Tregeiriog, Llanishen

Many thanks

To both Hilary Whitton and David Jones for their help in providing so much useful information and some images for this page.

Overview

Tregeiriog farm, formerly known as Tregirog, amongst other names, is an old and significant property in “Old Llanishen,” Monmouthshire which has several links to Glascoed people.

Maria Arnold (nee Jones) was born at Tregirog in 1797 and Cornelius Evans, later of Glascoed Vach farm was born here in 1820. We will hear more of them in due course.

The house itself dates back to the late 1500s or early 1600s, according to a report on the Cadw website – this is worth exploring for those with a particular interest in the property, its structure, history and residents. The article states that: Tregirog was “enlarged in the mid/late C17, probably in two phases and then remodelled c1758 at the time when the farm was occupied by the Beaufort Estate agent.” The report also noted “Some later alterations of a minor nature.”

Facts and Figures

Location

Here you see the present day location of Tregeiriog House, courtesy of Google maps.

The postal address is Tregirog Farm, Llangovan, Monmouth, NP25 4BU.

Residents

The Jones family

The Glascoed link to Llangwendwr Farm (the modern day address is Llangwendr Farm, Kingcoed) is through Maria Arnold of Maesmawr Farm, Glascoed. Maria’s maiden name was Maria Jones. She was born on 26^th February 1797 at Llangwenddwr Farm (the spelling at the time of most of these parish records), along with her brothers and sisters over a 12 year period. Her parents were William Jones and Ann (nee Powell). William and Ann later moved to Tregirog House, another Llanishen property. They moved there at some point between 1809 and Ann’s death in 1827.

Many thanks to Hilary Whitton, who provided a lot of the information on this page. She is William and Ann Jones’ 4x Great Grand-daughter via their eldest son, William who was born in 1800.

William Jones (Senior) was born in approximately 1764 at Llanelly, Breconshire and lived till the age of 92. He was quite a significant farmer, since we know from other records that Llangwendwr farm consisted of around 200 acres and his next farm, Tregirog, 292 acres.

William and Ann interestingly appear to have chosen to baptise their children in two neighbouring churches. They nearly always took the children first to Penyclawdd church to be baptised (This was the parish where Ann had her roots) and then to Llanishen church. The children that we have established were theirs (with their baptism dates: P=Penyclawdd and L=Llanishen).

Maria Jones – Baptised (P) 26th February 1797 “daughter of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.” Baptised (L) 2nd February 1798.
Sophia Jones – Baptised (P) 3rd January 1799, “daughter of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.” Baptised (L) 30th January 1799.
William Jones – Baptised (P) 30th September 1800 “son of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.” Baptised (L) 2nd October 1800.
Sarah Jones – Baptised (P) 15th July 1802 “daughter of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.” No baptism record at Llanishen.
Thomas Jones – No baptism record at Penyclawdd. Baptised at Llanishen, 5th July 1802. Buried at Penyclawdd on 20th April 1803 – “Son of Wm & Anne Jones an Infant.”
Thomas Jones – Baptised (P) 18th May 1804 “son of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.” Baptised (L) 20th May 1804.
James Jones – Baptised (P) 18th August 1805 “son of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.” Baptised (L) 19th August 1805.
Ann Jones – Baptised (L) 10th August 1806. Baptised (P) “Anne Jones” 15th August 1807 “Daughter of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.”
John Jones – Baptised (P) 19th August 1809 “son of Wm. & Anne Jones, Langwenddwr.” No baptism record at Llanishen.

William’s wife Anne (nee Powell) died on 24th November 1827 at Tregirog, Llanishen. She was buried on 28th November at Penyclawdd church.

William out-lived his wife by nearly thirty years. He was noted as a “Retired farmer” and “Blind” on the 1851 census at Tregirog, where his son John had taken over farming duties.

He died on 8th December 1856 and is buried with Anne at Penyclawdd.

Maria Jones married Richard Arnold on 28th April 1823 at Llanishen church. They already had a child together who they named Maria Arnold. Maria’s baptism entry at Penyclawdd Church notes: “reputed daughter of Richard Arnold by Maria Jones.” Richard was a “Man servant” from Llanishen.

Richard and Maria moved to Llandenny after their marriage where Richard became a “Farmer” according to baptism records. They had several children:

Anne Arnold (baptised 9th February at Llangovan).
John Arnold (baptised 24th June at Llandenny).
William Arnold (baptised 3rd January 1830 at Llandenny).
Richard Arnold (baptised 1st July 1832 at Llandenny).
Sophia Arnold (baptised 9th November 1834 at Llanishen). By this time Richard and Maria were back living in Llanishen parish – presumably at Llangwendwr.
Thomas Arnold (baptised December 5th at Llanishen) – although born circa 1836.
James Arnold (baptised December 5th at Llanishen).
Robert Arnold. Born in late 1841, although I was not able to find a baptism record – only civil registration records.

I imagine that the family moved to Llangwendwr some time between the birth of Richard and Sophia.

Sadly Sophia died in August 1839, and was buried at Penyclawdd on 28th August of that year. The burial record states that she was aged 7 and from Llangwynder, Llanishen.

Richard and Maria were recorded as living at “Llanishen House” on the 1841 census with their family. This was two properties away (on the enumerator’s route) from Llangwender, where we will find some new tenants. Perhaps they moved somewhere else temporarily for a couple of years from 1840 – or could the enumerator have got the property names muddled up? There is no record of a “Llanishen House” on subsequent census records, although Hilary Whitton believes that this is the same property as Llanishen Court.

Hilary mentioned that a Welsh Newspapers Online search on Llangwender; comes up with several articles, often to do with hounds; it is mentioned with Tregeiriog as two of the largest farms in the area. To find articles about Tregeiriog search on Tregirog (its alternate spelling).

I believe that Richard and Maria must have moved to Maesmawr in 1842. They lived in Glascoed together for nearly 30 years, although you can read more on them on the Maesmawr Farm page.

1840: Llangwender Farm advertises for a new tenant

Monmouthshire Merlin 5^th December 1840

MONMOUTHSHIRE, TO BE LET, AND ENTERED UPON AT CANDLEMAS NEXT, A FARM called LANGWENDWR, situate within a mile and a half of Raglan, containing 201 A. (Acres) 37P. (Perches). A Term will be granted if required, and every reasonable; encoufagement will be afforded to a good tenant. Apply to D. E. PARTRIDGE, Esq., Solicitor, Usk. Usk. Oct.24. 1840.

NOTE: Candlemas is celebrated on the 2^nd February each year – the 40^th day and conclusion of Christmas.

1841: Agricultural labourers in residence.

I’m afraid that I don’t know any more about the residents than the plain facts noted on the 1841 census. The “Y” following their names denotes that they were born in Monmouthshire. There is no occupation listed for William Lee, although I assume that he is a “Ditto” and was also an agricultural labourer. We don’t know who was managing the farm at this point.

1841 Census. 6^th June 1841.

Llangwedor House, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.

George Dobs, 30, Ag. Lab, Y.
William Lee, 15, Y.

1851 census: Thomas Dawes of Longhope

The Dawes family were in residence in 1851, according to the census.

Thomas and his son William Dawes were both born in Longhope, Gloucestershire, a village on the Eastern fringes of the Forest of Dean. Thomas was a widower. Three servants lived with them on the farm. Here are the census details:

1851 Census. 30th March 1851.

Llangwendor, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.

Thomas Dawes, Head, Widr, 60, Farmer of 200 acres, employing 3 labourers. Gloucestershire, Longhope.
William Dawes, Son, U, 24, Farmers son, Gloucestershire, Longhope.
Sarah Evans, Serv, U, 23, House Keeper, N.K.
James Skinner, Serv, Mar, 40, Waggoner, Worcester, Red Mouland (Redmarley?)
Edwin Davis, Serv, U, 15, Errand Boy, Monmouth, Trellick.

Thomas continued to live at Llangwendwr for at least a few more years. I found a report in the Usk Observer (21st July 1855) where he attended a “Rent dinner.” This appears to give us the owner of the farm, a Francis McDonnell and describes the evening’s events.

“Usk Observer 21^st July 1855.

MR McDONNELL’S RENT DINNER.—The half- yearly Rent dinner of Francis McDonnell, Esq was held at the King’s Head inn, Usk, on Monday last. There was a pretty full attendance of the tenants, and amongst the number we observed Messrs. Thos. Evans, Joseph Williams, John Thomas, Henry Nicholas and Richard Pitt of Usk, Mr. Evans, Upper Lancayo Mrs. Evans, Lower Lancayo Mr. Dawe, Llangwender; Mr. W. Davis, Pontypool; Mr. Hopkins, Gellygroes; Messrs. Phillips and Edwards, Old George; etc. A capital dinner was prepared for the occasion, and served up under the superintendence of Mrs. Jones, to the satisfaction of all. Mr. John Thomas, Timber Merchant, took the head of table, and was supported by Mr. Joseph Williams. After the usual loyal toasts had been drank, the health of Mr. McDonnell and family was given by the president, which was unanimosly responded to. The company spent a pleasant evening, and separated early.”

Thomas and William were found on the 1861 census at Lower Dyffryn farm, Grosmont. Thomas was now aged “73”! and was the farmer, whilst his “35 year old” son William had married Mary, a Llandenny girl ten years his junior. William’s recorded birthplace had changed to Newham. They had two daughters. Along with three servants, an older son of Thomas was living on the farm: Thomas C. Dawes, aged 45. This Thomas was married, although he appeared to be away from his family; at least for census night.

Francis and Ann Evans & family

A notice appeared in the Usk Observer on September 3rd 1859, which announced to me at least, the latest tenant of the farm:

“NOTICE.—I hereby give notice, that the Game on LLANGWENDER FARM is strictly preserved, and any person found POACHING or TRESPASSING on the land, will be prosecuted. FRANCIS EVANS.”

The same publication featured an article on March 2nd 1861: a report on a “love ploughing” event. I decided to reproduce it here, since I enjoyed the way that the event was described:

“LLANDENNY.

LOVE PLOUGHING.-Upon a farmer entering on a new farm, it is customary for his neighbours to shew their respect for him, by giving him what is significantly termed a Love plough,” which consists of man, plough, and horses, being sent by each of them on a day set apart for the purpose, which is always looked upon as a season of rejoicing, and is also generally made the occasion for considerable competition between the teams, as to the quantity and quality of the work performed within the day. On Thursday last, this ancient custom was carried into effect, on an extensive scale on Cefntilla and Llanolway farms, in this parish, (lately occupied by Lord Raglan), which has recently come into the hands of Mr. Joseph Frost, of the New house; and certainly if the respect entertained for Mr. Frost, is commensurate with the number of teams placed at his service, his must be an enviable position, for 37 teams came to do him honor. By way of encouragement to the ploughmen, Mr. Frost offered prizes to be competed for, which were awarded as follows:- 1st, £1, William Jones, (son of Mr. Alsop Jones, the Cayo); 2nd, 10s., Thomas Cole, (servant to Mr. Evans, Llangwender). 3rd, 5s., to servant to Mr. William Blower, Little Castle. In the evening a most substantial dinner was provided at Llanolway House, to which between 40 and 50 highly respectable farmers from the surrounding country, sat down, and were unanimous in wishing “Success to Mr. Frost in his new undertaking.””

The 1861 census, taken on the night of 30th March. provides further details of the Evans family and also the champion “love ploughman!” Thomas Cole amongst the servants.

Llangwendor Farm, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.

Francis Evans, Head, Mar, 33, Farmer of 200 acres Emp 4 Lab. Monmouth, Llantrissent.
Ann Evans, Wife, Mar, 25, Farmers Wife, Monmouth, Llanover.
John T. Evans, Son, 5, Farmer’s son, Monmouth, Gwehelog.
William Evans, Son, 2, Farmer’s son, Monmouth, Lanishen.
Francis R. Evans, Son, 1 mth, Farmer’s son, Monmouth, Lanishen.
Eliza Williams, Servant, 20, House Maid, Monmouth, Llanishen.
Eliza Seaborn, Servant, 13, House Maid, Monmouth, Raglan.
Thomas Cole, Servant, 33, Carter, Monmouth, Llandenny.
Thomas Jenkins, Servant, 13 Carter, Monmouth, Llangovan.

The ages of Francis and Ann’s children seem to show that they took over the running of Llangwendwr somewhere between 1856 and 1859.

Sadly, the Evans family were to leave the farm within a year or so since the November 8th edition of the Usk Observer published this sad news:

“DEATHS

At Llangwender farm, Llanishen, Nov. 3, Mr Francis Evans, after a long and painful illness, borne with Christian resignation, aged 34 years. Deceased was much respected by numerous friends and relatives.”

William Charles

The farm’s stock was put up for auction on 28th October, according to the Usk Observer’s 17th October edition. This gives us an insight into the type of farm that Llangwendwr had been under the Evans family’s stewardship:

Llangwender Farm, Parish of Llanishen. Important Sale of 40 Head of well-bred Cattle, 40 Fat Sheep, 10 Horses and Colts, 12 Store Pigs, and a general assortment of Implements. WILLIAM J. HANDS will have the pleasure of submitting to PUBLIC COMPETITION, at the above farm, On Wednesday, the 28th day of October, at 12 o’clock, the whole of the valuable and well selected STOCK of the late Mr. FRANCIS EVANS. Particulars and order of sale will be seen in Catalogues, which are in preparation, and may be had on application to W. J. H., at his office, Sydenham House, High Street, Abergavenny. Llangwender farm is within one mile of the Raglan Road station, 4 miles from Usk, and 8 from Monmouth. Luncheon at 12 o’clock business will commence at one o’clock. Oct. 2, 1863.

The remaining stock was re-advertised for auction in the Usk Observer (17^th Feb 1864), with the auction to take place on 14^th March 1864: “ Sale of FAT CATTLE, Two-year-old STEERS, HORSES, PIGS, IMPLEMENTS, a general assortment of DAIRY & BREWING REQUISITES also a portion of HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE.”

It appears that William Charles and family were the next residents. He was reported to have seconded a motion at a meeting in October 1864 – with his name William Charles, Llangwender, recorded.

Usk Observer, July 18^th 1865.

TRELLECK. PETTY SESSIONS, TUESDAY, before Colonel ROOKE and Capt. DAVIES.

Charles Davies was charged by William Charles, of Llangwender, Llanishen, with leaving his service without notice. Case dismissed.

We discover a little of William’s political leanings from the following article:

Usk Observer September 19^th 1868.

COLONEL CLIFFORD’S SUPPORTERS AT USK.

On Friday last, at the Town-hal!, Usk, Colonel Clifford addressed the electors of the polling districts of Usk and Tredunnoc, as a candidate for the county for the Liberal constituency. The chair was taken by Wm. Addams ‘Williams, Esq., and among those present we observed—Major Relph, the Revs. G. Thomas and D. Morgan, Col. Lyne, Messrs. Hose (Newport), Williams (Grwernesney), William Charles (Llangwender), William Jones, James Jones, Wm. Thomas, B. Weare, J. Nicholas. S. Lucas, Henry Jenkins, Wheeler, sen., Wheeler, jun., Lysond Williams, jun., Blackwell, W. Hughes, J. Parker, J. Thomas (Beaufort), J. Thomas (Britannia), R. Satchell, &c., &c.

A death was reported in the Usk Observer on April 16^th 1870. The death was of Ann’s father, Benjamin. Ann (nee Williams) had been baptised 10th July 1825 at Goytre Parish Church, Monmouthshire – the daughter of Benjamin and Susannah Williams. .

DEATHS.

At Llangwendwr, near Usk, April 8th, of bronchitis, Mr. Benjamin Williams, aged 85 years.

1871 Census. Llangwender, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.

William Charles, Head, Mar, 49, Farmer 200 Acres. Mon. Llantilio.
Ann Charles, Wife, Mar, 46, Mon. Goitrey.
Susan Charles, Daug, Unmar, 20, Farmer’s Daughter. Mon, Llangattock.
John B. Charles, Son, Unmar, 16, Farmer’s Son, Mon, Penrose.
Maggie Charles, Daug, Unmar, 14, Farmer’s Daughter, Mon, Penrose.
William Charles, Son, 12, Farmer’s son, Mon, Penrose.
David W. Charles, Son, 9, Farmer’s son, Mon, Penrose.
Frank V.J. Charles, Son, 7 Farmer’s son, Mon, Penrose.
Sarah Gertrude Charles, Daug, 4, Farmer’s Daur, Mon, Lanishen.

Usk Observer. November 10^th 1871.

At Raglan Farmer’s club, John Charles, son of Mr. William Charles, Llangwender won second prize in a ploughing competition.

I always enjoy reading the words of the people who we focus upon – and here are William’s words, recorded in a letter that he wrote to the Usk Observer, which was published on December 30^th 1871.

THE MISDOINGS AT MONMOUTH UNION. To the Editor of the County Observer.

SIR,-As a member of the Board of Guardians of the above Union, I feel indebted to you and those of your contemporaries who reported the proceedings before the committee of inspection on Saturday, the 15th instant. The taxpayers and the public of the Union District, being deeply concerned in the matter of those proceedings, must also feel great satisfaction at the fact of such an enquiry being made public; and there can be but little doubt that the attempt of certain gentlemen of the committee to exclude the representatives of the press from the room during the enquiry will be otherwise appreciated by my brother guardians as well as by the public.

The disclosures made before the committee, to say the least of them, call for further and immediate enquiry, and in common fairness to all parties interested such further enquiry ought to be insisted upon. I do not wish to calI in question the wisdom or the impartiality of the gentlemen constituting the committee of inspection but the fact is patent that the reading of the newspaper report of the proceedings forces upon the minds of persons outside the committee-room an opposite conclusion as to the guilt of the Master, Matron, and Governess of the Union, than that said to be arrived at by the committee of inspection, viz., “not proven.”

It is questionable whether any resolution was passed by the committee to the effect that the charges brought against the said officials were not proven.” I am informed on very creditable authority that there was not, though such was proposed, as it fell through for want of a seconder. If in truth the committee did give a verdict of 11 not proven,” I must say the wording is rather ambiguous and open to suspicion. It. would lie weil to know, then, if this verdict was the unanimous opinion of the committee, or if it was passed by a section of the committee only, and after some of the members of it had left the room.

Another, and not the least important point is, that if the charges preferred against these officials of the Union are true, then the committee of inspection must have been guilty of great dereliction of duty, or such abuses could not have been perpetrated. The inspection of the workhouse not being thorough and efficient, those en. trusted with that office have, by their neglect, contributed indirectly to the misdoings of the officials named. Under these circumstances a verdict of “not proven is not so much to be wondered at, inasmuch as a verdict to the contrary from the committee would have been a vote of censure upon themselves.

In conclusion, I trust that what has been brought to light in the Monmouth Workhouse will induce greater vigilence on the part of the inspectors for the future, and serve as a useful lesson to them and those who may succeed them, and therefore tending to the ultimate benefit of the Union,

I am, Sir, yours, &c.,

WILLIAM CHARLES. Llangwender, Dec. 27, 1871.

William and Ann left the farm in 1876: This newspaper advertisement provides us with the evidence:

Usk Observer. April 8^th 1876.

LLANGWENDER FARM, LLANISHEN, One mile from Raglan Road Railway Station, 4 miles from Usk, and 8 miles from Monmouth. Large and important sale of 27 well-bred Hereford cattle, 51 sheep, 11 cart and nag horses and colts. A valuable assortment of agricultural implements, 200 gallons of prime cider, a portion of household furniture, and other valuable effects the property of Mr WILLIAM CHARLES (who is leaving the farm) and which MR MATTHEW JONES has been favoured with instructions to SELL BY AUCTION, On Wednesday, the 19th day of April, 1876. Luncheon at Eleven, Sale punctually at half. past Twelve o’clock. Dated Auctioneer’s Offices, Monmouth, March, 1876.

A brief stay: "W. Watkins"

If it wasn’t for the following newspaper article, I wouldn’t have realised that “W. Watkins” was a tenant at the farm. They sound like a good employer, but didn’t stay long though!

Usk Observer. April 21^st 1877.

WANTED,—on Llangwendwr Farm, an outdoor FARM LABOURER. Good wages, and Cottage found if required. — Apply, W. WATKINS, Llangwendwr, near Raglan.

By October 1878, the farm stock was up for Auction again:

Usk Observer. October 5^th 1878.

“LLANGWENDWR FARM, NEAR RAGLAN, Seven miles distant from Monmouth, 5 miles from Usk, and 2 from Raglan, one mile from Llandenny Railway Station. IMPORTANT SALE OF STOCK. VSR. JAMES STRAKER will SELL BY AUCTION, on the above premises, On TUESDAY, the 8th October, 1878,

The whole of the LIVE AND DEAD FARMING STOCK, IMPLEMENTS OF HUSBANDRY, CORN, HAY, FRUIT, ROOTS, POULTRY, DAIRY UTENSILS, AND AND OT HER EFFECTS, Comprising: HORSES.—Dark Brown Cart Mare, “Birt,” 9 years, in foal; Dark Brown Cart Horse, “Bowler,” rising 4 years Bay Entire Cart Horse, “Norman,” 9 years, by Brecon Hero; Brown Cob Mare, Polly,” aged Brown Yearling Cart Colt Brown Yearling Cob Filly. CATTLE.-Three Cows in milk, and in Calf; 2 two-year-old Heifers in Calf; 2 two-year-old Steers; 3 Yearling Steers 4 Yearling Heifers.

PIGS.-Ten strong Store Pigs; Sow in farrow.

POULTRY.—A quantity of Geese, Ducks, and Fowls. CROPS.—The produce of 21 Acres of Wheat; the produce of 14 Acres Oats; 4 Acres Barley; 4 Acres Peas, with the straw and haulm to go off; 4 Acres Swedes 8 Ricks of Hay and Clover, con- taining about 100 tons, to go off.

IMPLEMENTS (all nearly new.)-Broad wheel Waggon, complete, Narrow Wheel Ditto; Broad Wheel Cart; Narrow Wheel Ditto Market Trap 3 Wheel Ploughs; Swing Plough; 2 pairs Iron Harrows; Iron Land Scuffler Turnip Ditto Cambridge Roller (nearly new); Horse Rake (Ransome) Mowing Machine (Wood); Chaff Engine Banbury Five Sets Long Harness One Set Short Ditto; 2 Sets G.O. Ditto; Set of Gig ditto; 12 Cow-ties; Long and Short Ladder; Scythes and Cradle Pikes; Rakes Sundry Small Tools 3 Cider Hogsheads; 2 Barrels; Wheelbarrow; Quantity of Cider Fiuit; also the usual Assortment of Dairy Utensils and other items.

Luncheon at 11; Sale to commence at 12 o’clock.

A punctual attendance is particularly requested. Auction and Estate Agency Offices, 2, Tiverton-place, Abergavenny.

Two months’ credit will be allowed for the Hay and Corn.”

John & Arabella Lewis and family

Presumably the next residents were the Lewis family. John Lewis (“of Llanishen”) and Arabella Taylor (“of Tintern”) had married at Tintern Parva on 12th December 1878.

John was the son of John Lewis, a farmer, and Arabella the daughter of James Taylor (a farmer).

The censuses tell some of their story – they stayed at the farm for quite a number of years.

1881 Census, April 3^rd 1881.

Llangwendwr, Llanishen, Monmouthshire

John Lewis, Head, Mar, 29, Farmer of 200 Acres, Monmouth, Raglan.
Arabella Lewis, Wife, Mar, 31, Gloucester, Brooking. (NOTE: Arabella was baptised in Rockhampton, Gloucestershire).
Emily M. Lewis, Daur, 1, Monmouth, Llanishen.
William Williams, Serv, Unmar, 27, Not known.
William Walker, Serv, Unmar, 15, Monmouth, Llanishen.
Annie Elliott, Serv, Unmar, 15, Monmouth, Trelleck.

1891 Census, 5^th April 1891

Llangwender Farm, Llanishen, Monmouthshire

John Lewis, Head, Mar, 40, Farmer, Employer, Ragland, Monmouthshire
Arabella Lewis, Wife, Mar, 40, Brovent, Glostershire. (NOTE: Arabella was baptised in Rockhampton, Gloucestershire).
Emily Mary Lewis, daughter, 11, Scholar, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.
Kate Arabella Lewis, daughter, 9, Scholar, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.#
Annie Louisa Lewis, Lewis, daughter, 7, Scholar, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.
John L. Lewis, son, 5, Scholar, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.
Bessie Lewis, niece, single, 16, Farmer’s daughter, Llanishen, Monmouthshire.
Bessie Hopkins, Serv, single, 13, Domestick serv., Worker, Newchurch, Monmouthshire
John Blake, Serv, Single, 20, Farm servant, Worker, Llangovan, Monmouthshire
Aurtha (Arthur?) Whiteman, Single, 19, Farm servant, Worker, Stroud, Gloucestershire.

This may or may not have affected the tenancy of the farm, although Llangwendwr was advertised for sale by Auction later in 1891. Mr John Lewis was named as a “yearly tenant.”

SOUTH WALES DAILY NEWS. October 20^th 1891.

MONMOUTHSHIRE. NEAR ABERGAVENNY and RAGLAN.

ATTRACTIVE RESIDENTAL ESTATE and FARMS FOR SALE. MESSRS STRAKER and SON will SELL by AUCTION, at the Angel Hotel, Abergavenny, on THURSDAY, October 22nd, 1891, at two for three o’clock in the afternoon, subject to conditions of sale, in the first instance in one lot, and if not sold then in six convenient lots, all that valuable and desirable FREEHOLD ESTATE, situate in the parishes of Llanvair Kilgeddin, Goytrey and Llanover, in the county of Monmouth, about five miles distant from Abergavenny, six miles distant from Pontypool, six miles from Raglan, ? mile from Nantyderry Railway Station (G.W.R.), and 1 mile from the Association Waters of the far-famed salmon and trout river Usk, and known as the LLANVAIR GRANGE ESTATE

Six other lots were listed first, then…

LOT 7.—Also all that compact FARM, situate in the parishes of Llanishen, Llangovan, and Llandenny, in the county of Monmouth, known as “Llangwendwr Farm,” and containing an area of about 201a. Or. 18p., the principal portion of which is rich and productive meadow and pasture, about 51 acres only being arable land, with capital Farmhouse and all necessary Out-buildings, the whole being in the occupation of Mr John Lewis, as yearly tenant. This estate is within about 5 miles of Usk, 8 from Monmouth, 10 from Chepstow, and 13 from Pontypool and Abergavenny, all of which are excellent market towns. For printed particulars, plans and conditions of sale, with cards to view, apply to the Auctioneers, Abergavenny or to Messrs GABB & WALFORD. 5627 Solicitors, Abergavenny. CASTLE HOTEL, TREDEGAR.

I do not know exactly when the Lewis family left Llangwendwr, although we next find the Lewis family farming at Kingshill, Hinton, Gloucestershire on the 1901 census.

Thomas & Margaret James

The 1901 census shows a married man, Thomas James, Living at Llangwender, with a Boarder named Mrs Lewis.

1901 Census. 31^st March 1901.

Llangwenwr Farm, Llanishen, Monmouthshire

Thomas James, Head, M, 28, Farm Bailiff, Worker, Carmarthenshire. Speaks both English and Welsh.
Leonia? Lewis, Border, Wid, 74, Retired farmer Living on own Means, Monmouthshire, English speaker.

Also in 1901 Thomas’ wife, Margaret was recorded as living in Usk with her parents on census night.

Further research shows that Thomas’ wife, Margaret was staying nearby with her elderly parents, at Usk. I presume that this was in a Caring capacity, since Margaret’s mother, Margaret Spencer died a year later and was buried on July 5^th 1902 at Usk Parish Church. Margaret’s father, John, was blind.

1901 Census.

Jubilee Villas, Chepstow Road, Usk.

Margaret A. James, Head, 25, Glam, Llancarfan. English speaker.
John Spencer, Father, M, 78, Retired Farmer. Glam, St. Mary Church, Blind. Speaks both English and Welsh.
Margaret Spencer, Mother, M, 72, Glam, Pendoylan, Speaks both English and Welsh.

This next piece of evidence is the one that joined up all the pieces for me. The report on the death of Margaret’s father, John.

Usk Observer. November 8^th 1902.

USK

SUDDEN DEATH.—We regret to learn of the death of Mr John Spencer, who died suddenly at the residence of his son-in-law and daughter |Mr and Mrs James], at Llangwender, near Raglan. The deceased, who was over 80 years of age and was a capable conversationalist, especially on matters appertaining to agriculture, had been for many years afflicted with blindness. He survived his wife but a few months. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved relatives.

His burial record records these details:

John Spencer, Llangwender, Llanishen, Mon. Nov 8^th 1902. 80 yrs.

I haven’t yet been able to find out what happened to Thomas and Margaret James. Is anybody able to help? They had certainly left the farm by the time of the next census, 1911.

Thomas Kirk & Sarah Ann Peacock

The 1911 census introduces us to the Peacock family and their servant, Elizabeth Gower:

1911 Census, Llangwena, Llandenny, Usk, Mon.

Thomas Kirk Peacock, Head, 67, Married, Farm Bailiff, Worker, Kirby Fleetham, Yorkshire. English speaker.
Sarah Annie Peacock, Wife, 72, Married. 23 years. No children. Machen, Monmouthshire. Both English and Welsh spoken.
Elizabeth Gower, Help, 39, Single, General Help (domestic), Worker, Kidwelly, Carmarthen, Both English and Welsh spoken.

Thomas and Sarah (nee Thompson) had married in Machen Parish Church, Monmouthshire on 23rd July 1887. This was their first marriage, although it produced no children.

Thomas was living in Llanvihangel Roggiet (close to Caldicot on the Severn Estuary) at the time and was a Farmer, as his father Matthew Peacock had been before him. Thomas was a Yorkshireman from Kirkby Fleetham, a village that lies in between Catterick and Northallerton.

Sarah was living in Machen and was the daughter of a Schoolmaster, Francis Thompson.

After retiring from farming in 1912 or 1913, the Peacock family moved away to Penarth. They were living at 12 Church Road, Penarth at the time of the 1921 census. The property is a decent size and it appears that they let out furnished rooms to another family, and employed a Housekeeper. I believe that they may well have owned the property, since on Thomas’ burial records at Penarth, his address was given as “Machen, Church Road” – seemingly named by the couple after Sarah’s place of birth.

Thomas died on 12th April 1922 at Penarth and left £235 9 shillings and sixpence to his widow, Sarah Ann Peacock.

Sarah lived to a good age, being buried with her husband on April 11th 1936, at St. Augustine’s churchyard, Penarth at the age of 97.

I did not expect to find out much more about their lives, although on a whim decided to look up the newspapers section on findmypast.co.uk and found a wonderful article, where Sarah was interviewed by the Western Mail in 1930, having reached the great age of 91. I hope you enjoy the article as much as I did. It adds so much flavour (and a full back-story) to Sarah Ann’s life.

Western Mail, January 29, 1930

WOMAN OF 91 WHO WANTS TO FLY

Penarth Nonagenarian's Two Wishes.

“I should like to hear a talkie, also to experience a trip in an aeroplane.” These are the two wishes of Mrs. Sarah Ann Peacock, of Church-road, Penarth, who celebrated her 91st birthday on Tuesday.

Mrs Peacock is able to recall the development of Penarth and remembers the time when Plassey-street was the main thoroughfare. At that time, she stated, there was only a farm and two thatched cottages between Plassey-street and the foreshore. She also recalls the time when the railway was commenced between Newport and Cardiff.

Enjoying the best of health, Mrs. Peacock conducts her own household affairs, and enjoys a good game of bridge and chess. She takes a keen interest in the topics of the day, having at least four newspapers daily, also weekly periodicals and Sunday papers.

Mrs. Peacock is the onjly daughter of the late Mr. Francis Thompson, of the Machen Schools, who was tutor to the Tredegar family at Ruperra Castle for many years, where she was also governess in mathematics for a short period. She married Thomas Kirk Peacock, bailiff of the castle for nineteen years. Upon their marriage she took up farming, but for the past eighteen years Mrs. Peacock has resided at Penarth, where she has made many friends.

Mrs. Peacock, who has no family, is a descendant of a long-lived family, her father reaching the ago of 93 and her grandfather, 96. Among the many letters of congratulations received by her was one from her adopted nephew, Sir Thomas Bowater, ex-Lord Mayor of London.

Sarah Peacock's obituary

Western Mail, Thursday April 9, 1936.

MRS S.A. PEACOCK, PENARTH

Mrs. Sarah Anne Peacock, Church-road, Penarth, died on Wednesday aged 97.

She was the widow of Mr. Thomas Kirk Peacock, who for many years served as bailiff under the late Col. Fred C. Morgan, of Ruperra Castle.

William & Elizabeth Rogers and their daughter,Violet.

The final residents I found were the Rogers family.

William Rogers, was from Radnorshire and had married Elizabeth Tabitha Emily Mary Ann Jones on February 25^th 1902 at St. George’s church, Tredegar, Monmouthshire. They were living in Dukestown, Tredegar at the time of marriage. William’s father was named Benjamin, a Farm labourer. Elizabeth’s father was Albert Jones, a Collier. Elizabeth had been born in the Hendon registration district of London on 30th January 1881.

On the 1901 census, William had been living in Herefordshire with his mother.

By 1911, William and Elizabeth were living a couple of miles west of Monmouth, at Dingestow Mill House, Wonastow. William was employed as a “cowman.”

They had two Herefordshire born daughters at the time, Elizabeth Mary aged 8, who had been born at Eaton Bishop and Ethel Daisy, aged 6 who had been born at Withington, to the east of Hereford.

The 1921 census record, taken on 19th June of that year, provides us with the following information:

1921 Census, 19^th June 1921.

Llangwenda, Llandenny, Near Usk.

William Rogers, Head, 53 yrs and 9 mths, Male, Married, Penybont, Radnorshire. Cowman, employed by Mr E.J. Lennell of Llanishen Court, At home, Household. English speaker.
T.E.M.A. Rogers, Wife, 40 yrs and 6 mths, Female, Married. Middlesex. Home Duties. At Home, English Speaker.
Violet R. Rogers, Daughter, 9 yrs and 5 mths, Female, Both parents alive, Wonastow, Monmouthshire, Whole time at school. English Speaker.
Elizabeth A. Jones, Visitor, 74 yrs and 6 mths, Female, Widow, Presteign, Radnorshire. Home Duties. English Speaker.
Martha Pugh, Visitor, 51 yrs and 3 mths, Female, Single, Crwliant?, Breconshire. Housekeeper, No fixed house, English Speaker.

I found Elizabeth, now a widow, living at Yew Tree Cottage, Redwick, Monmouthshire on 29th September 1939, courtesy of the 1939 National Register record.

She was living with her daughter Violet Rose (now James), born January 9th 1912 and son-in-law, David Charles James, born March 11th 1906.

Elizabeth was by now a widow.

So this is where we leave the stories of the residents of Llangwendwr farm for now.

I know that the Farm is now a Livery yard – if you’re interested in finding out more about their present day business, here is a link to Llangwendr Livery’s Facebook page. They have excellent Google reviews!

Records

Censuses

1841 – George Dobs and William Lee.
1851 – Thomas Dawes.
1861 – Francis & Ann Evans and family.
1871 – William & Ann Charles and family.
1881 – John & Arabella Lewis and family
1891 –John & Arabella Lewis and family,
1901 – Thomas James.
1911 – Thomas & Sarah Peacock.
1921 – William & Elizabeth Rogers and daughter Violet.