| The late Gwilym Gwyllt – An Appreciation 23.08.1913
|
 |
| Mr Gwilym J. Davies (Gwilym Gwyllt), Cwmbach, who died on Tuesday, August 12th, was born in Gadlys, Aberdare, 46 years ago. He was left an orphan at all early age, and was apprenticed to the tailoring trade by Mr W. Jones, Cwmbach. He had lately stayed with Mrs Davies, Caebryn House.
Never was there a man who threw him- self so whole-heartedly into any social movement calculated to alleviate dis- tress and raise humanity. Our friend possessed an intelligence above the average and always used it for the best. Everything he did he did conscientiously and always with the truest motive. He possessed a frail body, but his mind was great, and he invariably utilised his mental gifts in the worthiest of causes. He was one of the pioneers of the Cwmbach Hall and Institute. Many a time the Committee thought of abandoning the idea of erecting a hall, but Gwilym’s stimulating spirit encouraged them on continually. |
 Cwmbach Hall and Institute |
| He was a Liberal in politics, and was a good speaker in both languages. Every local debating society was incomplete without his presence. He always put the finishing touch on all debates, and this he did with unusual eloquence. He was a man of broad views. His generosity knew I no bounds. Even the little children of the village can testify to his generous spirit. The poor always found him n true friend. He was a great patriot, and loved his country and language. At every local meeting held in commemoration of Dewi Sant he took a leading part. Patriotic literature always delighted him and the shelves of his library were well stocked with such.
He figured prominently as a poet, and lately captured the chair and money prize at Bodringallt Eisteddfod for an ode oil “The Sinking of the Titanic.” He won the prize for the best “englyn” to the “Rocking Chair” at the last Eisteddfod at Mountain Ash. He competed at the Cardiff National when he was quite young on an ode to “Gladstone,” and afterwards published it in book form. The ode on “Mynydd- oedd” is a very good poem. It was in competition at the last Aberaman Eisteddfod. He wrote several very good englynion. It is likely that his contributions will be published by Ebenezer Calvinistic Methodist Church, of which he was a faithful deacon. The loss to this Church is very great. He was an ideal Christian worker. He never feared to express his opinion frankly and honestly. Whenever he addressed an audience he seemed to pour his whole soul into the work. His Sunday School class, the prayer meeting and he “Seiat” will all sadly miss him. The fruit of his labour is abundantly visible. Never had the Philistines the chance to bind him. In all Eisteddfodic meetings at Ebenezer Church he either presided or acted as adjudicator. Having been closely connected with him for 30 years at least, one can testify that his whole life was one of consecration to his Master. His strength lay in his force of character. His services were needed now at Ebenezer more than ever, inasmuch as the Church has no pastor, and is burdened with a heavy debt. Now he is gone, who will come forward and fill the gap? The interment took place on Saturday at the Aberdare Cemetery. The Rev. R. Williams, Aberdare, officiated at the house, and the Rev. R. H. Davies, B.A., Bryn Seion, at the graveside. Mourners: following the hearse were: Messrs William Williams, brother-in-law; Edmund Williams. A. John, Thomas Williams, and John Williams, nephews. 2nd coach, Mr William Davies, Revs. R. Williams and R. H. Davies, Mr John Morgan, Mr Lewis, Mountain Ash; Numerous letters of condolence were received. Bearers: Representing the Public Institute, Messrs D. G. Pugsley (chairman) and James Hughes; representing Ebenezer C.M. Church, Messrs John Davies, Daniel Owen, John Morgan, and W. James. |
