CARNARVON TRADERS

The Repository of all Things Historical for the Ancient Welsh Town of Carnarvon

  Castle Square, Carnarvon. Published by Williams & Hughes, Bridge Steet, 1850


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THE NEWS ROOM
1902


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 3rd. 1902.

CHRISTMAS CARDS

Last week, the members of the Tanybont Sunday School were treated to gifts of Christmas cakes through the generosity of members of the Pendref and Salem churches.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 3rd. 1902.

ENTERTAINMENT AT THE WORKHOUSE

At the Workhouse on Thursday night, a party of friends, under the leadership of Mr. Robert Roberts, South-pen'rallt, entertained the inmates of the Carnarvon Workhouse, by singing a number of carols. The Workhouse children also sang the popular hymn "Ebenezer," and several short addresses were delivered.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 10th. 1902.

BOUND FOR SOUTH AFRICA

Mr. R. P. Williams, of the Ship and Castle Hotel, who is one of the most popular gentlemen in Carnarvon, leaves the town next week for Cape Town. He will then proceed up country as an assayer.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 24th. 1902.

VOLUNTEERS FOR THE FRONT

Arrangements are being made locally to secure volunteers for the front from Carnarvon and district, to relieve those already in South Africa. A special parade takes place to-night to select volunteers.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 31st. 1902.

INVALIDED HOME

Private W. Gregory, of Carnarvon, who went out to the front a short time ago, and was attached to the Mounted Infantry, has been invalided home after a dangerous attack of enteric.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 31st. 1902.

MILITARY ARDOUR

The Carnarvon Volunteers met at the Drill Hall on Friday evening, for the purpose of securing volunteers to relieve those at the front. A good many of the younger volunteers offered their services; but as they were not efficient, they could not be accepted. We understand that four only were eligible, and of that number, two have passed the medical test.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 7th. 1902.

PRESENTATION

Mr. H. Humphreys, Brunswick Buildings, was on Sunday presented by his Sunday School class, at Salem, with a beautiful walking-stick, as a mark of their esteem and regard.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 14th. 1902.

IN HOSPITAL

Another Carnarvon soldier is reported to be suffering from enteric fever at Charleston Hospital, and is placed among those dangerously ill. He is 5684 Private W. Duffey, of the 2nd. Hampshire Regiment, and a brother of Peter Riley, Tan'rallt.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 14th. 1902.

THE RAILWAY STATION

The work of altering and improving the railway station at Carnarvon has been commenced. Among other improvements to be carried out is the raising up of the platform. The whole cost of the improvements is estimated at about £1400.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 21st. 1902.

THE PARK

Acting upon the instruction of the general purposes committee of the town council, Mr. Hall, the surveyor, has had the park properly overhauled, with the result that it presents a wonderfully-improved appearance. All the undergrowth has been cleared away, and thus the shrubs and trees secure a plentiful supply of fresh air.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 21st. 1902.

THE TOWN CLOCK

The work of re-erecting the town clock on the Guild Hall has already been commenced. The clock itself has been thoroughly overhauled, and the recesses where the dials will face High-street and Eastgate-street are being prepared for its reception. There is every reason to hope that before the end of the month the popular old clock will be again in its place, thanks to the promptitude with which Mr. Hall, the surveyor, is proceeding with the work.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 21st. 1902.

ALTERATIONS

Mr. S. Morris, Watchmaker, Tower Buildings, Carnarvon, in submitting his sincere thanks to his numerous customers in and around Carnarvon, for their past patronage, begs to announce that, owing to alteration of shop, which is to be fitted and stocked in the West End of London style, he is holding a genuine clearance sale on the five-years' accumulated stock. No reasonable offer refused. Five shillings in the £ discount on all goods marked.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 28th. 1902.

THE DISCOVERY OF COAL

The work of boring for coal between Carnarvon and Griffiths Crossing, on land below Plas Brereton, is proceeding satisfactorily, and boring by steam power is about to commence.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 28th. 1902.

THE NEED OF A NEW CEMETERY

The burial ground of Llanbeblig is rapidly filling up, and the space still unoccupied by graves is so small that it cannot serve the town for a much longer period. It is doubtful whether the land necessary for extending the churchyard can be obtained, and the question naturally arises as to what will be done. The town council will have to face the question at an early date, as no other burial ground is available nearer than Caeathraw. Possibly we shall hear something about a public cemetery.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 28th. 1902.

LOCAL YEOMANRY

The Carnarvon Squadron of the local yeomanry are reported to be progressing with their drilling. Some of the yeomen cannot get the nags to move unless they weep; others urge them to a gallop by crying "milk," while the word "coal" staggers more than one, and brings the riders to a sudden stop.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 7th. 1902.

HOME FROM THE WAR

On Saturday, Mr. Arthur White (son of Mr. White, Waterloo Port), who served with the Scots Greys in South Africa, was entertained to dinner at Wednesbury, where his former employers had reinstated him.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 14th. 1902.

PERSONAL

The many friends of Mr. H. Jonathan, one of the oldest residents of Carnarvon, will regret to hear that he is in very bad health, and has been confined to his house for some time past. Mr. Jonathan recently had a paralytic stroke.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 21st. 1902.

NEW AUCTIONEER

We understand that Mr. Charles Leak has commenced business as auctioneer. Particulars of his first sale are advertised in our columns.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 21st. 1902.

AUCTIONEERING

The many friends and clients of Messrs. Dew and Son, Bangor and Llandudno, will be glad to learn that the firm have decided to open a business establishment in Carnarvon at an early date.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 21st. 1902.

PERSONAL

Mr. H. Jonathan, who is suffering from a slight paralytic stroke, is slowly recovering.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 4th. 1902.

HONOURING THE ARTILLERY

We understand that Captain Whiskin has been commanded from headquarters to hold the Carnarvon Company of the Cheshire and Carnarvonshire Artillery in readiness to form a guard of honour to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales when he visits the town in May.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 4th. 1902.

PREPARING FOR THE ROYAL VISIT

The tradesmen of Carnarvon are busily preparing for the Royal Visit, and nearly all the principal business establishments in the town are being painted and decorated. The residences of prominent townsmen are also undergoing extensive repairs and renovations.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 4th. 1902.

A LEAKY PIPE

Early on Sunday morning, one of the main pipes that convey water from the reservoir to the town burst, with the result that the water had to be turned off. The water rushed down Llanbeblig-road with great force, and had it not been for the prompt actions of Mr. Walter Thomas, Gelert-street, who informed the Corporation officials, no doubt considerable damage would have been caused. Some inconvenience was felt as the result, but after the pipe had been repaired, the town was again supplied with water.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 11th. 1902.

PROMOTED

Sergeant H. Jones Parry, who is now on active service in South Africa with Colonel Pilcher's column, has again been promoted to the rank of Quatermaster-Sergeant in the 17th. Scottish Yeomanry.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 11th. 1902.

THE STATION IMPROVEMENTS

The improvements now being carried out in the Carnarvon Station will be greatly appreciated by the travelling public. In addition to raising the platform the bridge will be covered and the old "cage" removed altogether. There will be only one exit and one entrance, and the old booking office for the Afonwen branch will be done away with, and replaced by a new waiting room. The booking office on the other side, too, will be altered, and a new ticket office erected on the platform.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 18th. 1902.

WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY

On Wednesday, Mr. D. T. Edwards, Rock House, received what is probably the first wireless telegram that ever reached Carnarvon. It ran as follows:- "Crookhaven, 3.5p.m., April 16th. 'Ivernia' 45 miles west of Fastnet, 2150 passengers; all well Pritchard." - Captain Pritchard of the 'Ivernia' (Cunard Line), is a brother-in-law of Mr. D. T. Edwards.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 25th. 1902.

A GIFT TO THE PRINCESS

Lord Kenyon has intimated to the Mayor of Carnarvon that her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales will be pleased to accept, on the occasion of the Royal Visit in May, a white wollen shawl from Messrs. Lake and Co., Ltd. The shawl, which is a beautiful article, is now being made at the Snowdon Factory.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 25th. 1902.

CARNARVON ELECTRIC LIGHTING

A bill to confirm certain Provisional Orders made by the Board of Trade under the Electric Lighting Acts of 1882 and 1888, came on Tuesday before Mr. Jeffreys, deputy-chairman of Committees, in the House of Commons. There was no opposition at this stage, and the necessary formal proofs having been given, the bill was allowed to pass the committee stage, and in due course will be reported for the third reading. Among other orders was one authorising the Corporation of Carnarvon to supply electricity.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 9th. 1902.

A UNIQUE EXHIBITION

A company of "living picture" photographers are taking electric snap shots of the Royal procession to-day and will show them at the Guild Hall on Tuesday. It is bound to be a great attraction.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 16th. 1902.

LIVING PICTURES

On Monday and Tuesday evening, the Transatlantic Animated Photo Co., gave a splendid exhibition of their living pictures at the Guild Hall to crowded audiences. In addition to the usual comic and magical pictures, there were some fine panoramic views of Switzerland, and other places, but the great attraction were the wonderful pictures taken on Friday last of the streets of Carnarvon and Bangor during the Royal visit. This seemed to be the best animated pictures yet shown to Carnarvon audiences. The whole proceedings near the Royal Hotel was shown and local and other celebrities were seen to advantage. Miss Florence Lorrell rendered some ballads in fine style during the performances.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 23rd. 1902.

PERSONAL

The many friends of Sir Wm. H. Preece, who for some time past has been indisposed, will be glad to learn that he has recovered, and was able to visit the town this week.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 30th. 1902.

DANGEROUSLY ILL

Private William Kelly (2554), a son of John Kelly, Crown-street, Carnarvon, is reported to be dangerously ill at Elandsfontein Hospital.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 30th. 1902.

BUILDING OPERATIONS

We understand that there will shortly be a boom in building operations in the town, and that a number of semi-detached villas are to be erected without delay on the North-road.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 30th. 1902.

VOLUNTEERS RETURNING

Among the Volunteers returning from South Africa, and expected to arrive at Southampton on Saturday, are two Carnarvon men, namely, Privates R. Parry, Mountain-street, and T. D. Williams, Snowdon-street. They left in February 1901, and have therefore been out fifteen months.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 30th. 1902.

A WELSH DOLL FOR THE PRINCESS

One of the chief features in connection with the Welsh Industries' Exhibition in London, last week, was the display of dolls dressed in Welsh costumes by Mr. Williams, of Thomas-street, Carnarvon, late of the High-street Post-office. H.R.H. the Princess of Wales seemed delighted with these dolls, and purchased one of them bearing the name "Ceridwen Gruffydd." This name was given the doll by Mrs. Williams as a compliment to the little daughter of Mr. T. Griffith, 29, High-street. Among the other purchasers of Welsh dolls was the Duchess of Westminster, who secured a very pretty one for her little child.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 6th. 1902.

THE "CARIAD" BOATS

Last week, Mr. W. H. Rowland, boat builder, of this town, sent one of the newly-built boats, "Cariad" design, to Southport, where a race took place. Mr. Rowland's boat came in second out of 16. We understand that in a subsequent race, the boat came in first.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 6th. 1902.

THE CORONATION FESTIVITIES

A town's committee has been formed for the purpose of the Coronation rejoicings, for which Mr. Cuthbert Carter has been appointed hon. sec. We understand that in addition to the tea and dinner to the children and old people, there will be a carnival in the evening, followed by fireworks and a bonfire on the top of Twthill. The Mayoress has also arranged to convene a meeting of the ladies of the town.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 13th. 1902.

DIED IN THE TRANSVAAL

Private William Kelly, of the 1st. R.W.F., a native of Carnarvon, whom we reported to be dangerously ill, is now reported to have died in the hospital at Germiston.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 13th. 1902.

TRAP ACCIDENT

Whilst driving in the neighbourhood of Dinas Dinlle, the other day, Mr. D. T. Edwards, of Rock House, was thrown from his trap, and sustained severe injuries to his arm and shoulder. He was brought home and immediately attended to, and we are glad to add is now progressing as well as may be expected.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 20th. 1902.

RECOVERING

We are glad to understand that Mr. D. T. Edwards, of the Castle Mineral Waterworks, who met with a car accident last week, is fast recovering.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 20th. 1902.

BAPTISM

The Rev. J. W. Wynne Jones, the vicar, baptised twenty at church this week. This is the largest number for some time upon which the sacrament was performed at the same service.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 27th. 1902.

SUCCESS

Mr. R. Jeffreys, estate agent, Market-street, has just won the prize offered by a weekly insurance journal for the best Welsh pamphlet on the benefits of insurance, open to the whole of Wales. The pamphlet has been published and thousands of copies have been circulated.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 27th. 1902.

THE KING'S WEEK

In accordance with the expressed desire of the King, the Carnarvon School Board, at a special meeting held on Monday evening, decided to give the children of the Board Schools an extra week's holiday. The summer holidays will, therefore, be five weeks instead of four, commencing on the 17th. of July, and the first week will be known as the King's Week.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 27th. 1902.

AN EXTRA HOLIDAY

Owing to the desire of the Carnarvon shop assistants and others to have two holidays during the Coronation week, a meeting of tradesmen was held on Monday to discuss the matter. It was pointed out that to-day (Friday) would be a most unfavourable day, and it was resolved that an extra holiday be granted to assistants on the 10th. of July.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 27th. 1902.

THE KING'S ILLNESS

CORONATION POSTPONED

CELEBRATIONS IN THE COUNTRY TO PROCEED

The news of the serious illness of the King and the consequent postponement of the ceremony of the Coronation was received with dismay throughout the country on Tuesday.

The latest spring fashions by Jones & Miller. C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902. © K. Morris
The latest spring fashions by Jones & Miller. C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902. © K. Morris

The fact was made known by the posting of a bulletin at Buckingham Palace shortly after noon on Tuesday, which stated that the King was suffering from pertiyphlitis, and that he was undergoing a surgical operation. The bulletin added that His Majesty's condition on Saturday was so satisfactory that it was hoped that with care he would be able to go through the Coronation ceremony. On Monday evening a recrudescence became manifest, rendering a surgical operation necessary on Tuesday. A bulletin issued at two o'clock announced that the operation had been successfully performed. A large abcess had been found and evacuated. The King bore the operation well, and was in a satisfactory condition. At six o'clock a further bulletin was issued, which stated that His Majesty continued to make satisfactory progress, and had been much relieved by the operation; while at eleven o'clock it was reported that his condition was as good as could be expected after so serious an operation. His strength was maintained, and he had taken a little nourishment. It will, the bulletin added, be some days before it will be possible to say that the King is out of danger.

References to the King's illness were made by Lord Salisbury in the House of Lords and by Mr. Balfour in the House of Commons.

Telegrams from all parts of the country describe the widespread dismay and sorrow which the sudden illness of the King has caused.

In some places all the festivities arranged in connection with the Coronation have been abandoned, while in others a much curtailed programme will be carried out.

The Earl Marshall has received the King's commands to express His Majesty's deep sorrow that owing to his serious illness the Coronation ceremony must be postponed. All celebrations in London will in consequence be likewise postponed, but it is the King's earnest hope that the celebrations in the country shall be held as already arranged.

NORTH WALES AND THE NEWS

The news of the King's illness reached most of the towns in North Wales in the course of Tuesday afternoon and evening. There was a general feeling of despair when the serious nature of His Majesty's complaint became known, but later news, conveying fuller particulars, tended to allay the public anxiety; and when, finally, the King's own message came advising that the country celebrations should be proceeded with, the earlier feeling of dismay began to give way to one of profound sympathy and sorrow. At Bangor Cathedral and elsewhere special prayers were offered for the King, and at the hastily-summoned meetings of municipal authorities sincere expression was given to the general feeling of sympathy and the hope that the King might soon be restored. The authorities responsible for the Coronation rejoicings seemed uncertain what course to take, but in most cases it has been decided to proceed with the entertainment of the school children and old people, and to defer the general rejoicings indefinitely.

At noon to-day, it will be three days since the operation on his Majesty was performed. At noon to-morrow, the period of ninety-six hours during which, it was admitted, danger would continue, will terminate. Every bulletin issued up to a late hour last night was favourable. The bulletin issued at eleven o'clock stated that the King had passed a fairly comfortable day, and had maintained desire for food, which had to be very carefully given, and there had been some return of pain in the wound.

Special services of intercession were held yesterday at St. Paul's Cathedral, St. Margaret's, Westminster, and many other churches.

LOCAL CELEBRATIONS

As stated above, the news of the King's illness was the cause of curtailing the celebrations at most places, but the treats to the children and the poor and other events took place in many towns, as will be seen from the following reports.

CARNARVON

"Coronation Day" was celebrated at Carnarvon with great rejoicing. Though it was supposed to be primarily the children's day, people of all classes and ages joined in. The streets were gay with bunting, and the royal colours found great favour. Brilliant weather prevailed and the whole town made holiday, every place of business without exception being closed. In the early morning prayers for the suffering King were offered at the State Churches and at Moriah; in the afternoon Conformists and Nonconformists joined in the merrymaking. It was a curious mixture of the sad and the gay; and the carnival in the evening was possibly somewhat out of place under the circumstances.

The day's public observances began with a number of public prayer meetings in both church and chapel. The four Nonconformist denominations united in holding theirs at Moriah, the largest chapel in North Wales. These meetings were in every instance intercessory on the King's behalf. There was a parade of the Artillery and Rifle Volunteers, with their respective bands, together with the Church Boys' Brigade, all of whom attended the special service at Christ Church. This was conducted by the Rev. D. Alban Lloyd, a short address being delivered by the Rev. Lloyd Roberts. Psalm xx. was sung, and the hymns "Thy way, not mine, O Lord," "God moves in a mysterious way," and "Lead, kindly Light." After the blessing, the National Anthem was sung. A special service was conducted by the Rev. G. Lewis, at Llanbeblig Parish Church, and by Captain Griffiths at the Workhouse.

The officers in command of the military were Major Whiskin, Captains John Williams, W. Lloyd Griffith. the Mayor also attended Church, and after the service his worship presented the town gold medals in Castle-square to Lance-Corporal Heard, Privates D. T. Williams, and R. Parry. At the Drill Hall, too, South African clasps were presented to Messrs. George Langton, W. Tilling, and Hugh Hughes.

The whole of the afternoon was devoted to the children. A small army of workers had been busy at the Pavilion placing it in order and decorating. The mottoes were: "God save the King," "Duw gadwo'r Freninhes," "Gwell synwyr na chyfoeth," "Goreu canwyll, Pwyll i ddyn," "Eich dyn," "God bless the Prince of Wales." These decorations were a special feature, and in connection therewith too much praise cannot be given to the taste displayed by the Mayor and Mayoress; Mr. Tom Jones, of the Conservative Rooms; and Messrs. Cuthbert Carter and R. Ll. Jones, the indefatigable secs.

The tables, too, proved how earnestly the lady presidents and their assistants had been. Beautifully ornamented with palms, ferns, and marquerites, the tables transformed the Pavilion into a veritable fairy palace. The lady presidents were:- Table No. 1: Mrs. R. O. Roberts, Mrs. J. T. Roberts (four assistants); table No. 2: Mrs. Gwenlyn Evans, Mrs. T. G. Owen; table No. 3: Mrs. Parry, Castle-square, Mrs. Tasker (six assistants); table No. 4: Mrs. J. de Gruchy Gaudin, Mrs. Robert Roberts, chemist (nine assistants); table No. 5: Mrs. Owen Roberts, 9, High-street, Mrs. Hugh Prichard, 17, Bangor-street (five assistants); table No. 6: Mrs. T. Thomas, Mrs. A. Richards (4 assistants); table No. 7: Mrs. C. Watkin Roberts, Mrs. E. R. Evans (eight assistants); table No. 8: Mrs. Robert Williams, Mrs. Courtney (eight assistants); table No. 9: Mrs. Hamer, Mrs. Wright (seven assistants); table No. 10: Mrs. J. H. Roberts, Mrs. E. H. Morris (four assistants); table No. 11: Mrs. D. W. Davies, Mrs. Thomas Edwards (eight assistants); table No. 12: Mrs. Ll. B. Roberts, Mrs. Richard Roberts (five assistants); table No. 13: Mrs. Whiskin, Mrs. W. H. Hughes (eight assistants); table No. 14: Mrs. D. Roberts, Mrs. J. W. Jones (four assistants); table No. 15: Mrs. Thomas Jones, Mrs. R. D. Williams; table No. 16: Mrs. Owen Davies, Mrs. E. Evans (seven assistants); table No. 17: Mrs. Bowen Jones, Mrs. J. H. Rees (eight assistants); table No. 18: Mrs. Robert Newton, Mrs. A Carter (seven assistants); table No. 19: Mrs. Cadwalader Williams, Mrs. Morris Williams (five assistants); table No. 20: Mrs. J. T. Jones, Mrs. T. G. Jones; table 21: Mrs. Edward Parry, Mrs. Robert Williams (four assistants); table No. 22: Mrs. A. Kay Menzies, Miss Newton (six assistants).

There were also a large number of others who assisted with the cake cutting and packing.

Edward Noble advert for 'Sparkling Coronation Drinks.' C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902. © K. Morris
Edward Noble advert for "Sparkling Coronation Drinks." C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902.
© K. Morris

The children, numbering nearly 2500, met at their respective schools, and marched carrying banners under the care of their teachers at Castle-square, and thence, headed by the band of the 3rd. V.B., R.W.F., to the Pavilion. The orderly manner in which the whole thing was carried through reflected great credit upon the teachers for the excellent discipline and upon the committee for the grand organisation of matters at the tables. Never did a feast pass off so easily. It was like clock-work - not a simple hitch nor the most tiring accident. The arrangements for the supplying of hot water under the superintendence of Councillor Edward Parry, who had also supplied the timber for the tables, were excellent. It would be impossible to name one-half of those who helped in various ways. suffice it is to say that all worked harmoniously, willingly, heartily, and it was evident that the greatest anxiety of everyone was that the children should enjoy themselves.

At the same time, a meat tea had been provided for the aged poor at the Guild Hall. Between 300 and 400 sat to tables, presided over by Mrs. Langton, Mrs. Parry, Ysguborgoch; Miss Parry, Turf-square; Mrs. Jones, Priory Stores; Mrs. Jones, 6, Newborough-street; Miss Walker, Mrs. Price Humphreys, Mrs. Jones (Ap Ffarmwr), Mrs. Evans, Fron Oleu; Mrs. Owen Williams, "Herald" Office; Mrs. Huxley Hughes, and Miss Hughes, Segontium-terrace. The secretarial duties of this treat devolved upon Mrs. Price Humphreys, and the arrangements were very successfully carried out. After the tea, Mr. C. E. Jones, tobacconist, gave some tobacco to the old men, and about two ounces of tea was given to each of the old women. The Mayor and Dr. Owen Davies also called in, and delivered short addresses, and the entertainment which followed included selections with the gramophone, and songs by Mr. R. E. Evans, Mr. H. Vaughan Davies, Mr. Ioan H. Lloyd, Miss Jennie Williams, and others.

The old sailors of Carnarvon, to the number of fifty or sixty were also entertained to dinner as the guests of the Yacht Club at the Castle Hotel. Sir Llewelyn Turner attended, and addressed the gathering, and there were many other prominent yachtsmen present.

In the evening, a fancy dress procession of cyclists, in which over a hundred took part, and headed by the band of the 3rd. Volunteer Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers, proceeded through the principal streets from the Victoria Drill Hall to the Pavilion, their progress being watched by the crowds lining the streets. On the arrival of the procession at the Pavilion, a grand carnival was inaugerated, the stallholders for the most part being the ladies who had presided during the afternoon. The Pavilion was crowded, and the amount of money received and devoted to local charities was very large. In connection with this affair also a tribute of praise is due to the Mayor and Mayoress, both of whom worked most energetically, though unostentatious to secure its success.

The prizes were awarded as follows:- Comic character, 1. R. Evans, Market-street (American Negro), 2. D. Kelly, and R. H. Lloyd, Eleanor-street (baby in basinette). Best dressed bicycle and costume, 1. W. E. Williams, Arfryn (pierrot); 2. ----- Cole, (Red Indian). Best costume, 1. Mr. Hamer, junior (Knight of the Cross); 2. George Robinson, (Lord Roberts). Most original idea, 1. Owen Edwards, Castle-square (minstrel and bears); 2. P. Lacey, (John Bull). Best dressed bicycle, 1. R. H. Williams, 2. O. O. Roberts; consolation prize, R. Daniel (clown). Nail driving competition, Mr. and Mrs. Guest, Dinorwic-street. The Mayor, Captain Richard Jones, and Captain W. H. Hughes were the adjudicators. The prizes for the best collection during the carnival were awarded to (1) Miss Katie Daniel, North-pen'rallt; and (2) Mrs. Williams, 1, North Pen'rallt (ladies); and to (1) Mr. D. Lloyd, Pool-street; and (2) R. H. Lloyd, Eleanor-street (gentlemen).


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 4th. 1902.

RENT AUDIT

On Tuesday last, the rents on the Coedhelen estate were received at the Prince of Wales Hotel. The tenants enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, catered for by Mr. J. Rhys Morgan.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 4th. 1902.

ENTERTAINING THE POOR

The Coronation treat given to the poor of Carnarvon workhouse, on Friday evening, was a most successful affair, thanks to the energy shown by Mr. and Mrs. Parry, the master and matron, and Captain and Mrs. Griffith, of the Church Army. Several guardians also attended, and in addition to the plentiful supply of tea and cake, each male pauper received an ounce of tobacco and a box of matches from Miss Parry, Bridge-street, who also presented the female paupers each with a Coronation handkerchief and a bag of sweets, and all the children with a Coronation medal and flags, and the infants with a Royal tea service. The Workhouse dinner comprised roast beef with new potatoes, pickles, plum pudding, and gooseberry tart. In addition to this, two ounces of tobacco was given to the male paupers, together with a Coronation pipe and ornages. Oranges, quarter pounds of tea, sugar, etc., were given to the females, and sweets to the children. The number that sat to tables were 110.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 11th. 1902.

ON THE CONTINENT

Mr. J. Kinsley, photographer, left Carnarvon this week, for Cracow, his native place. This is the first time for Mr. Kinsley to visit his home since he left in his youth. He has been in Carnarvon for forty years.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 11th. 1902.

DRUNKEN TRAMPS

At a special Police Court held on Wednesday, before Edward Hughes, Esq., and J. R. Pritchard, Esq., two tramps named Edward Brown and Jonathan Edwards were charged with being drunk and disorderly and with molesting people in the street. Brown was sent to prison for a month, and Edwards for seven days.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 18th. 1902.

THE UNION FOUNDRY

We understand on good authority that arrangements have been made for the re-opening of the Union Foundry which has been practically closed for the past few months.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 18th. 1902.

THE ABER BRIDGE

During the past week the Aber Bridge has been closed to all traffic owing to an accident, and passengers from the other side of the river are compelled to use the boat at great inconvenience to themselves.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 25th. 1902.

AT DINAS DINLLE

Several of the leading families of Carnarvon have taken up their residences at Dinas Dinlle for the summer, and among them are families of the Mayor, Mr. H. Lloyd Carter, and others.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 1st. 1902.

CORONATION DAY

It has been decided that the shops of Carnarvon shall be closed on Monday following Coronation Day, which falls on a market day. The only public celebration will be a bonfire on the top of Twthill in the evening.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 1st. 1902.

THE ABER BRIDGE

Afte being useless for close upon a month, the Aber Bridge has again been thrown over the Seiont. The repairs, however, have not yet been completed and the corporation workmen and others are busily engaged putting it right.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 1st. 1902.

ALLEGED ATEMPTED SUICIDE

Morgan Ellis, a retired soldier, well known in the town, was brought up in custody, at a special court, held on Wednesday, charged with attempting to commit suicide by throwing hmself into the water over the Porthyraur jetty on Tuesday evening. - John Davies, Esq., presided. - A man named Parry said he heard a woman screaming that there was a man in the water. - Supt. Rowland said he intended asking for a remand. The accused had called at the police station a few minutes before, and said he intended committing suicide. - Mr. R. Gordon-Roberts, who defended, said the accused was in a very delicate state of health, and asked that he be remanded to the Union Workhouse. The court said they had no power to do that, and remanded the accused in custody until Tuesday. - Mr. Gordon-Roberts said the man had been labouring under great excitement, but that was now past. - The Magistrate said he would be safer in prison.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 8th. 1902.

WELCOME HOME

Mr. J. Kinsley, photographer, has returned to Carnarvon, after a tour on the Continent, where he went mainly for the purpose of visiting Cracow, his native place. He also went to Vienna and other continental cities. On Friday, he received a hearty welcome home, and was entertained to dinner by his friends at the Commercial Hotel.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 15th. 1902.

THE CORONATION

There was no public rejoicings at Carnarvon on Coronation Day, for they had taken place in June. Services were, however, held at Christ Church, conducted by the Rev. J. W. Wynne Jones, M.A., the vicar, and at Engedi Chapel, where a short address was delivered by the Rev. Evan Jones, the King's proclamation being read by the Rev. J. E. Hughes, M.A. There was a plentiful show of bunting, and in the evening a bonfire on the top of Twthill. Here a big crowd had collected, and they watched the bonfires and fireworks in Anglesey and on the Carnarvonshire Mountains. Monday was observed as a general holiday in the town, and all the business establishments of the town were closed.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 29th. 1902.

FOOTBALL

At a meeting of footballers held at the Eifion Temperance Hotel, Castle-square on Wednesday evening, it was resolved to form a new football club in the town to be named the Carnarvon Swifts.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: September 19th. 1902.

THE MUSEUM

We understand that since complaints were made by Sir Llewelyn Turner, relative to certain old coins supposed to have been missing from the museum in the Castle, the police have been making searchng inquiries, and eventually found the missing coins in the Castle, having been left there by Dr. Forbes when he made an inventory of the place in 1896. They were covered with dust, and consequently that led to the belief that they had been lost, for the room in which they were found had not been disturbed for years.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: September 26th. 1902.

GRATITUDE

Several of the Carnarvon Soldiers, who have returned from the war, joined together to make a small presentation to Mr. R. Norris, Twthill, as a small token of gratitude for his kindness to their wives and families durng their absence at the front. The presentation took the form of a handsome and valuable gold and pearl breast pin in case.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: October 10th. 1902.

PERSONAL

The many friends of Mr. C. E. Jones, Virginia Tobacco Works, will regret to learn that he has been lying ill at his residence for some time.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: October 10th. 1902.

BURGLARY

During Sunday night, the premises of Mr. Charles Pozzi, in Northgate-street, were broken into, entrance having been effected by breaking two panes of glass in the window. Some small articles were stolen, but the till in which there was some money was left untouched. The case has been laid in the hands of the police, but so far they have no clue as to the burglars.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: October 17th. 1902.

CHINA WAR MEDALS

At the Barracks, on Monday last, Sergeants Doolan, Deane, and Moreland, of the Permanent Staff 4th. Batt. R. W. Fusiliers, were presented with their China War Medals, having taken part in the Relief of Pekin in 1900.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: October 24th. 1902.

THE RAILWAY STATION

Recent improvements at the station deserve much praise. But one thing more is urgently wanted, and might very easily be provided. That is a direct entrance from the booking hall to the platform. At present, people entering the station have to struggle very often through a narrow gateway against a stream of people hurrying to the town.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: October 31st. 1902.

CARNARVON MEN WHO FOUGHT

The following is a list of Carnarvon men who fought in the late Transvaal War. The list has been compiled by Mr. R. Norris, of Twthill, and in every case where it is not otherwise stated the men returned home safely. It is a remarkable fact that 26 men left from Mountain-street, and that some families sent two or more brothers to the front. Thus we have four Sopers, two Lovells, two Angels, two Fearns, two Evanses, two Coxleys, two Metcalfes, and two Whites, who were brothers:-

Bicycle advert by Evan Jones. C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902. © K. Morris
Bicycle advert by Evan Jones. C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902. © K. Morris

Royal Dragoons, Corporal Morgan, Shirehall-street. Scots Greys, Corporal A. White, D. Jones, Newborough-street (wounded Relief of Kimberley); C. Davies, Bodwyn. 14th. Hussars, W. R. White. R.F. Artillery, W. Joyce (died Ladysmith). 66th. Bat. R.F.A., J. Williams (wounded, Colenso, 15th. December, 1899). Grenadier Guards, J. Metcalfe. Scots Guards, Private H. Williams, Eleanor-street. Cheshire Regiment, Private H. O. Jones, Mountain-street. Hampshire Regiment, Private M. Duffey, Cadnant-lane. East Kent Regiment, Private A. Soper, Pool-street (died, Harrismith, 29th. December, 1900). Leicester Regiment, Private W. Metcalfe. West York Regiment, Private R. Jones, Crown-street. Royal Highlanders, Sergt. W. Soper, Pool-street; Lt. Corpl. G. Soper, do. (killed, Magersfontein, 11th. November, 1899). Somerset L.I., Signaller-Corpl. J. Thomas. South Wales Borderers, Sergt. R. Soper, Pool-street; Privates J. Roberts, Victoria-street (D. W. Karre Siding, died, Blomfontein, 30th. May, 1900); J. Roberts, Mountain-street; H. Angel, do.; D. Humphreys, do. Royal Welch Fusiliers, Sergt. W. Sullivan, Margaret-street; Corpl. D. Jones, Mountain-street; Privates J. Lovell, do. (wounded, Pieters Hill); R. Hughes, Mount-pleasant-square; W. Coxley, Skinner-street; O. Coxley, do.; R. Roberts, Northgate-street (wounded, Hussar Hill); W. Pritchard, Mountain-street; W. Parry, Pepper-lane; T. Williams, Hole-in-the-wall-street; W. Tomkins, Clarke-street; E. Jones, Well-street; J. Thomas, do.; T. Carrol, do.; W. Gregory, Baptist-street; C. F. Williams, Mountain-street; F. Mailen, do. (died, Fourteen Streams, 13th. May, 1900); W. Jones, do.; D. M. Jones, do.; D. Evans, do.; O. R. Williams, do.; J. Griffiths, do.; J. Angel, do.; J. Evans, do.; J. Roberts, do.; W. Evans, do. (killed, Fredrickstad, 25th, October, 1900); J. Parry, do.; E. Evans, do.; A. Gallagher, do.; D. Fearn, do.; W. Fearn, do.; M. Ellis, do.; J. Harrington, do.; T. Connor, do.; W. Roberts, Crown-street; E. Jones, do.; W. Kelly, do. (died, Germiston, 8th. June, 1902); F. Bee, Baptist-street; E. J. Griffith, do.; E. Griffith, do.; T. Jones, do. (wounded, Fredrickstad, 25th. October, 1900); R. Jones, do.; P. Riley, Cadnant-lane; J. Brownley, Mount-pleasant-place; J. Jones, do.; O. Jones, Uxbridge-street; T. Pritchard, do.; J. Leary, Eryri-terrace; R. Cartmel, South Penrallt. Welsh Regiment, Privates R. H. Williams, Chapel-street; T. Lovell, Mountain-street. I. Yeomanry, J. H. Parry, Pool-street; R. Gordon-Roberts, Glandwr; B. Thomas, Bron Seiont. Army Service Corps, R. Hughes. Army Nursing Sisters, L. B. Williams, Porth yr Aur. R.A.M.C., A. E. Jones, Priory. Royal Welch Fusiliers (Volunteers), Corpl. H. Vaughan, Thomas-street; L. Corpl. T. Lloyd, L. Corpl. J. Heard, Privates G. Jones, Balaclava-road; W. G. Tilling, St. David's-road; P. S. Evans, Twthill; J. Williams, North Pen'rallt; H. Hughes. do.; G. Langton, Pool-street; T. D. Williams, W. P. Williams, R. Parry, Mountain-street; W. S. Evans, G. Williams, North Penrallt.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: December 5th. 1902.

MEDALS

On Monday morning, the infant children of the late Privates T. Mailen, and W. Evans, Carnarvon, were invested with medals earned by their fathers during the Transvaal War. The little ones were taken to the Barracks and invested by Captain Berners. Their fathers died at the front.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: December 5th. 1902.

WAR MEDALS

PRESENTATIONS AT CARNARVON

WAR OFFICE CRITICISED

AN EULOGY OF WAR

On Saturday afternoon, General Sir Hugh Rowlands, V.C., K.C.B., presented medals to the Reservists of the 4th. Batt. R. W. Fusiliers, who had served in the South African War. The ceremony took place in Castle-square, in the presence of a large gathering. The medals presented bore two and some three clasps. Among those present were: Mr. J. E. Greaves (the Lord-Lieutenant), Colonel Lloyd Evans (the colonel of the regiment), Mr. C. A. Jones and party, Mr. W. A. Darbyshire, the Rev. Father Jones, and others. The Mayor and Corporation were also in attendance.

General Rowlands, in the course of his address, said that it was a great pleasure to him to accede to the wishes of Colonel Lloyd Evans, and he considered it a great honour to be able to present the medals to the Reservists of the 4th. Battalion. They had done great and good service to their King and their country, and had received the praises ungrudgingly bestowed upon them by the country. The gravity of the undertaking in which they composed a part could be realised by the staggering statistics that had been published with reference to the loss of their manhood in South Africa; and they would be best able to realise the enormity of it when he told them that they had lost nearly, if not more, than four times the population of the borough of Carnarvon. It should be a pride to them to belong to such a corps as the Royal Welch Fusiliers - a corps whose records would bear comparison with any corps in the Service, who had emblazoned on its colours the Peninsula, which implied about seventeen general actions and seizues, as well as the campaigns in the Crimea and Afghanistan, and, later, Ashanti and Burmah, and he hoped soon would be added that of South Africa. They ought, indeed, to be, and he felt certain they were, proud to have been associated with the Welsh Battalion. They had been through a war of greater magnitude than ever this country was called upon to prepare for, and they had most worthily done their part in that great campaign. They had many casualties - no less than six officers killed, one died of disease - a total of seven. They had among the men no less than 53 killed. 103 died of disease, and 190 were wounded. This showed that they were pretty well in the thick of it; and he felt certain that they did their part to overcome the difficulties that the country had to deal with. That war had been unprecedented in its magnitude, so far as England was concerned, in the blind manner in which the country sent out its generals to a country unmapped and unknown, with a huge frontier and unbounded space, to grope about, and find their way in the best manner they could, and, figuratively, without a compass. All had gone well, fortunately for them; but at an enormous sacrifice. The war, deplorable as it had been in loss of life and treasure, should have taught the Government of this country to take those precautions which were necessary before undertaking a campaign. He feared, however, that the lessons they so recently learnt, and at such cost had not been grasped yet, for in the east of that vast continent, there was still fighting going on, with the result that too small a force was sent to the front, necessitating its retirement. It would not do for him on an occasion like that not to mention the country's appreciation and admiration of the men who manned the first line of defence. He meant the Royal Navy. There were no men who had done more for their country, and distinguished themselves more - and on one occasion of importance in South Africa - Graspan - only two officers at the end of the day were able to stand to their guns. The war had emphasised the old adage, which said that the British soldiers, whenever called upon, were ready to do their duty in any place and anywhere (applause).

More Coronation specials, by Caradoc Rowland. C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902. © K. Morris
More Coronation specials, by Caradoc Rowland. C.D.H. 4th. July, 1902. © K. Morris

General Rowlands then presented the medals to the following:- Lieut. C. P. Holroyd, 2401 Pte. T. Chambers, 2537 Pte. G. Davies, 2808 Pte. G. Davies, 3027 Pte. R. J. Davies, 2194 Pte. M. Duffy, 2547 Corpl. J. H. Dyke, 1868 Pte. L. Edwards, 2425 Pte. A. Ellis, 1197 Pte. D. Evans, 2132 Pte. J. Evans, 813 Pte. A. Gallagher, 1686 Pte. J. Gray, 1427 Pte. E. Griffiths, 2393 Pte. J. Griffiths, 699 Pte. R. Hughes, 2536 Pte. R. W. Hughes, 1589 Pte. G. Humphreys, 900 Pte. D. M. Jones, 2662 Pte. G. J. Jones, 2284 Pte. J. Jones, 2288 Pte. J. Jones, 1574 Pte. R. Jones, 2065 Pte. T. Jones, 2311 Corpl. T. Jones, 4236 Pte. W. Jones, 902 Sergeant O. Jones, 2544 Pte. W. B. Jones, 2947 Pte. W. O. Jones, 2567 Pte. W. T. Jones, 1897 Pte. J. Leary, 2664 Pte. J. Lewis, 2668 Pte. J. Meade, 1795 Pte. J. Mitchell, 1520 Pte. H. Owen, 2459 Pte. J. Owen, 2331 Pte. H. Parry, 2341 Pte. J. Pritchard, 2570 Pte. J. Regan, 2521 Pte. H. Richards, 1676 Pte. J. Roberts, 2517 Pte. J. Roberts, 2117 Pte. J. Roberts, 2684 Pte. J. R. Roberts, 2597 Pte. R. Roberts, 573 Pte. W. Roberts, 1270 Pte. W. Thomas, 2247 Pte. J. Tyna, 2877 Pte. H. Williams, 2475 Pte. R. Williams, 2626 Pte. R. Williams, 2812 Pte. O. R. Williams.

Mr. J. E. Greaves (the Lord-Lieutenant) said he need hardly say how pleased and gratified he was to be present that day, and the great privilege he considered it to be associated with so distinguished a soldier as General Sir Hugh Rowlands, from whom they had the honour of receiving their medals. These medals were significant of much. They had been fairly earned in one of the most arduous and trying campaigns of modern history. The campaign had now been satisfactorily and successfully brought to a close, and mainly, it was admitted on all hands, by the courage and tenacity of the British soldier. The consequences of this war would be much more profound and much more far-reaching than was generally recognised and would take years before they fully revealed themselves. One or two facts were already patent. In future, peace and order and prosperity would reign supreme throughout South Africa. The war, further, had welded the Empire together in a manner which mere diplomacy and negotiations never would have done; and it has revealed the latent power of the Empire, which had staggered the Continental nations, and caused them to assume a more respectful and circumspect tone and attitude towards Britain than had been the case for many a long year past. The men had nothing to do with the political aspect, but to obey orders, and fight for their country; and nobly and well they had done it, in conjunction with the rest of the British Army. They had earned the gratitude and thanks and the esteem of their countrymen, of which the medals they had received were but the symbols and the tokens. Not only did these badges honour them, but were honourable in themselves, and should be guarded with the utmost jealousy and rectitude of conduct. They might rest assured that their services had also been highly appreciated by those nearer home, by the men of their own country, for when the war broke out they spontaneously desired to do something to alleviate those hardships and anxiety they would have been called upon to undergo. The best possible way to do so was to relieve them of all anxiety regarding those nearest and dearest to them - to relieve them of all anxiety concerning their wives, their children, and their parents - and it was indeed gratifying to reflect that no wife, no child, and no parent of a man at the front was left uncared for (cheers). Now, this fact, even more than the medals, should assure them that their services had been appreciated by their own countrymen, and that they had deeply sympathised with them in the hardships and anxieties they had been called upon to undergo, and that they were grateful to them for the share they had taken in maintaining the honour and the integrity of the great British Empire. He would ask to be allowed, in conclusion, to offer them his personal congratulations upon the honour of which they had been the recipients that day.

The Mayor of Carnarvon followed, and said he had come there to show the appreciation of the town of Carnarvon of the good work the men had done in South Africa. They had been honoured that day by being presented with medals by Sir Hugh Rowlands - an excellent gentleman, who, at Inkerman, won the Victoria Cross, and with the picket kept at bay the Russians for a long time. They would, therefore, remember who was the gentleman who had given them the medals, and that he was himself a brave man, who always expected them also to be brave men. Their services were appreciated. They had taken an important part in that war in South Africa. They had assisted in the relief of Mafeking. They would expect courage to be shown by them at all times, not only when doing their country's work in war, but at home also. The honour of a soldier demanded that they should always be courageous. No man was courageous who would attempt to ill-treat a woman, a child, or the weak, and he felt certain they need not be afraid of them. They had a good example in the gentleman who had made the presentation. He hoped they would accept the congratulations of the town (cheers).

Colonel Lloyd Evans said he was proud to see the men back in Castle-square to be welcomed by their fellow-countrymen. Their honorary colonel (Lord Penrhyn) had asked him to offer them his congratulations, and his regret at being unable to be present. Lord Penrhyn, at his own expense, had insured the lives of the first draft who went out. He (Colonel Lloyd Evans) was sorry that all the men of the reserve were not present that day. Out of 168 who went out, there were 52 present. The draft that served with the 2nd. Devon had been presented at Aldershot, and others were time expired, and other circumstances prevented them being present. There were 29 men also entitled to the King's medal, which would be presented in due course. Colonel Evans then thanked General Rowlands, the Lord-Lieutenant, and the Mayor for their attendance, and the men were then marched to the Drill Hall, to partake of dinner provided for them by their colonel.


From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: December 26th. 1902.

CHRISTMAS PRESENT

Mr. Henry Parry, Glan'rafon, gave away about 200 rabbits to his customers in town.



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