold up.

I believe that Mr. Sydney Price was close to the truth but had the timing a bit off.  No doubt Herbert’s troubles did arise while at boarding school; but I think the comment about going quite to the bad after the father’s death is incorrect.  The father outlived Herbert by 10 years.  Mr. Price must be referring to the large sum of money that Herbert inherited upon his 21^st birthday.  That inheritance came from the marriage settlement of his parents and through the estate of his mother.

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I have a copy of an undated letter, probably dated around WWII, written by my great-aunt, Agnes Cecile “Dot” Jeffreys, to her half-brother, Geoffrey Jeffreys, my grandfather.  It reads in part:

      Walter Powell Jeffreys, our father, … married Agnes Robinson and they lived at Henllys.  She was very good to our grandfather and nursed him in his last illness.  We four children [Herbert, Effie, Dot and Charlie] were born at Henllys and after our mother died were brought up by 3 devoted servants.  One, Betsy, was our nurse and was a wonderful woman.  We had a Scotch governess and were very happy.  Our father was in the Brecon Militia and returned with the rank of Captain.  He was away a great deal and had a very happy life.  He fished a lot in the River Towy and shot and did some hunting.  In 1883 he married Uncle Nicholas’s sister-in-law, Frances Constance Jones.  You were born in London.  Our governess and the old servants left upon his re-marriage.  He was very handsome and gay and was very popular.  He became Deputy Lieutenant of Carmarthenshire, was Justice of the Peace for Breconshire and Carmarthenshire, was on the County Council and on several committees. 

Walter Powell Jeffreys marries Agnes Robinson, 1869, Cockshutt Church

 

Frankton Grange





















MARRIAGE OF WALTER POWELL JEFFREYS, ESQ, OF HENLLYS

The hamlet of English Frankton and the neighbouring village of Cockshutt were quite en fete on Thursday, in honour of the marriage of Miss Agnes Robinson, daughter of Charles Backhouse Robinson Esq., of Frankton Grange, with Walter Powell Jeffreys, Esq., jun., of Henllys, Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, which took place at Cockshutt Church.  Mr. Robinson is the owner of an extensive estate in this locality, and when it became known that the wedding had been fixed, Mr Thomas Jones, the principal tenant, originated a movement for a public celebration of the event; and subscriptions flowed in to such an extent, that those who undertook the management were enabled to provide for the entertainment, literally, of “all comers” in a sumptuous manner.  The lady whose nuptials awakened so much kindly interest is held in high estimation, not alone by her immediate friends, but amongst the people generally, and the affection entertained for her, with the respect felt for the Grange family, caused the residents in the neighbourhood to vie with each other in the outward demonstrations of rejoicing that usually mark festivities of this nature.

     There was a rich display of bunting at both English Frankton and at Cockshutt, supplemented by equally lavish and still more effective floral decoration.  At nearly every turn of the winding road which leads from the Grange to Cockshutt rich combinations of greenery, flowers and flying colours met the eye; and cheerful voices, smiling faces and gay attire were not wanting to complete the joyous picture.  Spanning the roadway at a point near Mr. T. Jones’s farm was an elaborate arch, with side pillars terminating in firs, and profusely decked with bannerets, flowers, and wedding favours.  Surmounting the arch were mottoes in blue and red lettering, enclosed in neat borders – on one side, “May their union be one of unalloyed happiness,” and on the reverse to face the bridal party returning from the church, “Long life and happiness to Mr and Mrs Jeffreys.”  There was also an ornamental shield on the side towards Cockshutt Church bearing the inscription, “May their path through life be happy.”  A little further down, on the same road, was another arch, erected by Mr. Boden, which came in for a good share of admiration.  It was very neatly constructed, and the apex was adorned with a triplet of coloured red bannerets, below which were suspended mottoes on shields, wishing the “happy pair” “God speed,” and that “every blessing” might “attend them.”  What with the beautiful arch that connected Mr. Belliss and Mr. Marsh, and the flags and banners exhibited by each of these gentlemen, Crosmere was almost unrivalled for the excellence of its decorations.  The arch had a well-designed pediment, formed of evergreens, and was set off with intersected bows, shields and streamers.  The inscriptions it bore were numerous and apropos.  A conspicuous place was assigned to the trite aphorism, “Unity is strength,” and “God’s blessing” was invoked, not only upon “the union” but for the families of the bride and bridegroom.  The gable of one of Mr Belliss’s farm buildings, facing the highway, glistened with colours, and here there was a flag inscribed with the words, “Health, long life, and prosperity to Mr and Mrs Jeffreys.”  Cockshutt had for the nonce a very gay appearance, and was well nigh inundated with visitors attracted by the wedding.  A fine flap planted on the church tower fluttered in the breeze that played with the rustling leaves on the adjoining trees and agreeably tempered the heated atmosphere.  Nearly every house in the vicinity of the sacred edifice was adorned in some shape or other.  By Mrs Chester’s there was a large evergreen arch, of square form, under which the wedding party had to pass, having pillars topped with parti-coloured banners.  One of the banners was pointed out to us as remarkable on account of its history. It was made for the festivities that attended the coming of age of the twin sons of the Paton family, now between thirty and forty years ago, since which time it has figured at many local merry events, and it is still in a good state of preservation without stain or rent.  The gateway at the entrance to the churchyard was arched with greenery and flowers, the handiwork of Mr J Green, and the footpath and the central aisle of the church were carpeted in crimson baize.  Upon the arch were some prettily-worked mottoes, one of them consisting of a hand and heart, in combination, with the words “United” above and “God prosper you” beneath.  The elegant Easter adornments at the church had been allowed to remain, and in addition there were other decorations.  The altar rail was overlaid with artistic ornamentation, made up of white wadding, fern leaves and roses.

     The bridal party were expected to arrive about half past ten o’clock, and by that time the church was almost filled with eager spectators, while nearly as many more people stood in the churchyard or about the gateway.  A few private carriages were first driven up, and then came a brougham and pair, bringing the bridegroom, who was accompanied by Major Morgan, of Llandovery, the “best man,” and other gentlemen.  Several more equipages followed shortly afterwards, preceding the carriage containing the bridesmaids, Miss Emma Hecker, Miss Constance Carstairs, Miss Stubbs, and Miss Oswell (Welsh Frankton).  Their dresses were of white tarlatan, trimmed with lace and rose-coloured satin ribbon.  They awaited, within the churchyard, the arrival of the bride, who came in a carriage with her father.  She was attired in a splendid white silk dress, having a long train, and she wore a wreath of orange blossom, with a flowing veil of Brussels lace.  The bride and her bridesmaids carried magnificent bouquets (supplied by Mr Oldroyed, of Shrewsbury), and as they walked up to the altar their tout ensemble elicited great admiration.

     It was a glorious summer’s day, and if the ancient bridal adage be verified, as we trust it may, much happiness will fall to the lot of the bride, for upon her the sun shed his most radiant beams.  The wedding party comprised Mrs. C.R. Robinson, Miss C Robinson (Sudley, Liverpool), Mr. W.P. Jeffreys, sen., Mr. N. Robinson, Mr. E. Robinson, Captain Dickin and Mrs Dickin, and Mr Massey Dickin (Loppington House), the Rev Mr. Gabbett and Mrs Gabbett, Mr W.S. Oswell and the Misses Oswell (Welsh Frankton), Mr T.S.Oswell (Ellesmere), Mr and Mrs Lee (Redbrook), the Rev W. Steward and the Misses Steward (Wem), the Rev J.W. Davies and Mrs Davies (Loppington), and others.  The service was partly choral, and the girls in the choir wore neat dresses, of a uniform pattern, given to them by the bride.  The marriage ceremony was performed by the Rev F. Walker, vicar of Good Easter, Essex, who was assisted by the Rev E. Furmston, vicar of Cockshutt.  At the commencement, “The voice that breathed o’er Eden,” was sung, and before matrimonial exhortation there was another hymn, “How welcome was the call,” from the same collection.  The vicar presided at the harmonium.

     At the conclusion of the ceremony, prior to the attestation at the register, the choristers presented the bride with a church service and a book of hymns, accompanied by an illuminated address, which was read by Miss J. Green.  IT ran as follows: “Dear Mrs Jeffreys – The choristers of Cockshutt Church beg of me, on the occasion of your marriage, to present you with this joint token of kindly affection and regard, sincerely hoping that God’s blessing will ever attend you in your future home.  We hope the offering, though it be, will sometimes put you in mind of the younger ones in that church community here of which you have always been an earnest and attached member.  We shall often miss you; but trust you may have kind friends in your new neighbourhood.  The choir wish me to take this opportunity of thanking you sincerely for the very generous present which you have given to each one of us, and to assure you we value it highly in remembrance of yourself.  So farewell.”

When the bride and bridegroom retired from the church their paths was strewn with flowers while volleys from an extemporized battery of artillery rent the air, and the bells rang out their loudest peals.  Merrily the bells could not ring, or rather be rung, for two out of the three seem to be hopelessly cracked.   
     The wedding breakfast at the Grange, given by the father of bride, was of a recherché character, and the guests, who numbered about fifty, included the Rev F. Walker, Rev E. Furmston, Rev J. Peake and Mrs. Peake (Ellesmere), Rev W. Bradshaw (Ellesmere), Rev R. Spoonley and Mrs Spoonley (Penley), Mr J. Corbett Lowe (Liverpool), Mr W. Lowe (Liverpool), Mr Small and Miss Small (Whitchurch), Miss Scrimshaw, etc, etc.  At the breakfast a deputation consisting of Mr T. Jones, Mr Boden, Mr Bellis, and Mr Oakley, waited upon Mrs. Jeffreys, to present to her an elegant silver salver, obtained from Mr Elliott of Sheffield, at a cost of ten guineas.  It bears the following inscription: “Presented to Miss Robinson on the occasion of her marriage, by some friends and neighbours, as a token of their respect and regard for her, and with their best wishes for her future happiness.  June 24th, 1869.”

     Mr Jones in making the presentation said – We cannot allow the happy occasion of your marriage to pass without, in some way, testifying to you the esteem and regard in which you have always been held by your friends and neighbours.  We hope you will accept this parting gift as a pledge of our sincere good will, and the highest wishes for the future happiness of yourself and Mr Jeffreys.  May God’s blessing attend you.  May He grant you every prosperity, a happy home in this world, and eternal rest hereafter.

     The bride, speaking under the influence of deep emotion, expressed her hearty thanks for this token of good will, and said it would be long before the great kindness manifested towards her was effaced from her memory.

     Mr. C.B. Robinson, who was also much affected, said he was at a loss to account for the display of interest in his family this day witnessed, which he should never forget so long as he lived.

     Mr Jeffreys also said a few words to the deputation, who then withdrew.

     The Whitchurch Rifle Band, engaged for the day, led the way to a field next to the house of Mr T. Jones, where two large marquees were erected, both elegantly decorated, inside and out, with banners, streamers, shields, evergreens and flowers, interspersed with mottoes such as “God bless the happy pair,”  “May love and prosperity ever encircle the bride and bridegroom,” and “May their union be a happy one.”  In the lower marquee luncheon was laid out for eighty invited guests, upon tables set off with flowers.  The chair was occupied by the Rev E. Furmston, and the vice-chairmen were Mr T. Jones, Mr J. Jones and Mr. Belliss.  A splendid bride-cake was sent to the luncheon by Mrs. Robinson, and the wines came from the Grange.  The meats, viands, etc. were furnished by Mrs Townsend, of the Lion Inn, Cockshutt, whose catering gave unqualified satisfaction.

     The Chairman, on rising to propose the toast of the day, said he knew there were many around him most anxious to drink it.  He begged to propose “The health of the bride and bridegroom. “  (Great cheering).   
     The virtues and amiable qualities of Mrs Jeffreys were well known to all present; he need not dilate upon them, and he was sure she would not wish him to do so.  He must, however, say that in his intercourse with her she had shown the most kindly feeling for the poor, and that she had always manifested great interest in the work of the Cockshutt chapelry.  (cheers).  In her going away, he knew that he should lose and earnest worker and a kind helper, but they must not grudge her to those amongst whom she was going.  He did not know much about her husband, but he could say that if he was not a happy man he certainly ought to be after to-day.  (Hear, hear, and laughter.)  He was sure that the people amongst whom Mrs Jeffreys was going would soon find out her estimable qualities, and he hoped that prosperity and happiness would ever attend both her and her husband.  (The toast was drunk with three times three).

     Mr. N. Robinson acknowledged the toast on behalf of his sister, and said that of all the wishes expressed for her to-day, she the most felt those offered by the people of the neighbourhood, who were to be seen everywhere between the Grange and the church, and even at the church itself.  (Applause.)  He thought she had always tried to do what she could to help any of them and to further the work of the parish, but he was afraid that the high praises bestowed upon her by the vicar were hardly deserved.  In conclusion he returned thanks for Mr Jeffreys, who (he said) would have been present but that he must go away at an early hour.

     Mr T. Jones said he had much pleasure in proposing “The health of Mr and Mrs Robinson.”  (Cheers.)  He was glad to see so many of the subscribers to the fund present, and he thanked them very much for their attendance.  Occupying a farm belonging to Mr Robinson, he could speak of that gentleman, as a landlord, in the highest terms.  He had ever found Mr Robinson just and upright, truthful and independent, and a landlord who fairly identified the interests of his tenants with his own interests.  (Applause.)  He was glad to have this opportunity of proposing the health of Mr and Mrs Robinson, and he hoped they would live many years to enjoy the blessings by which they were surrounded, and that they would see their children and their children’s children, happy in themselves, happy in their surroundings, and happy in the good will of their fellow creatures.  (Drunk with three times three).

“Auld Lang Syne,” by the Band.

     Mr Robinson acknowledged the compliment, observing that he most heartily appreciated the good wishes and kind feelings expressed for his family and himself, which he should never forget.  The good will thus manifested was to him most gratifying, but what his family had done to merit it, he could not think.  He had great pleasure in drinking the good health of all friends present.  Long life to them and God bless them all.  (Cheers.)

     The marquee was vacated to make room for the cottagers, who were treated to a substantial dinner, with ad libitum supply of good malt liquor; and it was astonishing to witness the zest with which they “applied themselves” to the excellent fare set before them.  Meanwhile a first-class tea was served in the second marquee to about two hundred cottagers’ wives and other women, who gave place to something like the same number of children, and they were regaled in a similar way.

     The bride and bridegroom are spending their honeymoon in Scotland, and great éclat was given to the festive proceedings by a visit which they paid to the field somewhat unexpectedly, on their way from the Grange to Wem railway station.  When the feasting was over the large concourse adjourned to another field, about a stone’s throw from the first, where dancing and rural sports were indulged in.

[The Welshman, 16 June, 1869]

More on Llywel Church

For more on Llywel Church, use these links:
Llywel Church
http://www.jlb2011.co.uk/walespic/churches/llywel1.htm

Vintage Postcard of Llywel Church

Walter Powell Jeffreys

About 1825 a young man named Walter Powell Jeffreys left his parents’ home, Ystradwalter near Llandovery, Wales to begin a career. He traveled north to Liverpool establishing himself in business as a woolen draper and silk mercer in the thriving port city. In partnership with David Morgan, he operated Jeffreys & Morgan, silk mercers, at 3 Ranelagh Street. As a woolen draper and merchant he operated Jeffreys, Davies & Company for over thirty years from offices on Prices Street.

Ystradwalter Farm, photo JB Jeffreys 1999

As a successful businessman Walter soon turned to civic affairs. His first election to public office was as a member of the Select Vestry. In the two years he held that post he assisted in rating all the cottage property in the parish reaping the sum of £14,000 a year for the benefit of the poor. He was for several terms elected representative for the Pitt Street Ward to the Liverpool Town Council and sat on several committees: Education, the Watch, the Baths and the Improvement Committees.

On October 6, 1840 he married Anne Price at Cilycwm Church near Llandovery. Anne was the daughter of Daniel Price of Erryd House, who was a Llandovery merchant and later Provost Martial at Montserrat in the West Indies. Anne was the niece of David Powell Price (1790-1854), Admiral, R.N..


Erryd House, photo JB Jeffreys 1999

The Towy River coursing through the Erryd property

Erryd Fishing Cottage on the banks of the Towy, now in ruins, but probably a pleasant spot when the Price family was in residence

Erryd is a lovely two-story, 18th century house overlooking the Towy River valley. When our Price ancestors lived there the house was encased in vines. There are no vines any longer and the home is in immaculate condition. I spent a delightful afternoon with the owners of Erryd House, Brian and Ann Jones, in the spring of 1999. Ann was thrilled to show me around and give all of the details of the house, its construction and history. The basement has a wine cellar containing dozens and dozens of ancient (empty) wine bottles.

Walter P. Jeffreys and his wife Anne had one son, Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr. who was born in Liverpool on November 15, 1843. Sadly, young Walter lost his mother when he was just four and one-half years old. There is a marble tablet to the memory of Anne Price Jeffreys inside the Cilycwm Church. The grieving father sent his young son to Carmarthenshire to live with his great Aunt Margaret and his mother’s sister, Mary Price, at Erryd House. His grandparents, Rees and Anne Price were already dead by 1848.

Walter’s brother Rees Jeffreys worked with him at Jeffreys, Davies & Company. Eventually Rees’ son, John Henderson Jeffreys, took over the business on Walter’s retirement.

Bacon’s Tourist Map of Liverpool, sold by J. H. Bishop, Stationer, 6 Ranelagh Place, Liverpool

Memorial Tablet inside the Cilycwm Church:

This Tablet was erected by her disconsolate husband,

WALTER POWELL JEFFREYS
of Liverpool, and of Llwynfron in this County, Gent., under a deep sense of his own bereavement, and that of his only child, and in affectionate remembrance of his beloved wife,
ANNE JEFFREYS who was the eldest daughter of Daniel Price, Esq., Late Provost Martial at Montserrat; and granddaughter of Rees Price, Esqr. Of Bwlchtrebanne in this Parish. Her cheerful disposition, active benevolence and resignation to her Maker’s Will, enabled her to discharge faithfully during a painful and protracted illness, the Christian duties of the Wife, Mother, Friend.
Born on the 30th day of November, A.D. 1814, at Llandovery. She died the 2nd day of April, A.D. 1848, at Liverpool. Beloved and Regretted most by those who knew her best. To her, “To Live was Christ and to Die was Gain.”

Anne (Price) Jeffreys

Walter Powell Jeffreys, Sr.

After a few years with his mother’s family Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr. went back to Liverpool to be with his father. He attended Rev. T. L. Pain’s School. It was there he met young Nicholas Robinson who became a lifelong friend and his future brother-in-law. Later Walter continued his education at Shrewsbury School, and following that, traveled throughout Europe with Nicholas Robinson on the “Grand Tour” as young men of the time did to round out their education.

From the 1851 Census of Liverpool, England at 29 Washington Street, Rodney Street Ward we find in the home the father and son, sister-in-law Mary Price, and a visiting Wesleyan Minister, John Bartley of Carnarvon. Walter, Sr. was employing Elizabeth Edwards as cook, and James Birch as butler.

Walter’s brother, Rees Jeffreys, also lived in Liverpool and worked at Jeffreys, Davies & Company. He and his family are found on the 1851 Census of Liverpool at 6 Prices Street, Pitt Street Ward. Rees and Winefred Jeffreys had four young children: David, John, Walter and Margaret.

About 1867 Walter Powell Jeffreys, Sr. found his health declining and decided he would retire from his civic duties and business enterprise. He did not run for re-election to the Town Council and sold the firm of Jeffreys, Davies & Company to his nephew, John Henderson Jeffreys, in partnership with David Davies. Walter, Sr. and his son found a lovely home, Henllys, about three miles from Llandovery and the same distance south of Cilycwm. Henllys (meaning “Old Court”) is a long, low white house with a beautiful garden and meadows, facing the hills of the River Towy below. The father and son lived there with their wonderful housekeeper to look after them and the maids. Walter Sr. didn't comnpletely retire from public service - he did serve as Mayor of Llandovery.  On June 24, 1869 Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr. married Agnes Robinson, the sister to his dear friend Nicholas Robinson. They were married at Cockshutt Church, Ellesmere, Shropshire. Walter P. Jeffreys, Sr. gave up Henllys to them and went to live in Llandovery at Mile End House with his devoted housekeeper, Anne Knowles.

Henllys, photo JB Jeffreys 2006
When in Llandovery you may consider the Henllys Estate, which now offers bed and breakfast accommodations. http://www.henllysestate.co.uk/

Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr. served as a Justice of the Peace for the county of Carmarthenshire and the county of Breconshire. In 1889-90 he was High Sheriff of Carmarthenshire. He served in the Royal Brecon Militia attaining the rank of Captain. Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr. and Agnes (Robinson) Jeffreys were the parents of five children, all born at Henllys, four of whom grew to adulthood.

Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr., Deputy Lieutenant, Royal Brecon Militia

Their first child, a son, Walter Herbert Jeffreys, was born April 24, 1870. He later attended school at Harrow and like his father was a member of the South Wales Borderers (Royal Brecon Militia). He worked as a government storesman in Tahana, New Zealand. Herbert died in London, unmarried, on December 16, 1910 and was buried at Cynghordy.

Their second child, a daughter, was born on October 6, 1871 and was called Anne Euphemia after her two grandmothers, Anne Jeffreys and Euphemia Robinson. On July 26, 1894 she married George Francis Heath at Cynghordy. They lived at Maidenhead until George’s death on February 23, 1903 and Anne Euphemia’s death on November 16, 1910. They had one daughter, Mona Violet Effie Heath, born on May 10, 1895.

Mona Violet Effie Heath resided at Becket Bigbury on Sea in South Devon. She died of ovarian cancer on February 26, 1938. She was unmarried and of independent means.

Agnes Cecile “Dot” Jeffreys, their third child, was born on March 17, 1873 and was named for her mother and her uncle, Edward Cecil Robinson. Always known as “Dot,” she lived with her father much of her life, and later at her grandfather’s estate in Shropshire. She died unmarried on October 23, 1956.

 















Agnes Cecile “Aunt Dot” Jeffreys

Kathleen Augusta Jeffreys was born on August 5, 1875 and died September 2, 1875.

In 1867 the elder Walter P. Jeffreys’ health was deteriorating. His dutiful servant Anne Knowles and his daughter-in-law Agnes Jeffreys were caring for him. Walter, Sr. died at Mile End House in Llandovery on January 7, 1877 and was buried near his parents, David and Elizabeth Jeffreys at St. Mary’s Church, Llanfair-ary-bryn.

Walter Powell Jeffreys, the Elder

1808-1877

This vintage postcard of Llanfair-ary bryn was a gift from David Gealy of Llandovery. On a 2006 visit after lunch served by his charming wife, David gave this writer an interesting tour of the church, its tower and cemetery. Following that we visited Henllys to see the superb renovation done by the present owners, the Magills. From there we drove along the river road north past Erryd House to Nant Ddu where William Jeffreys lived 150 years ago.

In Walter's will which was executed by him on December 30, 1876 he left an annuity to his servant, Anne Knowles for the remainder of her life. All of his real and personal property was left to his only child, Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr. In the estate were the lands of his grandfather, Morgan Jeffreys, in Llanddeusant Parish, including the family home there, Llwynyfron.

Charles Nicholas Theodore Jeffreys was born on November 19, 1877. He attended school at Radley where he was Senior Prefect and rowed in the Radley VIII. He became a solicitor and worked in Liverpool and London before becoming Town Clerk of Brighton. He was married in 1904 to Ida Baines Forwood, daughter of Sir A. B. Forwood, Bart. Charlie and Ida Jeffreys retired to Cheltenham where he died on July 11, 1957.

Shortly after Charles’s birth, Agnes Jeffreys died suddenly as a result of childbirth, at Henllys and was buried at Cilycwm Church.

Walter hired a staff to assist with the young children and run the household: Agnes Sharp, a Scot, was the childrens’ governess of whom they were quite fond; Caroline Roberts was domestic nurse; Hannah Jenkins, cook; Mary Staut, housemaid; Elizabeth Edge, nurse; and Eliza Williams, dairy maid.

At the age of 40 Walter would marry again, a girl of 20 who was actually the sister-in-law of his dear friend Nicholas Robinson. On November 6, 1883 Walter Powell Jeffreys and Frances Constance Jones, daughter of Charles Gwillim Jones, Esq., a London solicitor, were married at St. George’s Church, Hanover Square, London. They had one son, Geoffrey Jeffreys, who was born March 27, 1885 in London.

Frances Constance Jones Jeffreys, 
with Scope

Cynghordy Hall, circa 1910

They resided at Henllys for a time before purchasing Cynghordy Hall and approximately 650 adjoining acres. After extensive renovations, the Jeffreys entertained guests and spent many hours in hunting and fishing for many years.

Geoffrey Jeffreys

Geoffrey Jeffreys (1885-1953), only child of Walter P. and Frances Constance Jeffreys, pioneered the early oil exploration of Mexico and continued his career as an international petroleum geologist throughout the Americas. Geoffrey married Miss Ina Littell in 1915 in Caracas, Venezuela.

Walter Powell and Frances Constance Jeffreys sold the Cynghordy Estate in 1917 and moved to England.

Transcribed below is a letter written by Walter P. Jeffreys shortly before his death to his daughter-in-law, Ina Jeffreys:

Telephone 32.
Forde,
Ashford Carbonell,
Ludlow.

2nd Feby, 1920

My dear Ina,

All my correspondence has fallen into arrears. I must apologize for not writing you before this. Your letter of last month was full of interest. How you must enjoy seeing your pupils on the violin coming on so well. The weather here too has been wretched, rain, rain, and boisterous winds. Rivers nearly bank high, but on the whole the temperature has been fairly mild for winter- but we do not get the warm lovely sun you do - instead we have frowning cloudy damp; depressing atmosphere. I suppose the northers account for the cold spell you have had - such as I experienced for a few days at Tampico when I went to see Geoff. The Hotel there where I stayed at lent itself to admitting the icy feel throughout the building - it penetrated everywhere. But the tarpon fishing I did enjoy there. I imagine the flowers out with you in the Southern States must be lovely. I hope your bulbs have flowered well. We have had to turf over some of our flower beds; have only about a couple of borders of hardy stuff. I saw today a few primroses (not the wild ones) showing, but they look weakly owing to the damp and rain - but Dot has seen a few wild ones in a sheltered hedgerow. Have you had more bass fishing? Please tell Geoff I will write him in a few days -; possibly his letter will arrive by the same mail as you receive this - as I don’t know the departure of the Steamers to US. 
So With our united best - love to you and Geoff - Believe me
Yours affect’ly,
Walter P. Jeffreys

Captain Walter Powell Jeffreys died in 1920 while living at The Forde, Ashford Carbonell, near Ludlow, England. He was buried at Cynghordy, the church he was the major benefactor, where there is a large marble tablet to his memory.

The Forde, Ashford Carbonel, Ludlow, England

References:
Pen and Ink Sketches of Liverpool Town Councillors. Liverpool, 1866, reprinted from the “Liverpool Mercury,” 1857, p 179
Census Records of Carmarthenshire, Wales and Liverpool, England
Robinson, Nicholas (1915) “Some Memoirs of Nicholas Robinson and his Family” (Private printing)
Records in the General Register Office of England

The Jeffreys in Llywel

This watercolor was a gift to the author from Mrs. (Capt.) Tony Robotham (Virginia) of Pencelli, Brecon, who is his second wife. His first wife was Ann Jeffreys.

Llywel Parish in the county of Breconshire in southern Wales is situated on the main east-west road (A-40) between Brecon and Llandovery in the northern portion of the Brecon Beacons National Park. In Roman times the Via Julia Montana traversed Llywel Parish from east to west, parts of which remain today. The hamlets which make up the parish are called Isclydach, Traian-Mawr and Traian-Glas.

The Jeffreys family has played a vital role in the community and in the Llywel Parish Church, the Church of St. David, since Elizabethan times. Some of the very earliest records in the parish register which begins in 1694 involve the Jeffreys family. Similarly the earliest monuments mounted inside on the walls and those in the churchyard are memorials to the Jeffreys.

The site of the church was a place of worship since early medieval times with the first church being erected in the 5th century. Prior to 1203 the church was dedicated to three saints (David, Padernus and Teilo) and was known as Llantrisant (Church of the Three Saints). Since 1203 when the church was acquired by the Chapter of St. David, the name has been St. David’s. The present building was probably erected in the late 1400’s. The church tower is 65 feet high and dates from the late 14th or early 15th century. Three giant, ancient yew trees adorn the church yard.

In Georgian times St. David’s had a whipping post and stocks which were apparently replaced in 1798 by the stocks which are on the north wall of the church under the clock. It was customary for the parish constable to be responsible for the upkeep of the stocks at the expense of the parish. The 6th century “Llywel Stone,” one of many ancient Ogham stones found in Wales, is now housed in the British Museum. The stone is inscribed with “the stone of Maqutrenus Salicidunus” in addition to various symbols and human figures. In 1896 a 1,000-year old font was found in the churchyard and resides inside the vestry now.

John Jeffreys (1614-1688), one of the sons of Edward Jeffreys of this parish, became a businessman and merchant on an international scale. From his new home in London he amassed a considerable fortune in the trade of land, tobacco and slaves. During this period John acquired the Manor of Kentish Town in the Borough of London which ultimately passed through his nephew Sir Jeffrey Jeffreys to his descendants, the Earls Camden. “During the second half of the seventeenth century, the Jeffreys firm was one of the very greatest houses in the Virginia trade and was active to a lesser extent in the tobacco re-export trade.”(1) In his Last Will and Testament John Jeffreys established annual payments to the poor of Llywel parish.

In 1692 Roger Jeffreys married Frances Briggs, daughter of Richard Briggs, of Yorkshire. There is a record of their wedding in Latin: “Fiat licentia solemnizandi matrimonia inter Roger Jeffreys, Gent. & Frances Briggs, Spinster” which is dated February 18, 1692.

The Jeffreys family crest as it appeared circa 1700

There is a memorial tablet to Roger Jeffreys which has been affixed to the exterior east wall, which in 1999 was completely covered in a growth of dense ivy. Roger died on June 29, 1714 at the age of 69. By his last will, Roger Jeffreys of Berthddu bequeathed money to be drawn from lands he owned in Rhyd-y-Briw and distributed to the poor of Is-Clydach.

Two of the four large carved chairs in the sanctuary were donated by Rees Jeffreys in 1871. The pulpit was a 1924 gift in memory of Rees and Mary Jeffreys from their children. The stained glass window on the north side was donated by Miss Maude Powell in honor of her late uncle, Dr. John Jeffreys-Powell. The reredos was a gift to the church in memory of David Jeffreys-Powell. Members of this branch of the Jeffreys family formally added the surname Powell in order to inherit the valuable estates of their uncle, Dr. Lewis Powell, who required that the inheritor adopt the surname of Powell.

The wooden screen with details of carved grape vines which separates the nave from the chancel was donated by the Jeffreys family in 1925 in memory of David Thomas Jeffreys (1860-1923) and his wife Elizabeth (Powell) Jeffreys. After graduating Christ College in Brecon and Queen’s College, Oxford, David T. Jeffreys established himself as a solicitor in Brecon of the firm “Jeffreys and Powell” which survives today.

David T. Jeffreys

David T. and Elizabeth Jeffreys had two sons and two daughters: Jeffrey Rees Powell Jeffreys, David Gwyn Powell Jeffreys, Mary Florence, who married William Herbert Powell Rees and Elizabeth Sibyl who married William Rees Jones.

April 1926 Wedding of Jeffrey Jeffreys & Miss Lucy Thomas

May 1933 Wedding of W.H.P. Rees & Miss Mary Jeffreys at Llywel Church

April 1926 Wedding of Sybil Jeffreys & W. R. Jones, Photo on grounds of Neuadd, Trecastle, the Jeffreys Estate. (l to r) Gwyn Jeffreys (brides' brother), two bridesmaids, W.H.P. Rees (married Mary Jeffreys), bridesmaid, groom, bride, Brychan Jeffreys (bride's uncle), Mary Jeffreys (bride's sister), Jeffrey Jeffreys (bride's brother). All three wedding photos are courtesy of Mrs. Dilys Jones, Oakley House, Trecastle.

The Rev. Canon J. Jones-Davies supplied the following writing to Mr. T. O. Evans for his book, “Roots and Branches, A Genealogy of Some of the Older Families of the Parishes of Llanddeusant and Llywel:”

“The Jeffreys brothers and I had a lot in common. We shared a deep love of countryside and we had a great fondness for dogs and the country sports. We enjoyed good food and good company. For many years we met at the Neuadd, Trecastle [the Jeffreys home] for our Christmas dinner, where we were joined by Major Jack Valentine Rees. It was a sumptuous meal, and I used to take the precaution of setting the alarm clock in case we should doze off and miss the Queen’s speech.

The Jeffreys were proud of their Welsh ancestry, but, above all things, they were conscientious farmers. They were the second biggest landowners in the county. For many years Jeff was the chairman of the Hereford Herd Book Society and took great interest in agricultural shows. In some ways I should have thought that they were somehow old fashioned in their attitude toward their tenants with whom they were on the friendliest of terms. Poachers were never tolerated, and they were dealt with summarily. They were horrified at the thought of overstocking and the ruthless exploitation of the land through the excessive use of chemical fertilizers. They regarded the land as a sacred heritage which was to be passed on in good fettle to future generations.
As the years went by, the little company began to fall apart. Jack Rees died on his way home from a

party; and after a comparatively short illness, Gwyn died

in the month of August; a month which meant so much to him. Jeff and I continued to meet; at first at Peterstone Court, and later at the homely Tynewydd, Llanfrynach. Jeff’s health began to fail, and in time I too failed to make the journey to Tynewydd. After a long illness Jeff died in his 78th year. With a heavy heart, I recall that I have laid to rest all the members of the family: Lucy, Jeff’s wife; Gwyn, his brother; the 3 daughters, Ann, Betty and Catherine; all the women died before they reached their 50th birthday.
‘They are all gone into the world of light,
And I alone sit lingering here.
Their very memory is fair and bright.’
For hundreds of years the name Jeffreys has occurred in the parish of Llywel, now, alas, it has ceased to be.” (2)

From top down: Gwyn Jeffreys, Jeffrey Jeffreys and J. Valentine Rees

Photos a gift to this author from David Jones Powell of the firm Jeffreys and Powell, Brecon

Though the venerable firm of Jeffreys and Powell was founded by David T Jeffreys over 100 years ago, he appears not to be the first Jeffreys who offered legal services in the area. In the Estate of Rees Jeffreys which was probated in 1679 by his brother Roger, an inventory of his belongings included “his law books.” Rees left a sum of money for the poor of Sclydach in the parish of Llywel.

References:
Llywel Parish Register
(1) Price, Jacob M., 1961, The American Philosophical Society. “The Tobacco Adventure to Russia, Enterprise, Politics, and Diplomacy in the Quest for a Northern Market for English Colonial Tobacco, 1676-1722”
(2) Evans, T.O., 1988. private printing “Roots and Branches, A Genealogy of Some of the Older Families of the Parishes of Llanddeusant and Llywel”

WILLIAM JEFFREYS
of Llanddeusant, Llanfairarybryn, and later Swansea

William Jeffreys was born in 1811 in Llanddeusant Parish, Wales. He was the fourth of six children, born to David and Elizabeth (Walters) Jeffreys.

From the 1841 and 1851 Censuses of Llanfairarybryn Parish, County of Carmarthenshire, we know that he was farming with his parents at Ystradwalter. Shortly after the 1851 Census he married Miss Rachel Saunders, of Cefen (Cefn) Farm, near Llandovery, Wales on May 14, 1851 at the parish church of Llanfairarybryn. His brother, Rev. David Walter Jeffreys, was present at the ceremony.

William Jeffreys and family are found on the 1861 Census of Llanfairarybryn, Carmarthenshire, living at Nant Ddu.

Nant Ddu outbuildings, 2006

Name, Occupation, Age, Birthplace
William Jeffreys, Farmer of 73 acres, 50, Llanddeusant
Rachel Jeffreys, Wife, 34, Llanfairarybryn
David W. Jeffreys, Son, 7, Llanfairarybryn
Margaret E. Jeffreys, Dau, 6, Llanfairarybryn
Sarah A. Jeffreys, Dau, 5, Llanfairarybryn
Mary L. P. Jeffreys, Dau, 3, Llanfairarybryn
Walter M. P. Jeffreys, Son, 1, Llanfairarybryn

From the parish records we learn that William and Rachel Jeffreys baptized their first four children at Cilycwm Church:

David William Jeffreys was baptized on May 11, 1853.

Margaret Elizabeth Jeffreys, December 4, 1854

Sarah Anne Jeffreys, April 3, 1856

Mary Louisa Powell Jeffreys, December 23, 1857

Their youngest son was baptized at the parish church of Llanfairarybryn:

Walter Morgan Powell Jeffreys was baptized on September 27, 1859.

Church of St. Mary, Llanfair-ar-y-bryn, photo JB Jeffreys, 2006

Nant Ddu, photo JB Jeffreys 2006

Detail of mantel at Nant Ddu - W.W. 1800

According to the 1871 Census, William and Rachel Jeffreys were operating a pub in Swansea, The Gardener's Arms, at 1, Garden Street.

Rachel Saunders was named for her maternal grandmother, Rachel Thomas, who was living at Cefen (Cefn) farm when the younger Rachel married William Jeffreys. Rachel was the daughter of David and Margaret (Thomas) Saunders. Rachel had several brothers and sisters, one of whom was Evan George Saunders. Evan Saunders was working as a “licensed victualler” at the Temple Hotel in Swansea in 1881, and his mother Margaret, now retired was living with him and his family. In 1901 Evan was still working in Swansea, then as a pub manager.

At Cilycwm Parish Church there is a tablet to the memory of Rachel's grandparents:

SACRED

To the memory of MARY

Wife of DANIEL SAUNDERS, Gent.,

Late of Cynghordy in the parish of

Llanfairarybryn

who died March 3^rd 1838

aged 74 years

Also to the memory of the said

DANIEL SAUNDERS

Who died Sep’er 10^th 1852

Aged 87 years

Yr hwn y mae y mab

Ganddo, y mae yr arglwydd ganddo

This tomb was erected by their grandchildren,

R. Saunders, R.N. 7

E.G. Saunders, Bronfelin

David D. Davies & D.I. Davies, Tycerrig

and Wm Jeffreys, Nandu


Walter Morgan Powell Jeffreys was born in 1859 at Nant Ddu, the youngest son of William and Rachel Jeffreys. He was living with his uncle, Rev. David Jeffreys in 1871. The 1871 census of Carmarthenshire, Llandilofawr, shows the residents of the Taliaris Pasonage.

Name, Occupation, Age, Birthplace
David Jeffreys, Perpetual Curate of Taliaris Chapel, 67, Llanddeusant
John Evans, gardener and driver, 47, Llandilo
Margaret Evans, Housekeeper, 50, Llangadock
Eliza Griffiths, domestic servant, 24, Llangathew
Walter M. P. Jeffreys, nephew and student, 12, Llanfairarybryn
Margaret Thomas, domestic servant, 24, Llandilo

And ten years later young Walter Morgan Powell Jeffreys was studying to pursue a career in medicine. He was living in London at 359 Kensington Road, St. James, and studying medicine.

Mary Louisa Powell Jeffreys was married on August 1, 1893 to William George Helsby in the parish church of St. Leonard in West Derby. Her brother David William Jeffreys and sister Margaret Elizabeth Jeffreys were present for the ceremony. William George Helsby was born in 1858 in Cemaes, Anglesey, Wales, the son of George Helsby. In the 1901 Census of Lancashire, England we find William G. Helsby, a draper, and wife, Mary L. P. Helsby. They resided at 433 Stanley Road in the parish of Bootle cum Linacre, and there were no children in the household.

Sarah Anne Jeffreys, the third child of William and Rachel Jeffreys, married John Harris on June 22, 1878 at Brunswick Wesleyan Chapel in Swansea, Wales. John Harris was born about 1848, the son of Lumbley and Elizabeth Harris. Sarah (Jeffreys) Harris was a widow by 1901. Sarah and John possibly had at least one child, William O. Harris.

David William Jeffreys married in 1883 to Elizabeth Jane Helsby, but was a widower when listed on the 1901 Census of Lancashire, in the town of Bootle cum Linacre with other members of the Jeffreys clan.

Agnes Alida Jeffreys, daughter of David W. Jeffreys, was born in 1884 in West Derby district, Lancashire. Margaret Rachel or Margaret Hilda Jeffreys, daughter of David W. Jeffreys, was born in 1888 in West Derby district, Lancashire.   Daughter Agnes Alida Jeffreys married Rudolph Florian, and daughter Margaret Hilda Jeffreys married Edward Noel Millington.

David W. Jeffreys & Company, Drapers, kept offices in Liverpool for many years at 179 Strand Road. The business appears in Liverpool City Directories beginning about 1884 through the year 1955, although David had died in 1907. His mother Rachel Jeffreys died in Lancashire in 1913 at the age of 87.

Dr. Walter Morgan Powell Jeffreys, youngest son of William and Rachel Jeffreys, died on April 15, 1938 in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada.

References:
Census Records of Carmarthenshire, Wales and Liverpool, England
Parish Church records: Llanfairarybryn, Cilycwm
City Directories of Liverpool, England
British Columbia Vital Records

LLWYNYFRON in the parish of Llanddeusant, Carmarthenshire, Wales


Llwynyfron, circa 1900

One home in the possession of the Jeffreys family for several generations is Llwynyfron in the parish of Llanddeusant, Carmarthenshire.


View from Llwynyfron

LLANDDEUSANT: "LLANTHOYSAINT (LLAN-Y-DDEU-SANT), a parish, in the union of LLANDOVERY, lower division of the hundred of PERVERTH, county of CARMARTHEN, SOUTH WALES, 6 miles (S.E. by E.) from Llangadock; comprising the hamlets of Blaen-Sawdde with Maes-y-Fynnon, and Quarter Mawr with Gwydre, and containing 942 inhabitants. . . It comprises 11,510 acres, of which 7307 are cultivated, and 4203 uninclosed mountainous land, over which the inhabitants have a right of pasturage and turbary. The surrounding scenery is strikingly diversified, combining features of picturesque and rural beauty with objects of bold and romantic grandeur. That part of the Black Mountain which is within the parish forms the loftiest elevation in the county . . . The church, dedicated to St. Simon and St. Jude, is inconveniently situated at the eastern extremity of the parish, at the foot of the Black Mountain . . . A fair is held annually in the village on the 10th of October. The living is annexed to the vicarage of Llangadock. . . There is a meeting-house for Calvinistic Methodists, who have also five Sunday schools, in which 620 males and females are taught gratuitously; and there is a day school, in which 60 children are instructed at the expense of their parents." [From: A Topographical Dictionary of Wales (1844)]

Parish Church, Church of St. Simon and St. Jude

My great-great-great-great grandfather was Morgan Jeffreys, who was born in 1739 in Llywel parish, the son of William and Mary Jeffreys. Both of Morgan’s parents, William who died in 1743 and Mary who died in 1744, are buried in Llywel church yard.

By his Last Will and Testament which is dated December 26, 1740, William Jeffreys left certain property, including Llwynyfron in Llanddeusant parish to his son Morgan:

“…I give and bequeath unto Morgan Jeffreys my only son two messuages or tenements of lands known by the names of Glan Hamgan & Blaen Hamgan when he comes to the age of twenty one years and if in case it shall happen that my well beloved wife Mary shall be married before my said son Morgan shall arrive to the said age of twenty one years that then and from that day of her marriage the said tenements shall be my said son Morgan’s without hinderance, claim or deduction by her my said wife Mary. Also I bequeath that my said son Morgan Jeffreys shall pay unto my said three daughters viz: Jonet, Gladis & Mary, the sum of sixty pounds to be equally divided amongst my three said daughters or to the survivors of them in three years time, viz, twenty pounds every Feast Day of St. Michael paying the best first & so forth to the youngest which said sum of three pounds I bequeath to be paid by my said son Morgan when he shall have the estates bequeathed him in Llanddoisant by his uncle Morgan Morgans…”

Morgan Jeffreys married Sarah Powell on September 21, 1764 at Devynock. Sarah was the daughter of David Powell of Abersenny and his wife, Margaret Morgan. Morgan and Sarah Jeffreys had nine children, the first three being baptized at Llywel: Mary, born 1766, William, born 1768 and Margaret, born 1770. Between 1770 and 1773 they moved to Llwynyfron, Llanddeusant, and their other six children were all born there and baptized at Llanddeusant.

Llwynyfron, photo J B Jeffreys 1998
LLWYN Y FRON, Llanddeusant.
Near the north banks of afon Sawdde, and 1¼ miles south-west of the parish church. Home of the Aubrey family who were living there when Dunn recorded their pedigree in 1609. On 20 May of that year Rees David ap Meredith ap Watkin otherwise called Rees Awbrey, mortgaged land in a place or island called Castanog in Llangunnor, to Lewis David ap Ieuan, gent. Lewis Aubrey, gent., lived there in 1635. In the latter half of the 18th century it was owned and occupied by Morgan Jeffreys, gent., (died 1798, aged 59), and in 1862 was owned by Walter Powell Jeffreys of 20 Price Street, Liverpool. W.P. Jeffreys’ son and namesake returned to the country, and lived at the following mansions – Henllys, Cynghordy and Blaen-nos – but afterwards moved to Shropshire where he died in the early 1920’s.
(Jones, Francis (1997 Final Edition) Historic Carmarthenshire Homes and Their Families)

Sawdde River passing through Llwynyfron property, photo J B Jeffreys, 1998

By his Last Will & Testament Morgan Jeffreys left Llwynyfron to his son, David Jeffreys, in trust for the benefit of his grandson, Morgan Jeffreys. The young Morgan Jeffreys was the son of William Jeffreys, who had died in 1796.

This is the last will and Testament of me, MORGAN JEFFREYS, of Llwynyfron in the parish of Llanthoisaint in the County of Carmarthen, Gentleman, of which I have caused another part to be written of the same tenor and form as this.
FIRST I give and devise unto my son DAVID JEFFREYS that capital messuage tenement and lands with the appurtnenances called Llwynyfron in my own occupation, also that water grist mill with the appurtenances called Llwynyfron Mill now in the occupation of William Morgan, also that cottage and garden now in the occupation of David John Francis, also that cottage garden and lands now in the occupation of Thomas David Howell, all which said messuage, tenement, mill, lands and premises are situate in the parish of Llanthoisaint in the county of Carmarthen, to have and to hold (subject to the payment of the sums hereinafter mentioned and charged and all interest due on mortgage affecting the whole of my real estate) the said messuage, tenement, mill, cottages, lands and premises to him the said DAVID JEFFREYS for his own use until my grandson, MORGAN JEFFREYS (son of WILLIAM JEFFREYS, late of Languhe in the County of Glamorgan, deceased) shall arrive at the age of twenty one years, without impeachment of waste, reserving except for necessary repairs, all oak, timber, trees or oak saplings likely to become timber. Then when my said grandson shall arrive at the age of twenty one years, I give and devise the said messuage, tenement, mill, cottages, lands and premises unto my grandson MORGAN JEFFREYS, his heirs and assigns forever, subject, however to the payment of the sums hereafter mentioned and affecting the same. But in case that my said grandson shall die before he arrives at the age of twenty one years then I give and devise the aforesaid messuage, tenement, mill, cottages, lands and premises with the appurtenances to my son DAVID JEFFREYS, his heirs and assigns forever, subject, however, to the payment of the sums hereafter mentioned and affecting the same. And I do expressly charge and subject the aforesaid messuage, tenement, mill, cottages, lands and premises with the appurtenances with the payment of the sum of two hundred pounds, which said sum of two hundred pounds I give and bequeath to my granddaughters MARGARET JEFFREYS and SARAH JEFFREYS (daughters of my son WILLIAM JEFFREYS, late of the parish of Languhe in the county of Glamorgan, deceased) to be paid them respectively at their respective ages of twenty one years, and in case either of them shall die before the age of twenty one years, then I give the share of her so dying unto the survivor of them. Also I do expressly charge and subject the aforesaid messuage, tenement, mill, cottages, lands and premises with the appurtenances with the payment of all mortgages as well affecting the aforesaid messuage, tenement, mill, lands, cottages and premises respectively as my other messuages, tenement, lands and premises called Penymaen, Abbercrynfe and the house and land situate in the village of Talsarn I expressly will and direct to be made clear of all mortgages affecting the same.
I give and devise unto my son DAVID JEFFREYS all that messuage, tenement and land with the appurtenances called Penymaen in the occupation of Rees Thomas Morgan, also a certain field called Pentroynne in my own occupation, also a house and land in the village of Talsarn, all which said messuage, tenement, lands, house and premises are situate in the parish of Lanthoisaint, to hold to him the said DAVID JEFFREYS, his heirs and assigns forever, subject nevertheless, and I do hereby expressly charge the same with the payment of forty pounds, which sum of forty pounds I give and bequeath unto my daughter JOAN JEFFREYS, to be paid her at the expiration of twelve months next after my decease.
Also I give and devise unto my son MORGAN JEFFREYS all that messuage, tenement and land with the appurtenances called Abbercrynfe in the parish of Llanthoisaint in the occupation of David Lewis David to hold to him the said MORGAN JEFFREYS, his heirs and assigns forever, subject nevertheless, and I do expressly charge the said messuage, tenement and land called Abbercrynfe with the payment of the several sums hereinafter mentioned.
I give and bequeath unto my daughter ANNE JEFFREYS the sum of eighty pounds. I give and bequeath unto my daughter JOAN JEFFREYS the sum of forty pounds. I give and bequeath unto my daughter MARY PRITCHARD the sum of five pounds. I give and bequeath unto my daughter MARGARET LEWIS the sum of five pounds, which several sums I will and direct to be paid my respective daughters at the expiration of twelve months next after my decease by my said son MORGAN JEFFREYS.
Also I give and bequeath unto my daughters JOAN JEFFREYS and ANNE JEFFREYS all the chambering (commonly called in Welsh stafell) that I received with their mother to be equally divided between them.
Lastly, I give and bequeath unto my son DAVID JEFFREYS all my personal estate whatsoever whom I appoint and nominate sole executor of this my last will and testament. And I do hereby revoke and make void all will and wills by me heretofore made.
IN WITNESS whereof, I, the said MORGAN JEFFREYS, the testator, have hereunto set my hand and seal, the thirty first day of March, One thousand seven hundred and ninety eight.

Signed, sealed, published and declared by
the said Morgan Jeffreys, the testator, as
and for his Last Will and Testament in the
presence of us, who at his request, in his
presence and in the presence of each other,
have subscribed our names as witnesses
thereto, as we have at the same time
likewise done to a duplicate thereof.

Morgan Jeffreys

L. Lewis of Cwmclydach
John Lewis of Pencrug
Thomas Morgan, Cwmddu


Llwynyfron remained in the ownership of the Jeffreys until 1886 when Walter Powell Jeffreys, Jr. sold Llwynyfron and Llwynyfron Mill to Daniel Thomas.

Llwynyfron Mill, photo JB Jeffreys, 1998
The Thomas Family

Daniel Thomas was born about 1845, the son of Thomas Thomas of Panthowel and his wife, Margaret.

PANT HYWEL, Llanddeusant.
One mile north-east of Pontarllechau bridge over the Sawdde; rendered as Pant Hywel on Colby’s Map 1831, but as Panthowel on modern O.S. maps. Home of the Lewis Family from the early 17th century, who also lived at Penrhiw and Penycrug in the same parish, descended from Owen Gethin of Glyntawe, whose arms they bore. In the 19th century they moved to Gilfach and Llwyncelyn.
(Jones, Francis (1997 Final Edition) Historic Carmarthenshire Homes and Their Families)

Dan Thomas would marry Martha Lewis and their descendants occupy Llwynyfron today (2008). Martha Lewis was born about 1860 and was the daughter of John Lewis of Tir paum, and his wife, Anne. Her father, John Lewis, was a son of Llewellyn Lewis and his wife, Margaret Harries Lewis, of Tredomen.

Tom Thomas (standing), parents Martha (Lewis) Thomas and Daniel Thomas. Martha Lewis was a daughter of John Lewis of Tir Paum; and John Lewis of Tir Paum was a son of Llewellyn Lewis of Tredomen.