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I
j(JU
>gle
£Hfrurviof
l^xittcetiin %xbretmt}s.
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Jir4h»«I*fiia l^ambrrnsis.
JOURNAL
OF THM
Cntnhrian lrr|Hlogirnl l00oriation.
^ammgp'
YifCD^BiamyVJFJjgk
VOL. VII. SIXTH SERIES.
LONDON:
CHAS. J. CLARK, 65, CHANCERY LANE, W.C.
1907.
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(RECAP)
LONDON ;
BBDFORD PBBSS, 20 AND 21, BBDFORDISURY, W.O.
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CONTENTS.
The Town of Holt, in County Denbigh •
Tre'r Ceiri . . . •
Report on the Excavations carried ont at
TreV Ceiri in 1906 .
PAGS
A. N. Palmer 1
W* Boyd Dawkins 35
Llansaint ....
Epigraphic Notes ....
Cambrian Archseological Association :
Sixtieth Annual Meeting
Report on the Excavations at Coelbren .
Roman Remains at Cwmbrwyn, Carmar-
thenshire ....
Geological Notes on Roman Remains at
Cwmbrwyn, Carmarthenshire
Cambrian Archsaological Association :
Routes of the Excursions
Notes on Eglwys Cymmyn, Parc-y-Ceryg
Sanctaidd, and Llandawke
Carmarthen in Early Norman Times
The Capel Mair Stone
The Town of Holt, in County Denbigh :
its Castle, Church, Franchise, and
Demesne ....
St. Peter's Church, Carmarthen .
Harold Hughes 88
Rev. G. E. Evans 63
John Rhys 66
108
Col. W. LI. Morgan 129
John Ward 175
T. C. Cantrill 209
213
G. G. T. Treherne 257
J.E.Lloyd 281
John Rhys 298
A N. Palmer 311
T. E. Brigstocke 335
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IV CONTENTS.
PAQK
Notes on the East Window of the Church
of All Saints, Gresford . Rev. E. A. Fishboume 352
The Early Settlers of Carmarthen Professor An wyl 361
The Town of Holt, in Connty Denbigh :
its Castle, Church, Franchise, and
Demesne . . . A. N. Palmer 389
Rbviiws ....... 254, 435
Abohjeologioal Notes and Qdrribs . . 358,437
Obituary :
J. Romilly Allen, P.S.A. .... 441
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SIXTH SERIES.— VOL VII, PART /.
JANUARY, 1907.
THE TOWN OF HOLT, IN COUNTY
DENBIGH :
ITS CASTLE, CHURCH, FRANCHISE: AND DEMESNE.
Bt ALFRED NEOBARD PALMER
(Continued from p. 240.)
CHAPTER IL— SECTION I.
The Lords and Charter of Holt.
It has been said already that at the time when Domesday
Booh was compiled, the site of Holt, with the "manors*'
of Gresford, Allington, Hoseley, Sutton, and Eyton,
were entered under the Cheshire hundred of "Exestan."
They had then long been English, as the names of
nearly all the townships within the area testify, al-
though it does not follow that the underlying Welsh
population had been displaced. But soon alter Domes-
day ^ this district became annexed to the principality of
Powys, being included in the new commote of Merf'ord
(which, with that of Wrexham, was known in English
as " Bromfield"), and the very lords of land became
Welsh.^ We have to assume that the newly-formed
commote (cymwd) or rhaglotry was Welsh, not in lan-
guage only, but in customs, tenures, and feeling, with
1 I have dealt wiih this question at length in my Huf-nr^ of the
Townships of the Old Parish of Gresford,
^a SBB., VOL. VUf I
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2 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
an increasing tendency, however, aftei^ a while, to
imitate and adopt English customs and methods of
government. Still, we must believe that the new
oommote of the early twelfth century starii^d as a
fully-fledged organized Welsh community.
But, perhaps, before we go any[ further, it may be well
to intimate tnat Bromfield, having become two Welsh
commotes (those of Merford and Wrexham),^ did not
remain continuously in the possession of the Princes of
Powys. The Earls of Chester kept alive their claim to
the district, and, according to the " Chronicle of St.
Werburgh," Earl Hugh Cy veilioc " took the whole of
Bromfield on Whit Monday, June 13th, 1177" : a state-
ment which shows, at any rate, that he did not hold it
before. Mr. J. E. Lloyd, M.A., of Bangor, also calls my
attention to the fact that in the seventh year of
Henry II (1101), under "the land of the Earl of
Chester," are mentioned ** Hodesleu" (Hoseley) and the
" Castellum de Wristlesha" (castle of Wrexham).^ The
^ There is plenty of other evidenoo which might be offered in
proof of the statement that " BromBeld," roughly speaking, desig-
nated the commotes of Wrexham and Merford, but the following
extract from the Thirty-Sixth Annual Report of the Deputy -Keeper of
tlie Public Records must here suffice :— "On 18 Feb., 139 J, Richard II
issued a writ to the Justice of BromBeld and Yale, for delivery to
John Hope, of the office of Serjpant of the Peace, as well within the
raglory [rhaglotry], courts, and bailiwicks of Wrexham and Mer-
ford, within the lordship of Brom6eld, as in the raglory, courts, and
bailiwick of Yale, which are called the office of Pensithith [Penceis-
iaeth p]. Here the two commotes, or rhaglotries, of Wrexham and
Merford, each with its courts, etc., are said to be in the lordship of
Bromfield."
'-* The entry occurs in Vol. IV of the Pipe Roll Society's publica-
tions, where the account is given thus : —
" Robert' de Monte Alto et Sim' fili' Will'i redd* comp'
In lib'at* Castellanor* de Hodeslea . . xvi/t. xviiix.
Et in lib'at' CastelVi de Wristlesha . . xvi/i. xviii.«<."
And in the next year the entry is "... Castell* de Hodeslea" . . .
and **.... Castellnnor' de Wris . . . ." So that there were at
this time not only castles at Wrexham and Hoseley, but mention
was made of castellans or castle-keepers at each place. Whether
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IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 3
explanation of this seems to be that the Welsh were
not left undisturbed ; and Bromfield, after being inter-
mittently under the Earls of Chester and Princes of
Powys, was in all probability afterwards formally ceded
to the last named, in return for the help which they
often rendered to the English king against other
Welsh princes. Certain it is, that Bromfield was a part
of Powys Fadog throughout the greater part of the
twelfth and thirteenth centuries, and that its popula-
tion was Welsh.
To this must be added that when Bromfield came
under the lordship of the Warrennes, the commote of
Yale was added to it. This is necessary to be said, so
that the phrase "lord of Bromfield and Yale" may be
intelligible. It also remains to be remarked that the
Welsh organization of the three commotes (Merford,
Wrexham, and Yale) constituting the new Anglo-
Norman lordship, with the officials, customs, and dues
of the same, continued long after those commotes were
enclosed, so to say, in a feudal shell. Except the
newly-founded town of Holt and its franchise, the
whole of the chapelry of the same — Hewlington and
" the five townships of Isycoed"* — was subject to this
organization and to these customs.
The proof of the statements made in the preceding
paragraph is partly to be found in the recoras* of the
proceedings of the court of the bailiwick of Wrexham,
which for the years 1339 and 1340 have been preserved.
The word " bailiwick" here does not denote merely the
the castellans of the Earl of Chesf^r were in actual continnoas
possession of the two castles named is another qaestion, and in the
text the best explanation which suggests itself is given. The occu-
pation by the Earl's officials appears to have been intermittent.
Hoseley was the twin township of Merford.
^ These five townships were Ridley, Sutton, Datton Difiaeth,
Dntton y brain, and Caeca Dntton.
* These records were copied in 1887, at my suggestion, and the
cost defrayed out of Griffith's Fund, at the disposal of the Corpora-
tion of Wrexham. The transcript has been placed in the Reference
Department of the Wrexham Free Library.
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4 THK TOWN OP HOLT,
town of Wrexham, but the group of townships, forming
a commote, to which Wrexham gave its name. At
this time, it would seem that, although Holt was
already founded, the two great courts, or " tourns,*' of
the year for the whole lordship were held at Wrexham.
On October 24th, 1339, at Wrexham, the community
ot Bromfield and Yale, the burgesses of Villa /leonum
(Holt) and the men of Minora excepted, granted an aid
of 200 marks to the Earl Warrenne ; and if they paid
not, the raglots of Wrexham, Merford, and Yale were
to make a levy on their goods. Here we see that the
three commotes, each with its raglot, are distinguished.
Then, at the great court held at Wrexham in May,
1340, the township of Morton complains that Ken' ap
Codblawd (Cynwrig ap Codblawd, or Codflawd) and
Eign ap Ririt (Einion ap Rhirid) collected eleven
hobetts of oats for the raglot's horse beyond the right
measure ; and the township of '* Dynulle" (Dinhinlle)
complains also that the same two persons, evidently
servants of the raglot, come daily to the houses of the
lord's bondsmen '*ad westand'' — quartering themselves,
that is, as guests upon them, or demanding from them
the due known as " gwestfa." In June, 1340, the
raglot of the bailiwick of Wrexham ** presented" four
pitchforks as " waifs" taken in his bailiwick : they were
valued at 2s., of which 3d, went to the raglot, 4oJ. to
the ringild, and the remaining 17d. to the lord. At
Michaelmas, 1340, Eign ap Mad (Einion ap Madoc)
complains that Adaf apEigno(Addaf ap Einion) took a
cow from him for 12d, yearly, ** in aid of the Welsh
forester," for which he was not liable, and the case was
referred to the council of the lord. These are some of
the Welsh customs from which the charter of Holt
delivered the burgesses of the town.
The two following entries in these records are also
typical. At Wrexham, in November, 1339, Ken' ap
Jor' ap Ken' (Cynwrig ap lorwerth ap Cynwrig) died ;
that is, the fact of his death was presented, and Hova
uad Mad' (Hwfa and Madoc), his sons, came into court,
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IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 5
and sought the heredity of their father, and it was
granted to them, the right of anyone whatever [therein]
being saved, and they pledged a heriot, which was
7s. 6d, Then, in September, 1340, the death of Llewel' ap
Edden Voil (Llewelyn ap Ednyfed Foel), freeman, was
presented, and Griff, Mad', and Llew' (Grifl&th, Madog,
and Llewelyn) sons of the said Llewelyn, as next
heirs, came and sought the heredity of their father, and
it was granted to them, the right of anyone whatever
[therein] being saved, and they pledged a heriot, which
was 7s. 6d.f and made fealty. Here we recognise gavel-
kind in its Welsh form.
I have also seen the accounts of Richard de Parys
from Michaelmas, 1377, to Michaelmas, 1378; and
herein he mentions the sum of £10, at which the issues
of the custom of " amobr" in Bromfield and Yale were
farmed yearly to John Wilde and Morgan le Yonge.
Add to all this that the names of freemen, as well
as of bondsmen, in Bromfield conformed in 1339 and
1340 almost exclusively to the Welsh type of nomen-
clature.
Thus, if about fifty years after Bromfield came into
the possession of the Warrennes, it was so predomi-
nantly Welsh in custom, tenure, and in the names of
its inhabitants, the two commotes (Merford and Wrex-
ham) which composed it must have been still more
Welsh in the respects named when the Warrennes
acquired them, and for some time before that date.
And it was in this territory that Holt was founded as
an English town, for English burgesses only, who were
to be free from subjection to Welsh customs.
The commote of Merford, as adjoining Cheshire, and
containing within it the borough of Holt, would in all
probability be the first to yield to English influences;
yet it would seem to have yielded very slowly, and the
evidence of deeds, a critical examination of the pedigrees
of free families, and a careful scrutiny of the relics of
tenure by kindred within it, clearly prove that family
holdings, according to Welsh custom, must have lasted
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6 THE TOWN OF floLt,
there to a very late date. The charter* of Henry VII,
in the twentieth year of his reign, to the tenants of
Bromfield and Yale, assumes the continuance in that
year of the system of Welsh family holdings, as well as
of other Welsh customs and dues, throughout the
lordship. But it was always open to say that, in fact,
this system of tenure by kindreds and these customs
and dues had then fallen into disuse, and that the
charter did but confirm existing facts, recognise
changes which had taken place, and make practices
illegal for which former custom might be pleaded ; or
at best was but a replica for Bromfield and Yale of
charters granted about the same time to other more
distinctively Welsh lordships, wherein such practices
and customs did then actually exist ; and, in short, that
the extreme eastern part of Bromfield, bordering upon
Cheshire, was at the beginning of the sixteenth
century practically Anglicised in the respect named.
But Mr. Edward Owen has unearthed at the Record
Office recently, a survey of Bromfield and Yale, taken in
the twenty-third year of Henry VII, which shows,
among other things, that a portion at least of Allington,
a township adjoining Holt, was still parted into the
*' gavells" \gafaelion) of the sons of Ithel, and a portion
of Sutton Isycoed parted out into the '*gwelys"
(gwelyau) of the sons of Elidur, Ithel ap Eunydd, and
Elidur ap Rhys Sais being the Welshmen who, accord-
ing to tradition, wrested the supremacy of this district
from the Anglo-Normans, and settled in it. A "gafael "
(holding) and a " gwely " (bed) may be taken for our
present purpose as one, and as denoting the holding of
a kindred, subject to Welsh law and custom. We find
Button y brain, moreover, described in the same
survey as " of the progeny of Edonowyn," and read of
the " gavell " of " Madoc ap Gorgene [Gwrgeneu] de
^ A translation of this grant, or charter, was printed in 1885 in
A| pendix IV to mj History of Ancient Tenures of Land in the
Ma7*ches of North Wales, and more recently in vol. xix of F Cymviro*
doi, together with a copy of the Latin text.
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tN COUNTY DENblGti. 7
Hewlyngton," Hewlyngton beiug a part of the present
township of Holt, and Sutton and Dutton within the
old chapelry of the same town. All these places,
moreover, are mentioned as being in the bailiwick of
Merford. This is not the place to comment upon other
statements of the Survey ^ but I may be permitted to
indicate in this brief form the economic condition of the
area adjoining the town of Holt, on its Welsh side, in
the twenty-third year of Henry VII.
Now, let us go back to the time of the last prince of
Powys Fadog, whose castle was Dinas Bran, and to the
circumstances under which Bromfield and Yale, from
being parts of a petty Welsh princedom, became a
lordship marcher, held of the English king.
After the death of Madog ap Grruffydd ap Madog, of
Dinas Bran, who had sworn fealty to the King of
England, Edward I acted on the whole in the most
just fashion, according to his notions of feudal right.
On the 10th December, 1277, the King informed Roger
L'EIstrange that he had appointed Gruffydd ap lorwerth
to keep justice in the lands formerly of Madog of
Bromfield, ** according to the law and custom of those
parts," aiid pay the issues thereof to Margaret, who had
been the wife of the said Madog, for the maintenance
of Llewelyn and Gruffydd, his sons, according to the
counsel of the Bishop of St. Asaph. The King had,
however, already exacted homage from the lads, and
appointed Boger L'Estrange guardian of the lands of
the said Madog of Bromfield, so far as the preservation
of peace and punishment of malefactors were concerned.
And Edwards care of the boys and of their mother
and grandmother extended until January, 12J§, and
doubtless later, when suddenly Llewelyn ap Gruffydd,
Prince of Gwynedd, not without provocation, broke the
truce, and in conjunction with his brother David, the
King's sworn vassal, stormed the castles of Aber-
ystwyth and Hawarden, and attacked those of Rhudd-
lan and Flint.
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triE fOWN OF riOLf,
LATER PRINCES OF POWYS FADOG.
Grufiydd ap Madog ap Gruffydd MaelQr.=T=-Emma Audley.
I III
Madog ap Qniflfydd, of=pMargaret. Llewelyn, Gruffydd Fychau, Owen, a
of Chirk of Yale and clerk ; died
and Nan- Qlyndwrdwy. young,
heudwy.
Bromfield and Dinas
Bran, alias Madog
Fychan ;i died 1277.
Llewelyn. Gruffydd.
Both died young.
* N.B. — This Madog ap Gruffydd was otherwise called in the English rolls not
only " Madoc de Bromfield," but also " Madoc Fychan," or " Madoc Vachan."
Now this last name was opposed utterly to the Welsh system of personal nomen-
clature. And it appears as though the King treated " Vachan" as a sort of sur-
name for the sons of Gruffydd ap Madog : for not merely was Gruffydd ap
Gruffydd so named, which would be usual, but also his brother, Llewelyn ap
Grufl^dd, of Chirk.
The rebellion, in which Llewelyn and Gruffydd,
brothers of Madog of Bromfield, were concerned, failed.
The boys themselves died. It is alleged by late writers
that they were drowned in 1282, under Holt Bridge
(not, probably, then built), by the King's express
orders. But this is one of those stories for which
there is, so far as I can make out, no real evidence.
Certainly, the lads died most opportunely from Edward's
standpoint ; and the King, encouraged by the death
of Llewelyn ap Gruflfydd, and determined on the
settlement of Wales, granted on the 7th October,
1282, to John de Warrenne, Earl of Surrey, the land
of Bromfield and the Castle of Dinas Bran, which
Gruffydd and Llewelyn, sons of Madog Fychan, held
by themselves or their tutors at the beginning of the
war, together with the land of Yale which Gruffydd
Fychan ap Gruffydd, the King's enemy, had held,
reserving the Castle and land of Hope. To Roger
Mortimer, junior, were also granted Chirkland, etc.,
the lands of Llewelyn Fychan, another brother of
Madog ap Gruffydd.
Be it noted that in the grant no other castle than
Dinas Bran is mentioned in the two " lordships," as we
may now call them. There had been, as we have
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m COIfNTY DEN16IOH. 9
seen, castles of some sort at Wrexham and Hoseley
[Merford], but these must have been of little account,
or dismantled, and we do not yet read of any castle
of Holt
John de Warrenne, Earl of Surrey, the first Anglo-
Norman Lord of Bromfield and Yale, sub-granted to
his son, William de Warrenne, for life, the territories
just named, and seisin was delivered to him at Wrex-
ham, on Thursday next after the Feast of St. Peter ad
Vincula,* in the twelfth year of King Edward, 1284.
But this William soon after died, and his father resumed
possession. An inquisition after the death of the said
William was held on Thursday next before the Feast of
St. George,* in the fifteenth year of Edward, 1287, in
which inquisition again no other castle than Dinas
Bran within Bromfield and Yale is named.
John, Earl of Surrey, to whom the lordships in
question were first given, died 27th September, 1304,
and was succeeded by his grandson of the same name,
the third Anglo-Norman Lord of Bromfield and Yale,
if we reckon his father William in the succession.
Mr. Edward Owen has drawn my attention to an
entry on the Patent KoU of 5 Edward II (part 1,
membrane 6), 6th December, 1311, of an inspeximus
and confirmation of a charter (in French), dated the
Vigil of the Nativity of Our Lady [7th September,
1308], by John de Warrenne, Earl of Surrey, granting
in fee to John de Wysham 400 acres of land in the
waste of the land of Bromfeud in the little Hem,
and between the little Hem and Kaemaur, between
Kaemaur and Pulle, between PuUe and Iwen [? Y
Waun] Uchaf and Lidiate [? Llidiart] and the river
Alom, and thence behind the Esk to the little Hem, to
hold by service of a knight's fee, attending twice a
year at the Castle of " Chastellion," finding in time of
war a man-at-arms with a caparisoned horse to remain
in the Castle of " Chastellion " for forty days at his
^ Feast of St. Peter ad Viucula, 1st August.
2 Feast of St. George, 23rd April.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
to Tlifi TOWN Ot HOLt,
expense, and rendering a rent of £10 sterling a year;
and also granting to him the right of fishing at all
seasons of the year in the river Alonn, the witnesses
being William Paynel, Maddock ap Lewelyn, and Roger
de Rysinge, parson of Hawarden, etc. " Chastellyon" is
doubtless Castrum Leonum, Castle Lions, and is pro-
bably intended to represent Holt Castle, but the place-
names occurring in the charter are rather puzzling and
perplexing.
The second John de Warrenne, Lord of Bromfield and
Yale, having no children by his wife, Joan de Barre,
granted on Thursday after the Feast of Saints Peter
and Paul,* 9 Edward II, 1316, all his lands, including
those in Wales, with the castles of Dinas Bran and
Holt, to the King {Powys Fadog, vol. i, p. 365). The
Castle of Holt was thus certainly built before 1316,
and perhaps before 1308; and, as Mr. Edward Owen
tells me, on 1st January, 1319, licence was given by
the King to Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, to hold various
castles, towns, and manors in Yorkshire, the Castles of
" Dynas Bran and Caerleon," Bromfield and Yale, and
other lands in Wales, for the life of John de Warrenne,
Earl of Surrey [Duchy of Lancaster Records — Royal
Charters]. This licence is very interesting, firstly,
because it gives the first record of the connection of the
House of Lancaster with Bromfield and Yale ; and,
next, because it supplies a Welsh name [Caerlleon] for
Holt Castle, the existence of which, in Chapter I of this
history — written before the end of 1905 — I ventured to
doubt.
The said second John de Warrenne married, secondly,
Isabel de Howland, and died 30th June 1347 ; and
there is an account of the expenses of the officers of the
Prince staying at Ciistrum Leonum from 9th July to
6th August, 1347.
Which one of the first three Lords of Bromfield and
Yale, of the Warrenne family, built Castrum Leonum
(Holt Castle) has not been yet ascertained, but the
1 Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, 29th June.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
In county DENBIGH. ll
claim made by the Joneses of Chilton (near Shrewsbury)
that their ancestor possessed a castle at Holt upon the
site of which the Warrennes erected their later building
(see Arch. Camh., vol. 1875, p. 92) cannot be main-
tained. The reasons for placing a castle on this site,
after the grant of Bromfield and Yale to John de
Warrenne, are obvious. Dinas Bran, besides being set
on a high hill and most difficult of access, was out of
the way, so to speak ; whilst Holt Castle, commanding
as it did the chief passage from Cheshire to Bromfield,
was easy of approach ^rom England, and what it lacked
in strength of natural position could easily be made up
artificially by the depth and breadth of its moat, and
the strength of its walls and towers. The only signal
disadvantage of Holt, as the new head of the two
lordships, was its situation on the easternmost border
of Bromfield, and remote therefore from the western
parts of Yale.
The second John de Warrenne of Bromfield dying
without legal issue, his next heir in blood was Richard
Fitzalan, Earl of Arundel, son of his sister Alice de
Warrenne, by her husband Edmund Fitzalan, Earl of
Arundel ; and on the 24th October, 1353, this Richard
Fitzalan did homage to Edward III for Bromfield and
Yale as immediately subject to the Crown, in the
presence and with the consent of Edward, Prince of
Wales. The precise manner in which Richard Fitz-
alan came into possession of the lordship of Brom-
field and Yale is difficult to follow. Certain it is
that the later Fitzalans based their title to Bromfield
and Yale on a fine levied in Easter, 1366, in the Court
of the Lord king, between the aforesaid Richard, Earl
of Arundel, and Alianor [Plantagenet], his wife,
daughter of Henry, late Earl of Lancaster, complainants,
and John, Duke of Lancaster [John of Gaunt] and
others, deforciants, wherein the said Earl Richard re-
cognised " Dynas Bran," Castrum Leonis, and the lands
of Bromfield, Yale, and " Wrightesham" [Wrexham] to
be the right of the said Duke and others, as of the gift
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
12 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
of the said Richard, the said Duke reconveying the
properties to Richard and Alianor, with remainders to
Richard de Arundel, junior, and Elizabeth his wife,
and the heirs of their bodies, the aforesaid lands, held
of the king, being worth 300 marks yearly.
This Richard, Earl of Arundel, who died about
1375, was succeeded by Richard Fitzalan, his son. Earl
of Arundel, the fifth English lord of Brom field and
Yale, who married for his first wife, Elizabeth, daughter
of Humphry, Earl of Hereford and Essex. He had
also Chirkland, and built in 1392 a bridge of stone, one
of the predecessors of the present " Newbridge," " be-
tween the domains of Bromfield and Chirk" [Thirty-
Sixth Annxuil Report of the Deputy-Keeper of Public
Records, Apx. ii), Robert Fagan, the builder of St.
Asaph cathedral church, being the chief mason there.
The second Earl Richard dabbled much in politics, and
was one of the five lords appellant in the " Wonderful
Parliament" of 1388. But his turn came at the end of
1397, when Richard II for a time got the upper hand,
and the Earl was condemned and executed the same
day (21st September, 1397). Then, on 29th September,
1397, the King granted the custody of the bridge and
passage of Holt " between the Duchy of Chester and
Holt Castle" {ibid), to Thomas Cholmondeley,^ the said
Thomas to answer for all the value of the same exceed-
ing five marks yearly. On the same day, he granted
the office of ** porterwyk" of Holt Castle to Ralph atte
Piatt for life ; on the day before, John MoUington and
John Tranmoll (or Tranmore) were appointed foresters
of Bromfield and Yale, to receive the same fees as John
Dekka, late forester there, had ; an office which, the
next year, was given to John Cholmondeley. On the
ninth day of the Parliament of the same year, Castle
Lyons, Bromfield and Yale, Chirk Castle and Chirkland,
^ There must have been some delay in the handing over of this
oflSce to Thomas Cholmondeley, for on the 15th September, 1398,
David Holbach, Vice- Justice of Bromtield and Yale, was ordered to
give livery of the same to the said Thomas.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 13
Oswestry Castle and hundred, and the Eleven Towns to
the said castle belonging, were annexed to the earldom
of the principality of Chester : an enactment which must
soon after have been either abrogated or neglected. And
on 28th January, 139f , William le Scrope, Earl of Wilt-
shire, was granted the office of Justice of Chester and
North Wales, and of all the lordships late of Richard,
Earl of Arundel, in those parts, for life, a grant which
was augmented on 1st July, 1398. Richard II was
himself at Holt Castle on 8th August of the year last
named. But the Earl of Wiltshire did not enjoy his
honours long.
In the first year of Henry IV, Thomas, son of
Richard Fitzalan, junior, Earl of Arundel, was restored
to the estate which his father had formerly held,
becoming Lord of Brom field, Yale, Chirk, Oswestry,
Clun, etc. On the 20th February, 140f, he entered
into an indenture by which he engaged to serve Henry,
Prince of Wales, afterwards Henry V, for life, by sea
and by land, in peace and in war, receiving for such
service 260 marks yearly.
It was this Thomas, Earl of Arundel and Surrey,
who granted to the burgesses of Holt, in November,
1411, a charter known to us by an " Inspeximus," of
the fifth year of Queen Elizabeth. I made in 1892 a
rough transcript (partly in pencil) of this charter, and
intended, as soon as I could command the time, to com-
pare the transcript with the Latin manuscript at Holt.
But no opportunity of doing so presented itself until
the beginning of May, 1905, when it appeared, on
making enquiry, that the charter could nowhere be
found, having somehow disappeared during the three
or four years preceding, and all searches after it have
proved futile. Further, the Record Office was able to
yield no help, Jis Mr. Edward Owen, upon examination
of the Patent and Close Rolls, found that the Holt
charter had not been enrolled. There is a copy of the
charter at the British Museum among the Harleian
MSS. (vol. 2058, ff. 25 and 26) ; but this copy is not
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
14 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
merely a somewhat unsatisfactory one, but the end of
it, about a third or fourth of the whole, is wanting. I
therefore print in Appendix I to this chapter my own
transcript of 1892, furnished with notes. It does not
seem necessary to supply any translation, that made
by Mr. W. H. Hewlett in 1848 (printed in vol. iv,
pp. 927-9 of Report of the Welsh Land Commission)
being adequate. But I scarcely need say how much it
were to be wished that it had been possible to collate
the tmnscript, either with the original, so unfortunately
lo8t» or with a good copy of it.
This charter deserves to be read and carefully con-
sidered. We first notice that, in the preamble, earlier
charters and ratifications are mentioned as having been
granted to the burgesses of Lyons by the ancestors and
progenitors of Earl Thomas. And we may picture to
ourselves the prominent features of the town, franchise,
and lands of Holt in 1411, then differing very little,
doubtless, from the state of things at the time of
its foundation about a century before.
The burgesses, who were English, enjoyed their
liberties in respect of their burgages. Each burgage
stood across its own curtilage,* or courtyard, and had
appurtenant to it certain acres of free land, also, in
many cases, certain other acres of land formerly belong-
ing to the lord 8 demesne. A rent of one shilling each
was due to the lord for every curtilage, for every
burgage built thereon, and for every free acre pertaining
to it, and two shillings were payable for every acre
that had been in demesne. The burgesses were also
subject to " reliefs," or payments of double one year's
rent at their deaths, by their heirs or assigns, and liable
to furnish each one fit man for forty days in the year,
for the defence of the castle in time of war until the
^ Many of these cartilages still remain, especially on the east side
of Chnrch Street, with the cottages within them representing the
old burgages. Some of the free acres, lying in long narrow strips,
are also to be seen west of Vicarage Lane and Green Street, and
north of Wrexham Road. Each acre contained 2,115 statute acres.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 15
town should be walled, and then to find a fit man for
the defence of the town, for every burgage there. They
had also to grind their corn at the lord's mill. The
seneschal, or high steward, held, in the lord's name, two
general courts (courts leet) at Michaelmas and Easter,
to which the burgesses owed suit. There was a com-
mon weekly market on Friday, and there were two
fairs in the year. The burgesses were empowered to
elect yearly one mayor, one coroner, two bailiffs, being
English, and to hold the lord's courts every three
weeks (the courts baron), determining all manner of
transgressions, debts, felonies, covenants, pleas of land,
etc., within the liberty of the town, according to the
common law^ to keep their own prison, which might be,
and I may add was, within the castle, and maintain the
assize of victuals. They had also liberty to make
English burgesses, to have common of pasture at Com-
mon Wood* for their cattle, to possess a common pinfold
or pound, and were to be subject in no way to Welsh
customs, or to the authority of Welsh officials. They
were free to dig coals and turves at Coedpoeth and
Brymbo, and to carry them away for use in their
dwelling-houses. Many of the burgesses had ovens of
their own, and there was the common oven besides,
which was still in existence in 1544, and even as late
as 1620. No one could sell beer that was not brewed
within the said town.
In a writ of livery, dated 26th July, 1416, Thomas,
^ This makes it clear that a Lord Marcher was mach more
dependent than is generally supposed upon the central government.
When he wished to grant a charter, he had to go Brst to the King,
who conld impose any conditions which seemed to him desii*able
and possible. The common law of England was administered at
Holt, and the Lordship Marcher of Bromfield and Yale was always
very mnch subject to the authority of the Crown.
2 The Holt or Wood must have been partially cleared at the
laying out of the town, to make room for the same, to furnish
timber for building the burgages, and to provide good arable land ;
and it would appear by this time that what had been at first reserved
as " The Common Wood" had also been stripped, probably for fuel
and repairs of bouses, and was become a pasture.
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16 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
Earl of Arundel, is said to have died on Monday next
before the Feast of All Saints last past, which means
that he died at the end of October, 1415. He had a
rather troublous time, many of his tenants having
joined Owen Glyndwr, for which tenants he afterwards
procured a pardon from the King. Moreover, it would
seem that in his manor of Hewlington, just outside the
franchise of Holt, now part of the township of the
same, and certainly elsewhere within his lordship of
Bromfield and Yale, the country was wasted by Owen's
adherents, and houses were destroyed; so that the
stewards had to grant the lands to such as would take
them at a lower rent than was formerly paid for the
same (see my Ancient Tenures of Land in the Marches
of North Walesy p. 30).
Altogether, we get the impression that Earl Thomas
was a very fine sort of a man compared with the
ordinary Lord Marcher of the time. He died without
children surviving, and Henry V assigned to his widow,
Beatrix of Portugal, as dower, certain possessions of
the deceased lord. We learn what these lands were
from the inquisition taken in Pentecost week, in the
eighteenth year of Henry VI, after the death of
Beatrix, on 23rd October, 1437. This inquisition has
been printed on pp. 385-388, vol. i, of Powys Fadog,
and I extract therefrom all that concerns Holt, Hew-
lington, and what is now the parish of Isycoed. The
said Countess Beatrix had, among other things, " a
third of the gaol within the Castle Leonis, by the
name of the Castle of Holt, with free ingress and
egress, and safe custody of prisoners, and also the third
part of a house called ' The Chekers,' ^ within the said
Castle; also the third part of all houses outside the
ward of the Castle. Also ... a certain stable for five
horses next the court-house^ and near the ditch of the
said Castle ; also the third part of a garden, together
^ The Exchequer Tower.
2 The Welsh court-hoase, or court-hoQse of the two lordships.
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IN COUNTY DENBIGH, 17
with a pasture called ' LeQuarrer,*^ adjoining the same;
also the manor of Hewlington,^ the ringildry of Iscoed,
and the park of Merselej." The jury declared the
third part of the gaol to be of no value : that is, as
bringing in no income, beyond repairs and custody of
prisoners, and the third part of ** The Cheker '' and of
the houses outside the ward of the Castle, also of no
value. The stable was valued at 6s. 8d. yearly, and
the third part of the garden and the pasture called
'* The Quarrer," Ss. id. yearly, The site of the manor
[house ?J of ** Heulyngton" was worth nothing. The
rents of assize of the same manor were £6, and there
were in it [assigned to the Countess] thirty-two acres
of arable land at 2d. an acre, six acres of meadow at 6d.
an acre, and forty acres of pasture at ^. an acre. The
ringildry of Iscoed was worth £10 yearly, and the
Park of Merseley 10^., beyond the custody and sus-
tenance of the deer.
As Thomas Earl of Arundel died without heirs
male surviving, his estates were divided, subject to
the aforesaid dower, among his three sisters, or among
their children or grandchildren in right of them. These
sisters were Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Mowbray, Duke
of Norfolk ;' Joan, wife of William Beauchamp, Lord
Abergavenny ; and Margaret, wife of Sir Roland
Lenthall, knight, all of whom were still living on the
20th July, 1416. The inheritors of the three portions
after the death of the Countess Beatrix were (1) John
Mowbray, son of Thomas Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk ;
(2) Elizabeth, wife of Sir Edward Neville, and daughter
of Richard, Earl of Worcester, who was the son of
Joan, Lady Abergavenny ; and (3) Edmund, son of
Sir Roland and Margaret Lenthall. I cannot explain
how the Lenthalls dropped out of the inheritance, but
^ The quarry forming part of the moat whence the stone was
hewed to baild the Castle.
^ HewlingtoD will be described in a later chapter.
» This Thomas, Dnke of Norfolk, was appointed, in 1397 or 1398,
Justice of Bromfield, Yale, Chirk, Oswestry, etc., but was soon after
banished from the kingdom.
6th sbr., vol. VII. 3
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
18 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
the lordship of Bromfield and Yale, in which we are
here alone interested, soon became held in two equal
and undivided parts or moieties : one belonging to the
Mowbrays of Norfolk, and the other to the Nevilles,
heirs of the Beauchamps.^ I expect the Mowbrays and
Nevilles bought out the Lenthalls' share.
On the fourth day of the Parliament of 17 Edward IV
(1477), it was declared that Richard, the King's second
son, was to be Duke of York and Norfolk, Earl Marshal,
Warrenne, and Nottingham, and to marry Anne,
daughter and heir to John, late Duke of Norfolk, the
said Anne being then but six years old ; and if she
should die without issue, the said Richard, Duke of
Norfolk, should have, by consent of Elizabeth, Duchess
of Norfolk (widow of the said John, Duke of Norfolk),
** for the terme of his life, the halvendale (that is, the
moiety) of the Castell, Towne, Lordship and Maners
of Dynesbran [of the] Castell, Lordshipp, and Towne
of Lyons [and of] the Lordship, Maners, and Londes of
Heulyngton, Bromefield, Yale, Wraxham, and Almore,
with their appurtenaunces, in the Marche of Wales," etc.
This Richard, Duke of York, was one of the two
young princes afterwards murdered in the Tower. His
marriage was never consummated, and one of the
above-named moieties, or **halvendales," of Bromfield
and Yale became vested in the Crown. At a date
which I cannot specify with precision, the other moiety
— that of the Nevilles — became vested in the Crown
also.
Certain it is that on 10th December, 1484, the whole
of Bromfield and Yale, " late of John, Duke of Norfolk,
and Sir George Neville, knight," was granted by
Richard III to Sir William Stanley (see the grant set
out in Arch. Camb., 1882, pp. 150 and 151).^ Never-
1 On the 14th October, 1467, John, Dake of Norfolk, and Sir
Edward Neville, Lord of Abergavenny, held the two moieties.
^ Many manors or townships are mentioned in this grant, bat
all of them, except " Sonford and Osseleston,*' were in Bromfield
and Tale,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DEHBIOEU 19
theless, in the fourth year of Heniy VII (1488), Sir
William Stanley only petitioned to continue to enjoy
what was practiiidly the moiety of the lordship, although
he seems to have been allowed to retain the whole. Of
this brilliant and unfortunate knight, I shall speak again
presently.
Before proceeding further it may be desirable to
make an additional explanation. The lordship of
Bi'omfield and Yale, as already has been said, was
made up of the commote of Yale and of Bromfield
(Maelor Gymraeg, that is, Welsh Maelor)^ Bromfield
including two commotes — those of Wrexham and Mer-
ford.* Part of Merford was lost temporarily to the
lordship of Hope (Eston or Estyn), and part alienated
permanently thereto. The other two commotes re-
mained intact, except in respect of those lands held in
them by the Abbot of Valle Crucis and the Bishop ot
St. Asaph, and those other lands forming outlying
parts of Maelor Saesneg {English Maelor) and Hope-
dale. And each commote or rhaglotry held at first,
after the grant to John de Warrenne, Earl of Surrey,
its courts within its own bounds. The courts of Mer-
ford* were held at or near Merford (at Yr Orsedd Goch,
that is, Rossett, very probably), those of Wrexham at
Wrexham, and those of Yale at some spot within
Yale. This certainly appears to have been the case
in 1339 and 1340. But by 1467 (see Record of
^ In the commote of Wrexham, Valle Crucis had that part of
Wrexham called Wrexham Abbot, and that part of Stansty called
Stansty Abbatia. The extensive lauds in Tale belonging to the
Abbej need not be here enumerated. John L'Estrange held in
1386, as lord of Maelor Saesneg, besides Abenbary Feohan and a
part of Erbistock (both of which have only been attached to Brom-
field in onr own time) " the town of Button." The townships of
Merford and Hoseley were annexed to Flintshire in the thirty-third
year of Henry VIII. A part of the township of Bodidris belongs
to Maelor Saesneg and the county of Flint; and in Yale is ths
manor of Llandegla, which belonged to the bishopric of St. Asaph.
^ It must be remembered that in both these cases I am speaking
of eommote, not of toumship or manor courts, as is explained at the
end of the paragraph.
2»
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
20 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
Proceedings of the Lordship of Bromfield and Yale,
printed in ArehoBologia Cambrensis, 1847 and 1848)
all general enquiries were held, at any rate, at " the
common place next Castrum Leonis," that is to say,
at the Welsh court-house in the yard of Holt Castle ;
and I believe that the ordinary courts, namely, those
two courts of the year afterwards called ''courts
leet" of the three commotes, were kept there also,
thouqfh perhaps at first separately. The court held
at Wrexham on the 8th October, in the sixth year
of Edward IV, 1466, was the court of the township
or manor of Wrexham Regis, for the appointment of
two bailiffs and an escheator for the town, and for
other business, and not a commote court. In the
borough books of Holt in 1860, the courts leet for
that year profess to be those for Bromfield, but they
were really those for Holt only, separate courts leet
being held the same year at Wrexham Regis for that
manor, and a few years before at Marford,^ for Marford
and Hoseley. The truth is, that no courts for the
whole lordship have been kept for at least two and
a-half or three centuries. They were already dis-
continued in 1620.
At the lordship court held next Holt Castle on
19th October, 1467, to which court the inhabitants and
tenants of the rhaglotries of Wrexham, Merford, and
Yale were summoned separately, the jurors for the
rhaglotry of Merford presented Richard Baz [Richard
Bach, Little Richard\ for unlawfully, and without
licence, carrying away certain stones near the lord's
court-house at Castrum Leonura, to the value of 105. ;
an entry of great value, because it shows, firstly, that
Holt was reckoned to be within Merford rhaglotry,
and, next, that the court-house for the whole lordship
was now established next Holt Castle. Then, turning
1 <* Marford " is the modern spelling and pronunciation of the
older ** Merford." But the older spelling is preserved to an astonish-
ingly late date in the township rate books and elsewhere after the
pronunciation had changed.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DBKBIGH. 21
to the general presentments, we find the old Welsh
commote oflScials, or some of them, still holding their
place— *Hhe Maist' Forest" [Pen-fforestwr], '' the Ser-
jaunt " [of the Peace or '* Pencais "], Raglow " [Rhaglaw
or Raglot], etc. ; and that ** fyre silv' " [Treth dan, a
fee for taking firewood from the lord's woods], was
still levied under the supervision of the master-forester.
John ap David ap leuan, of Wrexham, also declared
himself to be not under advowry : a statement from
which we gather that there were then other persons
who lived in that state — persons, that is to say, who
having no inherited landed rights in the lordships, not
even being nativi or servile tenants of land, were
nevertheless under the protection of the lord, or of
the larger free tenants. They were said to be in
advowry (in advocariA), and were called in Welsh
" arddelwyr,'' in English ** arthelmen," and in Latin
" advocarii.*' It is probable that most of them were
craftsmen or small tradesfolk.
Spite of all the evidence of Welsh survivals thus
provided, it is impossible to read the account of the
doings of the lordship Michaelmas court without per-
ceiving how rapidly English methods of procedure and
administration were ousting Welsh methods at this
time.
The grant of Bromfield and Yale, on 10th December,
1484, by Richard III to Sir William Stanley, one of
the knights of his body, has already been referred to.
Already, on the 12th November, in the year preceding,
had the same king appointed him Chief Justice of
North Wales. He was also Chamberlain of Chester,
and Constable of North Wales. He was second son
to the first Lord Stanley, and brother to Thomas
Stanley, first Earl of Derby and Lord of Hopedale,
which Thomas married, for his second wife, Margaret,
widow of Edmund Tudor, mother of Henry VII. Sir
William Stanley, of Holt, must be distinguished from
Sir William Stanley, of Hooton, Cheshire, with whom
he is sometimes confounded. He was descended, on his
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2i *HE TOWN OF HOLT,
mother's side, from Richard Fitzalan, Earl of Arundel,
Lord of Bromtield and Yale, etc., of whom I have
already spoken, his grandmother having been Elizabeth,
widow of Thomas Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk. He
was also Lord of Ridley, in Cheshyjp. This splendid
knight, as is well known, decided the issue of the
battle of Bosworth, placing the crown upon the head
of Henry, Earl of Richmond, and practically making
him Henry VII of England. Many of his followers,
or brothers-in-arms, were doubtless men from this
neighbourhood. John ap Elis Eyton, whose tomb still
stands in Ruabon church, was certainly at Bosworth.
The Chevalier Lloyd and others assert that the new
king granted Bromfield, Yale, and Chirkland, to Sir
William for his achievement, or (must we say?) treachery
at the famous battle above-named ; but the knight of
Holt had, as we have seen, Bromfield and Yale, at any
rate, before. He enriched Holt Castle, it is said, with
the spoils of Bosworth field; but, however that may be,
he was one of the richest subjects in the kingdom, and
thus excited the envy and suspicion of the King, whose
meanness saw in the splendour of Sir William a pretext
for getting rid of one to whom he stood under such in-
convenient obligations ; so he was charged with being
in active sympathy with Perkin Warbeck, was con-
victed, and executed on. Tower Hill, 16th February,
149 1, all his possessions escheating to the King. He
had a son, William Stanley, to whom, on 19th November,
1489, the reversion of the Constableship of Holt Castle
had been granted (and who married Joan, daughter of
Sir JeflFrey Massie, of Tatton, Cheshire), and a daughter,
Jane, who married Sir John Warburton, knight. The
arms borne by Sir William Stanley, of Holt, were
these : — 1, argent ^ on a bend azure, three bucks' heads
caboshed or (Stanley) ; 2 or on a chief indented azure,
three plates (Lathom) ; barry of six or and azure, a
canton ei^ne (Goushill) ; and 4 gules, a lion rampant
or (Fitzalan). I owe the description of this coat to
H. E. J. Vaughan, Esq.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COtTNTV bftNBlGfi. 23
Sir William Stanley being executed, and his estates
escheated, Bromfield, Yale, and Chirkland reverted to
the Crown. Henry VII himself stayed at Holt Castle,
17th July, 1495.
Soon after Sir William's execution, in the twenty-first
year of Henry Vlf , we find the aftemamed officials of
Holt Castle and its dependencies named : — Lancelot
Lothar, constable (with a yearly fee of £10) ; John
Roydon, interpreter (with fee of £2) ; Lancelot Lothar,
custodian of warrants (with fee of £3 0^. lOd.); John
Puleston, coroner (with fee of £2) ; John Aimer,
attorney of the lord king (with fee of £6) ; David ap
leuan ap Deicws, clerk of the court (with a fee of £3) ;
David ap Ithel, custodian of the garden (with fee of
£1 6^, 8d.) ; Thomas Tarleton, keeper of the castle
park (with fee of £3 Os. lOd,) ; John Pickering, door-
keeper of the castle (with fee of £3 0^. 10c?.) ; and
Geoffrey Legh, parker of Mersley Park (with fee of
£3 Os. lOd.) ; and the afternamed officers of the whole
lordship : — Hugh Porter, serjeant of the country (with
fee of £4) ; David ap Howel, approver (with fee of
£3 Os. lOd,); and John Puleston, sen., cnief forester
(with fee of £3). And it is to be noted as to the three
last-named that, instead of one officer of each kind for
each commote, only one of each kind is mentioned for
the whole lordship, and no raglot or ringild is named.
It may also be further remarked that, although the
fees recorded as given were low, even considering the
high purchasing power of money at that time, there
were not merely perquisites attached to most of the
offices, but chances for the holders of them for acquiring
leases of demesne land on favourable terms, and ex-
erting influence in other ways.
The extent or survey of Bromfield and Yale (of the
twenty-third year of Henry VII) already referred to
(page 6), must next be briefly discussed. Villa Leonum
(Holt) is again described as being in the "balUua,"
that is, in the bailiwick or commote of Merford. From
the complete list supplied me by Mr. Edward Owen, of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
24 tHE TOWN O*- flOLt,
the tenants of Holt, given in Appendix II, and taken
from the said survey of twenty-third Henry VII, it
will be seen how many of the tenants* names were
Welsh. This only bears out other evidence available,
which shows that at this time, while Holt was fulfilling
its purpose of Anglicising, in some respects^ the adjoining
parts of Wales, it was itself being partly Cymricised by
the inflow of Welsh people into it.
On the 21st April, 1512, Henry VIII granted the
receivership and stewardship of feromfield and Yale,
etc., to Sir Charles Brandon, afterwards Duke of Suffolk,
and his brother-in-law ; and from the Duke's accounts
made up from Michaelmas, 1519, to Michaelmas, 1520,
we get the names of the bailiffs at that time of Holt,
and of those of the manors adjoining.
Thomas Knyght, deputy of Thomas ap David ap
Gruffith (who, being a Welshman, could not s^rvi^,
was one of the two bailiffs of Holt (the King's bailiff;,
and collectors of rents, farms, perquisites of courts, etc.,
and Jeffrey Baker was the other,* Thomas Prestland,
being bailiff of Hewlington, William Main wey ring,
bailiff of Ridley, Richard Roydon of Isycoed, and
Edward ap David ap lolyn of Cobham Isycoed.
On the 14th April, 1519, Henry VIII granted
further powers to the same Duke of Suffolk, in whose
accounts for that year we get the names of the officers
attached to Holt Castle, and to the lordship of Brom-
tield and Yale, which we may compare with the names
given on page 23 as those of the corresponding officers
in the twenty-first year of Henry VII :
The Dake of Saffolk, as seneschal or steward .
The same [apparently for his deputy, who was,
as we know, Sir John Chilston, knight] .
Lancelot Lothar, constable of Castmm Leonum
^ Here, perhaps, may be given the names of the men — John de
Aldeford and Richard de Wodehay — who were bailiffs of Holt from
Michaelmas, 1377, to the Michaelmas following. Mr. Edward Owen
also tells me that Ffilkin del ChambV and Thomas Alenis were
bailiffs in 1388-1389,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
£
«.
d.
20
0
0
8
6
8
10
0
0
tN COUNTY DRKBtQH.
25
£ ». d.
7
0
0
2
0
0
3
0
10
2
0
0
5
0
0
3
0
0
1 6 8
3 0 10
3
0 10
3
0 10
0
6 8
4
0 0
3
0 10
3
0 0
John and Thomas Wren, the King's auditors
there ....
John Ejton, interpreter, or " latym' ".
Thomas Thelton, castodian of warrants
John Pnleston, jun', coroner .
John Aimer, King's attorney there
Edward ap Rees, clerk of the coart there
David ap Ithel, castodian of the King's garden
there ....
John Pnleston, jnn", parker of the Castle park
there ....
John Pekerjnge, doorkeeper of Castrum Leo
nam • • . ,
William Aimer, parker of M'shlej [Mersley]
Morgan ap lolyn, crier of the coart .
Hugh Porter, serjeant of the country .
David ap Howel, approver
John Paleston, senior, chief forester
Other interesting items appear in these accounts.
The tenants of Mochnant and Cynlleth, parts of
Chirkland, held, among other *' illicit opinions," that
although they were bound to guard the seneschal when
he went into their region to nold the two great courts
of the year, they were in no way bound to guard any
deputy seneschal. So, twice in the eleventh year of
Henry VIII, Sir John Chilston rode from Holt to
Chirkland to overawe the tenants there, condemning
them in the sum of forty marks (£26 135. 4d), and
charging the expenses of his 100 men-at-arms. But
the tenants of Bromfield and Yale appear to have held
a similar " illicit opinion /' or, at any rate, they were
charged with withholding {de retinacone) somewhat,
and were summoned to appear at Chester before the
Commissioners of the King. Whereupon Sir John, for
his own protection and for the King s dignity, when he
went to Chester to attend divers courts there, placed
about himself all the officers of the country and othei's,
to the number of forty, and got the tenants of Bromfield
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
26 THE TOWN OF tfOLT,
and Yale fined 100 marks (£66 135. id), for want of
respect to his deputy seneschalship, sgid for their
" illicit opinions/'
We find also recorded in the accounts of the afore-
said year the names of four felons hanged in that year
— four felons at 205. a piece being charged: William
ap John ap Howel Fychan, John ap Howelap Llewelyn,
Sander Ley, and Maurice ap Evan.
On the house of Castrurn Leon um £17 195. lid. were
in the same year expended, and on the house of the
common bakehouse 35. 2d.
APPENDIX I.— CHAPTER 11.
(See pp. 13-15.)
Transcript of Charter made in 1411, by Thomas, Earl of Arundel,
to the Burgesses of Holt, and confirmed 1st March, 156§,
by Queen Elizabeth.^
Elizabeth Dei gratia Aiiglie FFrancie et Hibernie Rcgina,
Fidei defensor, etc., omnibus ad quos p'sentes Pre p^uen'ient
Salt'm Inspeximus quandam Cartam Thome nup' Comitis
Arundell et Surr' d'ni de Bromfeld et Yale Burgensib's Ville
sue leonu' in marchia Wallie eor^ hered* et Successorib's Anglic'
fact et sigillo ip'ius nup Comitis vt dicit^ sigillat in hec v'ba,
Omnibiba Xr'i tidelib's p'sentem Cartam inspecturis Thomas
Comes Arundell et Surr d n's de Bromfeld et Yale Salt*m in
d'no Sciatia qd cum Villa n'ra leouu' in marchia Wallie tam ex
concessioue diu'sor' Antecessor' n'ror' et p'genitor' p* diu'sas
Cartas et ratifaco'es Burgensib's Ville n*re p*dict' eor' hered* et
Successorib's Anglicis fact' q'm ex possessione antiqua de diu'sis
lib'tatib's et ffranchesiis Ville et Burgo mercatorio p'tinentib's
priuilegiata extitit et adhuc existat, videPt qd Burgenses ville
n're p'dict' eor heredes et Successores Anglici h'eant et teneant
om'ia burgagia Curtilagia t'ras et ten' sua qui ex antique iure
hereditario tenuerunt de nob' et Antecessorb's n'ris infra villam
n'ram p'dict et lib'tatem eiusdem, h'end' et tenend' om'ia p'dict
burgagia, Curtilagia t'ras et ten' p'dict cum om'ib's suis p'tinen*
eisdem Burgensib's n'ris eor' hered' et Assign' Anglicis de nob'
^ All niarka of contraction in the original charter arc replaced in
this traubcript by simple apostrophes.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tN COtJin'Y DENMGH. 2^
hered' et Assign' n'ris lib'e quiete et in pace imp'p'm. Reddendo
nob' hered' et A^ign' n'ris An'uatim videl't quiPt d c'or Burgen-
siu* eor' hered' et Assign' Anglicor' p' quol't burgagio duodecim
denarios et p* quol't Curtilagio duodecim donarios et p' qual't
acra t're lib'o burgagio eor' p'tinen' duodecim denarios et p'
qual't acra t're que solebat esse in D'nico n'ro duos Solidos
Argenti An'uatim, faciendo eciam An'uatim sectam ad duas
Cur' n'ras gen'ales Ville n're pdict' videl't ad p'x Cur' post
festum Sc'i Mich'is Arch'i et ad Cur' p'x post festum Pasche et
q d quil't heres h'mo'i Burgensiu' hered aut Assign' suor* post
mortem Antecessoris sui dabit nob' et heredib's n'ris duplum
redd'us sui unius Anni no'ie releuii^'sui Et q'd quil't ip'or
Burgensiu' heredum et successor' suor' p' tempus guerre p' quol't
burgagio suo infra villam n'l-am p'dict' et lib'tatem eiusdem
scituat ad suos custos p'prios inueniet vnu' ho'i'em defensibilem
ad custodiam et defensionem Castri n'ri leonu' p' quadraginta
dies An'uatim quousq'e dict^ Villa n'ra sit muro incluso et eadem
Villa existen' sic inclusa extunc quil't eor'dem Burgensiu' here-
dum et Successor' suor* inueniet vnu' ho'i'em defensibilem ad
custod' et defensionem Ville n're p'dict p' quol't burgagio suo
ibidem. Et si contingat aliquem d'c'or' Burgensiu' heredum et
Successor' suor' in h'mo'i custodia et defensione Castri neu Ville
n're p'dict' sic inclus' p' seip'm in p'sona p'pria vel aliu' ho'i'em
defensibilem no'ie suo in forma sup'dict' defic'e extunc bene
liceat nob' et heredib's n'ris quodl't Burgagiu' cuiusl't burgensiu'
p'dict' heredum ac Successor' suor' p' quo d'c'urn s'uiciu' custod
si debita non fiat in n'ras manus seisire et retinere quousq'e de
illo s'uicio sic deficiente cum Arreragiis eiusdem si que fu'int
nob' et heredib's n'ris plene satisfiat' et p'soluat'. Et q'd p'dict
Burgenses n'ri eor' heredes h'eant et possideant com'une merca-
tum die ven's qual't septimana cum duab's nundinis consuetis
infra villam n'rara p'dict' saluis nob' et heredib's n'ris tolnet' et
al* consuetudinib's [de pred'cis] nundinis et mercatis ab antique
nob' p[tine]n et consuet. Gonceasimvs edara eisdem Burgen-
sib's n'ris eor' hered' et Assign' Anglicis p' nob' et heredib's
n'ris q'd ip'i h eant & libere eligere valeant vnu' discretum virum
ut maiorem vnu' Coronatorem duos s[ub balliujos Burgenses
Anglicos [sing'lis] An[nis] infra villam n'ram p'dict et q'd ip'i
maior et Balliui teneant Cur' n'ras infra villam n'ram p'dict de
tr'b's Septimanis in tres Septimanas more consuet' et h'eant
plenam potestatem ad audiend' & t'minand' omni'od transgres-
siones debita conuenco'es felon' pl'ita t'rar' et ten'tor' ac singula
alia pl'ita et contractus quecumq'e fact' tarn infra lib' ville n're
p'dict q'm ext' s'c'd'm formam legis co'is et ad faciend* et
exequend' omni'od attachiamenta et execuco'ey que ad Cur' n'ras
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
28 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
p'tinent p' sup'uisum Senescalli n'ri ibidem p* 'tempore existen/
Et q*d h'eant prisonam suam infra villam n*iam p'dict cum cus-
todia om'i illor qui attachiat seu arrestati f u*iiit infra lib'tetem
ville n*re p'dict ad sectam n'ram seu alicuiuscumq'e. Saluis
semp' nob et heredib's n'ris omui'od eschapiis p'quisic'o'ibs Cur'
Escaetis forisflf'c'uris, vagis, stragis, tinib's redempco'ibs am'cia-
mentis et aliis exitib's et p'ficuis inde infra villam n*ram p'dict
em gentib's. Et q'd Assise de Victualib's fact' p' ministros n'ros
p' maiorem et BaUiuos ville n're diet teneant' et conservent' sup*
forisf turam n'ram. Volumus tamen q'd Senescallus D'nii n'li
p'dict teneat de Anno in Annu^ duas Cur' n'ras gen'ales ville n'ra
pMict' more consuet. Ooncessimus eciam eisdem Burgensib's n'ris
eor' hered' Assign' Auglicis q'd impp'm quieti sint de omni'od
[the] loniis, lastagiis passagiis pontagiis stallagiis taillagiis et de
©m'i'b's consuetudinib's p' totam t'ram et potestatem n'ram tarn
in Anglia q'm in Wallia et March' Wallie. Et q'd maior, Balliui
et Burgenses ville n're antedict' h'eant lib'am et plenam potesta-
tem eligendi et faciend* Burgenses Anglicos eis acceptabiles
vsuros et congaudendos omni'od* franchesiis et lib'tatib's ac aliis
lib'ris consuetudinib's sicut p'dict Burgenses n'ri usi sunt et
gauisi imp'p'm. Et qM nullus qui non sit in Buigensem accep-
tatus p' maiorem Balliuos et Co'itatem Burgensiu* ville n're
p'dict* aliqua lib'tate burgensiali cont' voluntatem maioris et
Burgensiu' pMict' infra villam p'dict nee lib'tatem eiusdem
quomodoPt gaudeat nee vtat. Et q'd licet eisdem Burgensibs'
n'ris distringere in burgo n'ro p'dict' debi tores suos forinsecos et
extraneos p' Victualib's eis venditis infra lib'tatem ville n're
p'dict ad primam empco'em. Et q'd p'dict Burgenses n'ri eor'
heredes et Successores ac tenentes quicumq'e inii*a lib'tatem
ville n're p'dict vel ext' residentes imp'p'm quieti sint de
omni'od' consuetudinib's Amobrogior'^ Advocarar'^ feod' Cou-
stabularior' n'ror' Castror' ac de om'ibs feod' liagloti^ Kingildi*
finiu' am'ciamentor' ac omni' alior consuetudinu' infra D'nia
n'ra Wallie et March' Wallie qualitercumq'e em'gen'. Con-
cessimus eciam q'd si p'fati Burgenses aut eor* aliqui seu eor'
tenentes infra t'ram et potestatem n'ram testati decesserint vel
intestati, nos nee heredes n'ri bona seu Catalla ip'or' confiscari
non faciemus quin eor' heredes seu executores ip'a h'eant quate-
^ Amobr, a fee due to the lord on the marriage or violation of a
woman in his lordship (see p. 5).
^ Advocarii, persons living in the condition of advowiy (see p. 211).
^ The raglot {rhaglaw) was the chief admiuistrative officer of a
Welsh commote (see pp. 4 and 21).
^ The riiigild {rhingyll) was the raglot's bailili" or apparitor (seg
p. 4).
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 29
nus diet* bona et Catalla ip'or' defunctor' fuisse constiterit dum
tamen de d'c'is heredib's aut executorib's noticia aut f[ama]
suflBcient Veat. Concessimus eciam p'dict' Burgensib's n'ris eor'
heredib's et Successorib's tenentib's et seruientib's suis infra
villam n'ram residen' q'd nuUiis ip*or' de cet'o impletet' nee
occ'onet^ sup' aliquib's Appellis rectis Iniuriis t^nsgressionib's
debitis criminiVs calumpniis accusamenciis et ind'tamentis
seu aliquib's aliis contractib's aut r[ebus] eis impositis aut
imponend' vbicumq'e locor* f c'is seu qualit'cumq'e em'gentib's
nisi solomodo coram maiore et Balliuis Ville n're p'dict et p*
iudic'm et t'minaco'em ip'or maioris et Burgensiu* Anglicor* tan-
turn et non Wallicor' conuiucendis nisi res ille tanganc nos vel
heredes u'ros. Concessimus eciam. eisdem Burgensib's eor' hered'
et Successorib's q'd cum aliquis extraneus seu alius quicumq'e
sup* lib'm ten'tum vel lib'am t'ram cuiuscumq'e Burgensis hered'
aut Assign' suor' infra villam n'ram p'dict' vel lib'tatem eiusdem
decesserit idem decedens si non sit Burgensis ville n're p'dict
dabit Burgensi illi sup' cuius t'ram seu ten'tum decesserit melius
animal suu' no'i'e herietti sui et deficiente h'mo'i Animal optimu'
Catallu' suu' no'i'e principalia p'dict. Concessimzis eciam eisdem
Burgensi b's n'ris eor' hered' Assign' Anglicis q'd p' t'nsgressionib's
seu forisfcuris, s'uenciu' seu Tenenciu' suor* Catalla vel bona
sua in manib's suis inuent' seu alicubi locor' p' ip'os s'uientes
aut Tenentes deposita quatenus [ip'i] Burgenses h'mo'i bona sua
esse suflScient* p'bare pot'int non amittent. Concessimus eciam
eisdem Burgens' n'ris eor' hered' et Successori'bs q'd nuUi de
cet'o liceat p'sentare aliquam penam sup' aliquem Burgensem
ville n're p'dict p' quacumq'e causa sed inde p'seq'at v'sus eum
p* acco'em in Cur'ville n're p'dict. Concessimus eciam Bur-
gensib's nMs q'd nullus minister aut Ballius n'r quicumq'e nee
hered' n'ror' ingrediat villam p'dict' nee lib^tatem 'eiusdem nee
in aliquo . . . se intromittat sup' Burgenses seu ho'i'es quo-
scumq'e p'd'car' ville et lib'tatis seu eor' aliquem de aliqua
quereki occ'one t'nsgessionis seu alia re quacumqe infra d'c'am
villam seu lib'tatem eiusdem em'gen nisi in def'cu' maioris
Balliuor^ et Burgensiu' diet* ville. Concessimus eciam eisdem
Burgensib's n'ris eor' hered' et successorib's q'd liceat singulis
Balliuis n'ris ville n're pMict' distringere om'es et singulos
debitores ex parte n'ra in eor' on'e existentes tam p* totum
D'miniu' n'rum de Bromfeld et Yale q'm infra lib'tatem ville
n're p'dict* p* quibuscuniq^e finibs am'ciamentis redempcoi'bs seu
aliis exitib's aut p'ficuis in Cur Ville n're p'dict quovismodo
em'gen' et h'mo'i districco'es fugare usq'e in co'e punfaldum
ville n're antedict' et ibidem ip'as districco'es retinere quousqe
de singulis denariis iu eor' o'ne debitis plene nob' satisfc'm fuit.
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30 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
Ooncessimvi eciam eisdem Bufgensib's n'ris p*dict' eor* hered* et
Assign' Anglicis ac Tenentib's suis q*d ip'i h'eant co'i'am pasture
in quadem parcella t're voc' le Comon Woode p* om'ib's Averiis
suis infra villam n'ram p'dict' leuantib's et cubantib's cum lib*o
ingressu et Egressu eisdem Tenend* eisdem Burgensib's n'ris
eor* hered et Assign' Anglicis ac tenentib's suis in sep'ali om'ibus
temporib's anni sine contradiccVe n'ri hered' vel ministror'
n'ror' quor'cuinq'e inip'p'm. Concessimus eciam eisdem Bur-
gensib's n'ris eor' et Assign' Anglicis ac tenentib's suis q'd bene
liceat eisdem et eor' cuiPt om'ia Au'ia forinseca sen extranea
infra pasturam p'dict' pasturancia cap'e et fugare usq'e in co'e
punfaldum ville n're p'dict' et ip'a retinere quousq'e debite
emende fiant eisdem Burgensib's n'ris h'mo'i t'nsgressione et
pasturaco'e fact' in eor' pastura sup'dict'. Volumua eciam q'd
o'es Burgenses n'ri p'dict' eor' hered et Assign' infra villam
n'ram residen' qui non h'eant p'pr'm fumu' q'd in co'i fumo
n'ro eiusdem ville furnirS debeant Soluend' diet furni occupanti
p' quol't buscello london vnu' obulum et sic singulis buscellis
tantum. Concessimus eciam Burgensib's n'ris eor' hered' et
Assign' Anglicis et 'eor' Tenentib's Ville n're p'dict' licentiam
fodiendi capiendi et lib'e cariand' carbones marinas et turbas
in vastis n'ris de Coitpoeth et Brinbawe et in om'ib's aliis vastis
et locis ubi alii Tenentes n'ri Anglici aut Wallici carbones et
turbas fodiunt p' eor' focale' in suis manc'oib's infra villam
p'dict ad lib'am voluntatem sine contradicc'o'e n'ri hered' vel
niinistror' quor'cumq'e. Concessimtis eciam p' nob et heredib's
n'ris q'd si aliquis Burgensis hered' sen Assign' suor' Anglicor'
attachiari [arrestjari sen iud'care contigit Nos nee hered* n'ri
non capiend' aliquem finem [sen] redempco'em de ip'o nee
manucaptorib's suis licet ip'm contigit . . . p'nos aut aut ministros
n'ros sub manucapco'e libera. Concessimus eciam antedict'
Burgensib's n'ris eor' hered' et Assign' q'd de cet'o nulli liceat
tenenciu' n'ror D'nii n'ri antedict' Burgensib's n'ris infra duo
miliaria p'x ville n're antedict' residen trah .... c'uisiam Salopie
sen Cestrie sen aliqua alia victualia infra p'cinctu[m] n'r'm'
p'dict' in p'iudic'm et nocimentu* ville n're antedict' nee aliquam
aliam c'uisiam p't cuisia infra villam n'ram leonu' brasiatam
uendere sub pena sex Solidor octo denarior' unde una medietas
nob'et heredib's n'ris et alia medietas burgensib's n'ris ip'am penam
for'factam p'sentantib's. Concessimus eciam eisdem Burgensib's
n'ris eor' hered' et Successorib's q'd nuUus 'eor de cet'o cogi sen
compelli debeat p' nullum ministrum seu s'uientem n'r'm nee
heredum n'r'or aliquem equu' ip'or' Burgensiu' nee alicuius ip'or
ad vsum liuius ministris n'ri vel s'uientis sui sine alt'ius cuius-
cumq'e absq'e mera voluntate sua accomodare uec locare nisi
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IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 31
solomodo ad sp'ialem vsum n'ram et hered' n'ror' p' Balliuos
n'ros eiusdem . ville taatum. Volumus edam et concessimus p'
nob' et heredib's n'ris eisdem Burgensib's n'ris et eor* herediVs
et Successorib's q'd Balliui ville n're p'dict h'eant Cam'am seu
prisonam vnam infra Castrum n'r*m leonu' p' arrestatis sine
attachiatis infra villam n'ram p'dict* seu infra lib'tatem eiusdem
secure conseruand* ex delib'aco'e Constabularii Castri p'dict qui
p* tempore fu*it si et quando necessitas hoc requirat cum
r'onabili ingressu et egressu p' eisdem visitand' ministrand' ac
delib'and*. P'ta taraen q'd ip*i Balliui om'ino h'eant om'ia on'a
salue custod' h'mo'i imprisouat ibidem et q*d i'pi Ballii nob'
respondeant de om'ibs eschapiis et malef'cis eor'dem si que
p' eosdem vel eor' aliqnem infra seu de Castro n'ro p'dict in
futur' fieri contigit absq'e quocumq'e on'e ip'o constabular' seu
aliis ministris aut sui'entib's n'ris Castri p'dict' p' eisdem im-
prisonatis ex parte nostra nullatenus imponend'. Et q'd o'es et
singuli Burgenses ville . n're p'dijct' eor' heredes et successores
molabunt om'i' blada et brasia sua ad niolendina n'ra infra
D'n'm n'r'm ibidem ad vicessimam mensuram. Et nos vero
p'fat Thomas Comes et hered n'ri om'es & singulas lib'tates et
fFranchesias sup'dict' debitis Burgensib's n'ris p'dict' eor' hered'
et successorib's plene vtend* possidend' et congaudend' Waranti-
zabim's et imp'p'm defendem'. In Cuius rei testimonium huic
presenti Carte n're Sigillum n'r'm fecim's appo'm Hiis testihus
Rob'to morley milite senescall' hospicii n'ri Joh'e Bourley, Dauid
holbach, Joh'e [W]ele tunc Senescall' n'ro de Bromfeld et Yale
WilFs Eyman et multis aliis. Dat apud Castrum n'r'm leonu'
die lune p'x ante festum s'c'i Andree Ap'li'^ Anno Eegni Regis
henrici Quarti post conquestum t'ciodecimo, Et hoc om'ib's quor'
inte'st innotescim' p' p'sentes. Teste me ip'a apud Westm'
Primo die marcij Anno Eegni n'ri Quinto.
Maktkn.
APPENDIX 11.
(See p. 24.)
Names of Tenants of Holt and their Eents, in the 23rd
year of Henry yil.
£ 8, d.
Thomas Crewe . . . 3 4 10
Heirs of Jankyn Hugenson . . . 16 0
Jankjn dene, for land late Mathew Morgaiint . 1 6
^ Feast of St. Andrew, ,30th November.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
32
THE TOWN OF HOLT,
Richard Lakeii . . • •
Tenents of the laud of Richard Alford .
Robert Alford, with I2d. for land late of John
Maunsell ....
The same Robert, for half an acre of meadow
Thomas Alford ....
The same Thomas, for 23 acres late of Richard
Alford, and 2d, for a parcel of waste for a
garden made thereon .
The community there [Yillaf ibm] .
William Wodey .
Margaret Roden .
leuan ap leuan •
Richard Do'
Thomas Dour
John Sendr'
leu'n ap D'd ap lorwerth .
David ap lollyn ap " hyllynne" [Heilin]
Howell " Gouz" [Goch « the red]]
Richard Grone
Thomas Knyght and Elena Goz [the red]
Richard ap Atha, with 2t. for Jonet Aleyne
William ap Atha, jun', for one parcel of waste
John Stockley
Robert Davyessone, for land late of Agnes
Stokley
Elena Wayte (18«. 2d,) and Jankyn Pate, sen'
(2/-)
Executors of Geoffrey ap Dicus
Margaret relict of William ap Grono .
Joan Pomfret
Richard Phelypp, with 2«. 2d. for John MauncelFj
land
Jankyn leche and his partners [et soc' sui]
Thomas Bach
The same Thomas, for one tenement and five
acres late of Richard Baskervylle
James Bath [1 Bach] and William Bath [) BachJ
for Harayng's late land
Richard Griffithson, and 5«. for land late
Ralph fflecher
£
«.
d
1
3
1
6
9
12
6
0
6
9
10
11
8
1
2
8
2
3
0
18
0
6
0
5
0
4
4
5
0
2
0
8
0
1
5
6
18
0
1
4
3
0
6
7 10
3 0
1
0
2
2
0
1
0
2
0
16
4
13
0
1
5
H
3
4
7
0
1
0
2
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH.
33
RandolffBaoh ....
Thomas Gierke, for one burgage late of Randolff
aforesaid . .
Jankjn Edjnson .
Jankjti Pate senior, and Alice his mother
Richard Pate
Heirs of David Gronoson
Thomas Roden
The same Thomas, for two burgages late of
Jankyn Wodall, for term of years
William Roden. .
Robert Glover
Richard Bach
The same Richard for two burgages, the land late
of the aforesaid Jankyn Wodall, for term of
years
William ap Dicus, for two burgages of the afore-
said land, for term of years
John James
Thomas Glover .
William Crewe, with 12«. lie?, for the land late
of Margaret Compane .
William Says, for the land late of Hoell Baron
Thomas Wodall .
William Wodall .
William Hortone, with 2i. Sd. for the land of
Mawde verch lorwerth
Heirs of William Hansone .
Heirs of John Bach
William Brereton
Llewelyn ap Howel " de franch" [of the franchise]
John Huchon [? Hut^heon] .
Heirs of John Crewe, for land late of Mawt
[Margaret], relict of William ap Atha
Jankyn Wylde .
Tenants of land late of Agnes Stokley [Stockley]
formerly paying 6«. 8c^., now only
Thomas ap Davy ap Duyo [Deio]
William le Wyld, for J an acre of land
John Almor
David ap Jankyn ap Madoc
6th 8KR., VOL. vn.
£ «.
d
1
6
1
0
1 3
8
19
8
13
9
11
2
2 17
0
1
0
1 5
6
3
10
12
6
1 0
2 1
1 4
16 10
5 2
13 4
1
10 IH
18 6
9 0
18 7
3
2 2J
9 6
6 2
1 0
1
4 4
3 4
16 0
I 6
1 0
1 0
3
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
34
THE TOWN OF HOLT, IN COUNTY DENBIGH.
Master John Kyffyn [Vicar of Gresford]
Heirs of John Gray, diaplain
John Pulesdon
William and Richard, sons of Richard Buklej
Morgaunt [Morgan] Massy .
John Hogge
Total rental, £40 U$. 2|d.
The total rental just given does not quite correspond with the
sum of the items, but the diflference is so slight as to be im-
material.
£ «.
d.
1
0
1
0
1
0
2
0
1
0
1
0
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
35
TRE'R CEIRI:
INTRODUCTORY NOTE
BY
Pbofbsbor W. BOYD DAWKINS, D.So., Oxon., F.RS.
Before the results of the exploration of TreV Ceiri in
June last are laid before the Cambrian Association by
the Exploration Committee, it is not inopportune for me
to define, as far as may be, its relation to other forti-
fied villages, and its place in the history of Wales.
It is one of many similar villages, occupying a com-
manding position for purposes of defence, in the neigh-
bourhood, such as Pen-y-gaer, some two miles to the
east of Llanaelhaiarn, ana Garn Bodfean, about a mile
to the south of Nevin, containing the remains of rude
stone huts, called by the inhabitants of the district
** cyttiau Gwyddelod " — the huts of the Goidels. This
popular attribution to the Goidels — the conquerors of
the aboriginal Iberic Welsh, who in their turn had to
submit to the mastery of the Brythons — is in my
opinion true. They are probably the dwellings of the
Welsh prehistoric Goidels, and have no necessary con-
nection with the Irish Goidels, who were undoubtedly
in close touch with this, as well as with other districts
in Wales, in the historic period.
Similar fortified villages abound elsewhere in Wales,
as for example at Dinas Maen Mawr, near Pen Maen
Mawr, all having the same characters, where the stone
for wall- and hut-building was ready to hand, split into
convenient blocks by the frost of untold centuries.
Their entrances are narrow, and sometimes slanting ;
and in one case, in the Pen-y-Gaer, some two miles
south-west of the Roman fort of Caerhun, on the Conway,
the approaches are rendered diflBcult by a chevaux-
de-frise of blocks of stone, with one end planted in the
3-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
36 trb'r oeiri.
ground, to prevent a rush. I am unable to detect any
such arrangement in the masses of tumbled blocks on
the slopes of Trer Ceiri, that rest at their natural
angle of repose. On this point I cannot agree with the
eminent archaeologists who have taken the view that
this method of defence was used by the inhabitants of
Tre'r Ceiri.
The class of fort to which TreV Ceiri belongs is
amply represented in Somerset by Worlebury, near
Weston-super-Mare, and the line of similar forts on the
Mendip Hills, and by many in Devon and Cornwall. It
is also met with in Ireland, and especially in the Western
Isles which shield the coast from the Atlantic storms,
in the Arran Isles, ofiF Galway, and in Inis Murray, off
Donegal. In these they are preserved in singular
perfection. In Dun iEngus, North Arran, the slabs of
limestone favour a more stable construction than the
polygonal blocks forming the walls of Tre'r Ceiri, and
there is clear evidence of a chevaux-de-Jrise. It is also
worthy of note that in the same island — at Baile-na-
Sean — are upwards of forty primitive houses, described
by Mr. Kinahan as : —
!a) Cloghauns, with beehive roofs.
6) Cnochauns, with roofs covered with earth.
c) Fosleach, with flag walls.
{d) Ointigh, with roofs made of other materials than
stone.
The Welsh *'cyttiau" belong to one or other of these
groups, and are therefore appropriately assigned to the
Goidels.
This class of fort is proved by the remains found in
various places to have been occupied at various periods,
mnging from the Bronze Age into the Prehistoric
Iron Age, and well into the historic period. The
bronze sickle found in Dun iEngus proves that it was
used in the Bronze Age ; while bronze pins with orna-
mentation of the Prehistoric Iron Age indicate that it
was occupied at that time, and a bronze ring with
cable decoration that it was not without inhabitants in
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tre'r oeiri. 37
the fifth century after Christ. In the cashel on Inis
Murray we have very thick rough stone walls, with
narrow entrances, surrounding a group of monastic
remains, including three small chapels, strangely inter-
mingled with the prehistoric cloghauns, of which the
circular ** school-house" is an example, and also with
soiiteri'ains, or covered ways.
This class of fort in England is clearly proved by
the result of the exploration of Worlebury, to belong
to the Prehistoric Iron Age. Here the inhabitants
belonged to the aboriginal Iberic stock, the ancestors
of the Silures of the north side of the Bristol Channel.
Equally good evidence is presented by the brooch
found in the excavations of 1903 atTrer Ceiri, that it
also belongs to the Prehistoric Iron Age. It may,
however, have been — and probably was — used in later
times by the Goidels of the district, whenever the
country was being harried, for purposes of defence.
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38
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS CARRIED
OUT AT TRE'R CEIRI IN 190«.
By HAROLD HUGHES, Esq., A.R.I.B.A.
Since the year 1903, when thirty-two of the "cyttiau"
in Tre'r Ceiri were examined^ the work of exploration
lay in abeyance till 1906. An account of the 1903
excavations, written by the Rev. S. Baring-Gould and
Mr. Robert Bumard, is published in ArchcBologia Cam-
hrensis for 1904. At tne meeting of the Committee
of the Cambrian Archaeological Association, held at
Shrewsbury on August 14th, 1905, it was resolved
*'that Professor W. Boyd Dawkins be asked if he
would kindly consent to the excavations at Tre'r Ceiri
being carried out under his direction, with the assist-
ance of Colonel W. LI. Morgan and Mr. Harold
Hughes." Professor Boyd Dawkins very kindly con-
sented to undertake the work.
Through the assistance of Mr. D. R. Daniel, of Four-
crosses, eight labourers were obtained, and work was
commenced on June 5th, 1906, and continued till
June 16th.
Unfortunately, Professor Boyd Dawkins was called
to London before the excavations were completed, and
Colonel Morgan was unable to be present during the
whole fortnight. On the other hand, most valuable
assistance was given by Mr. Charles E. Breese, who
devoted several days to the work. I was present
during the whole time occupied by the excavations.
The workmen employed were Griffith Jones and
William Dobson, of Fourcrosses; William Owen, Griffith
Griffith, Jahn Evans, David Owen, and H. Oliver, of
Douglas Hill, Bethesda ; and John G. Jones, of Pant
yr Avon, Bethesda.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC j
Harold Hughes w^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
REPORT OK EXCAVATIONS AT TRE^R CBIRI IN 1906. 39
Altogether, thirty-two " cyttiau" were examined (the
same number as in 1903), and two sites on the Bwlch
bdfow the south-west entrance. The two main en-
trances were cleared sufficiently to ascertain their
plans,' 643 far as the dilapidated state of the walling
would allow.
For general notes on the form, grouping, sizes, and
construction of the " cyttiau" in TreV Ceiri, the nature
of the subsoil, the stone employed, and the water-
supply, the reader should refer to Mr. Baring-Gould's
and Mr. Burnard's account in the 1904 volume of the
JournaL
The accompanying plan is practically confined to the
space enclosed within the inner walls of defence. It is
intended as a key-plan only to the sites excavated.
Many details require correction. The excavations have
laid bare walls and doorways, and enabled the outlines
of many " cyttiau" to be followed accurately, when pre-
viously it was only possible indefinitely to trace their
, general conformation. The corrected measurements
have not yet been taken, and the outworks have not
been surveyed, with the exception of those immediately
outside the south-west entrance. It has, however,
been considered that much interest and value will be
added to this Report by the provision of a plan indi-
cating clearly the position of each hut examined.
In 1903, over one hundred of the ''cyttiau" were
numbered by Mr. Baring-Gould. Only those " C3rttiau"
excavated in 1903 and in 1906 are marked with figures
on the plan. The ** cyttiau" examined on the present
occasion follow the original numbering of 1903.
The details of the work carried out in 1906 are given
below. It has been thought advisable to arrange the
list in consecutive order of numbering, rather than
according to the order of date on which the sites were
excavated.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
40 ttEPORT Oi^ tMeI excavations CARUIBi) OUT
Sites Excavated in 1906, together with Details
OF " Finds."
The numbers in the following list correspond with
those of huts on key-plan : —
21 (a) Several "pot-boilers."
(b) Four small pebbles.
37 (a) Left lower jaw-bone of a horse (the teeth complete and
fragments of the jaw-bone).
(b) Tibia of horse.
(c) Fragment of a leg-bone of another animal.
(d) A stone " rubber."
(e) A white pebble.
(f ) Two " pot-boilers."
(g) Charcoal.
38 (a) Eight fragments of corroded iron, which, pieced together,
are illustrated in Fig. 1. The total length of the
remaining portions is 10| ins. Sections are given of
the iron at five different points. The iron is socketted
at one end and at the other, apparently, was leaf-
shaped. The remains are probably those of a leaf-
shaped socketted lance-head.
(b) Anteria dorsal of a colt.
(c) Eib of sheep or goat.
(d) Charcoal.
(e) Two small fragments of black pottery.
41 (a) Portions of a bronze torque or armlet (gold-plated). The
remains of this article are illustrated in Fig. 2, page 42.
They consist of three portions: a piece of a curved
bronze bar ; three solid bronze beads, with the remains
of a bar, on which they ai'e threaded, firmly joined to-
^^ether by corrosion ; and one bronze bead, of similar
design, pierced through the centre. The rod or bar is
decayed, but the diameter appears to have been about
^ths of an inch.
The internal diameter of the circle formed by the
curved bar would have been 4^^ ins., but that within
the bronze beads would only have been about S^ths
ins. The above measurements are calculated from the
curve of the existing segment, and are based on the
supposition that the ring, when complete, formed a
true circle, and that it was threaded for its entire cir-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT TRB^R CBIRI IN 1906.
41
cumference through the bead - shaped ornaments. It
should, however, be noted that the beads may have
been carried only round a portion of the circle, as, for
o
s
m
1$
at M
MS
1
^
P
S
o . .•
f^ < Z
^^ a
lit
i ♦» ®
o
"S
example, in the case of the bronze beaded torque,
from Lochar Moss, Dumfriesshire, now in the British
Museum, and the beaded torque, from Mowroad, near
Rochdale, both illustrated in Mr. liuniilly Allen's
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
i^
REPORT ON THfe BXCAVaTIONS CAkEtEb OUt
Celtic Art in Fagan and Christian Times, In the
latter example, half the torque is beaded ; in the
former, between half and three-quarters. There is a
nick round one end of the existing portion of the
Tre'r Ceiri bar. The three connected beads, although
much decayed in places, retain the remnants of thick
gold-plating. The beads differ in size. Each is shaped
into eight bulbous divisions. Fig. 2 shows a side and
an end view of this cluster.
Dr. Kennedy J. P. Orton has examined the curved
centre bar and beads, and confirms the impression,
.H<M«a>V^^
Fig. 2. — PoriioDB of Torque or Armlet. Hut No. 41.
Scale, I linear.
conveyed by their appearance, that the main metal is
bronze, and that it has been covered with gold. With
regard to the curved bar, a core of unchanged metal
is still present. The single bead is much decayed,
and therefore retains no sign of the gold-plating.
It may be noted that amongst the ''finds" at Chastel-
coz was a " bronze necklace bead."
41 (b) Remains of an iron loop, in two fragments. External
diameter of loop about 1 J ins. (see Fig. 3, page 41).
(c) A small part of tlie base and a small fragment of a red
earthenware vessel. The surface and material is of a
sandy consistency. External and internal surfaces,
dull red ; interior of material, groy.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT TRE^R OaiRI IN l906.
43
41 (d) Two small fragments of black pottery, giving the section
of a rim of a vessel (see Fig. 5).
(e) Charcoal.
(f) •' Pot-boilers.*'
(g) Burnt stones,
(h) Small pebble.
(i) A portion of a bone, which appears to have been burnt,
(j) Teeth and jaw-bone of horse.
42 (a) Two small fragments of iron.
(b) Stone (? pounder).
(c) White pebble.
Fig. 5.— (a and b). Fragment of Rim of Black Pot. Hut No. 45a.
(c). Fragment of Rim of Black Pot. Hut No. 41.
Scale, I linear.
45 (d) Stone " pounder."
45a (a) A small ribbed bead of blue-glazed porcelannic paste
(see Fig. 4, page 41), where it is illustrated in two
positions. The surface may, perhaps, be more correctly
described as "bulbous," rather than "ribbed." The
surface formation has a slightly spiral appearance, the
bulbous construction inclining in wavy curves from left
to right. As the surface is much worn, the ornamental
design is rendered somewliat indistinct. The external
diameter is J in. The ribs of the blue beads discovered
at Tre'r Ceiri in 1908^ and illustrated in Archosologia
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
44 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS CARRIED OUT
Camhrensis for 1904, are vertical, thus diflfering from
the example found in Hut 45a.
45a (b) Several " pot-boilers/'
(c) Large fragment of the rim of a black pot. The inner
and outer facings have black coatings on red material,
with an inner core of grey colour. The outer surface
is smooth, the inner slightly coarse. A bold moulding
runs round the lip. The external surface is divided
into zones by narrow bands (see Fig. 5, page 43).
46 This Hut drew blank.
47 (a) Sixteen '* pot-boilers,"
(b) Half a " rubber.'* This stone appears to have served the
double purpose of a " rubber " and " pounder."
(c) A fragment of bone.
Pig. 6.— Hone. Hut No. 62.
Plan, Section, and Side Elevation of Stone Rubber. Hut No. 47.
Scale, } linear.
48 (a) Many small fragments of black pottery.
(b) Many " pot-boilers."
(c) Charcoal.
(d) A small circular stone ball, just over ^ in. in diameter.
(e) Rotten black matter (probably decayed earthenware)
48A(a) Small fragments of iron.
(b) Remains of bone.
(c) Stone, probably used as a " pounder.''
49 (a) Fragment of bone.
54 This Hut was drawn blank.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT TBB*R OBIRI IN 1906.
45
55 (a) Fragment of iron.
56 (a) Charcoal.
(b) Frao^ment of iron.
(c) Pebbles.
57 (a) An irregular mass of metal, about IJ ins. by 1 in. by J in.
A specimen of this material was submitted to Dr.
Kennedy J. P. Orton, Professor of Chemistry at the
University College of North Wales, Bangor. He
reports : — " It consisted mainly of lead, with a trace
of iron, encrusted, of course, with chalk, etc. There
appeared to be no tin, zinc, or copper.**
(b) Two fn^ments of a bronze plate (see Fig. 7). The
surfaces are much decayed. The upper edge, as drawn,
of the larger plate, is slightly curved downwards.
Fig. 7. — Fragments of Bronee Plates. Hut No. 57.
Scale, { linear.
while the left-hand edge is curved upwards and turned
over. The smaller fragment, which is in an advanced
stage of decay, appears to retain indications of orna-
mentation. There are the remnants of two slightly
raised bosses, which appear to be the remains of a
concentric circle of bosses surrounding a small circle,
the pierced half of the latter remaining, and visible
on the lower side of the drawing. Whether it was
originally a pierced circle or raised boss cannot be
ascertained. Outside the bosses are three sunk dots.
Jaw-bone of sheep,
(d) Fragment of " pot-boiler.**
58 (a) Fragment of bone of ox, and one other small bone,
(b) Several fragments of pottery, much decayed, of a yellow-
ish tint ; in its present state very fragile. Similar to
the remains of the Mortarium found in Hut 60.
(c)
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
46 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS CARRIED OUT
69(a) "Pot-boaer."
(b) Charcoal
(c) Eight humerus of ox (Bos'langifrans),
60 (a) Many fragments of a Mortarium. Fig. 8 gives a restored
section through the vessel, and the detail of the boldly-
moulded lip to a laiger scale. Where cleanly broken,
the material is of a yellow colour. The surface, how-
ever, has a drabby appearance, with a tinge of dull
red. Portions are stained black, probably due to the
peaty deposit accumulated on the floor-level of the
Hut, in which they were imbedded. The interior is
sprinkled with fragments of quartz, which are more
numerous at the bottom, and gradually decrease in
number upwards, till they cease below the sinking
Pig. 8.— Mortarium. Hut No. 60. Scale, i linear.
Detail of Rim, | linear.
carried round the vessel about 1 in. vertically below
the rim. The quartz fragments are worn down as if
from continued use. The diameter of the base
appears to have been about 4J ins., and the full
external diameter across the rim a little over 13 ins.
(b) A « rib-bone."
(c) "Pot-boiler."
(d) Teeth of ox.
61 (a) The base, and several fragments of a red earthenware
vessel. A plan of the base, a side elevation, and a
sketch of the lower portion and a detail of some other
fragments, are given in Figs. 9 and 10. The diameter of
the base is § in. The formation of the vessel is spiral.
The clay is worked on a curve, which continually
recedes as it rises upwards from the centre of the
bottom of the vessel, about which it revolves. The
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT TRE'r CEIRl IN 1 906.
4r
external face appears to have been slightly glazed, and
finished to a terra-ootta surface.
61 (b) CharooaL
(c) A small fragment of '' metal " (iron).
(d) White quartz " pot-boiler.*'
(e) Tooth of ox.
62 (a) A hone or whetstone. 7| ins. long (see Fig. 6, page 44).
(b) Thirteen small pebbles.
62a(a) Pot-boiler.
Fig. 9.— Base and Side Elevation of Earthenware VesseL Hut No. 61.
Scale, 3 linear.
^s
Fig. 10. — Fragments of Red Earthenware Veaael. Hut No. 61.
63 (a) A bronze pin, in the form of a sickle (see Fig. 11, page 48).
Although much corroded, it bore indications of gold-
plating. The *' sickle'* shape may be accidental,
(b) Pebble.
64 (a) Fragment of leg-bone of horse or ox.
65 (a) Humerus of ox.
(b) Three " pot-boilers."
(c) Two small pebbles.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
48 REPOET ON THE EXCAVATIONS CARRIED OUT
66 This Hut drew blank.
67 (a) Fragments of black pottery, including a portion of the
rim of a vessel of identically the same detail as that
found in Hut 45a, illustrated in Fig. 5.
(b) Tooth of ox.
(c) A white pebble.
68 This Hut was drawn blank.
69 (a) Five pieces of black pottery, including a fragment of a
rim of a vessel. . The section of the latter, although
differing slightly from, resembles that of rim found in
Hut 41, illustrated in Fig. 5, rather than that of the
45 (A) Hut.
Fig. 11.— Bronze Pin, GoHplated. Hut No. 68.
Scale, I linear.
(b) An iron article, of uncertain use, consisting of a disk.
about 3^ ins. in diameter, on a stem. The total length
of disk and stem is 1 ft. OJ in. The surfaces are much
corroded. Fig. 12 illustrates one face and a side view.
The ironwork of the disk bulges out on either face,
but to what extent it originally did so it is impossible
to say. On one face, for the greater area, and on the
other side, in patches, the ironwork has split and
corroded away, revealing, apparently, a flat disk or
plate, forming the core of the superimposed metal.
The original section of the stem appears to have been
rectangular. The disk may have had flat faces. The
superimposed metal, in that case, would entirely be
the result of corrosion.
(c) A fragment of a tooth of ox.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT trb'b ceibi in 1906.
49
4-
>
o -^
O
do
6th seb,, vol. vit,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
50 RKPORT ON THE EXCAVATIOKS CARRIED OUT
70 (a) Charcoal.
71 This Hut drew blank.
72 (a) Three " pot-boUers."
(b) Bone of ox. {Bos-langifrons,)
At the initiation of Mr. Breese, two sites were ex-
cavated on the Bwlch below the south-west entrance.
The first site was about 500 ft. in a south-westerly
direction from the entrance, and the second site about
360 ft. south-south-west of the first. Each site con-
sisted of an approximately rectangular space, about
15 ft. long by 5 ft. 6 ins. wide, roughly paved with rude
stone blocks. Mr. Breese suggested that the rough
stones, evidently artificially arranged, might indicate
the sites of graves.
The detailed results are as below : —
Site 1 (a) At a distance of 7 ft. 6 ins. from the base, or south-
south-west end, and 1 ft. from the east-south-east side,
and at a depth of 2 ft. 6 ins. below the surface, the
metal article illustrated in Figs. 13, 14, and 15 was
discovered. The drawings give a sketch of the object,
a plan looking downwards, and a side elevation. It
was seated in the position shown, on a small, rough, local
stone, measuring about 3 ins. by 3 ins. by 1 in. The article
is circular on plan. From the broadest part it contracts
to a narrower neck by means of a concave sweep,
slightly bulged towards the narrower part, and ter-
minates with a knop, with a circle of raised dots round
the widest part. The top of the knop has been battered
in. It is, therefore, doubtful as to the manner of its
termination. The article is hollow. With reference
to the metal, it has been submitted to Dr. Orton, who
reports that it " consists mainly of lead, but contains
also a certain amount of tin. It may be called a sort
of pewter." The use the object served is uncertain,
but the design is, to a certain degree, suggestive of that
of the pommel of a sword-hilt. In the British Museum
" Guide to the Antiquities of the Bronze Age," p. 77,
two swords found in Northumberland, witli remains of
leaded pommels, are referred to. In Arcfuxologia
Cambrensis for 1905. p. 144, Fig. 25, is an illustration
of a Late-Celtic bronze ornament, from Seven Sisters,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT trb'r obiri in 1906.
51
near Neath, resembling this object to the extent that
the two may have served similar purposes. The fol-
lowing is the description of the object by Mr. Romilly
Allen, in the letterpress: — "A bronze finial, shaped
something like the umbo of a shield. It has three
Fig. 1 3. — Pewter Object.
Site 1, on Bwlch.
Fig. 14. -Plan of Pewter Object.
Site 1. on Bwlch.
Scale, ] linear.
mzQooQQio:
\KM.
Fig. 16. — Side Elevation of Pewter Object.
Site 1, on Bwlch.
Scale, { linear.
Fig. 16.— Iron Object.
Site 1, on Bwlch.
Scale, 4 linear.
rivet-holes for fixing it on to something." It does not
state whether it is solid or hollow. With reference to
the material of the " pommel," in the " Report on the
Exploration of Moel Trigam," in Archceologia Cambren-
sis for 1900, amongst the " finds" in Hut-site 21,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
52 BEPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS CARRIED OUT
mention is made of half a finger-ring, polished, and
'' composed of some hard white mineral substance,
(b) At a distance of 4 ft. from the base and below the east-
south-east boundary, at a depth of 2 ft. 6 ins. below
the surface, an iron article of horse-shoe shape, in size
and outline exactly suitable for a modern heel-plate
of a boot, and with the five usual oblong piercings for
attachment to the leather, was discovered (see Fig. 16).
The main difference between a modern heel-plate and
this object is that the section is rounded off on one face,
and the ends are likewise rounded, while the modern
generally has angular edges and terminations. With
regard to the date of this object, and how it arrived
in the position mentioned above, I will not venture an
opinion. This object was found after the excavation
had been left open for the niglit
Site 2. Although considerable time was devoted to the excava-
tion of this site, no object was discovered. The whole
space, however, had not been explored by June 16th.
when work ceased, and the site had to be abandoned.
Below the surface, large portions of both Sites 1 and 2
were composed of small-sized stones, bearing the
appearance of having been filled in by man.
Some of the more important " finds" were unearthed
after Professor Boyd Dawkins had left. Sketches,
however, were forwarded to him, and he very kindly
wrote, expressing his opinion, as below : — ** The bronze
object (beaded) is distinctly of prehistoric Iron Age,
and is probably a torque, or armlet, as you suggest.
The glass or porcelain bead — some of these found in
Glastonbury, in the prehistoric Iron lake village.
The "pommel" is not very far removed from one dis-
covered in prehistoric Iron Age fort at Hod." The
black pottery and the iron ladle-shaped object, he
writes, would belong to the same period. The iron
** heel-plate," he believes, is modern.
All the objects may be said to have been found on
the true floors of the huts, though, in a few instances,
the construction was so rude that it was difficult to
determine with exactitude the ancient floor-levels.
With reference to the fragments of bronze plate,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
At TRB*R CElttl IN 1906. 53
found in 57 b, Mr. C. W. Dymond, in his work on
Worlebury,^ describes and illustrates some pieces found
in that stronghold. A slightly curved plate, If ins.
long, and ^ ins. wide, with piercings at one end, he
considers to have probably formed part of an accoutre-
ment. The concave side had been left dull, but the
convex side, which is now patinated, had been burnished.
Two other pieces of bronze plate, with curved edging,
are pronounced to be remains of binding.
With regard to the mass of lead found in the same
hut, it may be noted that a lump of lead, about the
size of a walnut, was found in one of the pits at
Worlebury.^
Dr. Orton reports, with reference to the analyses of
the metals referred to in the list of the various ** finds,'*
that we are indebted to Miss M. 6. Eki wards, who
worked under his supervision.
In the following summary of the 1903 and 1906
"finds," the kindred objects are grouped together.
The figures in the second column refer to the numbers
of the Sites.
Summary of " Finds."
BEADS.
1903 8 Blue-glazed porcellanic paste.
10 Blue-glazed porcellanic paste.
13 Blue glass.
1906 45a Blue-glazed porcellanic paste.
BRONZES.
1903 8 Triskele.
10 Fibula.
1906 41 Torque or armlet.
57 Fragments : bronze plate.
63 Sickle-shaped pin.
IRON.
1903 3 Small fragments of pointed iron.
6 Combined adze and hammer.
6 Part of blade.
^ Worleburyy an Ancient Strtmghold in the County of Sonursety by
Charles William Dymoud, F.S.A. 1902, p. 122. ^ Ibid,, p. 81.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
54 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS CARRIED OUT
1903 7 Fragment, 3 ins. long.
7 Crescent-shaped piece.
10 King, 2 ins. diameter.
14 (? Strike-a-light).
19 Fragment.
25 Fragment.
26 NaiL
82 (? Bill-hook).
1906 38 (? Leaf-shaped spear-head).
41 Half of loop.
42 Fragments.
48a Fragments.
55 Fragments.
56 Fragments.
61 Fragments.
69 Ladle-shaped article.
LEAD, ETC.
1906 57 Mass of lead.
In Bwlch,
Site 1 (? Pommel of sword-hilt), pewter.
POTTERY.
1903 3 About a dozen pieces, dark pottery.
12 Small fragment of rim.
13 Small fragment red pottery, slightly orna-
mented.
16 Two small pieces, black pottery.
50 Part of bottom of earthenware vessel.
86 I'iny fragments, red pottery.
1906 38 Two fragments, black pottery.
41 Part of bottom, and other fragments of red
pottery.
41 Fragment of rim, black pottery.
45a Large fragment of rim of black pot.
48 Fn^ments, black pottery.
58 Fragments pottery, yellow.
60 Remains of Mortarium.
61 Red pot, base and fragments.
67 Piece of rim and fragments, black pottery.
69 Five fragments, black pottery, including rim.
SPINDLE-WHORLS.
1903 4 Two spindle- whorls.
5 One spindle-whorl.
7 One spindle-whorl.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT tre'r ceiri in 1906. 55
COMB.
1903 23 Fragment, bone-comb.
RUDE STONE OBJECTS.
1906 37 "Rubber.^'
42 (?*Tounder.")
45 •' Pounder."
47 Half "rubber.'*
48 Stone ball, ^ in. diameter.
48a (?" Pounder.")
62 Hone.
BOKES AND TEETH.
1903 5 Pieces teeth of ox.
6 Fragments, bone and teeth of ox.
7 Fragments of bone.
19 Fragments of bone.
24 Fragments of bone.
86 Tooth of ox.
1906 37 Teeth and jaw-bone, horse.
37 Tibia, horse.
37 Fragment, leg-bone, other animal.
38 Anterior dor^, colt.
38 Bib, sheep or goat
41 Calcined bone.
41 Teeth and jaw-bone, horse.
47 Fragment, bone.
48a Fragment, bone.
49 Fragment, bone.
57 Jaw-bone, sheep.
58 Fragment, bone of ox.
59 Bone of ox {Bos-loiig-lfrons),
60 Eib-bone.
60 Teeth of ox.
61 Tooth of ox.
64 Fragment, leg-bone, horse or ox.
65 Humerus, ox.
67 Teeth, ox.
69 Fragment, tooth of ox.
79 Bones, ox.
SLING-STONES.
1903 3, 4, 17, 18, 25, and 87.
POT-BOILERS AND PEBBLES.
1906 21, 37, 41, 42, 45a, 47, 48, 56, 57, 60, 61, 62,
62a, 63, 65, 67, and 79.
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66 REPORT ON THE EXCAVaTIONS CARRlEt) Otf
CHARCOAL.
1903 1,4,5, 11, 12, and 50.
1906 37, 38, 41, 48, 56, 59, 61, and 70.
The following Huts di'ew blank : —
1903 2, 9, 15, 22, 75, 88, 90, and 92.
1906 46, 54. 66, 68, 71, and site 2— on Bwlch.
It will be seen from the above summary that by far
the greater number of bones and teeth which have
been found are those of the ox {Bos-longifrons). The
other animal remains which can be determined are those
of the horse, sheep, and (?) goat.
It may be instructive to compare this list with bones
discovered elsewhere. At Worlebury, in the pits, the
" finds" include those of a pig, ox {Bos-longifrons), horse,
deer, goat, water-fowl, and small birds.^ At Cadbury
( Wincanton), those of " the Bos-longifrons, deer and
swine are noted.^ At Maiden Castle, in the pits, many
bones were found, especially those of the red deer.' At
Walton-down, amongst other bones, horses' teeth are
mentioned.* At Mount Caburn, " the animal remains
were ox (Bos-longifrons), pig {Sus scrofa), horse {Equus
caballus), goat {Capra hircns), sheep (Ovis aries), with
occasional bones of roe-deer and badger ; also the
scapula of a rabbit, the leg and spur of a fighting cock,
and part of the bone of a dog."*^
The only fortified hill-village in the neighbourhood
of TreV Ceiri where, to my knowledge, any exploration
has been undertaken, is that on the top of Garn Bod-
fean, near Nevin. Several of the "cyttiau" were ex-
plored, in 1904, by the Hon. Frederick G. Wynn. He
wrote at the time, informing me that he had *' found
spindle- whorls and sling-stones, but no implements,"
and '^no certain hearth.'* During our stay at TreV
Ceiri, we visited Garn Bodfean on a Saturday afternoon,
when our men were "off work." We were shown a
» Worlthury, p. 80. 2 /^-^.^ p gg^
•' Ibid., p. 83. •» Ibid., p. 84. ^ Ibid,, p. 85.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
At trb'k ceiri in i906. 57
stone hammer which had been found, and inspected the
huts which had been excavated. The camp is as im-
portant as — even if not more so than — Tre'r Ceiri. As
a plantation covers the top of the hill, the general idea
of the plan is difficult to appreciate without a lengthy
inspection. The huts are more circular and detached
than those at TreV Ceiri. This may possibly be
accounted for by the space being less limited. " Finds"
of further interest than those already discovered should
repay careful excavation. Although it is probable that
the camp belongs to the same period as Tre'r Ceiri,
the *' finds," mentioned by Mr. Wynn in themselves
are insufficient to establish the fact.
The Entrances.
The south-west entrance, through the inner en-
compassing wall, was cleared sufficiently to ascertain
its plan. The pathway rises rapidly through the thick-
ness of the wall; the entrance is slightly curved.
The north-western or left-hand wall approaching the
camp retains, to a certain height, its original face ; it
is concave on plan. The south-eastern or right-hand
wall is not so easy to trace ; the inner portion has
practically been destroyed. There are, however, in
this position, some stones low down, which, in all pro-
bability, indicate the outline of the wall ; though, on
the other hand, they may form portions of a rough
paved way. The outer part of this wall is convex, but
it appears to have changed to concave, with an ogee
sweep, further in. The uncertain line of wall is in-
dicated by a broken line on the plan (Fig. 17 (a)). The
entrance at certain points evidently was not more
than about 3 ft. in width ; the narrowest, or inner end,
apparently narrowed down to 2 ft. ; though, as men-
tioned above, it is impossible to definitely ascertain the
plan at this point. It is quite possible the entrance,
in any case the inner portion, was roofed over with
rude slab lintels, in a similar manner to the existing
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58
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS CAB,RIED OUT
so-called ** sally-port *' in the northern part of the
enclosing wall.
Fig. 17.— (a) South- West Entrance.
(b) North- West Entrance.
(c) North- West Entrance through Outer Wall.
The passage through the north-western entrance, in
the inner encompassing wall, has been lengthened by
extending the masonry inwards for about 20 ft. beyond
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT tre'r ceiri in 1906. 59
the inner face of the rampart wall. On the plan (Fig.
17 (b)), the entrance through the inner wall is shown
with reversed hatching to that through the extended
walling. The north-western, or left-hand, wall is
slightly concave. The south-eastern wall slopes in
sharply towards the north-western ; it is irregularly
concave, and has a slight bulge in the middle; the
gateway narrows from a width of 12 ft. at the entrance
to 2 ft. at the inner end. The outline of a short
length of the face of the inner portion of the left-hand
wall could not be traced, owing to the dilapidated state
of the masonry. This small section is shown by means
of a broken line on the plan ; the pathway rises rapidly
through the thickness of the wall.
The plan of the entrance, through the outer wall,
of the road or pathway leading up to this entrance is
given in Fig. 17 (c). It differs considerably from the
entrances through the inner wall ; the least width is
at the entrance to the passage, where it measures a
little under 8 ft. ; the passage widens out internally
to about 20 ft. There is a peculiar bulge in the left-
hand wall, at the entrance to the passage, which con-
siderably contracts the width. At a distance of 1 ft.
11 ins. from the outer face of the right-hand wall is a
hole, roughly measuring 1 ft. in width, 1 ft. 1 in. in
height, and 1 ft. 4 ins. in depth ; its position is indi-
cated on the plan. It was probably intended as a
mortise-hole, to receive the end of a balk of timber, in
connection with some sort of wooden barrier across the
entrance.
The general scheme of this outer entrance is more
adapted to resist a pressure from within than from
without. Might it possibly be intended for the in-
gress of cattle and other animals which might not usually
be admitted into the inner enclosure ? The barrier, in
that case, might be intended rather as a protection to
keep the cattle within bounds than an impediment to
attack.
The description of the entrances by Mr. E. L. Barn-
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60 REPORT Ot^ THE EXCAVatJoNS CARRtEb OtJt
well, in a former volume of the Journal,^ appears to be
utterly inaccurate and unintelligible.
An examination of the north-east wall was made at
one point, to ascertain its true construction. The wall
in this direction retains its parapet and " banquette,"
or ** chemin de ronde." The measurements of the wall,
at the point examined, are : Internal height of " ban-
quette" from present internal ground-level, 4 ft. 4 ins. ;
width of *' banquette," 4 ft. ; height of parapet above
** banquette," 3 ft. ; width of parapet, 4 ft. 4 ins. ;
visible height of parapet, externally, 9 ft, 6 ins. The
last measurement, however, was taken, from the screes
formed of fallen debris^ from the top of the wall. At
another point, not far distant, the external height ot
the wall measured 11 ft.
The wall is of single construction — that is, it was car-
ried up to the ** banquette" in one operation. The outer
portion was then raised above the level, to form the
parapet. In this respect, it differs from the construc-
tion at Worlebury, where a massive inner wall was first
raised to the required height, and afterwards inde-
pendent terraces or platforms, varying in number, each
about 4 ft. lower than the one within, raised as con-
tinuous buttresses against it. These terraces are chiefly
external ; but, in some places, the hinder part of the
rampart was raised by similar degrees. Mr. Dymond
estimates that the width of the inner wall, or core,
measured across the top, was seldom less than 6 ft.
He writes that " it was evidently crowned by a parapet ;
but whether this was of the same thickness as the wall
on which it stood, or whether it was thinner, leaving
room for a walk behind it, on the same part of the wall,
there is not sufficient evidence to determine."^ The
consideration of the general plan of the fortress, with
its outworks and the '* cyttiau" within its walls, will
be dealt with at a later date, when the results of the
survey are published.
Before concluding this Report, we must briefly con-
1 Arch. Cavib.j 4th Ser., vol. ii, p. (36.
•^ Worlebury, pp. 21, 22.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT TRB*R OEIBI IN 1906. 61
aider any deductions that may arise from the result of
the exploration.
The " finds" of 1906 confirm, in the main, the con-
clusions arrived at by Mr. Baring Gould and Mr.
Burnard in 1903.^
In the Introductory Note by Professor Boyd Daw-
kins, he considers we have suflScient evidence to assign
Tre'r Ceiri to the prehistoric Iron Age.
Whereas Mr. Baring Gould and Mr. Burnard con-
sider there are no indications of a later occupation,
Professor Boyd Dawkins is of opinion that it may have
been, and probably was, used in later times by the
Goidels of the district, whenever the country was being
harried for purposes of defence.
The conclusions arrived at by Mr. Baring Gould and
Mr. Burnard are : —
" 1. That the fortifications were probably erected and
occupied by that people to whom the 'finds' appertained."
" 2. That TreV Ceiri was only temporarily — and that
for a short time — occupied in the summer season alone."
** 3. That the race which erected the walls and con-
structed the huts was Celtic, probably British ; and
that the period to which they belonged was the first
or second century of the Christian Era."
"4. That the builders had not been influenced by
the Roman art of wall building ; and this points to the
erection of the fortress at an early period of the first
century."
In support of No. 1, the finds were all discovered
on the true floors of the huts, and no object that can
be assigned to an earlier period than the prehistoric
Iron Age has been found.
Mr. Baring Gould and Mr. Burnard base their con-
clusions, with regard to No. 2, on (a) the small amount
of charcoal found ; (b) that some of the " cyttiau" seem
never to have been occupied ; (c) the exposed position
in winter. The arguments (a) and (b) are confirmed
by the result of the more recent excavations. We must
1 Arch. Camb., 6th Ser., vol. iv, p. 14.
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62 REPORT ON EXCAVATIONS AT TRB*R OEIRI IN 1906.
allow, however, that the absence of '* finds" ifti certain
huts is no criterion that they were never occupied. We
should especially take into consideration that the damp
deposit within some of the huts seems ill adapted for
the preservation of certain articles ; and, further, that
nothing of distinct value to the inhabitants would
wantonlv be left for the benefit of future ages. It is
doubtful, moreover, with reference to point (c), if the
severity of winter weather alone would be a sufficient
obstacle in the way of a hardened race.
With regard to conclusion No. 3, the following
support is given by the results of the 1906 work, (a)
The pottery is wheel-turned, and in the whole distinc-
tively Celtic agreeing in this respect with that found
in 1903, when in addition some fragments of Roman
pottery were discovered. (b) The remains of iron
found — some in conjunction with bronze — is sufficient
to establish the claim of the Iron Age. The half of the
iron loop was found close to the remains of the bronze
" torque, or " armlet." (Hut 41) (c). The gold-plated
bronze " torque" is, as Professor Boyd Dawkins points
out, distinctively of the prehistoric iron Age. (d) The
porcelain bead will go with those found in 1903.
The result of the 1903 and 1906 combined excava-
tions, in the number and importance of the ** finds,"
may, I venture to think, be considered highly satisfac-
tory. The Cambrian Archaeological Association have
to thank Mr. R H. Wood, the owner, for kindly allow-
ing them to undertake the work ; and, by so doing, to
throw so much light on the early history of our pre-
historic fortified hill-villages.
Additional Notes. — Colonel Morgan considers the true parapet
on the ramparts at TreV Geiri indicates Roman influence. The
second step, referred to by former writers, does not exist, but is
only the wall of a hut placed against the rampart. Much of the
pottery fonnd in 1906 is similar to that found in conjunction with
Roman finds elsewhere.
The stone ball, found in Hut 48, has been examined by Mr.
A. B. Badger, who pronounces it to be of carboniferous limestone,
probably from the shores of the Menai Straits or Anglesey.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
63
LLANSAINT.
Bt thb Rfv. GEO. EYRE EVANS.
iJUad at LlamaifU, August, 1906.)
When, a few weeks ago, I walked over most of the
ground we are covering in this our sixtieth annual
gathering, I little expected to be so fortunate as to
find an early Christian inscribed stone which is not
mentioned by Professor Westwood in his monumental
Lapidarium Wallice ; and to which no reference what-
ever has as yet been made by any previous writer in the
authoritative pages of the Archceological Cambrensis ;
where, by the way, there is but one single reference
(iv, viii, 141) to Llansaint, and that only in connection
with the larger and well-known " Vennisetli" stone.
Llansaint is a small village set on a hill, part of the
ecclesiastical parish of Llan Ishmael, and its Chapel,
in which we are seated, is held with the mother
Church, and served by its minister. The Chapel tower
is conspicuous, and seen from afar. Its summit is
reached by iron ladders inside, to gain admission to
which you enter the tower through the doorless opening
on the south side, by means of another and moveable
ladder, which you mount for some three yards ere you
plant your feet on the stone steps of the opening or
doorway. There is one bell.
Within living memory this tower was used as a
•* gaol,*' or " lock-up " — both words are yet current in
local allusion to it— for unruly parishioners. Now they
proceed, but rarely, however, in a certain amount of
state to Caermarthen, where the villagers say, " Ma
Dai wedi myn'd i'r Casteir' ("he is gone to the
Castle"). The county gaol is part of the once magnifi-
cent fortress of Caermarthen, on the mound of which
and on the " Castle Green" we stood this morning.
Villagers also use the correct words of '* Chapel " to
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
64 LLANSAINT.
designate this building, and " Meeting-house " for the
nonconforming sanctuary.
In leaving the village presently for Kidwelly, we
shall travel in part over a road covered with cockle-
shells, which frequent traffic pounds to a white powder
so soon as a fresh supply of the disused houses of the
toothsome bivalves is cast upon it. The latter portion
of our road will be down the steep and ancient track-
way, known as " Y portway," a road formerly used by
farmers' pack-horses carrying lime or coal in panniers.
The women of this village, in the season, earn as much,
often-times more, than their industrious brick-making
husbands, by "cockling " — i.e., cockle-gathering, on the
Penbre sands.
Ou the south wall of the nave is the outline of a
door, walled up in 1862. On the south wall of the
choir is a little stone tracery-work, the remains of a
window. In the north wall of the Chapel boundary is
inserted part of the head of what was probably the
village cross, which was placed where it is for safety,
in 1860-62, when the wall was first built. Prior to
that time the burial ground was unenclosed. The
chancel window was placed by Vicar Owen Jones to
commemorate the repairing of the Chapel in 1862.
A place-name near by is " Pare y CastelJ," and a
house close to this field is known as " North-gat."
" Cheeselands" is another field s name.
In the report of the Commissioners appointed by
Edward VI, in 1552, to take and make "a just
viewe . . . within every parishe," we read : — " Saint
Ismaells. It'm, a chalyce in Hawlkyng Churche, a
chapel annexed to the same parishe."
In a terrier of 1636, preserved in the parish register,
we get : —
Alken Church.
Some say these are allusions to this Chapel; I incline,
however, to the belief that they may refer to the
sea and sand-buried hamlet of Hawton, which was
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
£ I
< i
o
'I
o 3
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
-/:
< c
5 ^■
-< r-
as -5
2 -<
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
LLANSAINT. 65
demolished by a tidal wave, probably about 1630-40.
Speede marks it on his map of 1610. Just now the
shifting sands have laid bare a long line of low stone
walls, with three or four stone uprights of doors or
windows. These I have inspected under the guidance
of the parish vicar, Mr. James, who keeps laudable
watch for any further sand movement and disclosure
of buildings.
The previously undescribed stone, which we will
now proceed to examine, was until recently covered
with ivy. It is inserted in the wall upside down.
With a bow to Professors Anwyl and John Khys, both
of whom I see present, I suggest that the reading
of the inscription on the stone is : —
CIME8ETLI AVICATI.
It measures some 1 ft. 6 in. long by 9 ins. broad.
The other stone, 4 ft. 6 in. long, is given by Westwood
as reading : —
VENISETLI
FILIV8 ERCAQNI.
The only merit I claim for this paper is that the
reading of it has occupied but seven minutes of your
time, leaving us then with three minutes to the good
of the ten allotted to me by our Committee. I thank
our President, Sir John Williams, for taking the chair
on this occasion.
6th 8fiB., VOL. VII.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
66
EPl GRAPHIC NOTES.
By Professor JOHN RHYS. M.A.. LL.D.
Llansaint, Carmarthenshire.
At the beginning of July, 1906, 1 received a letter from
the Rev. M. H. Jones, Picton Terrace, Carmarthen,
saying that he and others, including, I believe, Mr. Eyre
Evans, had been going over the ground in order to
prepare the way for the visit of the Cambrian Archaeo-
logical Association ; and that they had come across an
inscribed stone in the wall of Llansaint Chapel, which
is not given in Westwood's " Lapidarium Walliae," or
mentioned in my ** Lectures on Welsh Philology." This
struck me as very strange, as I visited Llansaint in
the Seventies, in order to examine a stone reading
VENNISETL- FiLivs ERCAGN-. 1 saw no other inscription
there ; but now another, only about two yards away
from it, is suddenly announced. The explanation is
that the latter was concealed by a thick growth of
ivy, which was removed lately. The surface covered
by the ivy is still eatsy to distinguish. The stone
still unpublished has been horizontally built upside
down into the south wall, about 4 ft. from the
ground. It measures about 2 ft. by 6 or 7 ins. in
the widest part.
The lettering, or rather what is left of the lettering,
is in two lines, reading a& follows : —
CIMESETL-
AVICATI
Mr. Jones, in describing the stone, says : '* The
letters are well cut, and it is easy to take a rubbing
of them." But the final i of avicati, which is per-
pendicular, is partly gone at the bottom ; enough,
however, of that vowel remains intact to make its
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
BPIGRAPHIC NOTES.
67
identity certain. Here, on the right, began a splinter,
which is gone with other letters, the tops of whicli
■ m
CQ
"A
CQ
a o
p
o
i
I
I
only are left. When my attention was drawn to them
I tried to make them portions of the word fili, but
that would not fit, so I conclude that what followed
AViCATi was an epithet or surname which went
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
68 EPIGRA.PHIC NOTES.
with that name, or else, more probably, iacit or
Hic IACIT. One cannot stop there, as one wants fili
somewhere, and I conclude that it followed cimesetl-
in the first line. In other words, the end of the
stone has been broken off since the inscription was
made. What the length of the broken fragment may
have been one cannot say; but as it consisted of
an inscribed portion, together with a portion to be
sunk into the ground, it is not improbable that
altogether it was at least as long as the piece which
remains. It is probably somewhere in the building,
unless it is the third inscribed stone which is believed
to be somewhere near the walled-up door in the same
wall. The inscription should mean (" The place or
monument) of Cimesetlas [son] of Avicatus : [here
(he) liesj." I should perhaps explain that Avicattis
was probably of the u-declension in Celtic, like the
Latin fourth declension, as in the case of rtvagistratus,
genitive magistrates; but nouns which made i in the
genitive, like Cimesetli, had their nominative in os in
Gaulish and early Brythonic, as in Latin also before
it came to be changed into us^ as in dominv^, domini.
So the Brythonic nominative corresponding to Cime-
setli would be Cimesetlos, but I have treated it here
as Goidelic Cimesetlas, because Goidelic shows -as in-
stead of 'OS : compare Latin with -os, until it made
way for -ibs, which helped the confusion with the fourth
declension.
The first thing to call one's attention in the names
is the common element setl-i that is setl-i in Cimesetli
and Vennisetli. It is rather an unusual one, and its re-
currence here makes it probable that the two bearers
of these names belonged to the same family : let us say
that they were, perhaps, cousins. Compare the series of
men whose names began with (Bthel in the Saxon
Chronicles, and in Welsh pedigrees with eddy such as
Cadwallon, Cadwaladr, and the like.
The word setl is in Welsh hoedlj *' life," represented
by sel in the Irish compound gar-sele, in Welsh 6yr-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
EPIGRAPHIC NOTES. 69
hoedledd,^^ shortness of life," so that Venni-setl- for
Vendi'Setl' meant " him of white life," for the first
element venni is one of a number of forms, such as
vinne and vendu and vende, all meaning " white," in
Gaulish uindoSj as in Penno-nindos, " white-headed."
But in Celtic the word for " white," Irish Jinn, Welsh
gwyn, feminine gwen, had secondary meanings, such as
" blessed, or happy ; " and it is applied in Welsh to
Heaven and the Almighty; also in terms like tad
gwyn, " step-father" : compare the French use of heau,
belle, in beau-pdre, belle-scBur. See also my paper on
the " Celtic Inscriptions of Prance and Italy " (read
to the British Academy on May 23rd, 1906, p. 12.) So
much of VennisetldSj "him of the blessed, or happy life";
but what did Cimesetlas mean? I know of no Welsh
word to throw any light on cime, but there was an Irish
word, dmbj " silver," with which cime may be regularly
connected on the supposition, that in it m stands for
mm, representing earlier m6, just as nn in Vennisetli
stands for earlier nd. The reason why we have cime,
and not cimme, is probably the length of the combina-
tion MM in writing, but instances of the simplifying
of double consonants in our inscriptions are not rare.
Take for example Cunoceni by the side of Cunocenni,
and Vendubari by the side of BaiTivendi, also Cxino-
gvM for Cunogussi, and others of the same kind. But
what would " silver life" mean ? An answer was
supplied by a member of the Association, when I was
discussing this inscription at the evening meeting at
Carmarthen, and it was to the effect that the name
was synonymous with Vennisetl-i, meaning '* white
life," that signification being suggested by the colour
of silver. This is, however, hardly convincing, and I
turn to Cormac's Irish Glossary, the earliest authority
on cimb. There it is given as originally meaning
" silver," but it is added that it was the word for the
silver paid frequently and in large quantities as
tribute to the Fomorian invaders. From that circum-
stance it came, we are told, to be the name for every
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70 EPIGRAPHIC NOTES.
kind of tribute. See Stokes's edition of O'Donovan's
translation of Cormae's Glossary, pp. 32, 39, where the
editor adds that cimh is perhaps " ransom-money,"
rather than "tribute," and cites the glosses cimhid
" vinctus' and cimbidi " -custodias." Cimhid occurs
in Cormac's Glossary , spelt also cimhith, '* a cap-
tive ; so cimhid or cimhith may have meant a
prisoner who was held to ransom. Stokes goes so far
as to suggest that the Celtic word dmhri, explained by
the ancients as latrones, is derived from cimh. Thus, I
should be inclined to explain CimhH as meaning more
precisely invaders who exacted tribute from their
victims, raiders who made captives in order to obtain
money as ransom, or thieves who were used to levy
blackmail. In the case of the name Cimesetlas,
whether cimh^ originally meant silver or not, I take it
here to mean " ransom ; " that is, I should translate it
" him of the ransomed life," and treat it as Christian
referring to the Redemption. In fact, one may perhaps
go so far as to suggest that the bearers of the related
names Cimesetlas and Vennisetlas were the saints to
which the name of the Church refers. The Church is
called in Welsh Llan Saint, that is, " Ecclesia Sanc-
torum ; " and the answer, or part of the answer, to the
question who the saints were, naay be regarded as
supplied by the two inscriptions. That seems to me
more probable than the idea that it is a dedication to
"All Saints." Vennisetli occurs in North Wales as
Veiidesetli, which has in Welsh yielded the Saint's
name Gwynoedyl, This last is reduced into Gvrynodl,
and still further, in the name of the Church of
Llan-gwnodl or Llan-gwnadl, in Lleyn : see the
Myvyrian, vol. ii, p. 44. Whether the Llansaint
Venyiesetly the Llannor Vendesetly and the Gwynodl
of Llan-gwnadl are to be reckoned as three persons,
1 What is one to make of Ponfc y Cim, **The Bridge of the
Ctm," whioh is somewhere near Gljn Llifon, in Carnarvonshire?
Cim may be for cym, a possible plaral of cww, a dingle or glen ;
but I do not know whether the locality lends any countenance
to snoh an interpretation.
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BPIGRAPHIC NOTES. 71
two, or one, I cannot say : the saints of Wales moved
a good deal frotn one place to another. In any case,
the bearers of the names Vennisetlas and Ciraesetlas
may be regarded as Goidels rather than Brythons.
The Gwnnvvs inscription ^Cardiganshire) yields a
purely Welsh name to ada to these two, namely,
Hiroidil JUius CarotinUj where the d proves the t of
setli to be standing here for ih = d.
So far of the first name : as to the other there is very
little to say. Holder, in his Altceltischer Sprachschatz,
has a compound which we can compare with it, namely,
AvicantuSj the name of a source god mentioned in an
inscription at Nlmes : see the Berlin " Corpus Inscr.
Latinarum," XII, 3077. The genitive Avicati is
doubtless Latinised, and the Celtic would have probably
been Avicatos of the i^-declension, the second element
being catus^ " war or battle ; " Irish, caih ; Welsh,
cat, cad, of the same meaning. The first element, avi,
is supposed by Stokes to be of the same origin as
Latin avere, avidus, and one may perhaps render it
"fond;*' but whether in the subjective or objective
sense it is not very easy to decide. Thus did Avican-
tus mean a god who was fond of song, or a god of
whom minstrels and musicians were fond. In the
former case Avicatus would mean one who was fond of
war and battle. The old Welsh for av-i was ou,
whence colloquial ou (with ii or y) in South Wales, and
euor au in North Wales, as in dau, '*two," (Demetian
and Gwentian dou, day), and the plurals papou,
•'popes," and loggou, "ships," in the Book of Llan
Ddv (p. 120), become in later Welsh pabeu, pabau, and
llongeu, llongau. This ou occurs also in old Welsh
names like Oudocuy, in Latin OudoceniSyS^nd in Outigirn,
Eutigim, which would seem to have meant '* fond of
his t'eym or king, loyal to his prince." The represen-
tative of aV'i having become successively ou and cu,
homophonous as . it was with the pronominal genitive
eu, " eorum, earum, their, theirs," came to be dropped
in unaccented syllables, as for example in Oudoceius,
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72 EPIGRAPHIC NOTES.
Oudogwy, whence Llan-dogo, in Monmouthshire. On
the other hand, when it came in time under the accent,
it has remained, as in Eudafj probably from an early
Avitamos, *' most loving," or else '* most beloved."
Since the foregoing notes were set up in type I
received, in answer to queries of mine, the following
letter from the Rev. R. J. James, vicar of St. Ishmael's,
Ferryside. I had already most of the evidence of
Rogers, the parishioner, cited by the vicar ; but he has
kindly put more questions to him than occurred to me.
He touches also on other points of interest, so I am
glad, with the Editor's consent, to insert his letter in
its entirety, especially as it may suggest to some of
our members further enquiry regarding the Chapel of
Llansaint and its surroundings : —
Only at the very last, and quite incidentally, have I come
across a man who worked at the restoration of Llansaint Chapel
in 1862. His name is John Jenkins, a joiner, 84 years of age,
and I give you his own words in reply to my letter asking what
he knew about the two stones : —
" Yes, I acted as foreman for my uncle, David Grower, at the
restoration of Llansaint Chapel, and the architect told the Vicar,
Mr. Jones, that he need not have a clerk of the works there as
I was carrying out his plans to his satisfaction. The two stones
were not removed ; they are now in the same place as they were
when I was a boy, in the south wall, between the windows, only
lower down in the wall, as far as I can remember. The stone
near the ventilators (on a level with the ground) was not
removed. The piece was chipped off it in its place so as it would
be square with the ventilators, and lies in its original bed or
place ; and so does the other stone.*'
When I came to examine the stones carefully for myself I
began to doubt very much as to whether they had been removed
at all, and then I took Rogers to the spot and told him my
opinion, and pointed out to him how that the mortar round the
two stones was the same as in the old part of the wall, and that
the mortjir used in 1862 was altogether different, being both
lighter in colour and fresher looking. Rogers then hesitated
(of course, you must allow for a man's memory forty-four years
ago, and more especially as he was not working there, but was
a mere casual passing observer, for he then lived two miles
away), and admitted that he did not now remember to a
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EPIGRAPHIO NOTES. 73
certainty that they were removed at all, and he doubted it very
much upon examining the mortar closely ; and so, with John
Jenkins's evidence, obtained since, you may be certain that
they were not removed at all.
I asked Sogers then, how about the remarks, made amidst
laughter, when it was observed that the letters on the upper
stone were upside down, or that that stone was placed upside
down ; and he then thought that they must have observed it, as
it was in its original place ; and that tlien it was sugorested to
put it right, but that seeing they would have to take down
some of the wall before getting at it, they, 'midst laughter,
thought it as well to leave it as it was.
Now, I asked John Jenkins in my second letter to him,
seeing that he had not referred to that incident in his reply to
my first letter (and in my first letter I purposely omitted
referring to that incident, just to see whether he would mention
it of his own accord), in these words : — " I should be obliged by
your letting me know whether you heard any opinion expre^ssed
by anyone at the time of the restoration as to why the letters
on the stone — the one higher up and nearer the Tower — were
upside down : that is, the stone itself being upside down, which
it is?"
He replied, evidently misunderstanding my query : — " I know
no opinion expressed during the restoration what the letters on
the stones were ; if that gentleman I mentioned in my former
letter had written to me as he promised, very likely I would be
able to say more."
" In his former letter referred to, he said : — " I have seen some
gentlemen there taking copy of the letters; one of them promised
to let me know their meaning as soon as he could make out
anything of them. However, he never did, so I am sorry to say
I know nothing more about them."
By that, Jenkins either knew nothing about, or has forgotten,
what Rogers states as to the workmen having observed the
letters to be upside down, and the ** laughing " incident.
Now to take your letter of 21st September last, seriatim : —
There is no record as to the stones. Their dimensions are : the
one upside down, 2 ft. 4^ ins. by 7f ins. ; the other, the lower
one, 4 ft. 9 ins. by lOJ ins.
Jenkins in his letter terms them " bluish-grey,*' and says the
general opinion was that they were quarried at the Treforris-fach
Farm quarry.
A joiner and builder at Llansaint who measured the 8U>nes
for me in my presence said they were " Iwyd/' making a
difference between Iwyd and 14s, but garreg l&s, I have heard
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74 EPIGRAPHIC NOTES.
such coloured stones usually termed in the parish ; and there
are some who think that they were quarried close by Ffynnon
Saint, and there is an old disused quarry close by it. One on
the Geological Survey spoke of that kind of stone as " green,"
and which, I suppose, would correspond to our las ; but the two
stones seem certainly lighter in colour than the Treforris-fach
kind, for there are some new houses built close by the church-
yard of the latter, and which appear much darker than the two
stones in the Chapel wall. They seem exactly alike in colour
to the Ffynnon Saint quarry-stone.
Both the stones are undoubtedly — so the builder above referred
to thought, and others also — of the same kind.
Did you notice the remnant of a cross fixed in the Llansaint
churchyard wall (north) — that, I have heard, was put there at
the time of the restoration in 1862 , but John Jenkins knows
nothing of it having been removed and placed there.
Jenkins says further : — " I was just thinking of the Chapel
in my first remembrance about it — a high-pitched roof, as it has
now, and an arch at the chancel, a stone seat round the chancel
built in wall.**
If there was a stone seat as described, surely it would never
have been removed ; Jenkins must be mistaken, probably, but
there is one such seat in the old parish church, St. Ishmael's.
The stone is a white kind of fire-stone, like the Caen or Bath
stones.
I wonder what the origin of that was ? Doubtless you k now
Tliere is one like it, it seems, at Westminster Abbey.
In Llansaint Chapel there is now, you may liave observed, in
the east wall, a rough stone inserted and projecting. Could it
have been used as a credence-table ?
I fail to find anything in any way in connection with
Ffynnon Saint
I do not know whether the following will in any way help
towards elucidating matters as to the stones and wall : can you
tell me how Llansaint came to be called "Alkenchurch," or
Alkenchurch Llansaint ?
It seems that in the Report of the Commissioners appointed
by Edward VI., 1552, " to take and make a just vie we in every
parishe," occurs the following : — " St. Ismaelle's. It'm, a Chalyce
in Hawlkyng Churche, a Chaple annexed to the same p'rishe."
The terrier dated 1636, in the old parish registers, which I
have, speaks of *^ the Villadge called Alkenchurch ;" a copy of the
same terrier made in 1720, in the Diocesan Registry, has Alken-
church in it as in the original ; and it seems strange that if it
was known and spoken of as Llansaint in 1720, that the vicar
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EPIGRAPHIC NOTES. 75
and churchwardens at the time, in copying, did not make some
comment with regard to it.
The first record I have of the village being called Llansaint at
all is in an entry of burial, " — was buried at Llansaint." (I
suppose John Harries was a bit of an alien) :" January 16th,
1744," only twenty-four years after the copy was made; and a
curious thing, I fail to find any trace of the word Alkenchurch
from the oldest inhabitant ; and yet there are some now living
who remember their mother telling them that she remembered
the time when there was no wall round the Chapel, and that
there was only one grave (though it is not of the same name as
above, of January 16th, 1744) ; and yet to this day they speak of
Carmarthen Gaol (built in the Old Castle) as *' y Castell,'* and
the old Llansaint Chapel as " y Gapel" and the Nonconformist
Chapel £is Meeting-house, or Ty Cwrdd,
You must please excuse the length of my letter, but of all
things I wish to be acctvrate ?
Before leaving the neighbourhood of Llan Saint, I
may mention that Sir John Williams took me to call
on a farmer who was with him at the Swansea Normal
College in their earlier days. This was Mr. John
Lloyd Thomas, of Tan Lan farm, near Llan Ishmael,
and my business was to ask him about the remains of
the port of Aber Towy, to which I have referred in my
Celtic Folklore J p. 513. His story is, unfortunately,
very short : after the storm of 1896, Mr. Lloyd
Thomas saw walls there, which were in some places a
foot or two high. They formed rooms, and showed
unmistakable fireplaces. He had some forty or fifty
loads of the stones carted away to his farm. If he had
not done it, he said that others would. The ruins
extended, he thought, some 200 or 300 yards along the
side exposed to the sea. He had no doubt that in
front of the foundations, which he then saw, entire
streets of houses had been swept away by the storms
of previous ages. Let me add that, in the course of a
previous day s rambles, the President took me tc see
where exactly the T^f enters the Towy, for from the
maps I never felt certain whether it entered the Towy at
all ; but such is the case, and at low tide the Towy can
be traced for miles beyond and below the mouth of the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
76 BPIQRAPHIC NOTES.
TS.f. When I wrote before about Aber Towy, it was
Apropos of the " Hunt of the Twrch Trwyth " ; and I
now find that the Twrch, in order to make his way to
the Loughor and Amman district, would naturally
proceed down the right bank of the T^f until he came
to Ginst Point, which ended then probably consider-
ably in front of where it ends now, for the sea seems
to have gained enormously about the mouth of the
Towy. Even now, there would, at low water, be no
great distance to swim between Ginst Point and the
site of Aber Towy. Lastly, I should be glad to know
what the local antiquaries make of Speed's Hawton^ :
where exactly was it ; what is the history of the
name ? and are there any traces of an old route from
PeuHniog (or the district of Paulinus, about Llandy-
silio) to Ginst Point and Aber Towy ?
Llandawke, Carmarthenshire.
On the Wednesday, during the Carmarthen Meeting,
the President's party tried to meet the other members
of the Association, but we found ourselves too long
delayed at Laugharne to reach Eglwys Cymun in time ;
so we met them at Llandawke, and betook ourselves
to the examination of the ancient inscription kept in
the church. This was my third time of visiting it :
my first visit was early in the Seventies, when I
failed to get the Ogmic portion of the legend right.
The stone had had a piece broken off its length, and
that piece had disappeared. The remainder, with most
of the lettering, served as a threshold, and it had
evidently done so for a pretty long time, as the edges
were already considerably worn away by the tread of
feet. This affected the Ogams more than the Latin
letters, as it shortened the scores, where they reached
originally up to the edge to which they belonged. My
second visit took place in the company of my friend, Mr.
Thomas, vicar of Laugharne, on Good Friday, 1898,
^ Since writinef the above, it has occurred to me that Hawton and
Hawkyn{g)y p. 74, above, meant the same name : which was the
correct form, if either P
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EPIORAPHtO KOtBS.
77
when we solved the chief difficulty of the Ogam,
reading of the Latin is as follows : —
i-s
-> 5«
The
•^^ •
►.^ <=>
0*3 -a
•S a «
9 ® §
^ S Q
a §5
^ as
,-5 Q ®
^ a -p
^ 2
§ o £
H
a
I
That is: "The place or monument of Barrivendas :
the son of Vendubaras lies here." For I presume that
the Hic lACiT though not on the front of the stone,
is a part of one and the same inscription, with the
wo lines on the front : it has sometimes been alto-
tgether overlooked. The names mean " white-topped,"
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78 EPIGRAPH 10 NOTES.
or ** white-headed," and are in Later Irish Barr-
Fmn and Finn-barr ; in Welsh, Berwyn and Gwyn-
far. As they have been so often the subject of
comment, I pass on to give some notes on the
lettering. It is generally pretty good ; the A is broad
and angular in the first instance, but narrower in the
second. The R is good, though open in the first two
instances, but narrow and closed in the third, for the
inscriber perceived that he was approaching the ground
line, and Degan to crowd the latter part of the legend.
The first v is peculiar in having its first arm nearly
perpendicular : the others are not so. We have a
horizontal i at the end of the first line. The F is pro-
longed below the line, and has the short i, which
follows, attached to its lower bar ; the s is reversed.
The second D appears to have been punched for a B,
when the inscriber found his error, and proceeded to
make it into D ; but how far he carried his intention
out one is prevented from judging by the lower portion
of the letter having been worn away. The letters
making Hic lACiT have their lower ends carried away
by a flaking of the stone, and they were all so placed
as just to avoid the scores of the Ogam. Thus the
three last scores of the UJIL {qu) of maqui come right
down to the top stroke of the T, and the second upright
of the H is shortened so as not to join the subse-
quent -j- (m) of the Ogam. Now, the Ogam portion
of the legend is written as usual in the direction con-
trary to the Latin, and is on the edges ab and CD. On
the former edge (ab), the reading is —
1 1 .../... ■ ...ill.. . . I . . .
D UM ELEDONA8
and on the latter (cd) the following : —
/ . Mill .MM / I
/I M M I / I
M A QU I M [UCOI
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
EPIGRAPHIG NOTES. 79
The first line began exactly opposite the v of Barri-
vendiy and the other Une began almost exactly on the
same level. Not only is the Ji (d) beginning the Ogam
opposite the v, but the first score of it is to be seen in
the opening of the v, while the other actually forms a
part of the first arm of the v : possibly it accounts
tor its being, as already mentioned, perpendicular;
for the other vs have no perpendicular arm. The
perpendicular is the normal direction in the case of the
11. It is right, however, to say that the other u is
not perpendicular, but slopes backwards : in fact, the
Ogam scores here all slope, more or less, and especially
then(/).
These inscriptions raise various diflScult questions,
and the first is, how much of the Ogam is missing ?
Line a b is practically complete, I fancy : as it is, it
ends abruptly with three scoies on the b side; but
I have treated them as originally four, which would
make 5, and finish a genitive Dumeledonas, That is
probably all there ever was on that edge. The other
edge has less on it, Maqui M, with the second m followed
by one vowel notch, which might be a, making the
commencement of another maqui ; but it is far more
probable that the word is to be completed into mucoi.
Maqui maqui would mean '* of the son of the son, fdii
JUii, grandson's." It sometimes occurs, but a very much
commoner formula is maqui mucoi, " filii generis,"
foUowed by the name of the non-Christian ancestor of
the family. What that was in this case, I cannot say,
unless perhaps it was Vendubari : this would imply a
good length of edge to write on, but what there was
originally of line cd, together with the top of the
stone, may have possibly aflforded the length required.
Following that out, we should have ** Maqui mucoi
Vendubari, Dumeledonas," and construe thus — '* The
burial-place of the son of the Kin of Vendubar,
namely, Dumeledo." On the other hand, maqui mucoi
may have been all that there was on that side : then
we should have to read the two sides together, as
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
80 tiPlGRAPHlC NOtES,
Maqui mucoi Dumeledonds " (Locus or Memoria) filii
generis Dumeledonis." In that case, the departed's
name is not given, unless we suppose the Ogam to be
taken in connection with the genitive Bamvendi or
Venduhari. This raises the question of the relation of
the two scripts to one another : which was there first ?
Barrivendi has the first score of the jj utilized, so to
say, in making the v, while the other score hangs into
the open space of that letter, and the arm of the Ogam
for m penetrates into the semicircle of the second R.
Now the inclination of the v, decided probably by the
Ogam letter jj, would go to prove that the Ogam was
there first. The Hic iacit, in its careful avoidance of
the Ogam, distinctly shows also the priority of the
Ogam on the other edge. Why, then, did the inscriber
not keep the letters of Barrivendi clear of the Ogam,
which he could easily have done by carving them a little
further from the edge ? I can only suggest that he did
not notice the Ogam as such on a b, but that it was so
fresh on the edge c d that he could not avoid becoming
aware of it. This all means that the two inscriptions
had nothing to do with one another ; not to mention
that they may be of different dates, the interval between
them having perhaps been long enough for the con-
nection of the stone with the grave of Dumeledo to be
forgotten, and for the Latin inscriber to seize upon it
for his own purposes. In that case also, one need not
suppose the lost name as lengthy as Venduhari : let us
substitute for it the Mini of the Treflys stone, to be
mentioned presently, and then we should have —
Maqui Mucoi Mini
Dumeledonas.
" Filii Generis Mini,
i.e.. Dumeledonis."
The name Dumeledo, genitive Dumeledonas, claims
kinship with Dumelus of the stone at Llanddewi Brefi,
reading DALLur DVMELur,^ Dumel-i from Gortatlea in
^ This inscription is hardly to be recognised as represented either
by Westwood or Hiibner. A good photograph or rubbing, or better,
both, should be printed of it in this Journal. I have only seen it
since the publication of Lewis Morris's Notes by Mr. Edward Owen
in this Journal in 1896.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
EPIGRAPHIG NOTES. 81
Kerry, and another genitive, Ddumileas, from Dunloe,
in the same county : compare the Irish place-name
Cluain Domail, ''D. s meadow," in "Gorman/ June 2nd;
also a genitive Duimle in the Book of Leinster, fol. 368^
The meaning of the name Dumel-, eludes me ; and I
have to make the same confession as to the ending
-edu or -edo, genitive -edonas, -edona, later -edon.
Take, for instance, the Ogams in the Isle of Man
yielding the genitives Bivaidonas and Dovaidonay
and the inscription in Inchaguile in Lough Corrib,
which has Luguaedon^ while Aaamnan supplies Nemai-
don (misprinted Nemanidon in Reeves's text). That
is not all, for Holder has brought together nearly
thirty instances, among which he includes CcUedu,
which occurs on the Colchester bronze tablet as
Caledo, meaning a Caledonian ; the singular, in fact,
of CaJedones. Holder gives this and Ccdedones a
long e, and so with the termination -edu, genitive edon- ;
but in the words, Caledo, Caledones, at least he is
probably mistaken as to the quantity, as proved by the
Welsh Celyddon and the name of Dunkeld, which was
Diin Chailden, " the dun of the Caledonesy
Nbvbrn, Pembrokeshire.
Note by the Editor. — Since there appears to be some doubt
as to the exact circumstances under which the Ogam stone
No. 2 at Nevem was found, it may be as well to state the facts
of the case in a few words. Just as the members of the Asso-
ciation were leaving Nevem, on the occasion of their visit to
that place on August 17th, 1904, Archdeacon Thomas came up
to me in the churchyard, and asked me whether I had noticed a
piece of interlaced ornament on one of the lintel-stones of the
narrow passage which gives access to the staircase leading to
the so-called "priest's chamber." I replied that I had not
observed it, and went back into the church to have a look at it.
What I saw first is shown on Fig. 4. On examining the
adjoining stone, my surprise and delight may be imagined when
my eye caught the Ogams on the angle of the stone which had
escaped the notice of the Archdeacon. However, I am quite
willmg to share the honour of having made the discovery with
liim, as I should never have found the Ogams if he had not
CtH SEB., vol. VII. 6
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
82 EPIGRAPH1C NOTES.
sent me back in search of the stone with the interlaced
ornament upon it. The reading of the Ogam inscription given
in the Report of the Cardigan Meeting in the Arch. Uamb.,
6th Ser., vol. v, p. 167, viz., ... I cunan maqui . . . was mine
and no one else's. I guessed the name to be cunan, and the only-
letter I read wrongly was the final N TTTTT ^^ cunan, which
should liave been s TTTT- I ^"®^ ^ ^^^ ^ Latin inscription
on the under face of the lintel, but the stone was so dirty and
the lighting of the passage so bad that I could not detect any
letters. a1 far as I can remember, the only members of the
Association who were present when the discovery was made
were the Kev. G. Eyre Evans, Mrs. Thomas Allen, Mr. Herbert
Allen and Mr. Edward Owen, Archdeacon Thomas had gone
on with the rest of the party to the carriages. I might have
/
-—
--^
* .^f^^^^^
<' J?^^"^*
,«^
.,*
.;^f^r ■
Fig. 4. — Lintel-Stone with interlaced work at Nevem, discovered August 17th,
1904, by the Yen. Archdeacon D. R. Thomas, F.S.A.
Scale, \ linear.
{Dravm by W. Q. 8. , from a nAbing by the Rev. O, Eyre Evans,)
returned to Nevern again on a subsequent occasion, and
endeavoured to get the stone removed, so that I could read
the whole of the inscriptions correctly ; but I preferred to
leave the task in the far abler hands of Professor John Rhys.
We spent the end of the week at the hospitable
home of Dr. Henry Owen, at Poyston, in Pembroke-
shire, and on Saturday, August 18th, he drove me
and Mr. Williams of Solva,^ proprietor of the Pembroke
Cmmty Guardian — a newspaper which does good work
for Demetian archaeology — ^to the pretty village of
Nevern, to see the stone on which Mr. Romilly
^ Alas ! I have jast heard the news of his death: lie was suffering
wlien he was with ns.
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BPIORAPHIC NOTES. 83
Allen in 1904 read in Ogam . . . . i Cunan maqui :
see the Arch. Camh. for 1905, p. 167. The stone
forms a lintel of the door leading to a little staircase
which brings one to what is called the "Priest's Room."
Alongside of it is another stone, which may prove
even more important than the first one. A certain
quantity of ornamentation was visible on its lower
mce, and it probably has on it an elaborate cross,
accompanied very possibly with an inscription. But
I must confine my remarks to the first stone and ite
inscriptions. I put it in the plural, for before I could
find the Ogam edge, I noticed a Latin inscription on
the under face of the stone ; that is, the side of it over
one's head. My first attempt, however, was to read
Cunan in Ogam, and I was glad not to find there any-
thing so late, but {cufiCLS, which showed me exactly
where I was. Then we got a mason to clear away
patiently the mortar and stones alongside in the direc-
tion of the beginning, which in time he got clearly
visible. To my joy, the name revealed itself as Magli-
cunds, and opposite it, running in the contrary direction,
I first made out ocuni, and after a while glocuni, a part
of Maglocuni, the Latin genitive of the familiar name
MaglocunuSy in Welsh Mailcun and Maelgwny which
Welsh printers invariably wish to murder into Mael-
gwyn. This was followed by fli Clut, and I felt
certain that the whole of the last vocable would prove
to be ClutorigL But I was quite wrong ; for, as the
stone was long and had an ample grip of the wall, the
mason punched away until he had the under surface
of the lintel clear well past the last letter, and the
name completed itself as Clutoriy beyond all doubt. I
had, while the mason was clearing the Latin letters,
been puzzling myself at what was left visible of the
Offam, and ttiere also the scores for cl showed them-
selves. Further punching revealed the notches for u.
I could not see the writing any further, but I thought
I could just feel the three scores for t. It was
impracticable to make a hole further in that direction,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
84
EPIORAPHIC NOTES.
or in pursuit of the Ma of Maglocuni. The readings
may be represented thus : —
— AT-
0^
, .-.-JWt —
1.
d
^i
3 -l
I •
^ 1
ft- «
a
bO
or?
o *2
I
bo
a
*>
a
The G seems to be Q; the l inclines to be A, while
the c approaches <, and the n is written M, but the
latter perpendicular is lengthened, possibly to indicate
the I , somewhat after the fashion of Roman inscrip-
tions, but the I may be there as a very close parallel to
the \A : I could not decide with the light from
below. The F is much of the usual tjrpe, with its
lower arm drooping a little. The second limb of
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fiPlQRAMIC NOTES. 85
the V tends to end with a slight curvature, except the
last V, which ends well under the roof of the T. The R
is rather an elegant letter, but its perpendicular is
prolonged somewhat beneath the line. The final i is
of the usual horizontal kind. I had no time to try to
take a rubbing of the stone, and even had I time,
I do not think it could have been done to any advan-
tage while the stone is in its present position. The
letters ^lo are very faint, and some of the others are
not much less faint ; so 1 gather that all that face had
been a good deal exposed to the weather, or more
likely, to the tread of feet, before the stone was placed
where it is now.
The name which yields the Latin genitive Chitori is
new to me, and one of the principal disappointments
connected with this fiLd is that we cannot as yet get
at the end of the Ogam legend, so as to ascertain what
the Goidelic genitive exactly may be, which stands in
Ogam for the ClutoH of the Latin. This, and the
probability of the other stone having on it both a
cross and an inscription, make it highly desirable that
both stones should be carefully extracted from the
wall.
As to the other name given in Latin as Maglocuni,
implying a nominative Moglocimus, I may say that
one has usually taken for granted that the early
Brythonic was Maglocunos, genitive Maglocuni, but
the Goidelic genitive Maglicunas shows that we have
been mistaken, for this last seems to imply a nominative
Maglicu, and the Brythonic was probably Maglociiy
genitive Maglocunos. That is to say, the second
element was the word for '*dog/' the etymological
equivalent of the English word hound, and the Greek
KvtDVy genitive kwo^, nominative plural kvv^s. The early
forms in insular Celtic may have been cu, possibly
cud, or cuds, genitive ctinos, making in early Goidelic
cu, genitive cUnas, modern Irish cti, genitive cdn,
nominative plural cdin ; in early Brythonic en, cii,
genitive cai\, modern Welsh cl, genitive own (preserved
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
86 EPIGRAPHlO NOTES,
in Mailcwn, Maelgvm), nominative plural cwm., "hounds,
dogs." There is a difference here in the thematic
vowel ofmaalos, as the Goidelic has i in Magli-cunas ;
but the genitive occurs in a Latin list in the Book oj
Leinster Tfol. 362') as Magla-coni. The variation is due
to the inaistinct pronunciation of the thematic vowel,
leading up to its ultimate elision ; while in Brythonic
the thematic vowel of the o-declension remained, being
protected by the stress-accent down probably to a
comparatively late period. See my " Origin of the
Welsh Englyn and Kindred Metres ( Y Cymmrodorj
vol. xviii, pp. 6-10). It will have been noticed that
the Welsh Maelgwn comes from the old genitive, or,
more strictly speaking, it represents perhaps the stem
of the cases, while the nominative is lost, except
in so far as we have it in Greoffrey of Monmouth's
Mailgo, genitive Malgonis. The Goidelic ci'i, genitive
cwiiaSy meant, as already stated, " hound, dog," while
the other element becomes in Welsh the personal
name Mmjlos^ Mael. In Goidelic it should be maglas,
and it makes in Irish mdl **a prince, a hero;" so
the compound name in Irish should be Mal-chRy
genitive McU-chon, but I have never met with either.
However, in the list of the kings of the Picts, a Brude
Mac Maelchon occurs more than once ; and I believe
somebody has suggested that the father of the first
Brude so described was no other than the Brythonic
prince, Maelgwn Gwynedd. Be that as it may, the
oldest form which we have of the Pictish king's name
is that given by Bede in his Hist. Ecc, III, c. iv, in
the well-known passage reading as follows in Plummer's
text : ** Uenit autem Brittaniam Columba, regnante
Pictis Bridio filio Meilochon, rege potentissimo, nono
anno regni eius, gentemque illam uerbo et exemplo ad
fidem Christi conuertit." In Meilochon the ch argues
a touch of Goidelic spelling, while the name as a whole
seems to have come from the Brythons at a time when
the thematic o was still retained. Compare the Pictish
Vipoig from Vepdgenos, and see ** The Englyn" 1. c.
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Bt'IORAPHlC NOTES. 87
The importance of this class of names makes it
necessary to discuss them with more minuteness than
is usual in our Journal ; and I wish to point out that
the elements making up Maglicu, genitive Maglicunas,
are practically the same also which we have in the
compound Cuno-maglos, which occurs in the genitive as
Cunamagli at Kirk Arbory, in the Isle of Man, and also
in " Maglus Conomagli Filius/'^n the Bollandists' Vita
S. Winwcdoei. The making of two compound names
out of the same two elements is familiar in such cases
as the Greek SeoStopo^ and ^^podeo^y "Imrapxo^ and
''Apxt'inro^, and it can be matched in most other Aryan
languages. There is a point to be noticed as to the
connecting vowel in Cono-magli and Cuna-magli : the
declension of the word for *' hound " is a consonantal
one, and supplies no such vowel at all, but the analogy of
the o-declension is followed, and the pronunciation is
helped by recourse to the vowel o (changed in Goidelic
mostly to a, sometimes to e or i). Compare again the
analogy of Greek in such instances as /cvvo'/ceif>aXo^,
tcvvo-irpoawTTo^, KVPO'fAopijH)^, and others. But the evidence
of our Maglicunas means a catastrophe to the old
explanation of names like Cunomaglos, Cunotamos,
Cunomoros, Cunovalos, and many more beginning with
cuno, cono, Irish con-, Breton ccm-, and Welsh con-y
cin-y cyn- ; for that explanation postulated an adjective
cunO'Sy which was supposed to mean "high." This,
however, was never shown to have had any existence
in any Celtic idiom, so far as I know,^ and now for
^ Some of the Welsh words relied on to support the existence of
the adjective cuno-a look rather Pnghean, such as civn " altitudOy'
and cynu " turgere" The latter is Pughe's speHing of cynnu in pan
gynnu, in the £ook of Taliemn (Skene, ii, 189), which, unfortu-
nately, means "when it set," though from it he derives erchynu,
"to rise," for which he gives no quotation. The nearest actual
form is the Gwentian cumnu, " to rise, to raise," which is probably a
contraction of cyehwynnu, " to start, to give a start to''; the third
person singular present-future indicative is cychwyn^ and also the
imperative singular ; so the corresponding parts of cumnu are cwyn,
** rises, raises," and cu^, " do (thou) rise, or raise," which cannot
be connected with cwnnu, except that be a ahoriening o£ cwyujiu from
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
88 EMGltAPHIC KOTES.
"high" we have to substitute "hound." But what
sense, the reader will probably ask, can there be
assigned to the names in question. Irish literature
enables one to answer, for with the ancient Irish the
cu, "hound or dog," was the guardian, watchman,
fighter, and protector par excellence. The name and
story of the hero Cii-Chulainn, " Culann's Hound,"
together with the analysis of other cii names in Irish
tales, amply, prove the term to have been at one time
one of respect and regard ; nor is it wholly irrelevant
to mention the fact that, according to Strabo,^ Britain
exported, among other things, dogs fitted for the chase
and for war as carried on by the Celts, by whom
he meant the Celts of Gaul ; and that the same
sort of exportation was continued in Ireland down
to the time of St. Patrick (Bury's Patrick, pp. 31,
c^wynnu = cyhwynnu = cychwynnu, than which the more asnal verbal
noan is now cycJivoyn. The chwyn portion stands for squend, which
is represented by the Irish verb scendim. " I spring.'* Led bj bad
spelling, Dr Stokes thought that the Welsh forms pointed to an
early squeiid rather than the squendd which the Irish forms postnlate;
but the pronunciation is cychwy?maf, cychwyTiwol, etc., as the school
of reformed Welsh spelling would write them — and as old authors
did write them — with nn for early nd. It is useless also to invoke
Welsh gogoned, "gloriosus," for the first two syllables of that vocable
appear to equate with the name Gu-caun, Guo-caun, Go-gaun, Ga-
gon,Gugan : compare Cat-gucann, Cat-gocaun, Cad-ugann, Cadwgan.
^ See Meineke's edition, 199, 200 : the passage refers to the
exports from Britain in the historian's time, and it reads to the
following effect : — These products are exported from the island, and
also hides, slaves, and dogs suitable for hunting ; the Celts employ
dogs also in war, alike these British dogs and their native breed.
My attention has also been called to Orosins v. 14, where Bituitos,
king of the Arverni, who, when he had in the year 121 B.C. made
immense preparations for fighting the Romans, met such a small
army of them that he is said to have bragged that they would not
suffice for a meal for the dogs which he had marching with him in
his army. Some months later, Bituitos was seen on his silver
chariot adorning at Rome the triumph of the Roman general, who
had a medal struck on one side of which is to be seen a Roman
soldier fighting with a big dog. Lastly, a friend has favoured me
with a reference, possibly in point, to Gratius's Cyneyetica, lines
174-181.
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fiPIGRAt»HIO NO*BS. 89
341) ; the Irish wolf-hound is not yet extinct, though
doubtless he is rapidly becoming a sad mongrel.
Everything, in fact, goes to show how important
certain varieties of hound or dog were to the Celts,
and in this light the proper names in question
would seem to yield good sense ; thus Maglocu would
mean a prince or hero who was a guardian or protector ;
Cuno maglos, a guardian who was princely or heroic ;
and Cuno-tamos {\x\ Modern Welsh Cyndaf)^ one who
is in the highest degree a guardian or protector ; that
is, if the word is to be treated as a superlative. How
far the dog was regarded in the same light by other
Aryan nations, I am not prepared to say ; but I notice
that the Greeks had such personal names as l^vvayo^,
KwovKKo^y ^i\oKva>u, Kvi/€a<;, and KwtWo?. Similarly,
Forstemann gives a small number of Germanic names
beginning with hund, " dog," such as Hundpaldy Hunt-
prehty and Huntgar; and possibly some of those begin-
ning with hun belong also here, such as Hunbert^
Hungar, Hunhilt, and Hunleib. But German scholars
consider the first element, whether hund or hun, as of
very uncertain origin and interpretation in this class
of compounds.
As the members of our Association are aware,
Nevern has another bilingual inscription : that of
Vitalianus, which I am inclined to regard as one of the
oldest monuments of the kind in the Principality. In
" The Englyn," p. 74, I have gone so far as to suggest
that this stone commemorates the grandfather of
Vortigern. In any case, the site of the village of
Nevern, occupying a sheltered spot on a tidal creek,
was probably one of the headquarters of the Irish
D^ssi ; and this may prove the key to the early
history of the Demetian district of Cemmes. The
Welsh form of the name of Nevern is Nanhyfer,
from an earlier Nant Nyfer^ which enables one to
correct an entry in the Annales Camhrice into Cian
nant nimer ohiit — " Cian of Nanhyfer died.'' The
year appears to have been 865 : see PhilUmore s note
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do
EPIGRAtHlC KOtES.
Kian a nd jn difieith on ad dray
otnch pen bet alltad.
Bet kindilic mab corknnd.
in the Cymmrodor, ix, 165. Cian was a common Irish
name at that time, and we have no means of ascertain-
ing whether this bearer of it was a priest or a chief;
but in the ** Englynion of the Graves," No. 41, a Cian is
mentioned in a way that suggests a play on his name,
as though it were derived from Welsh ci " dog," as
follows, with cund corrected : —
Cian howlH in the wolves' wilder-
ness afar
Over an alien's fjrrave —
The grave of Ou-Duilich son of
Corco-Nntan.
Corco-Nutan (Book of LeinsteVy fol. 350*, 365*") is not
quite the equivalent of Cm^knudy but it is near enough,
and Cian is here associated with two other men
bearing distinctly Irish names, but we cannot locate
him or the grave of his fellow Goidel. The lolo MSS.,
p. 78, give the name Ciariy there spelt Ceian, to a
Goidel whom they represent invading Gower and
Morgannwg. It is possible that the Cian of the
Englynion and lolo's Ceian were one and the same
man with the Cian of Nevem. Nevern is mentioned
also in the '* Hunt of Twrch Trwyth " (Mabinogion,
p. 138), where the place, instead of being called " the
Dingle of Nyfer," is called Glynn Nyuer, " The Glen
of Nyfer," and we read of Arthur's men stationing
themselves on both sides of the Nyfer, whereupon the
Twrch moves away to Cwm Cerwyn, where he fought
fiercely and repeatedly against Arthur s men before he
got to Peuliniog, and thence to Aber Towy and the
Loughor district, as mentioned already. This story
suggests that the Twrch was more or less at home in
Nanhyfer, but it helps us to no date. My attention,
however, has been called by Professor Anwyl to verses
alluding to Nanhyfer in a poem by Meilir, who is sup-
posed to have lived from 1120 to 1160. The subject
was Trahaearn, king of Gwynedd, who was slain in
the battle of Mynydd Carn, in 1079, when fighting
against GrufFydd ab Cynan and Rhys ab Tewdwr,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
E!>IGllAPHTC NOTBS.
dl
aided by their Irish auxiliaries. The general sense of
the passage is doubtful, but the words most in point
are not hard to understand : see the MyvyriaUy I.
192 :—
Ny dot.jnt dros nor etwaeth
Pobl anhjuaeth Nanhyaer
Gwytyl dieuyl duon
rsgodogion dynion lletfer.
They are uot come across the sea
yet —
The illbred people of Nanhyfer,
Goidels, demons black,
Scottia's rabble, men weak-kneed.
That a Welsh poet of the twelfth century should have
given such a character to the people of Nanhyfer is
very remarkable, and shows that it must have at least
been well known that they were of Irish descent, and
that they were in the habit probably of receiving and
harbouring invaders from Ireland. How late this
continued it is impossible to say, or to guess how long
these men of Nevern retained the use of the Irish
language, This last is a very important question,
especially when one calls to mind the comparative
lateness of the Trefgarn Fach inscription with Ogtenlo
" Ogtiu's Grave," and the Llanvaughan one with
Trenaccat-lOj " Tringad's Grave." Both are in Ogam,
and with them may perhaps be chronologically asso-
ciated some inscriptions which are in Latin alone, such
as the Llanllyr one, in the Vale of Ayron. At all
events, I gather that the Irish language persisted in
parts of Dyfed considerably later than I have been used
to think : possibly down to the days of Cian, late in
the ninth century.
The two inscriptions on the stone which have occupied
us here are, it will have been noticed, exact counter-
parts of one another, which is very seldom the case.
But this Nevern find, which appears to have been
made by Mr. Romilly Allen and Archdeacon
Thomas, will not yield us all the lessons to be derived
from it, until the two monuments are taken out of the
wall to which the ignorance of a forgotten generation
has recklessly consigned them. It is to be hoped that
this will be seen to by the Vicar, Mr. J. O. Evans, who
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
§2 BPtORAtHtC NO*ES.
kindly gave us all the assistance in his power on the
day of our visit, and by the enlightened Squire who is
the head of the great Welsh family of the Bowens of
Llwyngwair.
Trbflys/ Carnarvonshire.
In October, 1904, 1 received a letter from Mr. Charles
E. Breese, of Portmadoc, whose father, the late Edward
Breese, was an ardent antiquary, conspicuous at our
meetings in the Seventies. The son, I am delighted
to say, has inherited his father's tastes, and his letter
was about a find made near the old church of
Fig. 6. -Inscribed Stone at Treflys, Carnarvonshire.
{From a photograph by C. E. Breese.)
Tretlys. I quote the following words from it : **A find of
considerable interest has been made near the old church
of Treflys, which, you may remember, stands about
midway between here and Criccieth, in fairly close
proximity to the sea. Some six weeks ago, some
workmen were engaged in removing on the west of the
church the boundary wall enclosing the graveyard on
that side, in order to make room for an extension ; and at
a depth of about 1 ft. 3 ins. or 1 ft. 8 ins. from the surface,
and forming part of the foundation of the wall, they
came across an inscribed stone. I send you a rubbing
1 The inscribed stone at Treflys has been already described in the
Arch. Camb. for Janoary 1905, and an account of the church by-
Mr. Harold Hughes will be found in the Arch, Camb. for October,
1906. This fact had wholly escaped me when I wrote these notes.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
BPIORAPHIC NOTES. 93
which I have taken of it, and also a very rude sketch-
plan of the locale. The stone is perfect, and the
incisions upon it in a very excellent state of preserva-
tion. The stone is only very slightly chipped at the
bottom end, and is of the blue-slate type peculiar to
this country. The cross is interesting, and is very
carefully incised." Since then Mr. Breese sent me a
photograph of the stone, together with its dimensions, as
follows : —
Whole length of stone 4 ft. 6 ins.
Whole length of inscription ... 2 ft. 6 ins.
Depth of stone ... ... ... Sins.
Width of stone ... ... ... 9 or 1 0 ins.
Tapering at top end down to ... 7 ins.
At Easter, 1905, 1 spent a week at Arianfryn on the
Mawddach, and made an excursion to Portmadoc on
April 22(id, when Mr. and Mrs. Breese took me to
Gresel Gyfarch and Treflys. At the latter place the
inscribed stone had been carefully placed inside the
little church, and I found the reading exactly as de-
scribed by Mr. Breese, as follows : —
That is, lACONvr Fiuvr mini iacit, *' (Here) lies laco-
nus, son of Min." This requires one or two notes : the
sis of the tall gamma type; the f has the first i of filiics
attached to its lower bar, while the Hits is represented
by a sort of combination, which may be described
as T, making an L upside down, to be read as li : then
a sort of arm sloping upwards (from the middle of the
perpendicular of the r) towards the right provides a v,
while the arm and the lower half of the perpendicular
yields an r. Thus I regard the word as meant to be
read FiLivr, which is the case required. The cross in
front of the first name is, perhaps, more correctly
speaking, the monogram of XPI2T02, the part + being
intended for X, and the prolongation into a curve to
the right for P, the Greek rho, I cannot recall any
exact parallel nearer than Cornwall : see Langdon and
Allen's Catalogue of Inscribed Monuments in Cornwall,
in this Journal for 1895, pp. 50-60. There No. 13 is
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94
SPiaRAPHIC NOTES.
in point as to the form of the monogram, and Nos. 22
and 35 also as to its position in a line with the
legend in Latin. Before leaving the inscriber's handy-
work, I wish to mention that I thought I detected
five Ogam notches near the top of the stone on the
right edge opposite the monogram : they are not so
like notches, however, as little pits into which one's
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
BPfOBAPHIC KOm. 95
finger-tips would fit. They formed the end of the geni-
tive Ictconi, which would be —
_ MM! I I I I I II
M M I I II I I I I I M M I
A C O N I
And looking further down, I seemed to detect the out-
ward extremities of three of the four scores for c ; in
other words, a flake had gone long ago, carrying on it
the rest of the Ogam legend on the edge and to the
right of it; but I should like to have the opinion
(Jf others on this point.
To come to the names, I have nothing to compare
for certain with lACONVS, unless it be lacinipoi, in an
Ogam inscription now at Donard, in co. Kildare ; and
probably one must not associate with them Irish ice,
" a healing, salvation," and Welsh iachy ** hale, sound,
healthy," which seem to have bifurcated from a com-
mon stem iecc. The Venedotian prince called lacoby son
of Belly in the Harleian Genealogies ( Y Cymmrodory
ix, 1 70), is called by Greoflfrey xii, 6, lago, in the accusa-
tive Idgonerriy as if he had found a name laco^ accusative
Idconerriy in a Latin document ; nor is it quite impossible
that our laconus is a form of the Christian name
lacobus : at any rate, it would be almost as near, with
its n, to the original as the Italian Gridcomo, and the
English James, with their m. If, for instance, 'laicw/So?
was imported with its fi pronounced v, as has long
been the case in Greek, there would be nothing strange
in Idcovos being made by Goidelic Christians into
Idconus; but, needless to say, this is all conjecture.
As to the other name. Mini, it is hard to say whether
the inscriber regarded this as the genitive of Minus or
of a derivative MiniuSy as it would do for either.
There is an Irish adjective min, which signifies '* soft,
smooth, fine, small"; but whether our Mini has any-
thing to do with it is hard to say. It is more, per-
haps, to the point to mention the name of a family or
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
96 snaRAPHic hotbeu
sept called Moeumin, in Adamnan's Life of Columha.
It occurs in the names of two brothers, Lugbeus
Moeumin and Lugneus Moeumin^ where the latter
word means Mocu Miuj or the Kin of Min. Some-
times Adamnan expands the name thus : Lugbeus,
gente Moeumin, or Lugbeus of the gens called the Kin
of Min. The references to Reeves's edition are i, 15
(43), 24 (53), 28 ^56), ii, 18 (127), 27 (141): none of
the passages enable one to find out where the Mocu-
Min were settled. But until some evidence of the
occurrence of a patronymic mac Min is found, I cannot
help thinking that flius is here to be interpreted in a
wide sense, such as was sometimes given to mac in
Irish, and that JUhis Mini is to be treated as a loose
translation into Latin of the Goidelic Mocu ^ Min,
Mocu is neither declined nor translated by Adamnan,
but in the Ogam inscriptions of Ireland it is almost
always in the genitive, mocoi or mucoi. The latter
occurs also in this country, at Bridell, in Pembroke-
shire, and at Silchester, in Hampshire ; but nowhere,
unfortunately, has this difficult term of Goidelic socio-
logy been found rendered into Latin.
I may add that I have had other letters from Mr.
Breese, in which he alludes to various antiquarian
remains at Treflys and in the immediate vicinity. They
range from a spindle- whqrl to a cromlech. Subject to
the Editor's approval, I should like to suggest to Mr.
Breese that he should write for this Journal a paper
on the antiquities of the district around Treflys.
Llystyn Gwyn,* near Brynkir Station,
Carnarvonshire.
On the 1st of July, 1902, I received a letter from
Mr. R. Pritchard Evans, of Felin Llecheiddior, in-
forming me of the discovery of an old inscribed stone
' An illustration of the stone will be found in the Ai-ch, Camh, for
1903, p. 288. It was first published in the Proc, Soc, Ant. Lond.y
Ser. 2, vol. xix, p. 255. ...
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EPIGRAPHIC NOTES. 97
on the farm of Llystyn Gwyn, on the estate of Col.
Lloyd Jones Evans, of Broom Hall^ near Pwllheli. In
the course of the month, I went with Mr. Pritchard
Evans to see the stone. As a result of my visit, I read
an account of the stone to the Society of Antiquaries.
It appeared in their Proceedings for 1903, pp. 255-271 ;
and in it I stated^ among other things, that I had it
from an expert that the j stone is one of fgranitic
texture, which is to be found in situ in the Bethesda
district. It measures parallel to the inscription about
3 ft. 6 ins., by 3 ft. the other way ; and as to thickness,
it varies from rather more than a foot at the edge just
above the lettering to 6 ins. at the edge opposite,
namely, the one furthest from the lettering. It is a
peculiarity of this inscription that it is crowded into
one corner of the surface : see Fig. 8.
When I first saw the stone it rested on the edge b d,
and I was not able to have it shifted, so I detected no
more writing ; but as it stood in a very unsafe place, I
urged the farmer to have it moved. In time he did
so, and the photograph which Mr. Pritchard Evans
procured for me represented it standing as above, as
may be seen in the copy printed by the Society of
Antiquaries. That photograph, though showing the
edge B D clear of the ground, into which it pressed
itself when I saw it, suggested to me no additional
writing; but when in the course of the Portmadoc
Meeting the Cambrians visited it, the Venerable Arch-
deacon Thomas detected Ogam writing on the edge
B D. Then as I could get no reading of the Ogam
scores, I had to wait till I could find an opportunity of
revisiting the stone myself This came during my stay
at Penrhos early in September, 1904, when Sir William
Preece drove me to Llystyn Gwyn. We found the
stone by this time standing near the farmhouse, and
we detected the Ogam scores at once on the rugged
edge B D, for that is only a little less so than the broken
edge c D. The top a b is so thick and rounded that it
can hardly be said to offer an edge for the Ogam carver
6th seb. vol. vu. 7
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98
EPIORAPHIC NOTES.
to practice on. There was left a c, which presents a
fairly tractable edge, and in point of position that
B
Fig. 8. — Inscribed Stone at LljHtyn Gw'jn, Caruarvou«hire.
{Prom a photograph by J. Allen Jones, Ilvjh Street ^ Criccteth.)
would have been the one where I should look for
Ogams, and I believe I did so when I first saw the
stone. The reason why ac had not been used was
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EPlGRAPHIC NOTES.
99
Fig. 9. — Latin Inscription on the Llystyn Gwyn Stone.
Fig. 10.— Ogam Inscription on the Llystyn Gwyn Stone.
7-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
100 EPIGRAPflIC NOTES.
probably the same as for crowding the Roman letters
into the right top corner. That reason cannot, I think,
be other than that more than one-half of the stone
must have been covered by other heavy stones before
either inscription was carved. What sort of burial
that may exactly imply I am unable to say ; and it is
a pity that the site should not be carefully excavated,
for there is still one big stone there lying m situ^
perhaps more than one. The tenant can show the
exact spot, and Col, Lloyd J. Evans would probably
only be too glad to see the work done thoroughly : in
any case, there would not be much to do.
One of Sir William Preece's party took a photograph
of the stone, but as the day was not favourable the
result did not come up to our expectations. I read the
Roman letters as before : icoRi filiv f/potenti/ni, that
is Icori filiu[s] f(ili) Potentini — "I. son of the Son
of Potentinus. ' The Ogam reading up at right angles
to it is as follows : —
IMM MM ■ I ///// I I I 1 I // ■
"///// ""•// ' MM
I COR I G A S
Some of the vowel notches are indistinct, but there is
no serious difficulty as to the reading. It is right to
say that the two inscriptions come in one another's
way, for where the second F comes to the very edge of
the stone, its two bars interlock with the arms of the
Ogam J-l^ ; but they are, I thought, just kept from
touching one another.
Now, as to the names, one sees at once that Icorigas
is the genitive of the name which is given as ICORI in
the Latin, and that it is impossible to regard ic as
standing here for the Latin hie, as I wrote before seeing
the O^am. Unfortunately, there are two ways of
regardmg the declension of the word : (1) the form
ICORI stands for an earlier Icori-s of the z-declension,
making in the genitive Icoriy-dSy written Icorig-dS, to
be compared with Avittorig-es, the genitive in es of the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
BPiaRAPHIC NOTES. 101
name written in Latin Avitoria in the nominative.
(2) Or else it may be treated as standing for Ico-rlx, a
compound making its genitive Ico-rlg-as, involving, in
fact, the word for king, Old Irish H, genitive rig,
Welsh rhi. Holder supplies two forms in point, and
on the whole they may be said to favour the second
view. They are Icongiumy a place-name from the
neighbourhood of Treves, formed most likely from
Icorix. The other is Icovellauna, the name of a
goddess in inscriptions from the vicinity of Treves and of
Metz. Vellauna is the feminine of Vellaunos, meaning
probably one who rules or reigns, a prince : compare
CdssivellaiinoSy Catuvellaunos, and the like. But all
this does not enable one to fix the meaning of the first
element ico in the composition of names such as Ico-rlx
and IcO'Vellauna.
As to the other name, PotentinuSy I have given it
as mv opinion that Filius Fill Potentini may be a
literal translation from Goidelic ; and, as I have got
no '* forwarder" since, I cannot do better than repro-
duce it in the form in which it occurs in the paper
read to the Society of Antiquaries, as follows : — " The
name Potentinus occurs in one of the Roman inscrip-
tions at Caerleon, and we have Potenina, which looks
like a reduced form ofPotentina, on a post- Roman stone
found at Tregaron, in the neighbourhood of the Roman
site of Llanio, in Cardiganshire. Potentinus^ as a
derivative from potens, 'powerful, strong/ has its
parallel in Irish in the name Ceithemach, which comes
from mediaeval Irish cethern or ceithem, in Welsh
cadam, ^ potens^ strong, able-bodied,' literally * fit for
war/ cognate with cad, ' battle,' Irish cath of the same
meaning; but the Irish word cethern has only come
down in the sense of ' soldiers,' or rather perhaps a
* band of soldiers,' as it is used in the singular with a
plural meaning, and it has been borrowed into Welsh as
such, while in English it became hern and oateran (see
O'Dono van's Battle of Magh Rath, p. 140, and Stokes's
Saltair na Rann^ line 3538). The kern seem to have
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102 EPIGRAPHIC NOTES.
earned at an early date a very bad reputation, and
y gethem is usually connected in Welsh with heU, and
means the rabble of demons associated with it. To
return to the inscription : Filius JUi Potentini may be
treated as the equivalent of some such a mediaeval
Irish designation as Mac Meic Ceitherrmich, or
Mc Ceithemaigh's son. In fact, it is perhaps needless
to look for any other, as Mac Ceithernaigh occurs as a
proper name in Irish annals, for instance, in those of
Ulster, A.D. 1382 : in the translation of the Four
Masters it is anglicized as * Mac Keherny,' and it was
borne by one of the chieftains of Connaught."
Curiously enough, the meaning given to the feminine
collective cethern in Welsh, recalls the strong words in
which Meilir indulged in reference to the Groidels
of Nanhyfer : it testifies to a racial animosity which
has taken centuries to die out in the Principality.
Note. — With regard to the illastrations of this paper, it should
be mentioned that Mr. Worthington Smith has done his best with
the materials placed at his disposal, which consisted chiefly of
rubbings. These are occasionallj misleading, if not corrected bj
moans of photographs and sketches taken from the stones them-
selves. The most satisfactory results can only be obtained by photo-
graphs of casts of the stones, and these are not as yet available. The
rubbings of the Nevern No. 2 stone were taken by the Rev. G. Eyre
Evans in the depth of winter, at considerable inconvenience to
himself.— Ed.
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103
Cambrian ^trdbaeologtcal 2[0£(ociatuin.
REPORT OF THE
SIXTIETH ANNUAL MEETING.
HRLD AT
CARMARTHEN,
On MONDAY, AUGUST 13th, 1906,
AND FOUR FOLLOWING DAYS.
Preiident.
THE VEN. ARCHDEACON THOMAS, F.S.A.
Pretident'Elcct
SIR JOHN WILLIAMS. Bart., M.D.
JjOccU Committee.
Oaiman.— ALAN STEPNEY-GULSTON, Esq., Dkrwydd.
The Mayor of Carmarthen (H. E. Blagdon- Richards, Esq.).
Sir James HiUs-Johnes, V.C, G.C.B., Dolaucothi, Llanwrda.
Mrs. Johnes, Dolaucothi, Llanwrda.
Sir Lewis Morris, Penbryn.
The Venble. Archdeacon Evans, Carmarthen.
Rev. T. R. Walters, Carmarthen.
Rev. W. Davies. Llanfihangel Abercowin.
Rev. J. Thomais Laughame.
Rev. D. D. Evans, Llangunnor.
Rev. George Eyre Evans, Aberystwy th.
Rev. W. W. Poole Hughes, Warden, Llandovery College.
Rev. J. Marsden, LlanDwch.
Rev. Alexander Williams, Llangatheu.
Colonel Gwynne Hughes, Glancothi.
Meuric Lloyd, Esq., Delfryn.
G. G. T. Treherne, Esq., 28, Bedford Row, London.
D. Lleufer Thomas, Esq., Hendre, Swansea.
T. W. Barker, Esq., Oaklands, Carmarthen.
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104 CAMBRIAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
Local OomnUttee. — Continued,
T. E. Brigstoeke, Esq., King Street, Carmarthen.
J. D. Jones, Elsq., Bronydre, Carmarthen.
H. C. Tierney, Esq., Editor, Wdshman, Carmarthen.
A. LI. I>avies, Esq., Brynderw, Carmarthen.
J. B. Morgan, Esq., Architect, Llanelly.
Mrs. D. Pugh Evans, Parade, Carmarthen.
Miss Spurrell, King Street, Carmarthen.
H. S. Holmes, Esq., Training College, Carmarthen.
R. M. Thomas, Esq., Town Clerk, Carmarthen.
E. V. Collier. Esq., Architect, Carmarthen.
Arthur R Davies. Esq., 5, Quildhall Square, Carmarthen.
John Lewis, Esq., Arybryn, Carmarthen.
B. A. Lewis, Elsq., Morfa House, Carmarthen.
F. W. Childs, Esq., Architect, Carmarthen.
Hon, Local Treasurer,
P. J. Wheldon, Esq., Nat. Prov. Bank, Carmarthen.
Hon, Local Seeretwrtu,
Rev. M H. Jones, 22, Picton Terrace, Carmarthen.
Walter Spurrell, Esq., King Street, Carmarthen.
General Secretaries to the Association,
Rev. Canon R. Trevor Owen, M.A., F.S.A., Bodelwyddan Vicarage,
Rhuddlan R.S.O., North Wales.
Rev. C. Chidlow, M.A,, Lawhaden Vicarage, Narberth.
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — REPORT. 105
EVENING MEETINGS.
MONDAY, AUGUST 13th, 1906.
A CoNVBBSAZiONE aod reception of the members of the Assooiation
by the Mayor and Mayoress of Carmarthen, Mr. and Mrs. H. E.
Blagdon-Riohards, was held in the Assembly Rooms at 8 p.m.
The Mayor, in offering a welcome to the members of the
Association, said it was a very carious fact that on the first visit of
the Association to Carmarthen it had jnst terminated thirty years of
its existence, and now at the time of its second visit, it had jast
completed the second thirty years. He took it that in the usual
course of events the third visit of the Association would be in the
year 1936. He and all of them would very much like to put that
date a little closer to the present year. He felt highly gratified —
not to say honoured — that it fell to his lot to tender to each
distinguished member of the Assooiation the warmest and heartiest
welcome into their midst that it was possible for a man to offer.
He did so on behalf of himself and the Mayoress, and on behalf of
the Corporation of this ancient borough, with the assurance also of
the fullest appreciation of his fellow-townspeople. He should like
to emphasise that assurance, because he wished them to believe him
it was not a mere idle sentiment prompted by ordinary courtesy.
He knew it to be based upon a very lively feeling of satisfaction
that existed in the town over this present visit of the Association.
They in Carmarthen took a very great pride in the history and
historical status of the town, and especially of being St. Peter's
boys, of which he was ona Of course, it was very natural and
pardonable for anyone to eulogise his own town, but it was more
than usually justified in their case. He supposed ho might assume
everyone present had read every historical document relating to
the ancient charter of this old town. It was simply teeming with
eulogistic references to the town. One in particular read very
nicely, and he had made a copy of it. In a certificate made out in
the year 1548, it stated: ''The town of Carmarthen is a fair
market town, having a fair haven and the fairest town iu the whole
of Sonth Wales, and of the most civility.'' He really did not
consider that by any means an exaggerated way of putting it,
because, in his experience, which was a very long one, he had
known this statement to have been made scores and scores of
times ; in fact, whenever visitors came to Carmarthen there were
four things they did. First of all, they visited the Market-place,
especially if they could do so on a Saturday. Then they went down
to visit the Carmarthen docks ; then they admired the beauties of
the town from its various aspects, inside and around ; and lastly.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC .
106 CAMBRIAN ARCHJEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
bj no meftns the leasfc, thej fallj appreciated the oiTilitj shown
them by the Carmarthen people. He held that there was no single
spot in the Principality that contained, in proportion to its size,
landmarks more calcnlated to aronse the dreamy interest of the
antiquary than were contained in this small area. He said this
advisedly, becanse those who had made themselves familiar with
the town and its history by means of stndy and previous visits would
bear him out in that statement; and with regard to those who
had not had the inestimable privilege of visiting this town before,
they would, during the course of the week, come to realise the truth
of every statement he uttered there that night. He could give them
instances beyond nnmber, but would content himself with drawing
attention to just one spot of interest and great antiquity in the
town — that was the Old Oak in Priory Street, the site of the Old
Priory. It had been said — and there were many believers in the
faith to-day, who maintained the legend — that when the Old Oak
falls Carmarthen will be swallowed up by the ravages of the iiea.
And this belief was perfectly real and clear, because it was shown
by the amount of attention given to this old oak. It was alive at
the first visit of the Association, but since then had suffered
premature decay ; and when they came to visit it sometime that
week, they would be astounded to know that all that rested between
Carmarthen and utter destruction was the little support given fo
the old tree by means of mortar and bricks and iron bands.
The Mayor then vacated the Chair in favour of Archdeacon Thomas,
St. Asaph, who thanked the Mayor for his warm welcome on their
second visit to this ancient and historic town. He could hardly
support the statement that it was thirty years since their last visit ;
it was thirty-one years, and he was afraid that would add one year
more to their happiness. However, he hoped it would not make
ranch difference when the time came round again. There wore
some there now who were present at the first meeting. Some
very active members and workers in the Association — ^their
Secretary for South Wales, and also their Editor, joined on that
occasion. Those present would remember the admirable address
with which the then President, Bishop Basil Jones, opened the
meeting; they would think what great giants they were in
those days, and he was afraid they would look down perhaps
a little on their followers of the present day. Work went on
though the workers changed ; and when they came here this
time they had an advantage which those members of 1875 did
not possess. They found, in their itinerary course from North
to South, that their endeavour to stir up interest in archsdology
did bear some considerable amount of fruit. A good many
societies had arisen in the kingdom that were doing admirable work
in the country; and here in Carmarthen they had the great
advantage on coming amongst them, of finding that not only would
they have interpreters on the spot, but that the excellent society
that had been established here had evidently taken root and done
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — REPORT. 107
good work. Referring to the antiquarian records, he said, that
looking orei* the index of parks published^ be saw a verj great
variety and extensive meaning of place-names. That showed that
one or other had looked np the facts and the history of those varions
places, and there was very valaable material for their fntnre
historian. He had been to Carmarthen many times sinoe 1875, and
there were two places he made a point of seeing — one, the
Parish Charch, with its very interesting monuments, which was in
many ways an object of great interest as well as care, lie wished
he could say the same of the other object which he had come from
time to time to look at, and it was one of the moat interesting
things — the remains of the ancient Castle. When he came to stand
opposite that fine gateway, and saw how little of it was visible, he
had from time to time a spirit of sadness that it was blocked np
as it is by the surrounding buildings. He thought as it was their
object to stir up interest, and try to bring about a better arch»ological
condition of things. It would be a matter of great credit to the town
if they were to start — and indeed it would be extremely gratifying
to the Association if their visit led to a removal of those unsightly
buildings, and to disclose to the public that fine gateway. He
threw this out for, from what the Mayor had said he evidently took
a deep interest in archaeological matters. They had their local
Society, and they had as representative of the Association their
good President, and he hoped that when 1936 or '37 came round they
would see the gateway of the Castle, to say nothing of changes
inside. He did not suppose he would bo here in 1936, but no doubt
members of the Association would then appreciate the kindness and
welcome that was extended to them, and would rejoice more than
those present could now rejoice, at the completion of what he had
thrown out as a suggestion. In vacating the chair in favour of Sir
John Williams — who, he said, wns exceedingly competent, and had
a special claim to fill it— he observed that in Sir John they had one
who had shown by his energy and skill what a Welshman could
do. By his talents and merits he had risen to a position they
very much envied. Now he had reached the top of the ladder ho
had come to live among them in Carmarthenshire, and give full
vent to that love for Wales and its literature which they knew he
Sir John Williams then took the Chair, and said he joined in the
welcome given by the Mayor to the company to the ancient capital
of the Principality of Wales. A year ago the antiquaries of the
town joined the Society and the Cambrian ArchaBological
Association to place on record the historical and architectural
buildings of the town. It was now a lusty and thriving infant,
and had unearthed at Cwmbrwyn remaimi of Roman works that
had remained hidden from sight and lost to memory for one thousand
years. He expressed regret that the Rev. M. H. Jones, one of the
founders of the Society, the Editor of its records, and one of the
Secretaries, was about to leave Carmarthen for another sphere, where
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
108 CAMBRIAN ARCHiEOLOOICAL ASSOCIATION.
he had been appointed to a post of great importance and far-
reaching inflaence in the religions world. He took this opportnnitj
of wishing him Gk>d-speed in his new undertaking. The r resident
then proceeded to deliver his address.
Thb Presidbnt's Address.
It is with much pleasure that I join his Worship the Mayor of Car-
marthen in welcoming yon to the ancient capital of the Principality
of South Wales. An important station during the Roman occupa-
tion, its after-history is intimately connected with the story of the
legendary Myrddin, of the Princes of South Wales, and Rhys ap
Thomas, epoch-makers in the history, not only of Wales but of
Oreat Britain.
A year ago, the antiquaries of the town and county joined to
form a society — The Carmarthen Antiquarian Society — the object
of which is to place on record and to preserve that which is left of
the historical and architectural antiquities of the county. It is a
lusty and thriving infant, of great promise, and on Wednesday you
will have an opportunity of seeing one of its early achievements, in
the excavations made at Cwmbrwyu to reveal a Roman building
which has been hidden from sight and lost to memory for more
than a thousand years. Thursday morning will be devoted to visit
places of interest in the town — some of them Roman, others of a
later period. To-morrow morning the Society will visit Llanstephan,
where a castle, a church, and two holy wells await inspection by the
members.
The story of the Castle is but little known, and little has been
written of it That which was known at the time Mr. Waters
wrote is recorded in his valuable essay on The History of Llanstephcm^
Past and Present, The exact date of its foundation has not been
ascertained, but it must have been built during the very last years
of the eleventh century or the early part of the twelfth ; for in the
year 1137 it was destroyed by Owen and Cadwaladr, the sons of
Gruffndd ap Cynan, Prince of North Wales. The earlier Welsh
castles which were burnt by the Welsh princes were not the massive
stone buildings which have come down to us.
The date of this, the first destruction of the Castle known to us,
is usually given as 1136, and Mr. Waters adopts it in his History of
Llanstephan^ but there are reasons for believing 1137 to be the
correct date. The Armales Cambrice, and Caradoc in his Historic of
Cambria^ before ih^i HistoHe was *' greatly improved and enlarged"
by Wynne, give the date as 1137. Moreover, the story of the
BnU^ which is the only authority adduced in favour of the opinion
that 1136 is the correct date, under the year 1136,. reads thus : —
" Yn y vlwyddyn rac wyneb," which is translated " in the year
ensuing," and apparently means the year 1137. ^' In the ensuing
year " it reads '^ Grnffudd, son of Rhys, died. ... In the same
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — REPORT. 109
year Groffudd, son of Cynan, died. ... In that year also the sons
of Grnffadd, son of Cynan, came the third time into Ceredigion, and
homed the Castle of Ystrad Mearig, the Castle of Llanstephan,
the Castle of Hamfrey and Carmarthen.*'
Now in what year died G-raffadd ap Rhys and Groffadd ap
Cynan ? The writer of the AnncUes states definitely that their deaths
took place in the year 1137. Caradoo is equally definite. His
words are : *' The year 1137 died Graffyth ap Bees ap Theodor. . . .
Also, toward the end of the same year died Graffyth ap Conan, King
or Prince of North Wales.*' The three anthorities agree that the
destruction of the Castle was effected in the same year in which the
Prince died, and Caradoc and the Aivnales state definitely that they
died in 1137. We may therefore conclude that the burning of
the Castle by the sons of the Prince of North Wales took place in
the year 1137.
Twice in the previous year, 1136, had the same sons of Grnffudd
ap Cynan raided Ceredigion, once with the aid of Gruffudd ap
Rhys ; and it was on the third occasion of raiding that district that
they marched south and destroyed the Castle of Llanstephan.
Had anything more than love of country and hatred of the
Norman adventurers been wanting to infuse them with courage, to
give strength to their arms and keenness to their vision, it was
furnished by the cruel treatment of the Princess Gwenllian, who
was the daughter of Gruffydd ap Cynan and the wife of Gruffudd ap
Rhys, by Maurice de Londres. Gwenllian was taken prisoner in
the battle of Cydweli. The date of this battle is generally given
as 1135.
The Brut and Annates make no mention of Gwenllian or the battle,
bat Giraldus in his Itinerary states : *^ In this district, after the
death of King Henry, whilst Gruffydd, son of Rhys, Prince of
South Wales, was engaged in soliciting assistance from North Wales,
his wife Gwenllian (like the Queen of the Amazons and a second
Penthesilia) led an army into these parts ; but she was defeated by
Maurice de Londres, Lord of that country, and Geoffrey, Constable
to the Bishop."
Henry died on December Ist (December 3rd, according to the
Brut), 1135, so that the battle of Cydweli could not have been
fought until the very last days of 1135, and may not have been
fought until early in 1136. The treatment of Gwenllian by Maurice
may account for the three raids made into the Marches of South
Wales by the sons of Gruffudd ap Cynan, in such rapid succession
in the year following the death of Gwenllian.
We know of no attacks upon the Castle from this time until the
year 1146 (1147, according to the Annates),
When Gruffudd ap Cynan died, there was some prospect of a union
of the Welsh Princes, but in the year 1143 Cadwaladr killed
Anarawd, the son of Gruffudd ap Rhys. This led to disunion among
the Welsh. Meanwhile, the Lord Marchers who were united became
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
1 10 CAMBRlAI^ AROH^OLOGlCAli ASSOCIATION.
so aggressive that the sons of Graffadd ap Bhjs in South Wales
with difficnltj held their own. Under these ci reams tanoes, Hy wel
and Owen, the sons of Owen Gwynedd, came to their aid with a
large army. They besieged the Castle of Carmarthen, and after five
days oaptnred it. Afterwards, Cadell, Rhys, and Maredudd, the
sons of Gmffndd ap Rhys, marched on Llanstephan, and conquered
the Castle.
Henry II, who was at war with Philip of France, died at Chinon
in 1189, and in this year Llewelyn ap Grnffndd took possession of
the Castles of St. Clare, Langhame, and Llanstephan.
The year 1215 will remain ever memorable in the story of Britain,
for in that year the English barons, in arms, appeared before King
John to demand the charter of English liberty. Llewelyn allied
himself with the barons, and together with the Welsh princes
^thered a large force, marched upon Carmarthen, captured the
Castle and rased it to the ground. They then demolished the
Castles of Llanstephan, Talacharn, and St. Clare, and subdued the
whole of South Wales except Pembroke and Glamorgan.
For forty years after this event, it does not appear that the
Castle was taken or attacked by the Welsh ; but in the year 1255
the Lord Marchers became so aggressive and tyrannical that the
Welsh nobles *' came to Llewelyn, having been robbed and made
captive, and complainingly declared to him that they would rather
be killed in war for their liberty than suffer themselves to be trodden
down in bondage." Llewelyn, together with Maredudd ap Rhys
Grug, invaded the midland country of Perfeddwlad, and subdued it
before the end of a week. He gave Bnilth to Maredudd, and banished
the owner, Rhys Vychan.
This led to another battle in the following year ; for " Rhys
Yychan, meaning to recover his lands, obtained of the King a large
army, whereof one Stephen Bacon (or Banson) was captain." They
came to Carmarthen, and having devastated portions of the district,
marched upon Dynevor. Here they met the Welsh in force, and
having suffered a disastrous defeat, fled, having lost, it is said, two
or three thousand soldiers. Afterwards, the Welsh army went to
Dyfed, and burned the county and destroyed the Castles of Aber-
cowan (Laugharne), Llanstephan, Maenclochog, and Narberth.
After this we find no record of fighting at Llanstephan, until the
year 1403, when Owen Glyndwr captured John Penres, the keeper
of the Castle.
The first Lord Marcher of whom we find mention is Geoffrey
Marmion, who was lord about the middle of the twelfth century. He
may even have been the first Lord Marcher of Llanstephan. He
granted the church of Llanstephan, with some glebe land and
other privileges to a certain Master of the Slebech Comraanderj of
St John of Jerusalem, as is mentioned in Owen's Pembrokeshire ;
where is also to be found an inventory of the gifts made to the
Slebech house.
In making this gift, however, Geoffrey planted a seed which
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OARMAKTHElN MEEtlKG. — REPORT. Ill
after some years bore fniifc in the form of a lawsuit. The year of
his death is not known. He had a daughter named Albreda, or
Albrea Marmion, who was his heir. She was married to William de
Camville, who was son of Richard de Gamville, one of the leaders
and constables of the fleet of Richard I, and who died at the siege
of Acre, 1191.
They had a son named Geoffrey de Camville. In the year
1200 King John granted a charter to Geoffrey, confirming to him
the Castle and town of Llanstephan, as William de Camville held
them, on the day he gave them to Geoffrey.
Geoffrey was to hold the Cattle by the service of one knight's fee,
to be performed in Sooth Wales for all services, as the charters of
William his ^Either and Albreda his mother *' reasonably testify."
This Lady Marcher, Albreda Marmion, who was the heir of
Geoffrey Marmion, appears to have reserved some rights and
claim over lands in Llanstephan, when she gave her hand
in wedlock to William de Camville ; for the confirming charter
refers to the charters of William and Albreda: and in the
year 1228 we find that Albreda Marmion appeared before the
King at Gloucester, and " quit-claimed to William de Camville all
right and claim she had in the land of Llanstephan.'' Now her son
Geoffrey had a son named William, and I am of opinion that
Albreda Marmion quit-claimed all her rights in Llanstephan lands
to her grandson and not to her husband.
This lucky William, the pet of his grandmother, succeeded to
the lordship when ho was still a minor ; and whilst he was a minor
in the custody of the King and the Earl of Salisbury, a certain
Conan Howell, a Welshman, came and occupied during the custody
of the King.
William had a son named Geoffrey. This is Geoffrey number three.
The Normans seem to have been as chary as the Welsh of adding
to the Christian names in the family. This third Geoffrey is he,
during whose tenure of the lordship the gift of the Church of
Llanstephan to the Slebech Commandery fructified and bore a
lawsuit He instituted proceedings against William de Hamleye,
Prior of the Hospital of St John of .Jerusalem in England, and
Gilbert de St Augustine, Master of Slebech, to recover the
advowson of Llanstephan Church, deforced from the Lord of
Llanstephan, by the Prior of St. John and the Master of
Slebech.
There was some hard swearing in the course of the litigation,
but the Lord Marcher won. He won, however, to find himself out-
manoeuvred by Thomas, Bishop of St David's, who wrote : " To
the Venerable and discreet man, Lord Robert de Tybetot, justiciar.
. . . whereas according to ecclesiastical laws . . . churches ai*e to
be vacant only for times defined by law, and the Church of Llan-
stephan, owing to the plea moved between Geoffrey de Camville
and the Master of the House of Slebech, hds now been vacant for
a long time, and beyond the term of the statute, on which account
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112 CAMBRIAN ARCHiiEOLOGieAL ASSOCIATION.
the collation has fallen upon as, loci of the same diocese and
bishopric, and it is onr will to provide properly for the indemnity
of sonls, lest the rapacious wolves should destroy the Lord's flock,
destitute of a pastor, the said Church of Llanstephan being vacant
beyond time. . . . Grant to our beloved in Christ, Thomas de
Goedeli, enjoining him, etc."
Geoffrey, the successful suitor, had to solace himself with an
earthly reward — the damages of the valor of the church for two
years, to wit, 120 marks.
The suit interests us chiefly because the evidence given in the
course of it enables us to complete the list of the Lord Marchers of
Llanstephan, from Geoffrey Marmion, who may have been the first,
to the year 1338.
The litigious Geoffrey de Camville died in 1308.
He had a son named William. This is William the third. He
was a Knight of Paine de Chaworth, Lord of Cydweli, in tbe war
with Llewelyn in 1282-83. This, the third William, and the last of
the Lords of Llanstephan who bore the name of Camville, ^i€»d in
1338, and lefb five daughters — two of whom, Matilda and Eleanor^
are of interest to us in this connection, because their father was
granted and given licence to enfeoff them with the Manor of Llan-
stephan in 1337. Eleanor became the wife of Richard de Penres.
Twenty-nine years passed, and in the year 1377 the lordship fell
into the hands of the Crown by the forfeiture of Robert Penres,
because that he, on Sunday next after the Invention of the Holy
Cross, 1370, feloniously killed Joan, the daughter of William Ap LI',
at Llanstephan, of which felony *' he was convicted on Monday
after Holy Trinity, 1377." The wheels of justice moved somewhat
slowly. This felonious Robert Penres, was evidently the son of
Robert Penres, who immediately preceded him as Lord of Llan-
stephan, who again appears to have been the son of Richard Penres,
who married Eleanor de Camville, and through his marriage
succeeded to the lordship.
Upon the forfeiture of Robert Penres, Richard, Prince of Wales,
granted the Castle and lordship to Simon de Burley. In the
course of the following year, 1378, two other charters were granted
by Richard to Simon, each giving him greater power and more
extensive privileges.
Simon, however, was not allowed to enjoy his possessions un-
disturbed, for in 1379 — two years after the first gi*ant to him — he
was subjected to proceedings in a writ quo loarranto, respecting his
liberties in Llanstephan. In view of the charters I have already
mentioned, Simon had a strong case — a complete answer to the
enquiry. But the King, to remove all doubts respecting the rights
of his favourite, granted new and sufficient letters- patent, confirm-
ing the gift, in which are enumerated the reasons for the gift in
very touching words. " In consideration,'' it is stated, " of the good
service which the aforesaid Simon has done us, and the important
position he held for us, from our tender age up to this, in all the
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CARMARTHEN BIEETINO. — REt»ORT. 113
estates which we have held, to wit, before we received military
orders, and likewise when we assumed that order, also afterwards
before we were Prince of Wales, and daring our time as Prince,
and further until made King bj Divine Grace, and as an envoy
about our marriage, returning with the Queen-Consort from her
land to this country, wherein we are informed that he had to sell
all his lands in Suffolk," eta
Richard was faithful to his favourites ; but, alas ! Simon Burley,
with eight others, were impeached in 1388, and the ^'Merciless
Parliament passed judgment against them. Simon Barley was
condemned to be hanged, drawn, and quartered. Richard could
not save him, but he did what he could; and the sentence was
changed to one less disgraceful and more surely instantaneously
fatal. Simon was beheaded.
By Simon de Burley's forfeiture the lordship came into and
remained in the hands of the Crown for three years ; and in the
year. 1391, in consideration of the payment of 500 marks, the Castle
and manor were demised to Robert de Penres, knight, son of
the Robert de Penres by whose forfeiture they fell to the Crown in
1377. Ten years after the forfeiture of Simon de Burley, that is
in the year 1398, Roger, the son of Sir John de Barley and nephew
of Simon de Burley, endeavoured to obtain possession of the Castle
and lordship. The King addressed the Sheriff of Hereford in the
following terms : *' We desire the Castle of Llanstephan ... to be
restored to Roger de Burley, in accordance with the tenour and
effect of the consideration, judgment, and statute made in our last
parliament . . . and we command yon to cause Nicholas Clerk,
Philip ap Cradock . . . tenants of the aforesaid Castle and lord-
ship, as it is said, to appear before us in our Chancery . . ." upon
which the Sheriff returned into the Chancery *' that . . . Nicholas
Philip, Philip Cradock . . . still held by the feoffment of Robert
Penres, the Castle and lordship aforesaid, enjoining with Eynon ap
Jevan yet surviving, in the same writ not named." The cup of
Richard's follies was now full, and he was deposed in the following
year (1399), and the suit of Roger de Barley failed ; for we find in
June, 1403, that John Penres, keeper of the Castle, was captured
and detained by Owen Glyndwr, and that the custody of the Castle
and lordship was granted to one David ap Howell, Armiger, to guard
it and the adjacent county by placing in it ten men-at-arms and
twenty bowmen. This was a liberal allowance of men to garrison
the Castle, for by an ordinance made by the Prince's (Richard II)
Council in 1369, the garrison of each of his castles in Wales and
Chester consisted of one constable and twelve archers only.
Letters of protection were granted to David ap Howell, and John
Swetappul was appointed to provide food for the towns and Castles
of Carmarthen, Kidwelly, and Llanstephan, and sustenance for the
soldiers, *' and our liege people there;" so that Llanstephan Castle
was garrisoned in the early part of the fifleenth century.
John Penres, who in 14f03 became the prisoner of Owen Glyndwr,
6tu ske., vol. vu. 8
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114 CAMBRIAN ABOH^OLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
appears to have obtained his liberty, for half the lordship of
Llanstephan was granted to him in the year 1408, by reason of the
forfeiture of Henry Owyn, and he was again keeper of the Castle at
the time of his death in 1411. It was then seized 'tby Thomas
Bede, who held it in his demesne as of fee of onr Sovereign lord
the Prince."
I know not what became of Thomas Rede, but the Castle appears
to have been soon granted to one William Owyn and his son Henry,
for in the year 1416 it came again into the hands of the Crown '' by
the rebellion and forfeiture of William Owyn, fietther, a^ well as by
the forfeiture of Henry Owyn, his son, who was slain at Aginoourt
in the ranks of our adversaries." It was then granted to Humphrey,
Duke of Olouoester.
The Duke of Oloucester was childless, and in the year 1443 the
reversion of the Castle and lordship was granted by Henry VI to
William de la Pole, Earl of Suffolk, and Alice his wife, with the
style and title of the Earl of Pembroke.
Seven years later (1450), they came again into the hands of the
Crown by virtue of an Act of Parliament. They were farmed by
' — Nicholas, armiger.
In the year 1453 the King became insane, and Parliament made
a grant of *^ dower lands" to Queen Margaret, including among
others the *' Castle, lordship, and town of Llanstephan, and all its
appurtenances, forsooth, the lordship of Penryn and la verye, eta"
During the wars between the Houses of York and Lancaster, Sir
William Herbert, son of William ap Thomas of Baglan, who
fought in France under Henry Y., and was made a knight-banneret,
had proved himself a devoted adherent of the House of Tork ; and
Edward lY., in the first year of his reign (1462), raised him to the
rank of a baron for his good services against Henry Yl., Henry,
Duke of Exeter, Jasper Tudor, and other rebels ; and granted to
him the Castle, lordship, and town of Llanstephan, the lordship and
manor of Penrhyn and la veire, etc.
William Herbert died in 1469, and during the minority of his son,
John Donne, one of the King's bodyguard, was appointed to tlie
ofiice of seneschal of the Castle and lordship of Llanstephan, as
well as to several other such offices in South Wales.
In the year 1482, through an exchange of lands between the
Prince of Wales (Edward Y.) and the Earl of Huntingdon, the Castle,
lordship, and town of Llanstephan, the manor of Penrhyn, and la
Yerye, and other properties were made parcel of the Duchy of
Cornwall (Act 22 Edward lY).
In the year 1484 Richard Williams, '* one of the keepers of our
chamber," was appointed seneschal of our Lordship of Llanstephan,
as well as of several others in South Wales, by Richard III. How
long he held it is not recorded.
The Act 22 Edward lY., making Llanstephan parcel of the
Duchy of Cornwall, was annullecl in 1 495 ; and the lordship, together
with others, reverted to Jasper, Duke of Bedford.
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carmaHThen meeting. — fetepont. 115
Law was unknown in March land. The Welsh laws oonld not be
enforced, and the King of England's writ ran not there. The only
principle of action recognised was " Trecha reisied gwana gwiohed."
Might was the only right. Acquisition of territory bj the Lord
Marcher remained unnoticed, or was encouraged of the King,
nntil it had attained a magnitude such as to be a possible source of
danger to the Crown. Robbery of the Welsh was a virtue, until it
becam^ a danger to the English ruler. The King winked at the
deedsoftheadventurer— or rather freebooter — Norman; while he at
the same time kept a watchful eye on his steady and often rapid
increase of power, and endeavoured to solve the question : *^ HoW
shall I cnrb him ? " He favoured the Lord Marchers to fight the
Welsh, annex their land, and wear out their resistance ; at the same
time he feared their growing power, and endeavoured to control it.
In the same way a custom grew up — the custom of the March. This
custom depended upon two principles. One was, might is right.
This was the principle upon which both king and barons were agreed
in their treatment of the Welsh people. The Marchers held the same
principle in their dealings with .the King ; but the King would
none of it. Mr. Morris, in his work on the Welsh Wars of
Edward I., defines the custom of the March in these words : ** The
custom to fight and annex without restnction from the Crown of
England, and to allow no appeal from the sub-tenants of fhe March
to the King of England as overlord." In fact, the Lord Marcher
was absolute lord of his March. His will was law in it. He held
his lordship by his sword, and not by chai*ter of the King. Mr.
Morris adds : ** One right was always enjoyed by the Crown. If a
Lord Marcher lost his lands by a successful Welsh rising, and if
the aid of the Royal forces was called in to reconquer it, the land
thus reconquered reverted to the Crown.'* A continuous struggle
was being carried on between the King and the Barons ; sometimes
qaietly, and then it amounted to watchfulness and passive
resistance; sometimes violently, then to aggression and conflict.
These conflicts generally ended, not in victory for either party, bat
in a compromise, and a compromise meant a restriction of the
irresponsible power of both King and barons ; thus verifying an
old adage, for by the conflicts between King and barons, the people
had their rights enlarged and the bounds of freedom were
widened.
The chief means by which the King was enabled to restrict the
powers of the Lord Marchers was the successful raids made by the
Welsh Princes into the Marchers' territory ; for the King coming to
the aid of the Lord Marcher to recover his lost land, became
possessed of the land by conquest, and the Marcher became the
King's tenant. It appears, however, that there must have been
other ways in which the King was able to acquire control over the
Lord Marchers and their lands ; for we find that in the latter half of
the twelfth century, Llanstephan Castle was held by charter from
the King. This is about forty years only after the earliest
8-
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116 CAMBRIAN ARCHiEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
notice we have of the Castle ; and it does not appear from the
records that the Welsh, when they had taken or homed the Castle,
held it for any time. On the contrary, the Castle was bni*ned in
the coarse of a snccessfal raid, and the Welsh, after haying
completed the work of destruction, returned to their homes. It is
not likely, therefore, that the Castle fell into the hands of the
Crown by re-conquest, when it had been lost to the Lord Marcher ;
and yet we find it held by charter at a very early period of its
history.
Professor Tout is of opinion that '^as early as 1256, Edward I.,
set up a rudimentary county organisation, in those southern and
detached parts of the Principality where the power of Llewelyn ap
Gruffudd was weak, and the traditions of the March recent.
Carmarthen, which was in his hands, was the national seat of the
county and the new offices." Mr. Morris states : '* Then he
(Edward I.) pushed his influence southwards, and his design was to
create two counties under Royal auspices in Cardigan and
Carmarthenshire. For this purpose he partly strained the rights
of the Crown to overlordship over South Wales, and partly he
seemed to have claimed the right of conquest. Also at
Carmarthen, Edward instituted a County Court or comttatus,
to which neighbouring Lord Marchers wer^ constrained to do suit
and service." The evidence for the view of Professor Tout and
that of Mr. Morris is the fact that the lords of Llanstephan,
Laugharne, and St. Clare did suit and service in Carmarthen for
their holdings. Pain de Chaworth, Lord of Cydweli, was ordered to
do likewise, but the order was afterwards withdrawn; while
William de Braose, Lord of Gower (for Oower as well aa
Llanstephan formed part of the county of Carmarthen at that early
period) did not obey.
It may reasonably be inferred from these fieicts, that Edward
strained his overlordship over the Lord Marchers of South Wales,
and that the smaller submitted to his wise and powerful tyranny, while
the greater and stronger resisted successfully. I think it probable
that the Kings before Edward practised the same tactics ; and the
fact that a small March, such as Llanstephan, far away from the
English border, was held by charter and service at a very early
period inclines me to draw such an inference ; so that the
organisation of counties by Edward is but another step in the
process of curbing the irresponsible powers of the Lord Marchers ;
a process which had been going on for nearly a century, for
Geoffrey de Camville, in 1200, held Llanstephan by charter and
service, and William, his father, and Albreda, his mother before
him, had held it on the same terms. From this time on, control
over the Lord Marchers seems to have steadily increased, for we find
that —
In 1276 Geoffrey de Camville and his bailiffs were ordered to
prohibit his tenants to furnish provisions or supplies to the Welsh
rebels.
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CARMABTHEN MEETING. — REPORT. 117
In 1277 and 1282, he is gammoned to %lit in the war with
Llewelyn. He obeys, and takes his qnota with him, which consisted
of two knights and twelve lances : in all fifteen lances. In 1287
Oeofirey is enjoined to reside on his own demesne and lordship
until the rebellion of Rhys ap Meredith is pat down. In 1316 the
Prior of Carmarthen, his men and tenants, are commanded to
receive their measures, scales and weights from the King's minister
of the new town of Carmarthen, the keeper of the King's measares,
scales and weights, just as the Barons of Llanstephan, Talacharn,
and St Clare do. This shows us that the bearer of the sword is
being made more and more subject to the jurisdiction of the county,
and that the wearer of the mitre will have in this respect to keep
him company.
In the year 1324, Roger Mortimer escaped to France, and
together with Isabella — Edward's (II) Qaeen — fomented war against
England. This appears to have produced a state resembling panic
in the English Court, if we may judge from the following orders,
issaed to the Lords and Bailiffs of Llanstephan and others.
In 1324, an order to cause all ships capable of carrying forty tons
and upwards to be arrested and equipped for the King's service.
In April, 1325, and again in May, a proclamation in favour of the
men of Flanders.
In December, 1325, an order to cause all ships entering Llan-
stephan and other ports, or wishing to leave the same for parts
beyond the sea, to be searched, and to arrest any whom they shall
find with letters prejudicial to the King, etc.
In the month of January, 1326, a similar order, but extending
to horses, arms, gold and silver taken out of the country by any
except merchants.
In August of the same year, an order to cause all owners of ships
of the burthen of fifty tons and upwards to repair to Portsmouth,
on Sunday after the Decollation of St. John Baptist next, with their
ships found with arms, victuals, and other necessaries, with double
equipment, to set out in the King's service against the French. A
farther order to all owners of ships of smaller burthen than fifty
tons, not to leave port for any purpose, under pain of being taken
and imprisoned.
In 1328, an order enjoining all owners and masters of ships to
cause all their ships of less than forty tons burthen that are out-
side their port, to be brought back to the port, lest the malefactors
from Normandy and Poitou take them. They are to certify to the
King as soon as possible of the number of the ships and their mem-
bers, and the harden of their ships.
(Verily, the Lord Marchers have become submissive !)
Lastly, in 1361, an order not to admit any earls, barons, knights,
or men-at-arms, to cross to parts beyond the sea, or to take horse
or arms without the King's special license.
This order was issued not without reason, for some years after-
wards, Thomas and John Fort, of Llanstephan, assumed the Eoyal
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118 CAMBRIAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
jurisdicfcion, and granted a safecondnct to one John de Ispania, a
subject of the King of Castile, and an enemy of the King of
England, and showed him the secrets of eleven castles in South
Wales — are pardoned.
One year later, John Fort was again pardoned for scaling the
walls of Langharne Castle, and robbing Gay de Brian of £25 in
gold and silver. The Forts clearly had friends at Coart
Such is a short sketch of the story of Llanstephan Castle, up to
the time that Henry Tudor became king. Then it was an imposing
and frowning fortress, overlooking the Bay of Carmarthen as far as
Tenby, Gower, and the coast of Devon — the home of soldiers, the
scene of armed conflicts ; now a picturesque ruin, the haunt of
toarists, holiday-makers, and lovers.
At the conclusion of the Address a vote of thanks was proposed
by General Sir James Hills-Johnes, seconded by Mr. A. Stepney-
Gulstou, and briefly acknowledged by the President.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 14th, 1906.
A Public Meeting was held in the Assembly Rooms at 8.30 p.m.
In the absence of Professor J. E. Lloyd, of Bangor, his Paper ou
** Carmarthen in Olden Times " was read by the Rev. C. Chidlow,
General Secretary for South Wales.
Archdeacon Thomas remarked that the Paper helped very largely
to elucidate the early history of this town.
Mr. Lleufer Thomas being called upon, said he did not feel com-
petent to offer any criticism of Professor Lloyd's exhaustive history
of that period. He was particalarly gratified with what was to
him a new solution of the difficalty with reference to Llanteilyddog,
his identification of it, and the manner he had worked it out.
They must congi*<itulate themselves upon having that new con-
tribution to the history of Carmarthen.
The Rev. Griffith Thomas asked whether the burgesses of Car-
marthen paid homage to William I. It was a moot point, because
Wales did not submit to the Crown of England for some two
hundred years after.
Professor Anwyl said he was very much in the dark as regarded
this period, but so far as he could follow Professor Lloyd's Paper,
he rather gathered the borough of Carmarthen, as a borough, did
not exist so early as that, so the burgesses could not have sworn
fealty as burgesses at all. What he understood from the Paper was
that there was an ecclesiastical establishment of the Welsh kind,
the old British kind, a close, as it was called, in connection with
the Church dedicated to St. Teilyddog ; and in course of time the
Castle came to be built of the stockaded type, and at that time the
Castle was at Rhydygors, and not in the present Carmarthen.
Archdeacon Thomas thought the existence of Rhydygors was of
a very short daratioi), and it was afterwards that the military centra
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — REPORT. 119
was transferred to the new Carmarthen. That would hardly admit
of the burgesses having sworn allegiance to William I.
Rev. Griffith Thomas : I think he mentioned it was not given a
charter till the reign of King John, but it is shown there were
privileges to the borough previous to the reign of King John.
Professor Anwyl said there might have been privileges enjoyed
there without a charter, which were such that settlers gathered
at the place.
Mr. T. E. Brigstocke said apparently the Roman sefctlemenfc was
identified with the old city of Carmarthen — the ecclesiastical city —
and there was some difficulty in his mind : how did he identify the
fortified situation of the present Castle and the Roman settlement ?
All the discoveries they had come across, and the coins, had all been
found apparently in the old city of Carmarthen, lying eastward to
the walled town of the new Carmarthen — the old Carmarthen site
of the Romans — and the Castle formed by the Normans was a
departure from the old settlement of the Romans.
Archdeacon Thomas said GKraldus Cambrensis wrote *' that
ancient city is beautifully enclosed with walls of red brick.'' He
evidently looked upon Carmarthen itself as having evidence still
existing of Roman antiquity.
The Rev. W. Done Bushell, of Caldey, was then called upon to
read his Paper on '* Neolithic Monuments.''
Archdeacon Thomas said the subject was extremely abstruse, and
perhaps to the young members of the audience one of great difficulty.
But still, one could not listen to the able and clear, argumentative,
and eloquent address of Mr. Done Bushell without feeling that a
new light had been thrown upon an ancient monument close at
hand. He had read now and then of theories about Stonehengc
and other places, but he had never listened to anything, or read
anything, that appeared to him so clear and so satisfactory as the
address they had had the pleasure of listening to.
This closed the evening's proceedings.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15th, 1906.
There was no Evening Meeting on this day.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 16th, 1906.
The Annual Business Meeting of the Association was held in the
Assembly Rooms, at 8.30 p.m.
The President, Sir John Williams, Bart, took the Chair ; and
after the Minutes of the previous meeting had been read and con-
firmed, he requested the Rev. Canon R Trevor Owen, Senior
General Secretary, to read
The Annual Report op the Association.
The Journal. — The following Papers have been published in the
Archaologia Cambrensis between July, 1905, and July, 1906 : —
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120 CAMBRIAN AROH^OLOOIOAL ASSOCIATION.
Prehistoric Period,
"Oq the Discovery of Prehistoric Hearths in South Wales." By T. C.
Cantrill and 0. T. Jones.
" The Early Settlers of Cardigan." By Professor E. Auwyl.
"The Exploration of Pen-y-Qaer above Llanbedr-y-Cenin. " By Harold
Hughes.
" On the Defences of Pen-y-Qaer." By Willoughby Gardiner.
" Peny-Gorddyn, or Y Qorddyn Fawr." By Harold Hughes.
Late-Celtic Period.
No Papers.
RomoAM-Brttisk Period,
" Roman Remains : Pen-y- Darren Park, Merthyr Tydfil." By F. T. James.
" The Town of Holt, in the County of Denbigh.** By A. N. Palmer.
**The Ordovices and Ancient Powys." Hy Archdeacon D. R. Thomas.
Early Christian Period,
" The Llandecwyn Inscribed Stone." By Professor E. Anwyl.
Mediaeval Period,
" A History of the Old Parish of Gresford, in the Counties of Denbigh and
Flint." By A. N. Palmer.
" Some Notes on Mediaeval Eifionydd." By Professor J. E. Lloyd.
'• The Vairdre Book." By Dr. Henry Owen.
" Allen's Pembrokeshh-e." By E. Laws.
** Welsh Wooden Spoons, with Ornamental Carving and liOve-Symbols. " By
J. R. Allen.
"On Some Sacramental Vessels of Earthenware and of Wood." By Arch-
deacon D. R. Thomas.
" The House of Scotsborough, near Tenby." By E. Laws.
" The Religious and Social Life of Former Days in the Vale of Clwyd." By
the Rev. J. Fisher.
" Old Radnor Church." By Ernest Hartland.
The following books have been received for review : —
" Edward II in Glamorgan." By the Rev. John Griffith. (Cardiff : Western
Mail, Limited. )
" Lampeter." By the Rev. George Eyre Evans. (Aberystwyth : William
Jones. )
" Owen's Pembrokeshire," Part III. By Dr. Henry Owen. (Bedford Frees.)
" A Digest of the Parish Registers of Llandaff." By the Committee of the
Llaudaff Diocesan Conference. (Cardiff: Wm. Lewis.)
" Welsh Abbeys." By John A Randolph. (Carmarthen : William Spurrell
and Son.)
" Castell Morgraig." By John Ward, John W. Rodger and John Stuart
Corbett. (Cardiff : Wm. Lewis.)
The Special Illastration Fand has been made ase of by the
editor to obtain photographs of the old house at Scotsborough, near
Tenby, for Mr. E. Law's paper on the subject of the Norman
Fonts at Lamphey and at Bed berth in Pembrokeshire.
The thanks of the Association are due to those authors who have
supplied drawings and photographs to illustrate their papers in the
Journal. Amongst these are Mr. A. N. Palmer, Mr. Harold
Hughes, Mr. Willoughby Gardner, Mr. F. T. James, and Archdeacon
D. R. Thon^as. The photographs of the sculptural panels on the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHEN MEKTING. — REPORT. 121
Norman lavatory at Wenlock Priory were taken by Mr. H. E.
Forrest at the request of Miss Anden.
The Official Set of the Archcedogia Cambrenna, — This is now
complete with the exception of the following three volumes : —
Sen 1, Vol. 4, 1849.
Ser. 3, Vol. 1, 1855.
Vol. 2, 1866.
Progress of Welsh Archaeology in 1905-6. — The Committee begs to
call the attention of the members to the following matters of
importance, which have come under the notice of the officers of the
Association during the past year.
No specially interesting accidental finds of antiquities appear to
have been made in Wales during the last twelve months, or if they
have been made they have not been reported by the Local Secretaries.
Some of the recently- formed local archoeological societies have
done good service in excavating prehistoric defensive earthworks,
and sending the results to the editor of the Journal for publication.
As instances of this may be mentioned, the explorations made at
Pen-y-Qaer (above Llanbedr-y-Cenin) and at Pen-y-Gorddyn by the
Nant Conway Society and described by Mr. Harold Hughes in the
July number of the Archceologia Cambrensis. Much good might be
done in the future by friendly co-operation between the Cambrian
Arche&ological Association and the local Antiquarian societies and
field clubs. The Association might grant funds for the examination
by the spade of promising ancient sites on the understanding that
the work shall be scientifically carried out by the local societies
under proper supervision. The results could afterwards be described
and illustrated in the Archceologia Cambrensis^ and such reprints as
might be required could be supplied to the members of the local
societies.
It is gratifying to find that after a long interval the Romano-
British occupation of Wales is again attracting the attention of
contributors to the Journal^ as is shown by the valuable papers in
the July number on the Roman Remains at Merthjr Tydvil by Mr.
F. T. James, and at Holt, near Wrexham, by Mr. A. N. Palmer.
Nevertheless, it is greatly to be regretted that it is still necessary
to appeal to England for an expert opinion on the antiquities of the
Romano-British period. Surely there should be some classical
scholar of one of the Welsh Universities who could train himself to
occupy the same position as an expert in this period in Wales as
Dr. F. Haverfield, F.S.A., or Mr. G. B. Fox, F.S.A., now take in
England.
Further discoveries of importance have been made by special
explorations, at the expense of the Association at TreV Ceiri,
Carnarvonshire and Y-(Jaer, near Colbren, Glamorganshire, of
which reports are laid before the members.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
122
CAMBRIAN ARCHiCOLOOIOAL ASSOCIATION.
Election of Officers and New Members, — The Committee propose
that the Right Reverend the Lord Bishop of Llandaff and the
Right Hon. Lord Harlech be enrolled amon^ the Pati*ODS of the
Association; and that Robert Cochrane, Esq., F.S.A., I.S.O.,
Honorary Secretary of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland,
and Colonel Morgan, R.E., be elected Vice-Presidents; also that
the thanks of the Association be presented to the Venerable
Archdeacon Thomas for his services to the Association as its
President during the past year. The retiring members of the
Committee are : —
T. M. Franklen, Esq.,
The Rev. John Fisher, B.D.,
The Rev. E. J. Newell, M.A.,
and the Committee recommend their re-election.
They farther propose the following members as Local Secretaries
for their respective counties : —
The Rev. C. F. Roberts, M.A., Rectory, Uanddulas, for Denbighshire.
R. Jones Morris, Enq., Tycerrig, Talsarnau, for Merionethshire.
J. Bancroft Willans, Esq., Dolforgan, Kerry, for Montgomeryshire.
The following are proposed for membership : —
English.
Mrs. Gordon, 9, St. German's Blaoklieath
Mr. Price, 48, Pall Mall, S.W.
Lieut. -Col. Q. Tucker Thomas, I. M.S., The Bush,
Walton-on-Thames
North Wales.
Anglesey.
Miss Hampton Lewis, Henllys, Beaumaris
CamarvoTuhire.
Mr. WiUoughby Gardner, F.L.S,. F.R.G.S.
Merionethshire.
Mr. Dodd ....
Denbighshire.
Mr. S. H. Harrison, F.R.G.S., F.R.S.A.
Flintshire.
Mr. W. I. P. Story, Rhyl .
The Marches.
The Right Hon. Lord Harlecli
Proposed by
Mr. Pepyat Evans.
Mr. Edward Owen.
The Rev. J. G. Swainson
. Mr. J. E. Griffith.
. Canon Trevor Owen.
Canon Trevor Owen.
. Yen. the Archdeacon of
Montgomery.
. L. L Roberto, H.M.LS.
H.M. Lieutenant of Meri-
onethshire, W. R M.
Wynne, Eaij., Peniarth.
. Canon Trevor Owen.
South Walks,
Cardiganshire.
Davies, Mr. John, Bridge Street, Lampeter . Rev. G. E. Evans.
Ellis, Thomas, Esq., Glascoed, Aberystwyth . Rev. G. E. Evans.
I^wes, Miss Evelyn, Tyglyn-Aeron, Ciliau Aeron Rev. G. E. Evans.
Phillips, Rev. Thomas, Rectory, Aberporth . Rev. D. D. Evans.
Recs, Rev. R. J., M.A., Rhos, Aberystwyth . Mr. D. Samuel.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHEN MEETING. — REPORT.
123
South Walks.
Proposed by
Rev. C. Chidlow.
Mr. W. Spurrell.
Rev. C. Chidlow.
Mr. J. F. Hughes.
Rev. C. Chidlow.
Mr. C. H. Glascodine.
Profe«i8or Anwyl.
Mr. T. E. Morris.
Mr. Edmund Jones.
Rev. C. Chidlow.
Mr. J. E. Kichards.
Mr. H. W. WUUams.
Mr. Edmund Jones.
Mr. Pepyat W. Evans.
Rev. C. Chidlow.
Mr. J. E. Richards.
Mr. Pepyat W. Evans.
Professor Rhys.
Rev. C. Chidlow.
Rev. C. Chidlow.
Ca rmarthenshire.
Collier, Ernest, Esq., M.S. A, Carmarthen
Da vies, A. Llewelyn, Esq., Brynderw, Carmar-
then ....
Gabriel, J. R., M. A, Technical College, Swindon .
James, Daniel, Esq., Vrondeg, Llandeilo
Jones, Arnallt, Elsq , M. D. , Carmarthen
Ludford, T. li., Esq., Llanelly
Thomas, Mrs. R. M., Llanddowror
Thomas, Rev. 0. J., Llandyssilio Vicarage
Williams, Mrs. W. J., 91, Picton Terrace, Car-
martheu ....
Olamorganshire.
Llandaff, The Lord Bishop of. The Palace, Llan-
daff ....
Davies, D. Jones, Esq., Rugby Road, Neath
George, Isaac, Esq., The Grove, Mountain Ash .
Gibbins, F. W., Esq., Garthmor, Neath
Gordon, Mrs., Nottage Court, Porthcawl
Jenkinb, Mrs., Gtellystone, Llandaff
Jones, Rhys, Esq., Godrecoed, Neath .
Phillips, Rev. T. C, Vicarage. Skewen
Williams, Arthur J., Esq., Plfts Coed-y-mwstwr,
Bridgend ....
Pembrokethire,
Lewis, Rev. J., Lampeter Velfrey Rectory
Phillips, Rev. John, Uzmaston Rectory
Tre*r Ceibl
At the meeting of the Committee of the Cambrian Arohsdological
Association, held at Shrewsbury, on August 14th, 1905, it was pro-
posed by Mr. T. E. Morris, seconded by Mr. A E. Bowen, and
carried, "That Professor Boyd Dawkins be asked if he would
kindly consent to the excavations at Tre'r Ceiri being carried out
under his direction, with the assistance of Colonel Morgan and Mr.
Harold Hughes."
Professor Boyd Dawkins kindly consented to undertake the work.
Through the assistance of Mr. D. R. Daniel, of Fonrcrosses, eight
labourers were obtained and work commenced on June 5th, 1906,
and continued till June 16th. Unfortunately, Professor Boyd
Dawkins was called to London before the excavations were com-
pleted, and Colonel Morgan was nnable to be present during the
whole fortnight. On the other hand, very valuable assistance was
given by Mr. C. B. Breese, who devoted several days to the work.
I was present throughout the whole time occupied by the works of
excavation. A full and detailed report of the result of the fort-
night's work is in course of preparation, and will be laid before the
Cambrian Archeeological Association.
The following, however, is a brief summary of the work, together
with Professor Boyd Dawkins*s view as to the position Tre*r Ceiri
occupies in relation to the history of Wales.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
124 CAMBRIAN ARCHiBOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
In an introdaobory noto to the report, Professor Boyd Dawkins
writes : — " It is one of many similar villages, oconpying a com-
manding position for parposes of defence, in the neighbonrhood . . .
containing the remains of rude stone huts, called by the inhabitants
of the district * cy ttian gwyddelod ' . . . the huts of the Goidels.
This popular attribution of the Goidels, the conquerors of the
original Iberic Welsh, who in their turn had to submit to the
mastery of the Brythons, is in my opinion true. They are pro-
bably the dwellings of the Welsh Prehistoric Goidels, and have no
necessary connection with the Irish Goidels, who were undoubtedly
in close touch with this as well as with other districts in Wales in
the historic period." . . . "This class of fort is proved, by the
remains found in various places, to have been occupied at vnrious
periods, ranging from the Bronze Age to the Prehistoric Iron Age,
and well into the Historic period. The bronze sickle found in Dun
Aengus proves that it was used in the Bronze Age ; while bronze
pins with ornamentation of the Prehistoric Iron Age indicate that
it was occupied at that time, and a bronze ring with cable decoration
that it way not without inhabitants in the fifth century after Christ."
After referring to the cashel on Inismurray, Professor Boyd Dawkins
proceeds : — *' This class of fort in England is clearly proved, by the
results of the exploration of Worlebnry, to belong to the Prehistoric
Iron Age. Here the inhabitants belonged to the aboriginal Iberic
stock, the ancestors of the Silures of the north side of the Bristol
Channel. Equally good evidence is presented by the brooch, found
in the excavations of 1903 at Tre'r Ceiri, that it also belongs to the
Prehistoric Iron Age. It may, however, have been — and probably
was — used in later times by the Goidels of the district, whenever
the country was being harried for purposes of defence.''
Between June t5th and 16th, thirty-five sites were excavated.
The finds include : —
Three portions of a bronze gold-plated beaded ornament (torque
or armlet).
A bronze pin, with indications of gold plating.
Fragment of a thin plate of copper or bronze.
A pewter object, bearing in shape a resemblance to the pommel
of a sword-hilt.
Remains of a lump of lead.
A blue porcelain bead.
An iron object (the shape of a ladle in outline).
Remains of iron (spear- head P).
Many small fragments of iron.
Iron object, shape of heel-plate (? modern).
Remains of large earthenware vessel, interior finished with coarse
gravel (quartz), probably for grinding (Mortarium).
Many fragments of black pottery.
Fragments of red pottery.
Hone stone.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMA&THEN meeting. — REPORT. 125
Pounders and mbbers.
Bebblee (sling-stones and pot-boilers).
Witb reference to the most important finds, Professor Boyd
Dawkins writes: — "The bronze object (beaded) is distinctly of
Prehistoric Iron Age, and is probably a torque or armlet as you
suggest. The glass or porcelain bead — some of these found at
Glastonbury —in the Prehistoric Iron Lake Village. The (pommel ?)
is not very far removed from one discovered in Prehistoric Iron Age
fort at Hod.''
The black pottery and the iron ladle-shaped object, he write?,
would belong to the same period.
Place of Meeting for 1907.— -The Committee recommended that
Llangefni, Anglesey, should be chosen as the place of meeting for
1907.
The adoption of the Report was proposed, seconded, and carried
unanimously.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 17th, 1906.
A Public Meeting was held at the Assembly Elooms, at 8.30 p.m.
The Chair being taken by the President, Sir John Williams, Bart.,
he called upon Professor E. Anwyl, of Aberystwyth, to read his
paper on *' Early Settlers of Carmarthenshire.'*
Sir John Williams said he felt deeply indebted to Professor
Anwyl for the excellent paper they had just heard. It was a most
interesting and valuable description of their ancestors, ages ago that
they could not count, and of their companions, gentle and ungentle,
tame and savage, and of the manner of their lives when Carmarthen
Bay was not yet.
Mr. E. Laws said, as he was the oldest cave-digger present, he
bad to thank their friend for his excellent paper. He thought they
must remember the oldest of their cave-diggers in this part of the
world, Gilbert Smith, rector of Gumfreyston, who began to dig there
before the value of cave-digging was actually recognised. He was
a clergyman, and as he dug he was actually afraid of what he was
doing. It partially shattei'ed his faith, and still the plucky old fellow
went on at it ; he dug in fear and trembling, and he (Mr. Laws), was
his pupil. In those days Mr. Dawkins was down there a good deal,
and what they found had been pretty well explained. He thought
wolves very scarce at Hoyle, but they found them in considerable
numbers on Caldey. The commonest beast was the horse, and most
puzzling, the hippopotamus. They must remember if he got caught
in the winter he was done. He lived at the bottom of the river,
and could not exist in freezing rivers ; and as the rivers here were
freezing, he must have come only for a short time. He did come
because he (Mr. Laws) had dug him up himself. Palasoiithic Man
Digitized by VjOOQIC
126 CAMBRIAN AROHifiOLOOIOAL ASSOGLAtlO^.
was about tho scarcest beast. He (Mr. Laws) never found him in
Hoyle, and he did not think anybody else had, but they did find sh'ght
traces of him on Caldey. As a matter of religion, Neolithic Man pat
his dead away with what they wanted for daily life, and he seemed to
have believed the dead man continued to live in the place where his
body was put. The Brass Man had totally different notions, some-
thing like onr own. He thought there was another world, somehow
or other. He bamed his dead, and made a ghost of him. He broke
his axe and everything he had, and threw it all away, and so made a
ghost of everything that they should go with the dead man. He
believed there was a totally different idea between the Stone Ag^
Man and the Brass Man. Mr. Laws concluded by a description of
the cave near Penally.
Mr. Stepney-Gulston, Chairman of the Local Committee, thanked
Professor Anwyl for the very kind remarks he had made with
regard to the newly- born Association, the Carmarthenshire
Antiquarian Society. They were all beginners, and they were more
than pleased and gratified to be taken in hand and encouraged by
those who had worked in the direction of archeology for. many
years. They came forward to give them encouragement and
enthusiasm. While regretting they were losing the energetic
Secretary, Rev. M. H. Jones, be hoped in his new sphere he would
be of the great value he had been to them.
Mr. W. Spurrell then read a paper by Professor Sayce upon
"What can be done for Archaeology in Wales." The writer
referred to the method of excavation in Egypt, and stated only
properly qualified persons should be allowed to excavate. In this
country it was left to chance and hazard. Two objects should
be aimed at : a thoroughly working survey of Wales and
border counties, and the training of as many as possible of the
younger members of the community in habits of careful and
accurate observation, and in methods of modem archaeological
science. The soil of these islands was full of relics. ExcavatioTi by
untrained amateurs did more harm than good, and he suggested
that members of the Archaeological Association should start
investigating in a small area round where they lived.
Sir John Williams said the paper was full of suggestions, and made
an appeal to the Cambrian Archaeological Association to carry out this
work. That was the meaning of the paper, and two things were
required : men to do the work, and money to help them to do it.
That was the thing they were apt to forget. He asked what was
being done in regard to Pembrokeshire P
Mr. E. Laws — The Archaeological Survey is not going to stop ;
it is earned on by one man.
Sir John Williams said he was sorry and he was glad, but he
thought it was stopped because he had never been asked for his
promised subscription.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARtHilN MBEtlNG. — ttBPOJlT. 12?
Mr. £. Laws — I gave up snryeyin^ because I felt I was pfetting so
old, and was afraid I could not carry it od. My friend, Dr. Henry
Owen, has taken it up, and is carrying it on at his own cost, and is
going to finish it at his own cost.
Professor Anwyl proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman and
Local Committee, remarking that they owed a deep debt of gratitude
to them for organising these meetings so well. «
Mr. E. Laws seconded. He thought it had never struck many of
them, when they came there and found carriages ready, and
luncheons and everything, what a lot of trouble it had given to
somebody. He had gone through the mill himself, and knew, but
some of them had no conception of what a bother it was. When
done, there was apparently no difficulty about it, but he could
assure them it was a troublesome thing. Thanks were due to the
Chairman and Committee who had carried out the programme so
successfully.
The motion was heartily carried.
Mr. Stepney-Gulston, in responding, said the Secretaries^ Rev. M.
H. Jones and Mr. Spurrell, and the Committee connected with him,
had worked like horses, and the difficulties which had been referred
to had been a matter of pleasure to them. Everyone had been
proud to have an opportunity of putting his shoulder to the wheel
as representing their new-bom Society, and also as representing
the town and county. It had been a great pleasure to them to
welcome the Cambrian Archaeological Association there.
Mr. Meuric Lloyd proposed a vote of thanks to all the proprietors
of grounds and curios, who had allowed them such ready access upon
their various expeditions to view them. They had been rather an
invasion, he fancied. Their numbers had been far greater than
personally he had seen on these occasions, and he thought perhaps
they might have done a certain amount of damage. Possibly it
might be some satisfaction to those who had allowed them to go to
think they had afforded the members a good deal of pleasure.
Mr. T. E. Morris seconded the vote of thanks, which was carried.
Canon Rupert Morris proposed a vote of thanks to the Local Secre-
taries, who had done such excellent work in preparing for those
meetings. He had had some experience in managing and preparing
for the annual meeting thirty-one years ago, when he was one of the
Local Secretaries with Captain Philipps for Carmarthen; and he knew
what a long time they took in going over every part of the ground,
and in writing letters and making the various arrangements, espe-
cially about the carriages. The work had been done very well indeed
by Mr. Jones and Mr. Walter Spurrell. Mr. Jones bad the true
archasological spirit, and in Mr. Spurrell they had the son of Mr.
Spnrrell, the former publisher of the Haul, who had written an
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
1 28 CAMBltlAK AROH^OLOOICaL A^OCIATtOK.
excellent history of Carmarthen. He had, with his oolleagae, con-
ducted the work extremely well, with considerable firmness, bat
with proper sympathy and tact thronghont. With respect to the
Goygan Cave, he (Canon Morris) explored some of it with Dr.
Hcarder, the late Superintendent of the Asylam, and they fonnd in
addition to what had been mentioned, the woolly mammoth. He
had some large teeth at home, deer bones, etc. They lost them-
selves in the cave, and there was some diffionlty in getting out of it.
The next time they took some thread to enable them to find their
way.
Canon Trevor Owen seconded, observing he knew how very im-
portant it was to have good local secretaries, because a great deal
depends npon them whether the meeting was a success or not.
The motion having been carried with applause, Mr. W. Spurrell
responded, stating it really had meant a great deal of work, hot
considering the number of members this time he must say on
the whole they behaved very well indeed. They had a heavy pro-
gramme, and it had been a g^reat gratification to him that it had
not been found necessary to leave out any part except the very
last item that day.
The proceedings then terminated.
Note. — In the compilation of this report we have largely made
use of the reports of the meetings given in The Welshman.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
SIXTH SERIES.— VOL. VII, PART IL
APRIL, 1907.
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS AT
COELBREN.
By Colonel W. LL. MORGAN, R.E.
At the meeting of the Cambrian Archaeological Associa-
tion, held at Shrewsbury in the autumn of 1904, I was
asked to conduct some excavations at the camp at
Coelbren, to ascertain, if possible, the approximate
date of its construction.
This camp is a conspicuous object from the Swansea
and Brecon line, about half a mile to the right, imme-
diately after leaving Coelbren Station. It was well
known to Mr. Glascodine and myself, and on our
frequent walks on the Sam Helen we had traversed
that road throughout its whole length. Some doubtful
places we had visited three or four times, thereby
rectifying several errors on the Ordnance Survey map
of the road.
The history of the Sarn Helen is so inseparably
connected with that of its camp, that I have commenced
with a description of the former.
The road known as Sarn Helen is undoubtedly of
Roman construction. It connected the Nidum of the
twelfth Iter Antoninus (which is supposed to be Neath)
with Bannuum, afterwards known as Caervan, and now
as the Gaer, near Brecon, on its course to Chester; but
whether this poition was made on the line of an earlier
6th skb., vol. vn. 9
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
130 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS AT COBLBUEN.
British trackway is more than doubtful. It certainly
does not run as straight as Roman roads in general,
and it is not an unreasonable idea th^t in pre-Roman
times an original British track from the centre of Brit<iin
to the sea coast might have taken this line ; but though
older authorities incline to this theory, in view of the
nature of the country I consider it to have been
entirely the work of the Romans. It was probably
much used up to Norman times ; then, for several cen-
turies it fell into disuse, for the reason that there was
little intercourse between the Normans of Glamorgan
and those of Breconshire : the latter being connected
with their kinsmen in Gower, and their line of com-
munication came down the opposite side of the Swansea
valley by Llanguicke Church. In later times, and up
to the present day, different stretches of the road have
been in use to connect the several farms, but very little
of it has become a main road.
The site of the Roman station of Nidum is doubtful.
From the similarity of names, it has been taken for
granted that it must be Neath, which probably, then as
now, was at the head of the tidal water of the river.
Three Roman roads seem to converge on this site, but
they cannot be traced within two miles of the present
town of Neath, nor have any Roman remains been
found within this area.
Though there are no traces of the road now existing,
probably (as mentioned by Jones) after leaving Neath
it was carried across the marsh, and then kept to the
high ground to the back of Ynisgeryn, where it ascen-
ded the hill. The line as given on the Ordnance Map
is conjectural until it reaches Llettyrafel, where the old
ro^d can be seen for a short distance, where it is again
lost in a ploughed field. It then runs on the line of
the present road to the Downs, and though much altered
in modem times, it still retains the unmistakable
appearance of Roman origin. The pitched paving can
be at once distinguished on ascending the Downs ;
though in many places it is covered with accumulations
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
B/^£COAf
. MsM^ Maooc
^mJ^Mj^
w WAy^^^y^^yi>
1% y^ys-y^cw^wYN
Fig. 1. — Map showing position of Camp at Coelbren.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
132 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
of soil, it shows for many miles at intervals of a few
yards.
In places the curbs are still to be found. The
roadway is generally slightly raised above the ordinary
ground level, and in one spot there is a cutting in the
hill. The roadway then follows the crest of the hill
(the Hirfynydd), and leaves Waunglynnyd on the right.
The road then makes a bend to the right, after which
it runs straight over the Downs, until opposite to
Blaennant, where it takes up the line of the stone wall.
Half a mile further the paving is in remarkable preser-
vation, though the general character has been destroyed
by scratching the ground for the stones. In many
places the wall is actually built on the line of the road.
Cam CornaP (a fairly large cam) stands half a mile
to the left. The road runs alongside the wall (in some
places well defined, in others it is obliterated) before it
makes a sharp turn to the right, near the plantation of
fir trees.
The wall is now thirty yards to the right of the
road, which runs along a cutting, which I think is part
of the original scheme. It again turns to the right,
round the shoulder of the hill, but whether it be
rejoined by the wall is uncertain, as no decisive trace
can be seen until another turn to the left at Clawdd y
Fan wen, where both foundation and pitching are once
more apparent. Its course is now broken up by old
coal levels, through here and there the line can yet be
traced, till it descends the hill opposite to Tynyrheol.
The pitching there is in good preservation, and the
curbs are in sight in various places. The line then runs
opposite the old tramway until the railway crossing at
Tafarnybenwen Common, where it has been covered by
the present road, which deviates again at Llwynpica,
from whence the pitching of the old road can be
traced to the southern entrance of the camp, commonly
^ The Boman sfone removed to the Gnoll, Neath, stood somewhere
near here. It is mentioned in Q-ough*8 Camden^ p. 473, vol. ii ; also
in Arch, Camb., 3rd Ser., vol. xi, p. 59, and 5th Ser., vol. xi, p. 338.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT COELBRBK. 133
called the Gaer, from whence it emerges on the eastern
side, and is traceable down to the river, where it is lost
for about twenty yards, beyond which it is again visible
near the hedge. It crosses an old lane, and can be
followed across a field. Further on, a wall has been
built on the line of the road, which has obliterated all
trace along several fields. We find it again in thfe open
ground beyond, the pavement and euro both in good
condition. Ton-y-ffildre, or as it is locally called, Ton-
y-ynwl-y-dref (the town of the soldiers), or the " flat-
land at the edge of the town," is to the left of the road,
which here is 21 ft. between the earthworks, and 14 ft.
between the curbs.
The line across the morass is very distinct, and traces
of pavement appear wherever the water has washed
away the accumulation of soil. It is visible in the
hollow where it passes Cefngwenynawg, and alongside
the hedge, though there it has been mended and made
up with modern materials. Crossing a small brook
(Nanthir), it can be followed over the mountain in a
well-defined line, until crossing another brook it
descends the hill to Gwaunymaerdy, to avoid a steep
ravine which intersects the direct line. It now turns
sharp to the left, through a well-marked cutting (which,
like the former one, I think is original). On the side
of the hill, the roadway in many places has been scooped
away by the rain, leaving portions of the pavement
3 ft. or 4 ft. up the side of the bank. It descends again
over a small moor, and remains well-defined until
opposite to Cefnucheldref. Here, according to the
Ordnance Map, it turned to the left, round the hUl, and
after crossing the River Nedd re-ascended the hill to
the spot where there are undoubted traces of the road,
but this is incorrect.
From Cefnucheldref the line of the road ran straight
on into the adjoining field. The traces near the hedge
may be illusory, but in the further field at the head
of the ravine the line is distinctly marked as far as the
hedge. After this, all trace of the road itself is ob-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
134 RKPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
literated, but the heaps of stones in the fields correspond
exactly to similar ones across the river. For the length
of three fields the hedg^e probably stands on the site of
the road, which must have passed the River Nedd
somewhere about the present ford. On the other side
of the river we again find distinct signs of the road in
the fields above Coedygarig. Here the stones of the
pavement were taken up within the last sixty years,
and still stand in heaps along the line of the road.
Over the wall there is one of the most perfect pieces of
pitching on the whole length of the road, and it is
incomprehensible how it could have been overlooked by
the Ordnance Surveyor. The road then falls ixito a
modern trackway to the Maen Madoc.^
Another stone has been found near to the same site
on the mountain to the left. It has been called the
Penymynydd Stone. It is now at Ty-mawr, Aberdare.
It was visited by the Cambrian Arcnseological Associa-
tion in 1900. The road descends the hill, and is plainly
discernible until obliterated by the modern turnpike
road to Brecon. Beyond the cross-roads, in 1896, the
pitching could be recognised in many places at the side
of the road, but in 1902 these traces were by no means
so evident.
Leaving the Maen Llia to the right, the old road
continues until it reaches the steep scarp of the Llethr,
overlooking the Senni valley. From this point to
Fedwenunig, two miles distant, its course is purely a
matter of conjecture. On the side of the hill some
remains of an old road are seen alongside the present
road, which possibly may indicate the site of the Roman
road, but that, too, is lost in the cultivated ground
below. The idea of some modern writers that it went
down the Senni valley to Rhydybren is untenable.
The more likely route is, as suggested by Jones, that it
passed above Blaen Senni, and there met the lane from
^ Archoeologia, iv, Plate 1 ; Gough's Camden, 11, Plate 14 ; We^t-
wood, p. 64 ; Ardi, Camb., 4th Ser., vol. v, p. 332.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT COELBREN. 135
Fedwen at the turning to Gelliauisaf, crossing the
dingle of the Cwmddu at the easiest point. It is not
unlikely that frotn this point to Fedwen the lane runs
on the line of the old road, though there are no traces
lea of it.
A little above Fedwen, we come on the road, which
is lost in a gorse plantation, but reappears in a field on
the further side, until lost in another large plantation,
and again to be found in a field beyond. It is now
lost for some distance, to be seen further on, where it
runs the whole length of the field next the cross-roads.
Beyond the cross-road, it is traceable in another field
for some little distance, but is lost until it ascends the
hill above the plantation. In the low ground beyond
all trace again is lost, and where it crossed the Llestyr
is uncertain. In the field across the brook a broad line
of scattered stones mark the Roman paving turned up
by the plough year after year. The crossing of a brook
and the line up the hill to the common is plainly
discernible, but it is lost on the other side, and the
crossing the Camlais is uncertain. It ascended the
Mynydd Iltyd on the same line as the modern trackway,
which has obliterated the old road, except for some
detached pieces of pavement on the ascending slope.
Where it leaves the common (with Blaengwrthyd on
the right), the road and pavement are again visible
(this length is marked on the Ordnance Map as ** Roman
Road "). It is seen in the field after passing the gate
and skirting the hedge in the next one. It is then lost
amid the ruins of a farmhouse, to reappear on the other
side above the fishpond, when it is finally lost. The
course from hence to The Gaer is only theoretical ; when
lost, the line was pointing in the direction of Penpont
Ford (which is the best ford on the Usk for many
miles), and local tradition has always asserted that it
went through the park at Penpont, and joined the Julia
Maritima at the foot of the hill.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
136 report on the excavations
The Gaer at Coelbren.
The camp is situated on the crest df a rounded hill,
730 ft. above the sea-level. There is a fall of 30 ft. to
40 ft. in every direction, from the ramparts to the
general level of the country around.
The hill is of a stiff boulder-clay, overlaying the out-
crop of the coal measures, and is now covered with short
hill-grass, with patches of heather. The sides of the
camp are almost an exact square of 160 yards, with the
usual rounded angles. The highest point is about 60 ft.
inward from the western entrance, to which is a fall of
1 ft., of 5 ft. to the north-west angle, 7 ft to the south-
west, 10 ft. to 15 ft. to the western side. The ram-
part all round the enclosure has been partially levelled.
It now has the appearance of a broad platform, 30 ft.
to 40 ft. across, in some places having a slight fall to
the interior at the inner edge, but generally it is
levelled off to meet the rise of the ground.
At some period the whole interior appears to have
been ploughed up. The marks of the plough are more
evident on the platform than elsewhere. A short
distance to the north and under the hill is a large bog
— Gors Llwyn — difficult to cross at any season, but
impassable in winter. To the west the country is open,
to the south runs the Camlais brook, and to the east
the Nantybryn, though neither could now be considered
as a military defence. Altogether, it was a well-chosen,
easily-defensible site. With a moderate surface drainage
it could at any time be made dry and habitable. On
the west are two ditches, 4 ft. to 6 ft. below the present
ramparts, the outer ditch being rather lower than the
inner one (Fig. 2). On the north front the inner ditch is
not so apparent, but the outer one is well marked. On the
north-east front both ditches have almost disappeared,
though the rampart is well marked. On the south-
west the ditches have entirely disappeared, and the
rampart is spoiled by a modern hedge ; the same to the
south, though here and there the ditch can be traced.
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Digitized by VjOOQ IC
^^^c^g^SSJ
Fio. 2. Plak of C^
Sceil^ ^^
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AT COKLBBMS.
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I
AT COELBREN. 137
The entrance on the west front is represented by a
causeway across the ditch. That to the north may
have been where a modern footpath has made a breach
in the rampart, bat on the south and east, though the
roads are clearly to be traced up to the encei7ite, all
trace of the entrances have been destroyed. In the
interior are two heaps of stones, evidently surface
stones, dislodged by the plough and collected together.
There are also three large boulders, doubtless placed
in position by the hand of man, though for what
purpose is yet to be seen. The adjoining farm is called
Tonycastell, and the next TonyflSldre. This might
mean '* Town of the Soldiers," but the local people call
it ** Ton-y-ynwl-y-dref," or the **flatland at the edge
of the town." There is a local tradition of a town about
here in former times, but they consider that it is to be
found under the Gors Llwyn, not at the camp. The
remains of ancient scratchings for iron are to be seen in
the immediate neighbourhood, some in close proximity
to the camp.
Some two years ago, about twenty large buttons
with holes in them were said to have been found.
With that exception, no finds have been made in the
interior of the camp. I could find no trace of these
so-called buttons, and I consider that this find is iden-
tical with the discovery of bronze harness in 1903
(Arch. Camb., Sixth Sen, vol. v, p. 127), and that they
were not found in this camp. The bronze celts now in
the possession of Mr. Price (described in Arch. Camb.,
Sixth Ser., vol. i, p. 163) were found near here (Pen-
wyllt), and a bronze celt was found on the adjoining
hill to the south, about half a mile from the Roman
road. A Roman coin was also found near the camp,
just off the road, but I could not trace it.
The Excavations.
The Ramparts. — Sections were made across the ram-
parts in several places, to ascertain, if possible, its
original form and relation to the ditch. Some of these
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138
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
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(the earlier) were excavated under
such adverse circumstances, aiused
by the bad weather, that the results
might perhaps have been considered
hardly commensurate with the labour;
but the structure proved to be of such
a unique character as to amply justify
the time and money expended. In
some places the base of the rampart
rested on a layer of logs, laid at right
angles to the length. These were on
the undisturbed boulder clay, about
3 ins. to 6 ins. below the present sur-
face ; in other places on large boards
of oak, or rough stones ; whilst in some
parts little more than a layer of de-
composed brushwood could be detected
above the clay. The pavement was of
such interest that it was thoroughly
and carefully investigated (Fig. 3).
Section A is made at the south-west
angle, where the log pavement was first
detected. The details of this section
are in a great measure applicable to
those at the other angles. The logs
were 17 ft. long, 8 ins. to 9 ins. in
diameter, at right angles to the length
of the rampart, with a slight fall to
the outer side. The butts were on
the inner side, and were accurately
laid. Towards the exterior the line
varied by some inches, according to
the length of the logs. The marks of
the axe were plainly to be seen in the
butts. In some cases the larger logs
had been split in two. The bark had
not been removed. The wood was in
various stages of decomposition. Some
logs had become a haid "bog oak,"
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AT COfiLBREN. 139
others were almost charcoal, and otliers again had de-
cayed into a soft, spongy condition, easily squeezed in
the hand, and soon crumbling away ; but when first ex-
posed they had retained their form better than any
others.
Above these logs was a layer 1 ft. thick of black soil,
which certainly contained much decomposed vegetable
matter ; then another layer of logs, smaller than those
of the lower stratum, seldom exceeding 6 ins. in dia-
meter. These were laid irregularly, never close together;
in some cases 1 ft. apart. They had more the appear-
ance of branches than hewn logs, and the layer was
more in evidence towards the inner side of the rampart.
In eveiy section it was laid at the same height —
1 ft. 2 ins. above the lower logs. This upper layer was
mainly composed of birch, which had decomposed into
a black band of vegetable matter. A small number of
branches alone remained intact, though here and there
the bark of the silver birch was easily discernible.
The natural clay contains a good deal of iron in
solution, which, acting on the tannin in the oak, tended
to preserve it ; but it would not affect the birch, which
fell into a black mass.^
Above this came various layers of yellow clay, with
intervening bands of vegetable matter, together about
3 ins. in thickness, showing that this part of the
rampart had been constructed of turves and branches
of trees. Longitudinal sections showed these layers
almost parallel to each other, but transversely they had
been squeezed by the superincumbent weight of the
ramparts into various curves of contortion. Over the
inner edge of the logs, and for 3 ft. towards the centre
of the rampart, these bands had almost amalgamated
into one continuous black mass, from the centre to the
^ The further action of the iron on the vegetable matter, tbrongh-
oat the ramparts and elsewhere, formed a sort of black ink, which
had stained the adjoining clay to sach an extent that it g^ve a first
impression of a far larger quantity of vegetable matter than was
actually there.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
140 KKPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
outer edge. These bands decreased until they were
scarcely traceable. * This decrease was particularly
marked at the top, excepting in one spot, there they
could be traced to the top of the outer edge, giving
the impression that the scarp face of the rampart
was originally composed entirely of white clay. At the
bottom of the outer edge, and 6 ft. to 8 ft. outwards,
these layers were invariably found extending over the
berm.
It cannot be said with certainty whether the scarp of
the rampart extended beyond the logs, or whether the
superincumbent bands had been squeezed outwards by
the weight of the rampart. The latter would be the
more reasonable conclusion, as the decaying brushwood
would in course of time readily allow water to soak
into the centre of the rampart, and the clay would have
been kept in a plastic condition. Beyond the inner
edge this black mass extended some 9 ft. towards the
interior area, gradually tailing off to nothing. Here
and at other sections there was some evidence of a
distinct vertical face over the interior ends of the logs,
but it was not enough to be conclusive.
The log footing now lies about 3 ins. to 6 ins. below
the present surface, which represents a fairly level
platform, 35 ft. wide, extending over both edges of the
footings. At the centre of the rampart there is only
4 ins. of arable soil over the yellow clay, but over both
inner and outer edge the depth increases to 18 ins.,
which gives the peculiar rounded contour apparent in
all the sections. The greater part of this increased
depth of soil consisted of mixed clay and vegetable
matter, evidently the result of the levelling of the
rampart. It extended towards the interior 1 ft. over
and beyond the black mass before noticed ; like that,
it tailed off to nothing, while towards the exterior it
extended over the whole width of the berm, and nearly
filled up the inner or main ditch. The berm was 16 ft.
in width to the edge of the ditch, which was 18 ins.
below the level of the footings.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT COBLBRBN. 141
Longitudinal sections, about 10 ft. long, were dug at
both the inner and outer edge of the logs, to test their
length and their direction at the curve of the angle of
the camp. They were found to be laid at right angles
to the tangent of the curve. The butt-ends were
always in juxtaposition on the inner edge, and were
accurately lined, the top-ends spreading out in the
form of a fan. The intervening spaces were apparently
Qot regularly filled in, though a few stones were found
here and there.
Section B, Fig. 4, at the other end of this curve gave
a perfect exposition of the logs, which here were 17 ft.
long and 9 ins. to 12 ins. thick. The 3 ft. band of
black soil over the inner edge was very apparent, and
the vertical face was more in evidence here than in any
other spot. The bands on the interior edge of the
rampart were much contorted, and gradually diminished
towards the exterior. The rounded aspect of the section
was particularly marked.
Section C. — The logs were laid in two rows of equal
lengths, the inner row at right angles to the southern
face, the outer row following the curve of the angle of
the camp.
Section D. — The logs here were again in one length,
set at right angles to the course of the rampart, and
were both longer and broader than those elsewhere,
the largest 1 ft. 3 ins. across (though from the afberwork
in other sections it is probable that this was rather a
board than a log ; at the time this was not noticed).
There was nothing remarkable in this section, which
was purposely made, where there was a sensible bulge
on the inner face of the rampart, that gave the impres-
sion that some foundation might be found. However,
there was nothing more than an extra amount of soil,
deposited there at the time of the levelling of the
rampart.
The Section E, Fig. 5, on the north-west angle differed
slightly A from on the south-west. The logs were
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142
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
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Digitized by
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AT OOELBRErr. 143
shorter, the greater number not more than 11 ft. 11 ins.,
and were so laid that in some cases the outer thrust
of the weight of the rampart was taken by roughly-
squared oak piles, 1 ft. across (Fig. 6). Where one log was
too short for the position, it was wedged up to the pile
by a partly-dressed stone. In another spot, a log some
2 ft. longer than the others projected over the berm.
and terminated with a pile. Another pile stood some
distance outside, but tnere was no indication of what
it had supported. The weather was bad, and the
trenches here so waterlogged that it was impossible to
proceed. This angle would be an interesting spot for
further excavations. This section in general resembled
the others, but that the bands had been less contorted.
Fig. 6.— Camp at Coelbren : Logs at North-east Angle.
and towards the inner side the black mass of vegetable
matter was wider, and the colour more intense. This
mass extended 20 ft. beyond the end of the logs, and
the signs of decomposed wood were more apparent here
than elsewhere ; whereas, in the other sections, there
was room for doubt whether the decomposed mass now
behind the ramparts might not be the accumulations of
after-years. In this spot there could be no mistake
that it was a regularly-laid filling (probably turf and
branches of trees) ; and it points to the conclusion that
the rampart, not here only but elsewhere, extended
beyond the footing of logs. At the north angle the
section was dug merely to ascertain the continuance of
the foundation of logs. When they were duly found
in the expected place, the section was not continued
further.
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144
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
Section F, S.-E. angle, Fig. 7. — The logs were here
laid in two lengths, with an intervening space between
them. The inner row was not more than 5 ft. long, a
4-ft. interval, and the outer row 9 ft. long. They were
-W^KW^
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^llzzriaZ ^ot^l- c^o
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Fig. 7. — Camp at Coelbren : Section at Sonth-ea«t Angle V.
Scale, 10 ft. = l in.
^B
^
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Fig. 8. — Cnmp at Coelbren : Logs at South-east Angle.
12 ins. to 15 ins. wide, and 3 ins. thick ; in fact, rather
boards than logs. Both extremities of the logs com-
posing the inner row were regularly lined, as also those
on the inner edge of the outer row ; but the outer
edge was irregular. One board rested against a pile
9 ins. across, the others projecting beyond it from 1 ft. to
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT OOBLBRBN.
145
3 ft. (Fijr. 8). Here the rampart was constiiicted with a
second layer of logs, separated from the upper by an
intervening space of 1 ins. to 4 ins. of very black soil,
in which the remains of heather was still discernible,
The smell of accumulated marsh gas was here most
Fig. 9.— Camp at Coelbren : South-east Am?le.
Scale, 20 ft. = 1 in.
dlT^
Fig. 10.— Camp at Coelbren : Logs at F.
Scale, 10 ft. =1 in.
oflFensive. The inner edges of both outer layers were
in line, but the outer edge of the lower projected some
6 ft. beyond the upper layer. The outer edge just
projected over the base of an existing hedge. It is
possible that the boards may have been shortened when
that was made^ There was no visible sign of the ditches;
dT» BBB„ YOL, YJI,
10
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
146 REP0R1' ON THB EXCAVATIONS
doubtless they had been filled in and the ground
levelled.
Fig. 9. — Some 19 ft. behind these logs was found, 3 ft.
below the surface, a transverae log F, 9 ft. long, 6 ins.
across, and well squared, laid at right angles to the
diagonal of the camp. It was kept in position at its
northern end by a large stone, 12 in. by 8 in., and by a
small pile on the outside (Fig. 10). Its end was secured
to the next log, 6 ft. inwards, by a cross-transverse,
which was further secured by a stone, 7 ins. across, and
a small pile. As these transverse logs appeared to extend
inwards for some distance, the section was enlarged, to
ascertain their number and position, as it was possible
that they might be the foundation of a ramp leading to
the angle of the camp. A third log was found 6 ft.
behind the last, and a fourth 4 ft. distant from the
third. Their outer ends were connected by cross-pieces,
but they did not represent any definite line, the lengths
of the logs being unequal. The appearance favoured
the foundations of a house rather than a ramp. See
account of " Interior."
In order to test the further direction of these trans-
verse logs, a trench (Section G) was cut towards the
outer bank, but they aid not appear again (Fig. 9). At
12 ft. some stones were found, which possibly might have
formed a step, and at 28 ft., stones, which had some
appearance of a wall, but further digging did not
confirm this theory. They were found 2 ft. above the
wooden foundation. Here, as on the other side, the
logs were in two lengths, with a space between. On
the inner row the logs were 6 ft. long, a space of 4 ft.,
and the outer row about 8 ft. ; the exact dimensions
uncertain, owing to an underground drain. They were
decidedly more boards than logs. The usual upper
layer, in the same place, was here very pronounced, and
composed of really fine logs. Within a short distance
of the outer layer, and 1 ft. above them, a wall was
found, which curved in the direction of the curve of
the angle of the camp, which was eagerly followed up.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT COELBREN. 147
but it proved to be a modern conduit from a spring to
a well in the hedge outside.
A trench, H, was then dug along the base of the
Sector formed by Sections F and o, to ascertain how
the log foundations were carried round the curve.
Ten ft. from the pile x was another, projecting upwards
1 in. to 3 ins. All the intervening space was close-
boarded with wide boards. One, 1 ft. 3 ins. across, had
had a large piece cut out of one side by a saw,
probably, needed for some other purpose, which shows
that any odd pieces — provided they were large enough
— were used for this pavement. The outer edge of
these boards was irregular ; the first three being too
short, had the length made out by pieces about 1 ft.
long, jammed against a stone 2 ft. 4 ins. by I ft. 2 ins.
by 1 ft. 3 ins. thick. Further on, the boards overlapped
the stone by many inches. At the pile y they pro-
jected 3 ft. ; taking the line of piles as a datum, the
boards might be considered to overlap at last 3 ft.
Beyond the pile the character of the paving changed :
the boards lay further apart, and logs reappeared in
some places 1 ft apart. The lower layer throughout
was formed of wide boards, placed close together. It is
evident that the first — or lower — layer had been found
an insufficient foundation, and that a second layer had
been laid above, to secure a better result.
However faulty the method of construction, the
ultimate result was good ; as, though the angle was
the weakest point of the whole front — ^and doubtless
the spring of water was as much hindrance to the
Romans as it was to us — ^yet the foundation has not
shifted in the slightest degree. No contortions of the
layers of peat and clay are here seen in the rampart.
In point of fact, when cleaning the soil in order to
extract one of the boards, a space of 2 ft. by 3 ft. was
pared away, in alternate horizontal layers of black soil,
grey soil, and perfectly white clay.
As the wooden pavement had been proved at all the
angles, and along a considerable stretch of the southern
10 «
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
148 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
front, there is little doubt than on that front it con-
tinued the whole way ; but on Section I on the
northern front, where the outer edge of the log pavement
was expected to be touched, there were small pieces of
wood 1 ft. 6 ins. by 9 ins. in diameter. Beyond these
there was no further trace of wood. The log pavement
was absent ; in its place was a layer of black vegetable
matter overlaying the natural clay. The bands in the
rampart were fewer in number, and in parts the clay
was perfectly clean. The black mass in the rear of the
rampart was, however, wider here than elsewhere.
Section J was likewise bare of interest. It was cut
transversely across the road, and continued longitu-
dinally along the rampart, to test the road at the
entrance ; and to ascertain if any wall or fblmdation
showed the division between the road and the rampart,
the excavation was carried 2 ft. down in the alluvial
soil. At the end of the road, yellow clay of the
rampart with the intervening bands appeared.
Finding no trace of either wall or of logs, the trench
was now cut diagonally across. After cutting 6 ft., the
depth of alluvial soil had diminished to 10 ins; the
original rampart increased to 1 ft. 9 ins., but the black
bands had amalgamated into a mass. After 15 ft. this
mass gave place to the mixed soil, the produce of the
rampart. It was conclusive that on this side there was
no log pavement. The base of the rampart may have
rested on stones, as was found to be the case on the
western side.
Section K was made across the next front to test the
ditches, and was carried into the rampart. The soil
was hard clay and gravel — a good foundation for any
weight. There was no trace of log paving, and the
cutting was not carried through ; but by a hole dug ia
the rampart on the opposite side, it was ascertained
that the base rested on a layer of stones, about 9 ins.
across, set close together.
This concluded the investigation of the ramparts ;
and the conclusion deduced therefrom is, that the log
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AT COfil.BRttK. 149
pavement was laid to enable the rampart to stand on
the natural soil without slipping. Where the founda-
tion was most treacherous, wider boards, and even a
double layer, had to be used, but that no connection
could be traced between the log pavement and any
wooden superstructure which might have been erected
on the top of the rampart.
That tne log pavement designed to withstand the
outward thrust of an excess of weight on the rampart
is found under the four angles, and is generally absent
from the sides, would lead to the conclusion that engines
for missiles were placed only on the angles, as they
alone would have necessitated this unusual foundation.
That on the other three sides a layer of stones, or a
thick layer of brushwood, was found sufficient base to
secure the rampart from slipping, and that the log
pavement was laid along the southern front, on account
of a defective foundation, or of springs on the treacher-
ous clay.
The Ditches.
Section A, south-west angle. — The width of the berm
was 16 ft ; the edge of the ditch 1 ft. 6 ins. below the level
of the log footing. The ditch was 9 ft. wide at the top.
The sides having been cut in the stiflF yellow clay, were
well preserved. The ditch itself was filled up with
black decayed vegetable matter. At the depth of 2 ft. a
piece of common red Roman pottery was found. At
6 ft. down the character of the filling changed to a
mixture of silt, gravel, and decayed vegetable matter.
Around this were found a large number of oak stakes,
9 ins. to 12 ins. long, pointed at one end (possibly
charred), with a curious notch below the pointing,
giving them the appearance of modern tent-pegs. They
were lying flat, and not in situ. Also some pieces of
cut oak, 6 ins. long by 4 ins. wide. It may be con-
jectured that they were portions of obstacles for the
defence of the ditch (fig. 11 on next page).
At the depth of 6 ft. 6 ins. was found a leg bone of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
150
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIOKg
ft
rJ/-\
>
„?r'
^
-%
--^
a
*> a
^
p4
...Y
an animal, either cow or deer, and a rib and a vertebral
bone of some young animal. The ditch was further
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
At COELBREK. 151
opened out, but further investigation was frustrated
by the rain. The sides of the ditch fell in, the clay
became unworkable, and it was impossible to decide
where the ground had been previously worked. The
section of the ditch was certainly triangular, and when
the digging was abandoned, at a depth of 6 ft. 6 ins.,
the apex was apparently about 3 ft. below.
A bank of natural stiff yellow clay, 7ft. to 8 ft. wide,
divided the inner from the outer ditch, which was more
distinctly marked on the surface than the inner ditch.
It proved to be about 7 ft. wide, triangular in section,
and seemed not more than 6 ft. deep. It was di£5cult
to distinguish between the filling and the undisturbed
ground, as after the first foot of peaty ground had been
dug, there came a mass of silted clay, which under the
constant rain became perfectly unworkable. Nearly at
the bottom of this outer ditch was found an oak stake,
3 ft. long by 9 ins. across. It was lying flat in the
ditch, and was much decayed. In the hope of finding
more, the length of the ditch was dug for 15 ft., but no
more were forthcoming. This also had to be abandoned
on account of the wet.
A Section (M) of the glacis was made rather higher
up, to ascertain where the soil from the ditch had
been deposited. It was found that a quantity about
equal to the size of the outer ditch had been placed
on the crest of the glacis, varying in depth from
9 ins. to 12 ins., tapering off to nothing after a length
of 30 ft. It was clean clay, and the original surface of
the turf beneath could still be discerned.
A Section (K) of the ditches of the west front was
•made, rather to the north of the entrance. They were
more distinctly marked than elsewhere ; the section
differed slightly from those on the other side. The
•inner ditch was 1 1 ft. wide at the top, and triangular
in section. Beneath 5 ft, of alluvial soil there was
2 ft. 6 ins. of silted clay ; then it became impossible to
determine whether the disturbed ground went down
further. Two oak pegs, similar to those before described,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
152 RBPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
were found immediately at the bottom of the black
soil. The natural bank between the ditches was about
15 ft. wide, of yellow clay mixed with gravel. The
outer ditch was 8 ft. across at the top. The level of
the present ditch is 1 ft. below the surface of the
ground, und the filling of black matter 4 ft. Below
that the fine silt was met with : apparently, the ditch
was not much deeper.
The natural soil under the rampart was a hard gravel,
mixed with clay ; yet, judging from the result of the
digging in the ditches, some few feet below the stratum,
there would be a vein of finely-silted clay, saturated
with water, almost in a running condition.
At Section E on the south-west angle the ditches
are fairly well marked on the surface, but below they
are very distinct. They are here filled up with intensely
black soil, and the yellow clay of the nattiYal soil, as
underneath the rampart, which forms the bank between
the two ditches, is very light coloured, 'i'he ditches
seem practically the same size us those at the south-
west angle, but there was a great accumulation of
water, and difficulty in draining it off, so that digging
had to cease after about 3 ft. had been excavated. An
attempt was made to run a drift up the outer ditch, so
as to drain the bottom some yards higher up ; butas it
appeared to act as a drain for the whole field it was
abandoned. The only way to excavate these ditches
would be to run a drift up one of the ditches, and allo\y
it to drain the ground before commencing the work.
Section L across the centre of the northern front
proved the most fruitless of all. The outer ditch, well
defined on the ground, proved to be full of black earth.
The mound of natural clay between the two was very
distinct. The inner ditch, nearly obliterated on the
surface, proved to be full of black earth like the other.
The outer ditch had been excavated down about 3 ft.,
and the filling was beginning to assume a more settled
character, when the accumulation of water rendered
further work impossible. It was then utilised as a
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT COELBREN. 153
reservoir for water baled out from the drift towards
the ramparts. In the inner ditch the usual black earth
soon gave place to half-silted clay, rough gravel (re-
sembhng the soil found in the outer ditch on the south-
west angle). This ditch appeared about 7 ft. wide, but
it was a matter of conjecture where the filling ended
and the scarp begun, or whether it was silting or a
of a natural vein of the boulder clay. About 7 ft. undier
the supposed berm, traces of wood seemed to be present.
If this were correct, the ditch along this front must
have been both wider and deeper, and the berm pro-
portionately narrower.
The Entrances.
There are supposed to have been four entrances to
the camp.
The position of the south entrance can be approxi-
luately fixed, as the pitching of the Rpman road leading
to Clawdd-y-Banwen is visible on the outside. The
modern pathway probably follows the course of that
road. As this path is much used by coUiers going to-
and-fro after dark, it was not advisable to make a
trench across it.
The position of the north entrance is not so well de-
fined, as the existing break in the rampart might have
been made for the footpath which now crosses the area
,of the camp. If it be the entrance, it would divide the
northern front into two unequal parts. The trench
dug showed more stones in the soil under this^ footpath
than on either side of it. As this trench also had to
be closed before nightfall, no conclusive results were
obtained. The eastern entrance should be more easily
located, for the Roman road from the east can be traced
as a ruined causeway in the field outside. A trench
was cut behind the hedge, 8 ft. from the corner. For
a length of 6 ft. there was a depth of 1 ft. 9 ins. of
.alluvial soil, for the next 7 ft., 1 ft. of alluvial soil, and
1 ft. 6 ins. of mixed clay and stones. No signs of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
T5'4 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
pitching, though there were significant traces of a
destroyed roadway ; after which the tailing of the end
of the rampart was apparent (see Ramparts). A long
trench (N) was dug 30 ft. behind trench J, nearly in
line with the corners of the hedge. The alluvial soil
was found 1 ft. 9 ins. deep; at 15 ft. a good deal of
iron was found. On cutting across the prolongation of
the road, stones were found about 9 ins. below the
surface, but no positive indication of a road. The
thickness of the natural soil was 1 ft. 3 ins. The stones
continued to the end of the trench, but at a greater
depth, the natural soil running to 1 ft. 9 ins. deep.
Some traces of the continuation of this road were found
in the diagonal trench T. A trench (P) across the
caubeway of the western entrance, in line with the
inner ditch, showed that the so-called causeway had
never been excavated. Upon the old natural surface,
represented by a black band, 2 ins. thick of decayed
vegetable matter, had been deposited a layer of yellow
clay 16 ft. wide. This was laid 9 ins. deep in the
centre, tailing oflF to nothing at either end. Over this
^lay the alluvial soil was 8 ins. deep in the centre and
1 ft. at the ends, giving the causeway a slightly rounded
appearance.
In the centre of the causeway the top of a large
stone almost protruded through the yellow clay coating.
For what reason it was so placed could not be deter-
mined. Further trenches, 13 ft. in length, were ex-
tended on either side of the causeway, ending in a
ditch. The inner and outer ditches on the south side
were here joined by a ditch, running parallel to the
causeway, 7ft. wide, 5 ft. deep, and triangular in sec-
tion. On the north side the ditch was 6 ft. 6 ins. wide,
and not more than 3 ft. deep. The ditches here con-
verged.
In another section (Q), made 21 ft. behind the former,
traces of made ground were apparent on the spot where
the road should have been, but no pitching. The
trench was lengthened to determine if there were a
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
At COELfenEN. I56
junction with the rampart, but the result was indefinite.
A hole dug 20 ft further on the same line proved that
the rampart was here laid on a layer of large stones.
A third trench (R) was cut 30 ft. behind the second.
The ground was very stony, but no decided sign of a
road could be detected. Some 30 yards further, on the
conjectured line of the road, stands a considerable heap
of stones. From their size and appearance they might
have been taken from the pitching of the road. These
stones could not have been found in the boulder clay :
they must have been brought hither for a special pur-
pose, and it is evident that that purpose was for the
pitching of the road. If any portion of the road can
be found undisturbed, it is probably under that very
heap of stones.
The pitching found in Section W, and for a distance
of 30 ft. beyond, was to some extent a prolongation of
the line of this road. It ran fairly parallel to the north
side of the camp, and would point not very wide of the
northern gateway, though the line cannot be said to be
direct. The stones were upon the original ground,
without any intervening gravel. It is quite possible
that they may have been those dispersed by the
plough, and that the actual site of the road had
not Deen hit off.
The pitching in Section X, towards the southern side,
is more regularly laid, and has not been disturbed. It
might have been a portion of a good road, but it
appeared to be that it is more likely to have been the
pitching of a yard. From experience of the pitchings
of a similar character on the Rhondda Hills, I should
say that it was the work of iron-smelters in post-Roman
times.
The ridge of gravel which runs across the eastern
side of the camp is probably the site of a road. The
f ravel had been carried there for a special purpose,
he layer of decomposed peat is placed between the
made ground and the original clay. It is 1 ft. 6 ins.
in the deeper part. The width varies considerably.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
156 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
No trace of the pitching reraaine. The plough has here
done its work of destruction most effectually.
The Interior.
Septions were dug across the four diagonals of the
carap, to endeavour to locate any pitching of road or
foundations of houses ; if possible, to reconstruct the
plan of the camp. Wherever any stones lay in apparent
order, the digging was carried round to ascertain their
size and direction of the area.
Section Z, a continuation of F, from south-west
angle diagonally across to within 30 ft. of the footpath,
running across the centre of the field. The portion
through the rampart and the transverse baulks has been
described under ** Ramparts."
A little above the level of the transverse baulks came
much burnt earth and clay, with ashes (or, at least a
black band) underneath. These remains were not level,
but had more the appearance of low mounds with a
hollow between. Above these was a layer of blue clay,
with 1 ft. 6 ins. of arable soil on top of it. Much
glass, mainly inj;an un worked stage, and pottery was
here found. The position of these finds was various,
though the pottery was mostly immediately over the
brick ashes, while the glass was mainly immediately
over the alluvial soil. About 2 ft. below the surface
were found several stones. Thirty feet further up,
2 ft. deep, was an area 3 ft. by 3 ins. of stone, laid in
some order. It was neither the foundation of a wall
nor the pitching of a road. A good deal of red earth,
with black matter below, here extended about 20 ft. up
the trench ; it might have been a floor. Pottery, both
red and grey, and much glass, was also found. The
depth of the natural ground was about 2 ft. At 30 ft.
the trench crossed the layer of gravel 1 ft. 6 ins. thick,
25 ft. wide, under a layer of soil ; and below the gravel
a black band of decomposed peat overlying the natural
ground. This gravel must have been brought there by
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT COELBREN. 157
man. Four feet beyond this gravel, at the depth
of 2 ft., there was a good deal of ironstone. At 80 ft.
from the wall, pottery, glass, and a good many rubbed
stones. The brick earth was here again conspicuous,
and had the appearance of a floor, though irregular in
thickness, varying from 1 ft. to 2 ft. below the surface.
Beyond this the brick earth disappeared ; the layer of
black matter also, and the last 20 ft. of the trench
showed no sign of man's habitation, the soil being but
1 ft. 6 ins. deep.
Trench S, 30 ft. northward, parallel with A. Natural
soil, 2 ft. from surface. The first 30 ft. showed a layer
of red ash 1 ft. 6 ins. from surface, with black clay and
decomposed matter below. Bead No. 2 was here found,
just above the red ash, also glass and pottery. Fifty
feet, a stone for grinding, glazed marble stone, and
small fragments of ghxss and pottery. Sixty -one feet, a
large boulder stone, 1 ft. below the surface, planted in the
natural soil, its use unknown. A few feet further was
a large piece of lead ; a space 6 ft. by 4 ft. was worked
round, but besides glass and pottery nothing more was
found. At 95 ft., crossed the gravel track, about
28 ft. wide, 1 ft. surface-soil, 1 ft. gravel, black band
1 in. thick, of decomposed peat immediately below ; then
followed a long length of red ash, 4 ins. to 5 ins. thick,
the usual 1 - in. black band underneath ; beyond, no
further trace of habitation.
Trench S (a). — A small trench, connecting ends of
Z and S, primarily for draining purposes. It was dug
through 2 ft. of alluvial soil, and was rich in pottery
and glass. Here, at a depth of 2 ft. were found the
piece of pottery of the peculiar yellowish-red glaze, and
the glass of brownish tint. The alluvial nature of the
soil laid both finds open to suspicion.
Trench S (b), a second cross -trench, from 20 ft. up
S to the supposed wall in Z. About half-way the red
ash was crossed, and then an area of stones : a possible
pavement. This pitching was 2 ft. 6 ins. wide at the
trench, and ran for 12 ft. parallel to A and B ; it wa4
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
158 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
then widened to 4 ft. At first the stones were fairly
regular, then they were raore disturbed.
Section T. — From north-east angle of camp, diagonally
across to the centre. The presence of the log layers
(upper and lower) was ascertained. The lower layer
lay 4 ft. 6 ins. below the surface ; 4 ft. behind the logs
were several large stones, 9 ins. to 12 ins. across, in no
regular order ; 16 ft. along, the trench cut into a 3-ft.
area which might have been a pitching, but no extension
could be traced on any side. The next 25 ft. was
rich in pottery ; stones also, but in no definite order.
Natural soil, only 1 ft. deep. At 39 ft., a 12 ft. length
of brick earth, about 2 ins. thick, 1 ft. 6 ins. deep, not
laid level ; but wavy, as had been noted in other places,
though it had more definite appearance of a floor than
the similar deposits found elsewhere. Some of the
pieces were certainly fragments of bricks and not brick
earth. The accurate area could not be settled.
At 127 ft. stones were laid in some order at a depth
of 9 ins. The stony area was worked round with no
results. Some kind of pitching it certainly was, with
many of the stones removed, and others disturbed by
the plough. Many showed the mark of the plough-
share. This pitching lay about the centre of the gravel
ridge, which was not so clearly defined here as in other
places. From hence a trench was run along this gravel
ridge to Section S, which proved the presence of the
gravel layer very near the surface, for the whole length,
but no finds were made.
Section T was continued from the spot where it
crossed the prolongation of the road ; for a stretch
of 7 ft. it had somewhat the semblance of a road,
though there was no regular pitching, and the stones
were little more than 6 ins. below the surface. Behind
both these stretches of supposed road, at a distance
of 20 ft., trenches were run to ascertain if such traces
ran further, but nothing more was found.
Section W, diagonally across the field, from the foot-
path to the north-west angle, only a few pieces of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT COEr.BREN. I59l
pottery were found, under 1 ft. 6 ins. of accumulated
8oil, until the top of the field was reached, there, the
trench crossed remains of much disturbed pitching, of
of which a length of 30 ft. by 15 ft. was opened out.
It ran fairly parallel to the north side, and if prolonged
would have passed not far from the E. gate. Whetner
it were pitching or road was difficult to decide. Half-
way to the end of the Section, 1 ft. 6 ins. below the
surface, was a pocket of charcoal 2 ft. in diameter, 1 ft.
thick, of which 6 ins. were sunk in the natural clay.
Towards the end of the Section some red pottery was
found.
Section X, diagonally across from centre to south-
west angle. — The accumulated soil was seldom more
than 1 ft. thick, and but few signs of man's hand
appeared. Towards the end the trench crossed a
pitching of large stones, laid in fairly regular order, in
an oblong area, 13 ft. by 15 ft., I ft. below the surface.
The stones were from 9 ins. to 12 ins. across, laid on
the natural soil. The appearance was more that of
pitching than of a road. A heap of large stones near
this spot, on the edge of the western rampart, was
carefully examined. It proved to be the fragments of
a large boulder that had been blasted into three pieces
(and other smaller portions which had been removed),
with an accumulation of field stones thrown in between
them.
Finds.
The timber foundations of the ramparts — the spikes
and other obstacles found in the ditches already de-
scribed (Fig. 11) — ^are most interesting, and to a certain
extent are unique. It is to be regretted that the finds
in the interior of the camp are not merely commonplace
but poor. They can, however, be identified as Roman,
though from the utter absence of any coins it is difficult
to assign any nearer and more definite date. The
potsherds are the most easily identified as of a parti-
cular period, and from their characteristics a definite
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
160 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
opinion may perhaps be looked for. These potsherds
divide themselves into several groups.
Fragments of very rude Yellowish Ware, which vary considerably
Iq texture, some of comparatively fine grain, others very coarse,
hardly to be distinguished from sandstone, the usual paste used
for Amphorae and other large vessels. The authorities of the
British Museum have dated them as about the third century. But
few of these pieces exceeded 6 ins. across, and varied fi-om ^ in.
to 1 in. in thickness. Fig. 12, the handle of an Amphora. There
are seven rims of various vessels, probably also Amphorae. Of
Fig. 12. — Pottery found at Coelbren.
one, the colour is more decidedly red. It must have formed
part of a vessel 7 ins. in diameter across the mouth. Some of
the others might have been part of larger vessels.
Fragments of Ware. — Yellowish drab, or fawn-coloured, almost
black in the interior, with a fine, even surface. Several frag-
ments were found, but the one — the lip of a mortarium — is the
most interesting. Anotlier lip of a similar vessel is a more
damaged specimen.
Black Ware. — These potslierds vary in hue from deep black
to slaty grey. They are generally fine in grain, though some
few are coarse, and are mostly considered to be no older than
the second or third century. A considerable number of frag-
ments of finely-moulded rims, pertaining to articles of domestic
Digitized by VjOOQIC
AT COELBREN.
161
Fig. 13.— Pottery found at Coelbren.
Fig. 14. — Pottery found at Coelbren.
Fig. 15. — Pottery found at Coelbren.
use, vases and pots (Fig. 13), and a lesser number of bases
(Fig. 14) ; but the latter, as a rule, seem to have belonged to
vessels of a smaller size. The sides have been reduced to very
small pieces, some ojf which are decorated.
Fig. 15 has bands of irregular concentric curves, resembling
6th 8KB., vol. vn. U
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
162
REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
the marks made by a large thumb, similar to those figured in
the Gellygaer record. Such pieces were found widely apart over
the ground, showing that it was a common form of decoration.
Fig. 16. — An ornamental band, which might possibly be a
series of curves, though more like chevrons.
Fig. 17, besides the band, has prominent projections on the
outer surface; the purport of which is inexplicable. As two
Fig. 16.
Fig. 17
Fig. 18.
Pottery found at Coelbren.
specimens were found, it was not an accidental defect, but is part
of some design.
Another fragment of the black ware had several globular
projections, whether accidental or by design is open to con-
jecture. Some pieces have a series of etchings, i in. long, in
two bands. All these decorated fragments are of thinner and
harder material than those undecorated, for which reason they
are in better preservation.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT OOELBREN. 163
Bed Ware. — Fragments of ordinary red ware ; also some rims
and bases of small vessels. Fig. 18 is one of two decorated
pieces found ; all others are perfectly plain. They are generally
in a soft, rotten condition. There are also several pieces of a
better style of ware, with a perceptible glaze on the inside,
having the appearance of a polish. Several frj^ments of one
piece of rich salmon-coloured ware ; but possibly this difference
in colour is due to the particular environments : some of a
coarse-grained paste, intermediate between the ordinary red and
the first-mentioned coarse yellow ware.
Beddiah-Brown Ware. — A few specimens of a fine reddish-
brown glazed ware, varying in colour from deep red to shades of
brown. These were mixed with the old Eoman remains, and
some have been pronounced by the British Museum to be as
late 8is the seventeenth or eighteenth century. Those were
found in two spots only.
There is also the handle of a pitcher, with a greenish glaze,
probably of the same late date, though it certainly has a look of
mediaeval age.
Several other specimens with a yellow glaze may also be of
the same age. The modern specimens were never more than
12 ins. below the surface. For that reason, those found deeper
may be considered as older.
Bricks. — One specimen, 6 ins. long, of a coarse grain, though
much broken. It is decidedly a brick. A great quantity of
burnt clay, which might have been bricks, though in some cases
the pieces might be the harder portions of brick earth.
TUee. — ^No tiles, either of brick or stone.
Bones. — In addition to the bones found in the western ditch,
small fragments of bones were found over the camp. Nothing
could be deduced from their presence ; they might belong to
any animal at any date.
Coal. — Numerous specimens of coal, all of the seam which
outcrops half a mile distant They are too numerous to have
been accidentally brought on the ground by manure carts, which
might be a feasible theory to account for isolated pieces; con-
sequently, the coal must have been designedly conveyed there,
probably for smelting purposes.
Charcoal — Charcoal was found in various places, but on only
one spot was there a considerable amount. This pocket was
not far from a pitching, which might have been i hearth. Here
Uie bits of charcoal, though small, were distinct and well
preserved. In other places it was difficult to decide whether it
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
164 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS
had been charcoal or wood, now turned into bog oak ; though the
remains of coal and charcoal taken all together were of con-
siderable amount, yet there wsts not enough to represent smelting
on a large scale.
Glass, — The bits of glass have more interest than the potsherds ;
though stray fragments were scattered all over the area, the
greater number were found on the south-eastern side. They
have oxidized in an irregular manner; the smooth faces are
little affected, but the rough unmoulded piece has a dull patina
of oxide. At first glance there is little difference to be discerned
between the old Roman glass and the modern derelict ; but when
seen in juxta-position, the peculiar greenish-blue shade of the
former is easily distinguishable. There are four bits of bases of
bottles of the square Roman type (Fig. 19) ; two good examples of
Fig. 19. — Glass found at Coelbren.
the ribbed side of a bowl or cup, and the riiris of several vessels ;
besides many examples of unmoulded glass, either direct from
the furnace or melted into their present shape as the result of a
conflagration in the camp ; and of the two classes together, rims
and sides joined to unmoulded glass.
At first, the condition of these remains would give rise to the
theory that they were damaged articles from a manufactory on
the spot, for which the silica sand could have been procured from
the Penwylt Mountain, about four miles distant.
But the idea of a general fire in the camp is the more feasible,
for the edges of many of the moulded fragments have been
blunted by heat subsequent to their original burning, and no
remains of either moulds, hearths, or crucibles were found.
A great many pieces of glass, varying in thickness, the colour
ranging from blue to light green, apparently portions of vases
or vessels of some sort; some few approximate closely to
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT OOSLBKEN. 165
window-glass. These were collected all over the area, at such a
depth that it is improbable that they could be modern products,
in contradistinction to the modern fragments which were scat-
tered over the surface of the soil. Some are open to suspicion,
but, on the whole, the sorting has been correct
One bit of very thin yellow-brown glass, which has many ot
the characteristics of a modern hock -glass— except that it has
an S curve of surface — was found alongside undoubted Roman
remains. It is impossible that it could have worked down from
the surface, and the ground has not been ploughed for eighty or
one hundred years. At that time, and for some generations
previous, there was a considerable population in the vicinity
engaged in working the old Banwen iron- works, the ruins of
which are a conspicuous object in the distance.
Fig. 20. — Iron Spur found at Coelbren.
And a small piece of beautiful blue glass ; this likewise does
not look very mediaeval, yet it may be genuinely old.
Iron. — The few articles of wrought iron had nothing definite
to mark their age, except two spurs, considerably oxidized,
which have been pronounced no earlier than mediaeval days.
One (Fig. 20) has a shank 3 ins. long, the rowels still apparent,
as well as the bar for grasping the boot ; the other is more oxi-
dized. Several nails 4 ins. long, lumps of oxidized iron of
uncertain use, and several scraps of iron tubing about the thick-
ness of tobacco-pipes.
Various deposits of scoria and slag, as also iron-stone for
smelting, and limestone for flux, some of the latter glazed by
the action of tire. It is possible that we did not come across the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
166 HEPOltt ON THE EXCAVATIONS
main refuse tips ; but, from what was discovered, no considerable
smelting could have been carried on within the camp.
Lead, — A lump of melted lead, of irregular shape, about 1 lb.
in weight, near a pitching of stone, which may have been a
hearth. Small pieces of worked lead, in some cases resembling
modern window-work, were found in other parts of the camp.
Stones, — A large number of sharpeners of various sizes and
shapes, some more or less square, in section, with rounded
edges (others almost round), generally about 1 in. across by
6 ins. to 8 ins. long, all more or less broken ; smaller ones also in
considerable numbers. They were formed from sandstone or
slate, which must have been brought from long distances. A
stone ball 5 ins. across, which looks like millstone grit or sand.
Fig. 21. — "Melon" Bead found at Coelbren.
stone conglomerate ; either a hammer-stone or a projectile for a
ballista.
Several stones (sandstone) with hollows 3 ins. to 4 ins. deep,
1 ft. to 1 ft. 6 ins. across, all broken in two pieces. No mark of
grinding could be detected ; it is difficult to judge if the hollows
be natural or artificial. The stones are so rough, that they
could never have served as mortars or for grinding ; but the
hollows do not look as if made by Nature. If they had been
used as moulds, for which purpose they would have served, the
surface of the hollow would have been glazed by the molten
glass or iron. They are not from the boulder clay ; they have
been procured from the bed of a river if natural ; if artificial, it
is difficult to divine their use.
Sundry stones, much worn by use, 6 ins. by 12 ins. by \ in.,
of hard sandstone. The flat side had been used for polisliiug,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT OOELBREN. 167
and one end either for polishing or moulding the inner rim of a
pot On one stone there appeared to be an excrescence on the
flat side — of burnt material of some sort — iron or what not.
Discs of sandstone 2^ ins. across, J in. thick ; fairly round ;
probably used as covers for small vessels.
Flints. — Only three flints were found. One was outside the
ramparts on the berm ; one of the others is much burnt. Flints
were used by the Romans usually for agricultural purposes,
therefore their presence in this camp would hardly be expected.
Oem and Beads. — A very small amethyst, amid other re-
mains. It has a slight groove cut in the back, as if to attach it
to the setting. It is possible it may not be a genuine " find '* ;
but as the men were warned that no reward would be paid for
** finds," they had no inducement to introduce any extraneous
objects. Five terra-cotta beads in graduated sizes, "melon"
shaped, of a greenish- blue colour ; one 1^ in. across (Fig. 21),
one rather larger, fragments of two about the same size, and
one very much smaller.
Conclusions.
The result of the treQches, etc., is fairly conclusive
that Coelbren was not a walled town, and that if there
were houses in the interior, they were not constructed
of stone ; though the structures (of whatever material)
were without doubt arranged in the usual regular order
of Roman camps. There are traoes of the roads, or
rather of their foundations ; the pitching is plainly-
discernible close to the exterior on the southern side of
the camp, yet in the interior all trace is lost ; which
indicates that it has been purposely destroyed, probably
when the interior area was first broken up by the
plough. About one hundred years ago, the farmers
in the neighbourhood had a perfect craze for collecting
the field stones (the course of the Roman road to Neath
in parts can be followed by the heaps of stones); though
a large amount was used to construct stone walls on
the neighbouring farms, many heaps still lie unutilised.
If the roads which, without doubt, existed have been
so completely demolished, it is easy to comprehend how
all traces of human habitation have been obliterated.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
168 REPORT ON tHfi EXCAVATIOKS
In several spots there were signs that brick floors
had been laid on wooden foundations ; it was impossible
to trace any definite outline, for such floors had gene-
rally fallen into red brick earth ; but in every case an
intervening layer of black earth lay between the brick
earth and the natural surface of the ground. This
black earth might represent either decomposed timber
or the original peat.
In many cases the brick earth had the irregular ap-
pearance of cinder-tips, but the thickness was generally
uniform, the layer of black earth underneath being more
or less present. The remains conjectured to be Roman
were generally found within a few inches of this black
layer, or, when it was almost absent, on the original
surface of the ground ; but the specimens of glass were
found either on the surface of the brick earth, or but
slightly embedded in it.
With the exception of two specimens (noted after),
no remains are to be traced either in the rampart — which
was constructed of clean materials, showing no sign of
previous occupation of the adjoining land — or on the
levelled terrace. The latter is remarkable, as the top
of the rampart is the spot where potsherds, etc., would
have been deposited ; and such remains would have
been found in the levelling of the top. Yet this surface
is as clean as the portion of the rampart left intact.
This can only be accounted for on the supposition that
during the time of occupation the top of the rampart
had been protected, as was the case with the defences
constructed by Caesar in Gaul. There strong towers at
the angles and the entrances, defended by ballista and
other engines, were connected by wooden galleries and
bridges ; a wide berm in front was covered with wooden
spikes, and beyond were ditches filled with obstacles.
The whole outer defences could be swept by missiles
from the towers and ramparts.
The theory of wooden galleries on the ramparts of
Coelbren may be considered as inconclusive, out the
other points seem to be irrefragably proved. The
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT CO^LBR^. 16&
wooden footings to the ramparts and angles were quite
unneeded to take the weight of the rampart itself, and
must have been laid with a view to the strain of the
ballustrae and other heavy engines of war. The width
of the berm and its protecting spikes are there to be
seen ; while the insignificance of the ditches show that
they were designed for the protection of obstacles, not
as defences in themselves ; and their relation to the
ramparts show how these ditches were defended.
This being so, the wooden galleries on the ramparts
would be a part of the design, and the defences would
have been the counterpart of those described by Caesar
in the construction of a camp during a campaign against
the Bellovaci (St. Pierre de Ch^tres), at the conclusion
of the Grallic war. Such was the system of fortification
brought by the Romans to England. It is probable
that all their first stations were constructed on these
lines, in after-years to be either remodelled in stone or
levelled to the ground, in after-times ; and it is only in
such out-of- the- world places as Coelbren that there is
any chance of finding the original type.
This type is not uncommon in Scotland, for there the
period of Koman occupation was so limited that there
was no opportunity of converting them into walled
towns ; they were deserted while still in good preserva-
tion, and there was no inducement (as there was at
Coelbren) to subsequently destroy them. This same
type of fortress was adopted later by the Romano-
British in their struggles against the Saxons ; and, so
well did they copy these Roman models, that often it
is impossible to say positively whether they were the
work of the masters or the pupils ; and many so-called
British camps may actually be the work of the Romans,
though they differ as much from the preconceived idea
of a Roman camp as does the camp of Pierre de
ChAtres.
The point for consideration is. Whether the rampart,
after the disintegrations of many centuries, was levelled
for the purpose of working the plough through it,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
iirO &EPORt 0^ THE EXCAVATIONS
about one hundred years ago, or whether it was done
by the Romans themselves to destroy it as a military
work ? The inferences seem to favour the latter
theory. The appearance of the rampart itself gives no
clue : provided the work were done by the spade —
either in the year 200, for the purpose of destroying it,
or in 1800, for the purpose of utilizing the soil — the
result would be much the same. The solution must be
looked for elsewhere.
If the ditches had been filling up with sittings and
decayed vegetation for 1200 years, and then the soil of
the ramparts had been shovelled down into them, the
blackest soil would be at the bottom, the lighter above
it. The contrary is the case: the soil from the ramparts
appears at the bottom of the ditch, and the decayed
vegetation appears to have accumulated afterwards. If
the oak spikes had remained on the berm, or if they
had fallen into the open ditch, they would have rotted
away ; but if they had been thrown into the ditch, and
the levelling of the rampart had been cast on top of
them, they would have been preserved, as we found
them.
The absence of potsherds and the dSbris in the filling
up of the ditches shows that during the occupation
the soil had remained perfectly clean. The 2-ft. block
of vitrified earth at the top of the south-east angle,
outstanding below the alluvial soil, shows that the fire
was made after the levelling of the rampart, and before
the alluvial soil had accumulated. There is no positive
testimony to the date of this fire ; but the inference is
that it was coeval with the other remains of smelting,
which would carry the date of the levelling of the
rampart back to an early date. The small bit of
Roman glass found under similar conditions at the
north-east angle would suggest that it had worked into
this position long before the plough had come over the
surface.
The entrances to the camp, as they now stand, were
totally unprotected; in fact, must have been the weakest
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
At COfiLiREK 171
part of the defences. This could not have been the
case ; if their towers and guard-rooms had been left to
perish by decay, some traces would still remain. On
the contrary, every vestige has disappeared. The total
destruction must have been done designedly, and such
is applicable only to the Roman occupation of England.
All circumstances point to the conclusion that the de-
fences at Coelbren were of a semi-permanent character,
and were intended only for a limited time of occupation.
At first glance, this theory would seem to support
the supposition that Coelbren was one of the forts con-
structed by Ostorius about 50 a.d., after his successful
campaign againt Caradoc, as after a limited occupation
the Roman forts were taken, and the invaders were
forced to retire ; in which case the victorious natives
would have burnt and devastated the camp, levelled
the ramparts, filled in the ditches, and rendered it
useless for any subsequent reoccupation. But there is
no reason to conclude that Ostorius penetrated so far
into the heart of Wales ; and from the accounts as given
by Tacitus and the Welsh historians, the fieldworks in
the Margam mountains represent the extreme limits of
his conquest, and the scene of his disastrous defeat.
The period of the invasion under Julius Fron., 70 a.d.,
or perhaps that of Julius Agricola, some years later,
seems to fit in better : for it is stated that he so far
subdued the Silures that, to consolidate his conquest, he
made the two highways — the Julia Maritima and the
Julia Montana, running parallel to each other for a long
distance, and uniting at Maridunum. These were con-
nected by the Gelligaer cross-road, running from Cardiff
to the Gaer, at Brecon (Banium) ; and it is possible
and probable that the Sarn Helen from Nidum to
Banium was constructed at the same time and for the
same purpose. This theory fits with the situation of
the camp as a protection for a road running through a
hostile country, as the road makes a wide detour, as if
to secure a good strategical site for the camp. Our
knowledge of the history of those times is imperfect,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
172 REPORT ON *HE fiXCAVATlONS
yet it seems not improbable that this road with its camp
should have been constructed at the same period as the
highway, as a part of the one general scheme.
After the country had settled down under the Roman
rule, and it had become feasible to reduce the standing
forts and garrisons, the stations along the Julia
Maritima (which was selected on account of its superior
strategical position) were converted into walled towns ;
and all these stations can be identified at the present
day. Westward of Cardiff, on the Julia Maritima —
sites of the stations Bovium, Nidum, and Leucarum —
(which were not converted into walled towns) are lost.
How long these stations were held it is impossible to
say.
Mr. Ward considers that the walled town of Gelly-
gaer was abandoned as early as 90 a.d. This is rather
an early date. How could the roads have been made,
the temporary camps converted into walled towns, and
the country so settled that the garrisons could have
been withdrawn, in such a short interval of vears? If
he be correct, the occupation of Ooelbren (which, being
un walled, would have been vacated before the excava-
tion of Gelly-gaer) would be less than fifteen years.
There is one disturbing factor to my theory : that is,
that the remains found, to a large extent, are typical of
the second or third century. If that be proved, then
the camp and the Sarn Helen must have been con-
structed at that date, as it is impossible that the camp
could have been occupied from the first to the third
century without showing signs of successive occupation.
In that case, the extension of the Sarn Helen must have
been an afterthought, long subsequent to the general
conquest of the country, and the camp constructed to
defend this road was occupied but a short time, when
the general withdrawal of the garrisons caused its
evacuation, when it was demolished, the ramparts
levelled, the ditches filled in, the buildings burnt, that
there should be no occupation by the natives. The
only tokens of habitations left were fragments of glass
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
AT OOELBREN. 173
welded together by the conflagration ; molten iron,
which had formed a slag with the surface clay, lead
run into a natural mould, broken scraps of pottery,
charcoal, and burnt wood.^ This destruction of the
camp in no way impaired the usefulness of the road;
and, as stone is scarce in the neighbourhood, the pitch-
ing inside the camp might have been taken up to mend
the road along the Sarn Helen.
The number of memorial stones of Romano-British
time found along the line of the road show that the
road was still a highway ; while the remains of ancient
hearths in the neighbourhood prove that the iron in-
dustry was still in work. Possibly, the remains of iron-
smelting found in the camp may be referred to this later
date. This would be another factor in the obliteration
of marks of Roman occupation. These later occupiers
have left no further sign of their presence. It may be
that these rude smel ting-hearths appertain to a far
later date, when Royalists or Roundheads attempted
to repair the damages after a fight, at a solitary forge in
^ The final destruction of the camp by fire is, however, problema-
tical, the evidences being conflicting. A portion of the lower band
(having all the appearance of the debris of a great fire), consisting
of barnt clay, bones, charcoal, and broken glass, was submitted to
Mr. Seiller, the borough analyst, who is himself a keen antiquary.
He kindly subjected this debris to a chemical analysis. He reports
that the upper portion was in places white in colour, and proved to
be chiefly calcium phosphate, with some iron and aluminium phos-
phate. He considers that it is bone, from which the organic matter
had been removed by decay, and the lime partly replaced by iron
and alumina. He gives the analysis of the clay, which he describes
as a siliceous clay, containing 1.80 per cent, of tatanium oxide, and
apparently had not been exposed to fire.
The glass was soda glass, containing no lead. From the sharp
edges of the fragments sent to him, he does not consider that such
portions had been subjected to the action of fire.
He had not completed the analysis of the charcoal, but is of
opinion that it is bog oak. This would point to the conclusion that
the apparent result of fire is merely the natural blackening eflect of
tatanium on the iron of the natural clay. On the other hand, the
blunted edges of other pieces of glass, and the welding together of
various portions, would indicate the destruction of the camp by fire.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
174 REPORT ON THE EXCAVATIONS AT COELBREN.
the old camp, leaving a few bits of broken crockery as
token of their presence. The whole countryside was
then almost deserted, and was little better than the
Great Forest of Brecon, which it practically adjoins.
The final work of destruction was carried out by the
considerable population drawn to the neighbourhood
during the working of the old Banwen Ironworks.
Advantage was taken of the amount of basic slag and
decomposed vegetable matter in the ground ; the site
was converted into agricultural land, and the plough
made short work of ramparts and Roman remains.
I cannot conclude without expressing my appreciation
of the kindness received from everyone while carrying
out these investigations : To Mr. Ward, of Cardiff
Museum, for valuable hints how to commence the
work ; to Mr. Morgan Williams, of St. Donat's, the
owner ; to Mr. Miers, the Lord of the Manor, and to
the tenant, who assisted in every way ; to Sir Griffith
Thomas, without whose assistance I could not have
procured men ; to Mr. Cunnington, who devoted much
time to superintend the work ; to Mr. Seiller, whose
chemical knowledge was of first importance ; to the
Station-master of Coelbren for all his kindly, willing
help ; and to Mr. Lloyd, Mining Engineer, for his care
in the superintendence and the drawing of the plans,
without whose hearty cooperation I could not have
attempted the work.
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175
ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
CARMARTHENSHIRE.
By JOHN WARD, F.S.A.
WITH GEOLOGICAL NOTES,
By T. C. CANTRILL, B. Sc, LoND.
CwMBRWYN is a prettily-situated Carmarthenshire
farmhouse, about 10^ miles west-south-west of the
county town as the crow flies, in the parish of Laug-
harne, and three miles west-by-north of its church. It
is on the northern fringe of a stretch of uplands, which
extends some fifteen miles west of Laugharne, and is
bounded on the north by the valley of the T&f and its
tributaries, and has Carmarthen Bay to its south. The
house overlooks a wooded dell, or " cwm," down which
splashes a clear stream, which ultimately debouches
into the T§,f at Llandowror, and it lies near the south-
east side of the road between St. Clears and Marros.
The district is sparsely inhabited, and abounds in
ancient remains.
The remains which are the subject of this Paper are
on the western and highest side of a field, known as
DwrbwIl-fsUjh, to distinguish it from the adjoining field
to the west, Dwrbwll-fawr, which contains a pool,
whence the names. The ground here gently ascends to
the west, and beyond the second field makes a rapid
drop into a second ** cwm," the stream of which joins
that referred to above, in the vicinity of Llandowror.
The site we are considering is 388 fl. above the
Ordnance datum, but it does not occupy the highest
point, as the field behind continues to gently rise
(Fig. !)• The view from here is very fine and extended.
Before the recent exploration, the site presented an
irregular oval space, enclosed by a low rampart, with
the faint outer hollow of an external ditch, both inter-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
176 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
rupted by the shallow opening of an entrance on the
east side, the whole being grass-grown like the rest of
the field. The shape would be more exactly described
as between an oval and an irregular polygon, with
rounded angles, as will be seen from our plan of the
enclosure (Fig. 2). The exact line of the western ram-
part was not easy to determine from the surface
indications, as it is occupied by the hedge which
divides the two fields. But this hedge here makes a
slight outward or westward swing, and it is more
highly banked than elsewhere ; and in the field on
its further side are some faint traces of the hollow
of the ditch. From these indications, it was tolerably
clear that advantage was taken of the rampart on
that side by those who made the hedge, and that
the two lines approximately coincided: an inference
amply corroborated in the subsequent exploration. The
height of the rampart scarcely exceeds 2 ft., but is
naturally more obvious on the outer side, the hollow of
the ditch increasing the apparent elevation some 3 ft.
The width may be set down as approximately 30 ft.,
but it is difficult to demark its gentle slope from the
normal surface. The hollow of the ditch is less deter-
minable, but it is somewhat narrower. The length of
the area within these envelopes is about 130 ft., and
width, 110 ft. ; or 280 ft. and 200 ft., respectively,
including them. The ditch is not continued across the
front of the entrance, but ends on either side of it,
leaving a causeway about 20 ft. or more in width.
These earthworks are plainly visible in the field, and
even more so from the road ; and it is curious that
they should have escaped the observation of the
Ordnance Survey officials, as also of antiquaries, until a
circumstance in 1890 forced them upon their notice.
Yet it would be incorrect to say that the nature of the
site was wholly unknown, as the ground had on several
previous occasions been disturbed for the sake of the
material for building purposes it yielded. It is said
that, many years ago, a former Lord Kensington, who
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Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CTARMAltTHENSHIRE. 177
lived at Caatell Lloyd, about two miles to the south,
removed much stone from it for various works he had
in hand ; and a fine slab at Castell T6ch is pointed out
as from the same source. The circumstance referred to
above was one of these delvings for stone. Mr. Bowen,
the owner and occupier of the farm, resorted to this
expedient for materials wherewith to construct a cul-
vert. It was the first time during his twenty years'
residence at Cwmbrwyn that he had broken into the
ground, and all he expected to find was stone ; but he
found something more, and this excited his curiosity,
and soon attracted the attention of others interested in
the local archaeology. One early visitor to the site was
Mr. H. C. Tierney, of Carmarthen, the Editor of the
Wdshman, and this was followed by a long and detailed
account of the discovery in the issue of that paper of
June 27th, 1890, under the nam de plume of '* Peter
Numskull." A few weeks later, this was followed by a
visit from Mr. Edward Laws, F.S.A., of Tenby, at the
request of the Editor of Archceologia Camhrensis, who
communicated the results of his enquiry to that publi-
cation (5th Ser., vol. vii (1890), p. 334.) The two
accounts do not agree in every particular, but this is
due to the writers having to mainly depend upon
hearsay, their visits being after the demolition of the
remains thus brought to light. Under these circum-
stances, it will be best to describe the remains exhumed
during the recent exploration fii-st, and then to cor-
relate the statements of these communications with
them. The little hollow left by Mr. Bowen's diggings
is shown in the north-west corner of the plan (Fig. 2).
The writer's first visit to the site was on October 2nd,
1905, at the instance of, and accompanied by Mr. G.
G. T. Treherne, who was then President of the newly-
formed Carmarthenshire Antiquarian Society and Field
Club ; and Mr. T. C. Cantrill, of the Geological Survey,
and Mr. William Clarke, of LlandaflF, were also present.
On that occasion several labourers were engaged ; and
with Mr. Bowen's kind permission, two diagonal trenches
6th 8BB., YOU VII. 12
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
178 ROMAN KBMAmS AT OWMBRWYN,
within the enclosure, and a smaller one on the site of
the gateway, were cut. This preliminary investigation
bj^ught to light the remains of a wall and undoubted
e wlences of Roman occupation, in the form of roofing-
slates, pottery, and other objects, and it convinced the
party that the site was worthy of a more systematic
exploration. On the evening of that day, some of the
chief finds were exhibited at a meeting of the Com-
mittee of the Society at Carmarthen, and Mr. Treherne
urged that the Society should take up the work. Early
in the following year (1906) this was decided upon, and
a fortnight's digging was arranged to begin on Whit-
Monday, June 4th, the present writer being asked to
direct the operations. The work commenced on the
day arranged, under the superintendence of%fr. Tre-
herne, Mr. Clarke, and the writer, for the first week,
and under that of Mr. Cantrill for^the second. The
members of the Carmarthenshire Society paid a visit to
the excavations on the 7th.
At the conclusion of this fortnight s work, it was still
evident that further digging would be necessary ; and
in anticipation of the visit of the Cambrian Archaeo-
logical Association to Carmarthenshire in August, the
Committee decided upon another fortnight's work.
This second work began on August 2nd, under the
superintendence of the writer, Messrs. Treherne,
Clarke, and Cantrill being unavoidably absent. The
visit of the Association to the site took place upon the
15th following. The exploration ceased on the same
day ; and as there was little prospect that further
digging would materially add to the information
already gained, arrangements were made for the early
filling-in of the trenches — a work which Mr. Bowen
kindly undertook to superintend.
The Exploration op the Outer Works.
Several trenches were cut through the rampart,
A — H, Fig. 3, and one on the east side, A, was extended
across the ditch. A section of the rampart and ditch
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Digitized by VjOOQ IC
^:<
r-tOr^*'^
-S0%0^*^
'%«#
r:/...
^//////;
/;.,7
Fio. 2. CwMBRWYN : Pjlan
aoft. toi
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
!■■■■ t ':,,;«^^
'/•/llili
^RK Excavation.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
OARMARTHENSHIRB. 179
as seen in this trench is given on Fig, 4. The ditch
here was V-shaped, but irregularly so. The bottom,
which for a depth of 2 ft. 6 ins. was cut into the rock,
was reached at about 8 ft. 9 ins. below the present
surface. It is probable that the original form was less
irregular than we found it, and that the irregularities
were largely due to the dislodgment of soil from the
upper parts of the sides. On the bottom and tailing
off up the sides, was observed a layer of yellowish
loamy soil with few stones, closely resembling the
undisturbed soil of the site, but softer, and having
the appeafance of "wash-down" from the sides. A
• similar '* wash -down " was observed by the writer
in the ditch of the Roman fort of Gellygaer, but
it was more easily distinguished from the hard clayey
soil there. Immediately above this deposit was a
darkish soil, also with few stones, about 18 ins. thick
at the bottom and thinning off up the sides. This
indicates a gradual silting-up of the ditch to that
extent, and the darkness was undoubtedly due to
vegetation. Above this, the ditch was filled with a
jumbled mass of normal soil, with an abundance of
stones, which tended to lie parallel to the slopes of the
sides, but about the middle they formed a pSle-mSle
accumulation. This certainly was mostly derived from
the rampart, and it suggested an intentional fiUing-in
of the ditch in order to lessen the inequalities of
the surface, and so render the field more fitted for
cultivation.
The usual form of a Roman ditch is angulated with
straight sides, or strictly V-shaped ; but examples are
known in the North with narrow flat bottoms, convex
sides, and rounded brinks. It is difficult to say for
certain what was the exact original form of our ditch :
probably, however, it was of the ordinary type, and the
observed irregularities were due, partly, as stated
above, to the dislodgment of soil from its sides, and
partly to our inadvertent removal of portions of the
natural soil. Assuming the angulated form, the width
12 2
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
180 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
would be about 17 ft. or 18 ft., and the depth from the
Roman surface^ 8 ft.
The section of the rampart as disclosed in this trench
(a) had a well-defined underlying layer (indicated by
small crosses on the plate) of clayey consistence, redder
than the normal soil of the site, and almost devoid of
stones. It had a tolerably uniform thickness of 8 ins.,
and width of about 14 ft. 6 ins., the ends being abrupt •
It was near — if, indeed, it did not actually rest upon —
the old natural surface, and was set back from the ditch
about 6 ft., thus leaving an intervening shelf or berm
of that width, no doubt to insure the stability of the
rampart. Somewhat behind the middle, this layer was
slightly dished ; and immediately above was an accu-
mulation of stones, the weight of which may have
caused the hollow. The soil above this layer was
faintly bedded, the beds dipping towards the back,
that is, towards the interior of the site ; while in the
opposite or upward direction they became confused
and lost. The uppermost, which directly overlaid the
clayey layer for several feet towards the back, was of
dark earth. A similar clayey layer was observed in a
trench across the south rampart at G (Fig. 3), but it
was not so well-defined, and its width was about
15 ft. In a trench, which was cut into the west
rampart at D, and tunneled for a short distance under
the hedge — representing in all, perhaps, two-thirds the
width of the rampart — a somewhat thicker clayey seam
was observed to rise, following, in so doing, the natural
rise of the ground here ; and it rested upon a thin bed
of sandy loam, below which was the normal soil. This
seam may have been of natural formation, as in several
other places the undisturbed soil was observed to have
a surfacing of finer soil. In the remaining trenches
cut through or into the rampart, the artificially-placed
soil was found to be more clayey below than above,
but it was not distinguishable as a separate layer. In
none of the sections except that of A, and in less
degree that of d, did the upper portion of the rampart
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METRES I I I M I
Pio. 3. Cwmbewyn: Pijm
30 ft. to 1 i
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TCH
A
fWR Excavation.
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CARMARTHENSHIRE. 181
exhibit definite stratification ; but^ in all, the proper
soil of this structure was more or less distinguishable
from that which covered its sides and smoothed off the
contour, and which was undoubtedly derived from the
original summit.
The presence of a more or less well-defined bottoming
of clayey soil in all these trenches can hardly have been
accidental. It rather indicates that the first step in
the construction of the rampart consisted in the laying
down of such a layer, 15 Roman feet wide, and repre-
senting the width of the intended bank. It appears,
as a rule, to have been laid directly upon the natural
surface, but it is probable that its irregularities were
first filled in. The object of the bottoming may not
be clear, but we know that the Komans were often at
considerable pains in preparing the sites of their earth-
works. The Antonine Wall and the ramparts of
Birrens in Dumfriesshire, were raised upon a spread
of stones of the requisite width ; while those of
Camelon, near Falkirk, rest upon a foundation of clay
and brushwood between marginal strips of rough
stones. Split timbers and branches have also been
observed in a similar position. The source of this
clayey soil at Cwmbrwyn presents no diflSiculty, as it
occurs close at hand ; the pond in the field behind, for
instance, is sunk in clay.
The inclined stratification on the upper part of the
first cutting seems to indicate that the rampart was
piled up towards the front of the foundation-layer, and
that the materials trailed down by a gentle slope
towards the back. This would necessitate a revet-
ment of some kind along the front, unless the rampart
was very low. But no indication of a revetment of
stone, turf, or timber was found, although a special
trench was cut along its presumed line. The many
large stones in the tilling of the ditch may seem to
point to one of stone, but it is hard to understand how
its foundations should have entirely disappeared ;
equally, if of timber, why its post-holes should not
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182 ROMA.N REiMAiNS At OWMBrWYI^,
have been apparent. The most reasonable conjecture
is a turf wall, which, pushed forward by the weight of
soil behind and the turves mingling with the fallen
materials, would leave few, if any, traces of its former
existence. The rampart would have a flat summit
sufficiently wide to provide a walk for the defenders ;
and there must, of course, have been a parapet, which
may have been of turves or timber. If all die soil
from the ditch was used for the mmpart, it must have
been of considerable height ; but the Romans some-
times, if not usually, raised an cKternal low mound
corresponding with the modern glacis, to accentuate
the height of the counterscarp. No trace of such a
mound, however, was observed in our first trench ; but
there is a slight rise on the outer side of the ditch at
the north-east which may be artificial. Any moiind in
this position would be necessarily low, so as not to
interfere with the " command " of the rampart, and it
would probably take the form of a mere spread of soil
rather than an actual mound.
In its present condition, the rampart shows as a low
and gentle mound of greater than its original width,
the inner slope encroaching on the interior of the enclo-
sure, and the outer covering the berm and encroaching
on the ditch. From the data obtained from the various
trenches referred to above, it is comparatively easy to
determine the exact limits of the Roman rampart and
ditch (which are shown in Fi^. 3), except along the
west side, where visible indications of the outer line of
the rampart and of the ditch are well-nigh obliterated.^
The excavation of the gateway brought to light the
remains of the side walls, which were 13 fl. apart, and
between them a spread of rough stones on the level of
1 Mr. David C. Evans, of St. Clears, writes : " It appears to me
that one may be fairly certain that the ditch went round the back.
There are depressionn in DwrbwU-fawr corresponding exactly with
that running roand the rampart& The vegetation is ranker there,
and Mr. Bo wen's son tells me that there is a marked difference in
the soil."
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t?LAN OF BUILDING
METRES I— J — L.
— -t»l TC H t H G
R A M P A R T- —
LIMIT OF
^XCAVA
T lO t^
SECTION OF
RAMPART
THROUGH D
METRES I
Fio. 4. CwMBRWYN : Plan op Buildik
Plan— 20 ft. to 1 in.
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"!Ns' F \ ^:
■ "Z'l! -1: _!'- — I." -ii^ -hiL"-:
■ ■ ' ■ ■ ■ ■
---i---
^"X^»
BERM —
-D I T C H
SECTION OF
RAMPART & DITCH
THROUGH A
J L
ttD Sections of Rampakt aud Ditch.
Seetiona— 8 ft to 1 in*
efif
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W Jereini/.] [Photo
Fl«. 5. CWMBRWYN : ViBW OF THE GaTBWAY LOOKING TO THE NORTH.
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CARM ARTHBNSHIRE. 183
the old surface. Little of either wall was left, hut that
to the north was the better preserved. Of this wall
only two huge stones remained in position, and these
were rough as quarried, with no sign of dressing of any
sort (Fig. 5). Together they extended 5 ft. 6 ins., and
rested about midway upon a foundation of smaller
stones, about 10 ft. long. Whether this foundation re-
presented the original length of the wall is uncertain. To
the west it ended abruptly with the line of the back of
the rampart, and this probably represented its original
termination in that direction, but to the east it was
indefinite. Probably the wall originally extended to
the front of the rampart. Of the south wall, only a
few rough stones of the foundation remained, and a
single one of the actual wall. The spread of stones
between these walls was too roughly laid to be regarded
as either pitching or paving ; it seemed rather to be
the foundation of a gravelled road, as the soil above
contained much small broken stone.
The scanty remains of this gateway were exceedingly
rude for Roman construction. No dressed stones were
found about the site. What was left of the side walls
suggested masonry of Cyclopean type — large irregular
stones with their gaps filled in with small stones.^ In
a preliminary cutting made on October 2nd, 1905, at
the south-west angle of the site of the gateway, an
interesting and distinctively Roman object was found
— ^the iron sheath, or shoe, which lined the socket for
a door-pivot. When found, it presented an irregular
mass of rust-cemented fragments of stone and earth ;
but after chipping off these extraneous matters it
proved to be a short cylinder, with sides and bottom
lormed of thin iron, about -^ in. thick, the internal
dimension being 1 J in. deep and 3^ ins. wide (Fig. 6).
A short digression upon the gateways of Roman
cities and forts, of which many examples have been laid
bare, will be helpful here. They may be broadly classed
as single and double. The Roman north gateway of
» Ct Fig. 10.
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184
ROMAN REMAINS AT OWMBRWYN,
Cardiff Castle and the two exposed at .Caerwerft wef e
of the former type, that is, they consisted of a single
opening or span each ; while those of Gellygaer were of
the latter type. With the former we must also class
that of Cwmbrwyn, for not only is it too narrow for
subdivision, but no trace of an intervening wall or
spina was found. In other respects, the planning of
Koman gateways was, with few exceptions, remarkably
uniform. The side walls of the opening of the single
type, or of the single passage in the double type, had
pilaster-like projections or returns in front, which con-
tracted the opening, and they carried the arch, and
Fig. 6. — Cwmbrwyn : Iron Shoe of Gate-socket. (J. )
often these were repeated at the back. Within the
angles of the front projections were the sockets in
which the door-pivots turned, each door consisting of
two leaves which swung back against the side walls
when the gateway was open. The sockets were sunk
in blocks of stone firmly embedded in the roadway, as
at Cardiff, or in the ends of a stone threshold, as at
Gellygaer, or of a timber one, as at Silchester. Occa-
sionally, the remains of the iron linings of the sockets
have been found, as at Cardiff, where the bottom plate
of one was still in position. Usually, the threshold had
on its outer side a luised lip, or curb, which sheathed
the foot of the doois when glosed. This at Gellygaer
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CARMARTHBNSHItlE. 185
was coDstractdd of flagstones, set on edge in the
ground ; but at Cardiff there was a central stone stop-
post instead.
From these data it is possible to complete the plan
of the Cwmbrwyn gateway with a considerable degree
of probability. The iron shoe was loose amongst the
dSbriSy and in a position where the socket-stone might
be expected. This stone, however, was not found ;
nor were the corresponding shoe and stone on the
opposite side of the passage. It is, of course, possible
that /these shoes were let into a wooden sleeper, which
had entirely disappeared by natural decay ; but this is
hardly likely, as suitable stone for the purpose is
abundant in the district. It is more likely that the
whole of the front portion of the gateway has been
rooted up for building material, and that this accounts
for the absence of the socket-stones. The side walls
would certainly extend in a forward direction to the
face of the rampart, as in Fig. 7, in which the remain-
ing stones of the walls are shown black, and those of
the foundations in outline, while the probable original
planning is indicated in close diagonal shading, A A, be-
ing the area covered by the rampart, and b b, the ditch.
The jambs may have taken the form of inward returns
at their extremities, as at 6, but more probably they
were set back some distance, as at a, as Roman gate-
ways were often recessed, and the spot where the iron
socket-shoe was found is more consistent with this view
than with the former. The jambs would reduce the
actual portal perhaps to 10 ft. or less. It is reasonable
to think that, following the usual custom, the gate
was arched, but there was no evidence for this. If the
portal was recessed, the arch would be set back with
the jambs. It is also reasonable to think that the side
walls would be returned for a short distance at their
front ends, as indicated at c. The exploration supplied
no hint whether the stop took the form of a curb (as
shown on the plan) or a central post.
A trench was cut about 12 ft. in front — that is, east
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186
HOMAN tllBMAiNS AlT CWMBRWYN,
— of the gateway, and this brought to h'ght the spread
of rough stones of the roadway, about 1 ft. below the
present surface. The direction of this road beyond is
unknown, as no indication was to be seen in the field,
but it is possible that a faint difference in the colour of
the herbage may reveal the course in a very dry
season/
/ B
Jil
Fig. 7. — Cwmbrwyn : Conjectural Plan of Gateway.
The Exploration of the Interior.
A.t an early stage of the exploration there was
evidence that the back or western side of the enclosed
space had been occupied by a long narrow building
with a slated roof, shown on a large scale on Fig. 4.
Little more remained of its walls than their founda-
^ There is a faint ridge mnnizig oonoentrioallj with the earth-
works aboat 100 ft. to the soath and south-east, bat it appears to
represent the ontcrop of the hard sandstone met with at the bottom
of the ditch and of the pit g^ and thus to have no archsBological
interest.
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CAftkAR^HENSHlRlL 18?
tions, and considerable lengths of these had been
wholly removed. The main structure was oblong,
97^ ft. by 25 ft., with a southern adjunct or exten-
sion, A, of a shape to accommodate it to the restricted
space within the rampart. This was of slighter con-
struction than the main building ; and as its walls
were not bonded into the latter it appeared to be
an addition, but not necessarily of a later date.
The foundations of the main building were about
3 ft. wide, and consisted of rough stones deposited in a
trench of the same width. Here and tnere, these
stones were laid more or less on end, like rough
pitching. On the west side they formed a single
course ; but on the east, where the natural ground
is lower, there were two courses, evidently with a view
to bring the summit of the foundations to a common
level. Of the actual walls only short lengths of the
lowest course remained — a broken length of about
26 ft. on the western side, 3 ft. on the eastern, about
9 ft at the north end, and a single corner-stone at the
south-west angle, all indicated in black on the plan.
These fragments of walling were 2 ft. thick, and were
carefully constructed of slightly hammer-dressed stones.
The mortar was reducea to an earthy consistence
through the dissolving out of the lime. Very little of
the foundations of the northern third of the building
remained, except those of the northern end. It was
across this portion of the building that Mr. Bowen's
diggings took place in 1890, their approximate area
being indicated by the dot-and-dash line. As he
followed up the foundations for the sake of the stone
they yielded, it may be presumed that their removal
beyond the limits of this area was then accomplished.
The highly interesting remains he met with will be
considered presently. The east wall of the building
was continued 9 ft. to the north, where it ended in the
inner slope of the rampart, thus enclosing between the
north wall and the rampart a small open triangular
space^ B» which was entered by a doorway in the pro-
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1-88
ROMAN RKMAms AT CWmBRWYN,
longed east wall, at K. Thus far, the general plan and
construction of this building.
The exploration of the portion south of Mr. Bowen's
diggings, consisting of rather more than two-thirds of
the main structure, yielded no trace of cross- walls;
but there may, of course, have been timber partitions,
which had disappet\red by decay. Wherever the ex-
cavations (which are indicated by thin broken lines)
were made, its floor was revealed, consisting of the
gravelly soil of the site, well compacted by beating ;
and probably it was originally mixed with lime, which,
Fig. 8.— Cwmbrwyn : Roofing Slates. (J.)
as usual, has disappeared. Portions of a similar floor
were also revealed at the north end. This floor was on
a common level throughout, and is shown as a dotted
ground on Fig. 4. No trace of a floor was discernible
in the southern adjunct. Lying upon the floor, and
on the soil immediately above, over the whole of the
building were innumerable fragments of roofing-slates,
and many whole ones. They were of the usual Koman
shape, about 11 ins. wide, with parallel sides and rec-
tangularly pointed below ; while in the rough upper
end was a nail-hole, which occasionally retained the
rusted head of the iron nail ; but a few of these slates
had square lower ends, whidi, with little doubt, were
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OARM ABTHENSHIRE.
189
used for the eaves (Fig. 8). These slates would pro-
duce a pleasing lozengy pattern in combination on the
roof, as indicated in Fig. 9. A roof thus covered had
usually a stone ridge, but no fragments of ridge-stones
were found. Several small pieces of Roman ted roofing-
tiles were turned up about the area of Mr. Bowens
diggings, but not in sufficient numbers to warrant the
belief that they were used as roofing material : the
Fig. 9.— Cwmbrwyn : Restoration of Roofing.
Romans were wont to use these tiles for a variety of
other purposes. That the building was of a single
story may be inferred from the thinness of the external
walls ; and these had too much disappeared to provide
a clue as to where it was entered. Several fragments
of window glass were found about the site, indicating
the former presence of windows or skylights, and many
fragments of square flue-tiles, of which more anon.
Attention must now be directed to the northern
part of the building, the seen© of Mr, Bo wen's diggings.
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190 ROMAN RBMAIK8 AT CfWMBRWTK,
It Will be observed on the plans that a drain (l) extends
from the east wall, pointing in a north-eastern direction.
At a distance of about 80 ft. it was found to pass under
the north rampart, and with little doubt it emptied
itself into the ditch. It was of very simple construc-
tion, consisting of a steep V-shaped trench, about 3 ft.
deep, with a rounded bottom, which had been covered
with flagstones, of which one was found in situ^ the
rest having been pulled up. In its passage through
the rampart, the upper part of the trench had been
filled with broken stone instead of soil. We knew that
the various structures found by Mr. Bowen within the
building had been removed, but we cut a wide longi-
tudinal trench from the north end for about 25 ft., in
the hope of finding some indications of what had been.
The normal floor, as described above, extended 10 ft.
from the north wall, at the end of which a sudden drop
of nearly 2 ft. brought us to a new level c, consisting
of the natural soil, flat and somewhat hard. This
continued about 8 ft., when a transverse ridge of
natural soil, D, about 3 ft. wide at the base, and with
sloping sides, was reached ; and the north side of this
had been puddled with white clay, patches of which,
about an inch or more thick, remained. On the south
side of this ridge the ground fell to the former level, e,
as far as the trench extended, 5 ft. We now excavated
to the east, and almost immediately met with a vertical
face of natural soil, 7 ft. from the east side of the
building, which was capped with the gravelled floor. It
was clear, then, that within the area dug by Mr. Bowen
there was a sunk space, crossed by a ridge running east
and west. The filling of this space consisted of soil and
debris, mixed with a large amount of charcoal, which
gave it a dark colour.
What Mr. Bowen found hereabouts was related by
Mr. Tierney in the Welshman, and by Mr. Laws in
ArchcBologia Cambrensis, as stated above; and the
former gentleman has kindly forwarded further parti-
culars from memory, also the gist of an account which
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0ABMARTHEN8HIRB. 191
appeared at the time in a Tenby paper. These accounts
do not precisely agree, but this much is tolerably clear ;
Mr. Bowen unearthed three parallel walls, running
east and west, and about 5 ft. apart. Of these, the two
outer walls were well built, and laid in mortar, while
the middle was of " dry" masonry, with the interstices
filled up with common clay. The first wall discovered
— that to the north — was about 4 ft. high, and was
traced for 24 ft., when it came to an end. This, it will
be observed, represents the width of the building, so
we may conclude that it extended across its full width.
The south wall is described as a *' half- wall," that is,
it was properly faced on one side (the north side), and
was rough, as though built against the soil on the
other. The face of this wall was plastered, according
to Mr. Laws, with brick and lime concrete ; and he
states also that the south face of the north wall was
similarly treated. The length of this south wall is not
stated, nor that of the middle one.
Between the north and the middle walls was a
curious construction, which is variously described as a
masonry bench, or block, or concrete floor. Mr. Tierney
thus describes it : ** Mr. Bowen found something which
at first sight resembled a cist without the usual flag-
stone covering. A number of thin flat stones of some-
what irregular shapes and size, were set on their
edges, so as to enclose a space 6 ft. lon^ by 2 ft. 9 ins.
wide. This space was filled to a depth of 3 or 4 ins.
with a bright red clayey, or rather gravelly, substance,
which would almost appear to have been artificially
coloured. At first it was nearly of vermilion shade,
but on exposure to the air for some time its colour
became a good deal duller. The composition of this
red powder resembled that of the cement, of which
I shall speak presently. The stones resting on their
edges and the red materials were then removed,
and directly underneath it, was found a bed of the
same dimensions of beautiful concrete or cement, 4 ins.
deep, and reddish in colour. It was not nearly so
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192 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
bright a hue as the' red powder just described, but it
appeared to contain a good deal of the same ingredients.
Among the rest, quarry and other stone, not found, I
believe, in the neighbourhood, appeared to enter in a
granular form into its composition. The bed of con-
crete was removed with a pickaxe, and disclosed a
layer of flagstones, some of them over S2 ft square,
and altogether making up the same area as the cement.
When the flags were raised, and the layer of concrete
of the same thickness as before, but this time a light
grey colour, came to view. The men who made this
grouting, concrete, or whatever it should be called,
were masters of their trade, for even now it is hard to
break it, even with a pickaxe. A large portion of it
came off like a big flagstone, and it is almost as hard
and solid as the stone of the locality. However, Mr.
Bowen succeeded in getting it all away, and once more
he encountered flags like those above referred to. He
determined not to give in just then, and went on to
raise the flags. It seemed to be labour lost, for no
sooner was the second bed of flags out of the way,
than, lo ! here comes the cement again — this time of a
dark slaty colour, and coarse in structure. What lies
beneath the dark cement, if anything, is not yet
known/' The residue of this structure was, however,
subsequently removed, so the writer is informed by
Mr. Bowen, from whose description it appears to have
been merely a foundation spread of rough stones.
According to Mr. Laws, this " bench " was '* about
2 ft. high, very strongly built of alternate courses of
mortar and flags, on the top of which was a sort of
tray made with flags, containing clay burnt, ground
fine, and mixed with quartz. This bench was 7 ft.
long and 8 ft. (3 ft. ?) wide."
In each of the passages or spaces between these
walls were many fragments of flue-tiles, and, according
to Mr. Laws, there was " a considerable quantity of
wood ashes ** in the space to the south. We also met
with both in abundance in this part of the building.
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OARMARTHEKSHIBE.
193
No perfect flue-tile was found ; but a comparison of
the fragments showed that they were of the ordinary
Roman form — square tubes about 10 ins. long, and
from 5 ins. to 6^ ins. wide on each side. They were, as
usual, scored on the front and back, in order to make
mortar adhere to them. These scorings were made
with a three- toothed instrument or ** scratch.'' On
some of the tiles they simply crossed the face diago-
nally, saltire-wise, from corner to corner ; on others
they formed a more elaborate design, consisting of two
Fig. 10.— Cwmbrwyn: Flue-Tile, (i.)
intei-secting semicircles, with wavy lines in the inter-
spaces. Some, at least, if not all, had lateral openings
(Fig. 10). Vertical flues formed of these tiles were let
into the walls of a heated apartment, and by this
means the heat of the hypocaust radiated from the
walls, as well as from the floor. In the sudatories ot
baths the walls were sometimes wholly lined with
them, the lateral openings, just referred to, allowing
the heated gases to freely circulate from flue to flue.
The writer's first difficulty was to correlate these
remains with the building as a whole ; but Mr. D. C.
6th seb., vol. VII.
13
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194 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
Evans, of St. dears, recently interviewed Mr. Bowen,
who pointed out the spot where the ** bench '' was
found. This was about 18 ft. from the north wall of
the building, and about 5 ft. from its east wall (f in
the large plan, Fig. 4). From this, it is clear that all
Mr. Bowen's walls were internal, and corresponded
with the sunk area we found. His north wall was
evidently huilt against the north side of this area,
where we observed the sudden drop from the gravelly
floor on the normal level. This would account for the
height of the wall, 4 ft., reckoned from the bottom of
the depression ; if reckoned from the normal level, it
would have protruded above the present surface. It
also accounts for the south face only being plastered.
The ridge of natural soil observed about 8 ft. to the
south may have been connected with the dry wall,
which, allowing for the thickness of the former wall,
would leave an interval of about 5 ft. or 6 ft. The
south wall was evidently also a retaining-waW^ as its
rough back indicated ; and it, presumably, formed the
southern limit of the sunk area somewhat to the south
of our excavation. If so, the second depressed space
could not have reached the east wall of the building,
as we found here about 6 ft. of the normal floor. The
** bench " evidently lay to the south of our trench
at F, and its vicinity to the end of the drain should
be noted.
The "bench" is puzzling; but it so exactly cor-
responds in construction with the usual substructure
of a Roman tank,^ that the writer is inclined to regard
it as the bottom of one. The thin slabs surrounding it
would be the lower portions of its sides. The red
stucco of brick and lime was the usual lining of built
receptacles for water, and the bright red gravelly
substance which overspread the ** bench" was probably
^ At Gelljgaer the lower part of a similarly constructed tank was
fonnd, only each stratum consisted of stones packed together on
end, instead of laid horizontally as at Cwmbrwyn. Roman Fort of
Gellygaer, p. 69.
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CAUM ARTHENSHIRE. 195
the decayed stucco of the sides. The wood ashes and
flue-tiles are suggestive that the sunk spaces between
the three walls formed a hypocaust. We have here,
then, all the elements of a small Roman bath, con-
sisting apparently of two heated rooms (a tepidarium
and a calidarium), and we may reasonably suppose that
the space between these and the north end of the
building also formed one of the suite of bathing
chambers. As this space had no hypocaust, it would
be the combined cooling and dressing-room (frigida-
rium and apodyterium). A careful study of the plan
(Fig. 4) will convince that the stokehole of the hypo-
causts could hardly have been otherwise than on their
west side ; but the external wall here was reduced to
patches of foundation rubble, too vague to indicate any
traces of a passage through it ; but just outside its line
was found a rough structure of several large stones at
G, which may have been one of the cheeks of the fur-
nace. The tank described above had a solid bottom,
so was incapable of being heated ; we must therefore
regard it as the cold-water plunge of the frigidarium.
There should be a hot-water alveus, and this was
normally constructed over the hypocaust and close to
the furnace. It would therefore be in the second
heated chamber {i.e., the chamber to the south), and at
its west end, with the flue of the furnace passing
under its bottom, which would probably be formed of
a large flagstone.^ Nothing, however, answering to
this seems to have been found by Mr. Bowen, nor any
remains of the suspended floors and the piles which
supported them, of the heated chambers. Nor did he
apparently find any of the flue-tiles in position — it is
very evident that he was not the first to resort to this
part of the site for building materials ! A bath attached
to a Roman house rarely, if ever, communicated directly
with it; and if our conjecture that the space to the
north was the frigidarium, it is here that we must
^ Such as the slab at Castell T6ch, p. 177 ; but this is traditionally
said to have come from the gateway.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
196 ROMAN REMAmS AT CWMBRWYN,
look for the entrance to the suite of rooms. Now the
intact piece of walling forming the eastern half of its
north side had a tolerably well-formed square end at H,
suggestive of the side of a doorway from the little
yard, B, which, as already intimated, was reached by a
doorway in its east wall. The frigidaiium entered, its
opposite side would probably present a wide recess to
the left, containing a cold-water plunge, and to the
right a narrow doorway into the little tepidarium.
Altogether these curious remains — slight as they are —
are consistent with the hypothesis of a bath of
thoroughly normal planning.
We must consider the remains in the enclosed space
Pig. 11.— Cwmbrwyn : Retaining Wall.
external to the building just described. The building
occupied, as already stated, the west side of the enclo-
sure. The southern adjunct, in spite of the slope of its
west end to accommodate it to the curved sweep of the
rampart, encroached upon the inner slope of the latter.
This necessitated the cutting away of part of this
slope, and the insertion of a concave retaining-wall,
18 ft. long (i on Fig. 4), to support the remaining
portion of the earthwork. This walling was construc-
ted of large rough stones, with their irregular interspaces
filled with smaller st/ones, all being bedded in red clay
instead of mortar (Fig. 11). It still remained to the
height of nearly 4 ft., and owed its preservation to its
utilisation for the field-fence. There appears to have
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHENSHIRE. 197
been a similar revetment towards the opposite end of the
building at J, where a broken line of large stones was
brought to light at the foot of the hedge, about 24 ft.
in length. This was at a suflScient distance from the
west wall and north-west corner of the building, to
allow of a passage from the little yard at the north end
to our presumed stokehole. Between these two re-
taining walls (i and j) the rampart sloped down to the
foot of the building.
Attention is now directed to the rest of the interior
east of the building. A series of diagonal and other
trenches proved that the whole central portion was
devoid of buildings and other structures ; that it was,
in fact, an open space. The road through the gateway
continued across it, or rather projected into it, for its
traces became obscure as the building was approached.
The track consisted of a spread of rough stones, about
25 ft. in width, which with little doubt was originally
gravelled. The old surface on either side disclosed
patches of finely-broken stone, which suggested that
the space generally was also thinly gravelled. In the
more central area, the surface, as a rule, was clean and
free from finds ; but in the vicinity of the gateway,
and especially of the building, the soil was discoloured,
and fragments of slate and pottery were frequent. This
open space, or yard, extended unimpeded to the por-
tion of the east rampart south of the gateway and to
the south-east corner, and hereabouts the old surface
appears to have been left in its natural condition.
Elsewhere, as the trenches approached the rampart, a
different condition of things was observed, which will
now be described.
Along the north side, the east side to within a few
yards of the gateway, and especially within the north-
east corner, patches of rude paving and dark soil were
met with between the rampart and the broken line a a.
Fig. 3.
Extending eastwards from the northern prolongation
of the east wall of the building were the remains of a
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
198 ROMAN RKMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
slight retaining-wall 6, at the foot of the rampart,
definitely built at the west end, and becoming a
tumbled line of stones towards the east. Near the
north-east curve of the rampart, a line of tumbled
stones, c, was again met with in this position, and
between the two, many stones were found which
may have belonged to this wall. Southward of this
curve, and also along the inner foot of the rampart,
was a row of several shallow holes, rf, about 1 ft
in diameter, and surrounded with stones. Four of
these holes were observed, three of them 7 ft. apart,
and the northernmost 14 ft. distant, with some vague
indications of an intermediate one. They were evidently
post-holes, and suggestive of a building or shed, of
which the rough paving in front was the floor. No
trace of the opposite side of this structure, either in the
form of post-holes or otherwise, was found ; the only
indication of its width being the paving, which ceased
at a distance of about 15 ft. Immediately north of this
row of holes, and extending into the rampart, was a large
hole e, filled with large stones, charcoal, and dark earth,
but it is impossible to say what it was intended for.
From these slender data it would seem that the yard
was bordered on the north and on the east to nearly as
far as the gateway, with a range of timber buildings,
or sheds, constructed against the rampart.
On the south side of the yard we again met with a
line of stones, y, at the foot of the rampart, which
appeared to relate to a slight retaining-wall. At the
west end of this was an oval pit, g, 8 ft. 6 ins. deep,
with its bottom sunk about 2 ft. into the rock. It
measured across the top 5 ft. 8 ins. east and west, and
4 ft. north and south, but its sloping sides reduced the
bottom to 3 ft. by 2 ft. 6 ins. The sides above the
rock were roughly lined with stone, like a well. The
filling consisted of soil, dark from the presence of
charcoal, and many stones. What this pit was used
for it is impossible to say. It certainly was not a well ;
and as no drain opened into it, it could hardly have
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHENSHIRE.
199
been a cesspit. At a short distance northwards of the
eastern end of this ruined retaining- wall were found the
remains of a trough-like furnace, or, to be raore precise,
the flue of a furnace, h, also Fig. 12. It was sunk
about 9 ins. into the old surface, and the sides and
west end were built of two courses of stone bedded in
clay, the east end opening into a shallow excavation
about 3 ft. across. The internal dimensions of the
flue were 2 ft. 3 ins. in length, about 1 ft. in width, and
9 ins. in depth. The floor was of earth, much burnt,
and the clay in which the stones were bedded, was
reduced to a crumbly brick-like consistence by the
Fig. l2.^Cwmbrwyn : Plan of Furnace. {^.)
action of fire. Much charcoal was also found about the
site. This flue in its original condition would be covered
with a structure of stone, surrounding a cauldron or boiler
of some kind, and it would be stoked from the depres-
sion. Similar flues have been found at Silchester, Caer-
went, and elsewhere.
In the open space in front of the long building, and
near its south end, was a roughly-pitched area, about
10 ft. square, i (Fig. 3). It was covered and sur-
rounded with black earth containing much charcoal;
and the fact that several pieces of iron cinder or clinker
were found on the site, renders it probable that it
was the floor of a small smithy. No trace of an en-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
200 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
closing wall was noticed, so that it is probable that
it was a timber building. On its north side was
a trail of stones, suggestive of a fallen structure of
some rough description, About 15 ft. to the east of
the pitched area was a shallow depression, /, contain-
ing dark earth, but nothing was observed to indicate
its use.
The Finds.
The fragments of pottery, ornaments, and other
objects of a more or less portable nature found during
the exploration were comparatively few, and, with only
three or four exceptions, of no special interest ; they
were, however, thoroughly representative of the usual
finds on Roman sites. They mostly occurred on and
about the site of the building, and in the fiilling of the
pit, g, Fig. 3.
As usual, fragments of pottery predominated, and,
with one exception, related to the commoner types of
Roman vessels. They included several pieces, all
plain, of the lustrous red so-called Samian ware,
of which one was the bottom ot a shallow patera
with a ** pushed-up " centre and faint indications of a
potter s mark, the rest apparently belonging to small
bowls or cups. The majority of the potsherds were of
the common grey and black wares, evidently of different
makes, as their texture and finish differed considerably.
Several related to the familiar globular jars with out-
curved lips, almost invariably found on Roman sites ;
others to shallow dishes, and to bowls with straight
tapering sides and simple or moulded flanged rims.
The most interesting potsherd was a fragment of the
upper part of a cup or cup-like jar, with an eyelet
handle, as shown in Fig. 13, which also indicates the
probable form of the vessel. It was of coarse black
ware, and the eyelet could only have been used for
suspension, as its aperture was less than ^ in. in
diameter. These vessels are rather rare, and, if we
mistake not, are the survival of a British Iron-Age
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
OAKMARTHENSHIRE. 201
form. Several of similar type were found by the late
General Pitt-Rivers at Rushmore, and are figured on
Plate XXXIX of his Excavations in Cranhorne Chase
near Rushmore^ vol. i.
Several buflF-coloured potsherds were found, five or
six belonging to mortaria, all with the usual broad
roll-and-elevated-bead rim. Of a much coarser variety
of this ware were several pieces of large amphorcB. A
few pieces of red pottery, resembling that of a modern
flower-pot, were also met with, and one of these related
^•^
p^
h
\
/
\
/
\
/
\
/
\
/
Fig. 13. — CwmbrwyD : Eyelet Handle of Vessel. (J.)
to a shallow hemispherical bowl of fine texture, with
an external moulding l^ ins. below its lip. It retained
some indications of a well-smoothed surfacing.
Of stone objects the most notable was a portion of
the upper stone of a quern, of convex form, with a
beaded shoulder and slightly dished summit. Fig. 14.
It was carefully shaped out of hard gritstone, 15 ins. in
diameter, with an **eye" tapering from 2^ ins. across
the top to 1^ ins. at the bottom. The grinding surface
was concave, and the handle-hole, in the side. A
portion of the nether stone of another quern of
rude workmanship, with a flat grinding surface, was
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
202
KOMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
also found. In the filling of the pit was a curious
and very roughly shaped hemispherical stone, about
Fig. H.—Cwmbrwyn : Portion of Upper Stone of Quern. (J.)
Fig. 1.5.— Cwmbrwyn : Slate Disc. (J.)
9 ins. in diameter, with a shallow circular hole or
socket in its summit. If ins. across. Several slate
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
OARM A RTH KN8HIRE.
203
disc3, ranging from 1^ (Fig. 15) to S^ ins. in diameter,
rudely chipped out of slate, were met with. Similar
discs, but of pennant grit, have been found on Roman
sites at Llantwit-Major, Gelljgaer, Ely Racecourse
(CardiflF), and Caerwent, and they have been regarded
as covers for vessels or as objects used in some game.
Whether we can class with these the remarkable disc
of the local sandstone found in the pit, and shown in
Fig. 16, is uncertain. It will be observed that its
Fig. 16.— Cwmbrwyn : Incised Stone
Disc, (i.)
Figs. 17 and 18.
Cwmbrwyn : Spindle-whorls of
Stone and Slate, (i.)
upper surface is incised with a wheel-like device, the
'* spokes " of which radiate from a neatly-formed hemi-
spherical depression. It has been suggested that it is
an unfinished spindle-whorl, the central hole of which
was never completed ; but the depression seems to
have been purposely made as it is, and the object,
which is 2f ins. in diameter, is unduly large for a
spindle-whorl. Three undoubted spindle-whorls were
found, one of sandstone. Fig. 17, and the other two of
slate, one of which is shown in Fig. 18. Several whet-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
204
ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
stones and stones with flattened surfaces, which may
have been used as rauUers, were also found.
The only undoubted fragment of a Roman glass
vessel was a small piece of the upper part of a thin
colourless beaker, or goblet, about 3 ins. in diameter.
The inner surface was smooth, but the outer was
slightly rough, the lip gently curved outwards, and
the sides were ornamented with shallow horizontal
grooves about ^ in. wide. Fragments of precisely
similar vessels have been found at Gelligaer and Oaer-
went.
Only three bronze objects were yielded by the ex-
ploration. One of these was a small coin of Carausius
(a.d. 287-293). It is of a common type (Fig. 19),
Fig. 19. — Cwmbrwyn : Coin of Carausiua. (|.)
having the Emperor's bust with a rayed crown to the
right — IMP caravsivs pp avg, and on the reverse,
Peace standing to the left, and holding in the right
hand an olive branch, and in the left a staff or hasta
pura — pax avg. The coin is patinated, and the figures
and lettering are singularly sharp, exhibiting little
sign, if any at all, of wear. It is evident that when
it was lost it had not long been in circulation. The
little object, Fig. 20, which was found in the drain, is
very carefully and neatly shaped. The shank of the
disc-like stud is hollowed and polished on its upper side
(as shown in the figure) by wear, and the upper end of
the curved bar has a fractured surface, showing that
what remains is only a portion of the original object
What that object may have been puzzled the writer at
first, but eventually he concluded that it was the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
OARM A RTHENSHIRB.
205
handle of a small bronze bucket, or situla, such as have
been found at Pompeii, but not in Britain, so far as he
is aware. Mr. Treherne submitted it to Mr. Reginald
Smith, of the British Museum, who was of the same
opinion, and considered it to be of early character,
certainly very early in the first century, a.d., if not
earlier ; of British rather than Roman workmanship ;
and made of bronze containing much tin. Another sug-
gestion is that it is part of a spur, but it seems to
too slender for that purpose. The third object, a pair
of tweezers, which was exhibited on the occasion of the
visit of the Cambrian Archaeological Association, pro-
Pig. 20.— Cwmbrwyn : Bronze Fragment, (i.)
bably also came from the drain, for it was picked up
from the spoil in its vicinity. It is formed of a thin
band or ribbon of bronze, with embossed decoration on
the outer side, and, if the writer remembers aright, had
some traces of gilt.
The only iron objects which could be identified were a
few nails, all others being reduced to shapeless masses
of rust. There were several fragments of much cor-
roded and oxidized lead, the largest of which was
a^ thin piece about 3J ins. long, with a longitudinal
ridge. It was almost certainly a piece of pipe, made
of sheet lead, the ridge being the soldered edges. It
was found at the foot of the south rampart.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
206 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
A few fragments of animals' bones were met with,
but as a rule they were too decayed for identification.
Several belonged to some large animal — perhaps the
ox or the horse. A few oyster shells were also met
with. Charcoal was found in comparative abundance
in many places, as already stated. It occurred freely
among the stones in the north-east corner of the
enclosure, suggesting that the timber structures there-
abouts had been destroyed by fire. Several pieces of
anthracite were noticed in the filling of the pit, g
(Fig. 3), and elsewhere.
Mr. Bowen's diggings in 1890 brought to light three
supposed inscribed stones, which were briefly described
by Mr. Tierney in the Welshman. One of these was a
block, 12 ins. by 7 ins., which was built into one of the
walls then found. It bore a number of incised markings,
which this gentleman states in a recent letter to the
writer had a remote resemblance to Greek characters.
The late Mr. Alcwyn Evans suggested they were Runes.
The other two stones were smaller, and were probably
fragments of a larger block, and they also bore similar
enigmatical markings. One of these stones — presuma-
bly one of the latter — was seen by Mr. Laws, who,
however, regarded the incisions as probably masons'
marks. It is possible that those of the first stone, at
least, were rough cursive Roman characters, such as
one of the inmates of the building may have made in
an idle hour, but unfortunately these stones are now
lost. Several stones with incised markings were found
during the recent excavations, which throw some light
upon the question. All of these were of fine-grained
sandstone, and several of the grooves were certainly
produced by the sharpening of pointed implements of
some kind, as arrow- or spear-points. Others, however,
could not have been so produced. On a piece of broken
stone, for instance, were some markings which appeared
to be part of a rude cruciform device, with the limbs
terminating in, or rather intersecting, semicirclea It
was such a device as any one in any period, attracted
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHENSHIRE. 207
by the smooth surface of a stone in a wall, might have
made to while away the time.
The exploration naturally suggests the question,
what are these remains at Cwmbrwyn ? That they
are wholly Roman seems beyond all doubt. Nothing
was disclosed to indicate that the site was British, and
was afterwards adopted and modified by the Romans ;
nor that it continued to be occupied after the Roman
period. But the nature of this occupancy is by no
means clear. The strong defensive works, the planning
of the building, and the crudeness of the structures, are
not consistent with the hypothesis of a " villa ; " they
are, on the contrary, suggestive of a fortified post of
some sort, in spite of the remarkable divergence of the
form of the site from the normal rectangularity of a
Roman fort. But the numerous Roman forts which
have been more or less completely explored in this
country — leaving out of the question the large
legionary stations like Caerleon, Chester, and Lin-
coln— were on a larger scale than Cwmbrwyn, and
were designed to hold a cohort, whether small or
large, whether consisting of six centuries, as at Gelly-
gaer, or nominally a thousand strong, as at House-
steads. In these, each century was housed in a
narrow building from 120 to 140 ft. or more long;
but at Cwmbrwyn we have only one building com-
parable with these. May we infer from this that it
was a fortlet designed to hold a small detachment
consisting of a century ? But the fortlets comparable
in size with it, such as the few described in Watkin's
Roman Lancashire^ or even the smaller mile-castles on
the Wall of Hadrian, are square, which makes the
abnormal form of Cwmbrwyn all the more remarkable.
Is it possible that it was a mansio or a mutatio ?
Unfortunately, we know nothing of the planning of
these posting stations, but presumably they were
fortified. The open yard in front of the long building
would be convenient to receive vehicles and baggage,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
208 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN,
and the timber structures on the north and east sides
would provide accomraodation for relays of horses. But
against this hypothesis must be urged the apparent
absence of any important Roman road in the vicinity.
Perhaps it was the outpost of a Roman fort, the
remains of which occupy a typical position on fhe
banks of the Tk£ two miles to the N.N.E., and are to
be seen on the left side of the road between Llandowror
and St. Clears Station. Cwmbrwyn is admirably
placed for a detachment of cavalry to thwart a hostile
landing from the estuary of that river.
Did we but know the exact age of the remains, it
might help to a clue. The fresh condition of the coin
of Carausius shows that the place was in occupa-
tion during— or at least shortly after — that emperor's
time, but it does not prove that it had not already
been long occupied. On the other hand, the absence
of any signs of rebuilding, and the general paucity of
the ^' finds," militates against a long occupation. All
we can say is, that the site was in use in comparatively
late Roman times ; and we know that in late times
changed military conditions had Mnrought changes in
fortifications. Traditional forms and arrangements
were no longer strictly adhered to.
It will be evident to the reader that Cwmbrwyn is,
— and is likely to become more so — a point of great
interest in Romano-British archaeology, and that all
archaeologists will congratulate the new Carmarthen-
shire Antiquarian Society on this, their first important
work of investigation. Little is known of Roman Car-
marthenshire, and this county offers a fertile field ot
research, to which this Society will do well to give
special attention. In conclusion, both Society and
writer are indebted to several others besides the gen- •
tlemen whose assistance has been referred to in the
foregoing pages. A special word of acknowledgment
is due to Mr. Bowen and his family for their patriotism
and kind hospitality, and to Mr. W. Jeremy, of
Laugharne, for a series of photographs, which provide
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHENSHIRE. 209
a record of the work at various stages ; and the hearty
co-operation of the diggers and their foreman, Mr. E.
Evans, of Greenbridge, all of whom laboured with
intelligence and care, both facilitated the work and
materially helped to bring it to a successful issue.
GEOLOGICAL NOTES.
By T. C. CANTRILL, RScLond.
Oeographical. — The remains described above lie on the
northern slopes of a range of hills which here form the coast of
Carmarthenshire. Prom Laugharne the range extends for some
miles westwards, through Llansadurnen, Eglwys-Cymmyn, and
Tavemspite towards Narberth ; the plateau which forms its
top attains an elevation of some 500 ft. or 600 ft. above sea-
level. On the south it presents an almost unbroken front,
where it rises sharply from the coastal alluvium of Laugharne
Marsh; on the north it is trenched by several deep "cwms,"
between which the plateau descends in stages towards the
valley of the T&f The Koman remains stand at an altitude
of 390 ft on one of these minor plateaux, between the dingle
of Cwm-bn^n on the east and that of Las-f4ch on the
west Southwards the site is dominated by the higher ground
of Castle-tdch ; northwards the surface falls away towards Llan-
dowror.
These physical features do not, however, appear to throw
any light on the position selected; we must suppose a road
of some sort passed near the place, yet any main line of
road following the coast might have been expected to traverse
the district along the crest of the hills, as does the present
road from Laugharne past Three Lords' Bushes towards Mar-
ros. Such a road would have avoided crossing the deep
dingles which cut into the north side of the plateau. It is
probable, therefore, that the building was approached by a
minor road, the course of which has still to be traced.
The Site, — The country-rock is the Eed Marl subdivision of
the Lower Old Eed Sandstone, and consists of a great thick-
ness of red and chocolate-brown marl, with occasional beds
of sandstone of divers characters. Some of the marls contain
twigs and pellets of grey calcareous matter ("race") of in-
6th 8KB., VOL. VII. 14
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
210 ROMAN REMAINS AT OWMBRWYN,
organic origin ; not infrequently these have been dissolved
out, leaving a loose residue of brown earthy matter. The
occasional bands of sandstone vary much in character : one
type is micaceous, soft, fine-grained, and flaggy, and readily
splits along the bedding-planes. These micaceous sandstones
are generally purplish-red in colour, but are occasionally pale
green. Another type is coarse, open-grained, gritty, and often
pebbly ; this is generally brown or greenish-grey, and not
flaggy.
The prevailing dip of the strata is a little west of south
at an angle diminishing from 50 deg. a few hundred yards
north of Cwm-bn^yn to 5 deg. a mile to the south. Under the
Roman site the dip is about 10 deg.
The bed-rock immediately underlying the site is red marl
of the ordinary type, with some wlcareous bands. The rock
was reached in the exploratory trench cut across the vallum
and fosse north of the gateway, showing that the fosse had
been at this point cut down through the subsoil and several
feet into the solid rock. Also, the excavations showed rock
under about 7 ft. of natural rubble in a pit at the south-
west part of the site.
The subsoil covering the site is the direct product of the
weathering of the underlying rocks ; these break down into
angular lumps which, when traced upwards, are seen to grow
smaller and smaller, and to be embedded in an increasing
amount of fine loamy material till the actual surface-soil is
reached. This is often paler in colour than the subsoil, owing
to the bleaching action of vegetable acids. In the case under
description, the subsoil consists of a red loamy material, full of
small angular pieces of marl and sandstone, chiefly red ; about
the middle of the area the subsoil contains much ddbris of green,
fine-grained sandstone, a thin band of which no doubt crops
out at that position. Fragments of a similar green sand-
stone are present in the concrete found on the site. There
is an entire absence of any drifted materials — boulder-clay,
gravel, or sand ; the subsoil and soil have been derived imme-
diately from the subjacent rocks.
The Building - Stones, — These consist of rough undressed
blocks and slabs of coarse grit, medium-grained sandstone,
flaggy sandstone, and marl, all of which could be obtained
from the Old Red Sandstone of the neighbourhood. The
blocks were undoubtedly derived from different beds, and not
from a quarry in any one bed, though some may have come
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHENSHIRE. 211
from the bottom of the fosse ; in fact, it would seem that
the builders explored the whole neighbourhood for a mile or
so around, and gathered from the surface whatever lumps of
rock met their notice, or could be extracted from the soil
with little trouble. This would account also for the weathered
appearance and absence of sharp angles which characterise
most of the blocks. One lump of vein-quartz was noticed ;
also a piece — 6 ins. long — of under-burnt limestone, in the wall
at the south-west angle of the building. Limestone could
be obtained from the Carboniferous Limestone of Coygan,
or Pendine, each about 2| miles from Cwm-br>^n.
The blocks and slabs range up to 3 ft. in length.
Other Stones. — Two stones of exceptional character — possibly
used in some grinding or pulverising operations — were exposed
within the area. One is a water- worn pebble, roughly tri-
angular in form, 5 ins. thick, with sides about 2 ft. long ; it
consists of fine-grained, hard brown sandstone. The other
is similarly water-worn, is somewhat almond-shaped, 1 ft.
IJ ins. long, 6 J ins. across, and 2 J ins. thick, and is of rock
similar to the other. Probably both are beach-pebbles from
the coast west of Pendine, along which various hard sand-
stones of such a character crop out in the Millstone Grit and
Coal Measures. Several small rounded pebbles of sandstone,
ranging up to 4 ins. in length, were noticed ; these were cer-
tainly brought to the site for some definite purpose.
The Boofing'SLaies, — The roofing slates are of two varieties :
a pale greenish-grey slate of granular texture, and a blue-
black slate of finer material and somewhat silky lustre. There
is little doubt that the first has been obtained from a bed
of volcanic ash interbedded with the Didymograptits-hijidus
Beds of the Arenig Series, a subdivision of the local Ordovician
System of rocks. The second variety is probably attributable
to the Uidymograptus-bijidtcs shales themselves. The beds
which would yield such slates crop out over a large area
along the southern slopes of the Preseley range of hills in
North Pembrokeshire, and some 10 miles north-west of Cwm-
br>^yn. In the present poverty of our knowledge of the
geology of that region, it is not possible to specify more
precisely the actual localities from which the slates could
have been derived. The district in question is traversed by
the Via Julia on its way from Carmarthen to St. David's, so
that a knowledge of the existence of such materials was pro-
bably soon acquired by the Eoman settlers.
142
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
4
212 ROMAN REMAINS AT CWMBRWYN.
Coal, — Numerous fragments of anthracite, both burnt and
unburnt, were found associated with that part of the building
enclosed in the dot-and-dash line in the plan on Plate II.
The nearest points where such coal crops out are the Gwen-
draeth Valley district, near Kidwelly, 10 miles to the east, and
the Amroth district, about 6 miles to the south-west. The
latter is the more accessible, and was probably the source of
this fuel
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
213
eambrtan larrljaeological lasdoctatton.
REPORT OF THE CARMARTHEN MEETING.
{Continued from page 128.)
EXCURSIONS.
EXCXTESION NO. 1.— TUESDAY, AUGUST 14th, 1906.
LLANSTEPHAN.
Boute. — The members assembled in the Guildhall Square at
9 A.M., and were conveyed by carriage along the road on the west
side of the River Towy, 8 miles in a south-west direction to
Llanstephan.
The return journey was through Llanybri to Trefenty (5 miles
north-west of Llanstephan) ; thence 2^ miles north to the new
church of Llanfihangel Abercowin ; and then back along the St.
Clears road to Carmarthen, a distance of 8 miles east.
The members were entertained to luncheon at Plas, Llanstephan,
by the President, Sir John Williams, Bart., and to tea at Trefenty
by the Rev. W. Davies, Vicar of Llanfihangel.
Ystrad House. — The first stop was at Ystrad House, the residence
of Major and Mrs. Evans. Here the sculptured base of a font,
supposed to have belonged to the demolished Church of St. John,
Carmarthen, was inspected, photographed, and sketched. It is
3 ft. 2 ins. high, with four sides 9^ ins. square, each side bearing a
carved figure under a canopy. These represent respectively a
mitred bishop, St. Peter with the keys (P), the builder with a model
of the church in his hands, and a worn-out figure of a person with
hands uplifted to bless. The other stone on the lawn was supposed
by local archaeologists to be a public Roman altar, but the general
opinion of the experts was that it was the capital of a column. It
was dug up between St. Peter's Church and Priory Street, and
removed by Mr. John Jones, M.P., to Ystrad about 1830.
Llanstephan Church. — Llanstephan was reached soon after eleven
o'clock, and in the Church the Rev. J. M. James read an exceed-
ingly interesting Paper regarding that edifice. At its conclusion,
Archdeacon Thomas, in proposing a vote of thanks, said they were
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214 CAMBKTAN ARCH^OLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
reminded that they were very near Pembrokeshire by seeing the arches
cnt out of the walls, a featare very common in that coanty. There
was also a sqnint in the north wall, by which those who sat in the
transept won Id be able to see the elevation of the Host.
Llanstephan Castle. — From the Church to the Castle the walk
was interrupted by a heavy shower of rain, bnt reaching the rnin
the party entered an ancient room, where Colonel W. LI. Morgan
gave particulars as to the architecture of the building. They had
heard, he said, that the Castle was last destroyed in 1256. He
divided the Castle into two parts — the old and the new — and 1256
was the dividing date between the two. The new Castle was built
after 1256, and the question was how much of the old Castle
remained to the present day. They had heard the previous night of
the number of times the Castle was destroyed. They would see
outside there was undoubtedly part of the older Castle in existence.
The lower part of the walls was undoubtedly different from any of
the newer part. It was impossible to tell from the masonry whether
it was earlier or not than 1256 ; but as there was work which
undoubtedly was done after that particular date, he thought they
would all agree that earlier than that would belong to the old
Castlo that was so often burnt and destroyed. The wall of what
had been called — erroneously he thought — the "keep'* was the old
Castle of Llanstephan. From outside they would see the outline ot
the wall most distinctly, far better than on the insida There might
be some question whether the square tower was old or not. In
those early days they did baild towers, but all he had known had
been very dififerent from this. He thought it represented the old
peel tower of the Castle. The greater part of the wall had been
destroyed, but they could see where it went into the ground, and
the area given, although small, would still represent the Castle of
those days. Inside the Castle there were alterations made when it
was restored, and most peculiar and distinctive work they found
there. When the Castle was restored, the place in which they were
standing was the main gateway. They could see the remains of
the portcullis, and outside it was defended by a shoot extremely
well preserved, and the lancet loops were very characteristic
of the reign of Henry III, or at all events early in that of
Edward I. Lancet loops were quite as characteristic as tracery in
the windows. It would be 1270 most likely when the Castle was
restored. There were several points of great interest about this
that he should like to argue out. The room up above was a rather
fine room, but insignificant, and had got a very large fireplace in it,
and therefore, he thought, the kitchen. The top room of all was a
magnificent room, and was the State hall. They would find a very
good fireplace indeed, witli beautiful carvings of the Early- Englisli
date. There were two windows ; the tracery of one was well
preserved, and the other had been destroyed. It was characteristic
of between 1270 and 1300. The rooms each side of where they
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CARMARTHEN MEBTING. — EXCURSIONS. 215
were standing were guard-rooms, and that comprised the main
gateway.
At some other time either the garrison had been reduced, or tbej
did not want to maintain the number of men necessary to keep the
gateway going, so they started a new gateway on the other side
that could be worked and guarded by a very much less number of
men. When that was done was quite problematical. He certainly
thought from the arrangement of the gateway it was not very long
after the Castle was actually restored — probably within 100 years.
After the original owners had died out, and it had got into the
hands of the Crown, the place would be left in the hands of a
Gt)yernor, who turned that main gateway into his own apartments.
He blocked it up by two walls. It was totally incompatible with
even tbeir Welsh taste that that could have been done when a good
owner was in the Castle. It seemed a very flimsy way of doing it.
The next tower had been called the chapel tower ; the upper room had
got good windows in it, and it had all the appearance of a chapel,
except that it had got a fireplace in it. There was no other place
that could have been a chapel of the Castle, and there must have
been a chapel, therefore he thought that might have been it. The
room underneath was the priest's room. The tower on the right
was the guard-room. It was a very remarkable thing how very
well this Castle was laid out, because the ramparts and also the
roof could be sentried and guarded by men from the guard-room
without any connection whatever with the state-rooms. Those were
apparently kept quite distinct. The sentry walk was quite distinct
from the walk to the chapel tower, and that was why he thought it
must be the chapel, because they could go from the state-rooms to
the chapel without going into the inner court. The further tower
had no roof to it, but was put there t*o guard the angle of the
chapel. Several points of that wall were worth going to see. The
Castle was surrounded by a very good ditch, and on the outside to
the west there were some very fine earthworks. The date of them
was rather problematical. They would naturally think they were
put up in the time of the Civil War, but they found so many of
them in these Welsh castles that played no part in the Civil War
that they must be condemned for that purpose. He was not sure
that they were not of the time of Owen Glyndwr, but they seem to
be intimately connected with the building of the Castle. If they
looked at Buck's print, 1740, it showed a very different state to
now. He showed a fine wall outside that would really turn that
part of the Castle into a concentric castle, fie thought he was
right there, and that these outworks were really coeval with the
date of the restoration of the Castle. The only thing he could not
understand was where they got their drinking water. It seemed to
him utterly impossible that they could have had water at all.
There might have been a tank underneath that building; but if
there was the only place was in one of the gpmrd-rooms, which
showed some approach to a tank.
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216 CAMBKIAN AKCHifiOLOaiCAL ASSOCIATION.
The Pilgrims' Church at Llanfihangel Abercowin. — The mined
oharch is situated a quarter of a mile south-east of Trefentj, in the
angle formed by the junction of the Afon Oywyn with the fiiver
T4f. On arrival at the church, the Rev. W. Davies, vicar, read the
following Paper : —
The time at my disposal here this afternoon is limited, though I
have much ground to cover. However, my Paper will not be
long, and my remarks brief and concise. I believe this is the first
time the Cambrian Arch»ological Association, or any other body of
experts, have ever coma to thb interesting old Church of Llanfi-
hangel Abercowin, which is, as you see, in ruins. So we feel our-
ourselves greatly honoured by having a visit, in a very out-of-the-
way place, from such a distinguished company as we have here this
afternoon.
The church is known by another name, the Pilgrim's Church, in
consequence of the legend connected with the pilgrims who are
supposed to lie buried here. As the name of the parish signifies,
the church is dedicated to St. Michael. The Welsh prefix " Llan"
means an enclosure. In Welsh place-names it generally signifies a
church, probably including the churchyard. The name Abercowin
is evidently added, from its position at the mouth, or estuary, of the
River Cowin. Aber means the confluence of a smaller river into a
larger one, or any river entering the sea. According to Place-Names
in Wales, the River Cowin, or Cy wyn, flows into the River T&f at
the place, hence the name. The popular word Cumu — rising — comes
from the verb Cywynu — to rise, to mount up. The water at the
month of the river rises twice a day by means of the tide from the
sea. Churches dedicated to St Michael were often celebrated places
for pilgrimages ; hence, perhaps, the great attraction for pilgrimages
to Llanfihangel Abercowin, to implore the aid of angels in times of
persecution, and also of destitution.
The fact of the church being dedicated to Mihangel, or St.
Michael, is one presumption of its great antiquity. Probably it
takes us back to a period immediately succeeding the year 700.
Churches and parishes dedicated to St. Michael represent the later
Christianising of districts which lay out of the beaten track, in
places inaccessible by reason of their mountainous or marshy char-
acter. Even the ruin in which we are gathered hardly represents
the first Christian building. In those early days the churches were
made of wattle, or wicker-work, covered with mud. So, when and
by whom the church was founded is enveloped in the mist of the
far and distant ages. It is not improbable that the foundation leads
back to one of the early centuries, when Christianity and Roman
occupation marched together amongst the early Britons.
I am not going to describe the architecture of the building, nor
call your attention to the difierent historical features that are in it,
and that for two reasons.
In the first place, time will not allow me, and in the second place,
Mr. D. C. Evans, F. O. S., of St. Clears, has kindly done so in an
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. CARMARTHEN MEETING. — EXCURSIONS. 217
able and interesting Paper, which I find is distributed among the
members here this afternoon. I personally feel mach indebted to
Mr. Evans for his kindness in taking off a good share of the work
that would naturally have devolved upon myself.
The great attraction to this church — which causes so many visits
to it — is the three pilgrims* tombs in the churchyard ; hence the
name ** Pilgrims' Church'* given to it
In Black's Guide to Wales the following reference is made to the
graves : — " Tradition relates that three holy palmers, meeting here
in great destitution, prepared three graves, agreeing that two should
be put to death, and that the third, after burying them, should lie
down in the remaining grave, and pull over him a large stone : and
this was done. As far as I am aware, there is no historical evi-
dence for the story ; it is tradition, but tradition often carries
some truth with it"
For the reasons already given, I am not going to explain the
monumental slabs, with their effigies, and the carved symbols of the
respective trade-guilds to which probably they may have belonged.
Besides, I hope light will be thrown upon those points by some who
are present this afternoon, and well versed in such subjects. There
are more graves than these three, in which pilgrims are said to have
been buried. The reader of this Paper discovered two more twenty
years ago, having practically been covered under the open surface
of the soil, which, at that time, was also overgrown with weeds and
brambles.
Besides the five recumbent monuments lying in the churchyard,
there is a much smaller one, which was also found by the writer, in
the hedge on the east side of the church. This is now lying within
the ruined walls of the church.
There is another curious local tradition prevalent, to the effect
that if the pilgrims' graves were disturbed or neglected, that the
peninsula on which the church and churchyard are situated would
become infested with venomous reptiles. There seems to be some
truth in this tradition, for it is a well-known fact in the parish that
during the dark age in the history of the place, venomous reptiles
were so numerous in the churchyard that they were a living plagae
and a terror to any who might come near. But we are in a position
to know that now, since the peaceful repose of the deed has been
asserted, and the graves of the holy palmers restored and properly
looked after, these venomous reptiles have almost, if not entirely,
disappeared. So no one present need get alarmed by hearing the
story of the snakes.
Apart from its architecture and legendary associations, however,
the ancient edifice possesses an abiding interest for many. The
Rev. Thomas Charles, of Bala, was born in the parish at a farm-
house called Pantdwfn, about a mile distant, between here and St.
Clears. At the old font, which used to be here, he was baptised on
October 26th, 1755, when twelve days old. From the pulpit, the
base of which can be seen on the south side, close to the arch leading
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218 CAMBRIAN ARCHJEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
into the chancel (and on which I stand at present) the same Thomas
Charles preached his first recorded sermon on Sunday, August 16th,
1778, after his ordination on the previous Trinity Sunday. The
English and Welsh Bibles that were on the pulpit on the occasion,
together with the English and Welsh Prayer Books that were in
use at the time, are still in my possession. The English Bible bears
the date of 1680, and so it is 226 years old ; the Welsh Bible, 1690 ;
the English Prayer Book, 1768; and the Welsh Prayer Book, 1770.
There is an old chalice still in existence which bears this inscrip-
tion : — ** Poculum eclessie de Llanfihangel Abercowin.'' No date is
given on it; but, according to the opinion of two gentlemen who
have lately seen it, and who are well versed in church plate, it is a
1574 one, and so 332 years old.
With regard to the old font to which I have just referred, it is a
Norman one, of much beauty, as well as of great antiquity. It was
removed from here in 1848, and is now placed in the new church,
and is still in use. Those who may wish to inspect it shall have an
opportunity of doing so on their way home this evening. It is
supposed to be 800 years old. The old books, the old chalice, and
other church plate may also be seen at the new church.
Some here may naturally ask, Why has this old church been
allowed to get into and remain in this ruinous state ? I will try and
explain. In the year 1848, Mr. Richard Richards, of Trecadwgan,
in this parish, built at his sole expense a new church some three
miles distant, in a more populous and a more central part of the
pai-ish, for the convenience of the people. As this new church was
Rubstituted for the old one, and became in every sense the parish
church, the old building was neglected, and at last abandoned, as
you see it now. It has been crumbling gradually, and falling into
decay for the last fifty-eight years, and so far no attempt has been
made for its restoration, inasmuch as its services are no longer
required since the building of the new church. The new church
was consecrated on October 3rd, 1848, by the late Bishop Thirlwall,
and no services have been held here since : with the exception of the
memorial service, which is held annually in the open air, either on
the last Sunday or the last but one in July. The first of these
services was started in 1882, and this year marked the completion of
the first quarter-century of its existence. This is a very popular
institution, and people for miles around look forward to it every
year. Hundreds of people gather together from a wide area, and
the scene in and around the roofless edifice is most impressive and
unique in character. And the reverent conduct of the people during
these services is a feature to be greatly commended, and it is to be
hoped will be continued for future generations. But something is
intended to be done before very long to prevent the falling of the
old building into further state of decay. Mr. Weir, from the Society
for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings, visited the place two
years ago, and reported thereon. Mr. Weir's report, we are pleased
to state, meets with the Society's entire approval. It is not intended
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CARMAKTHEN MEETING. — EXCURSIONS. 219
to restore the old church: only prevent the walls and the tower from
suffering further from the destructive ravages of the elements. The
approximate cost of the necessary repairs to the fabric, pointing the
walls with cement, and protecting top surface, would probably
amount to the sum of ^100. So far, only a few pounds are now in
hand, being the profits from the sale of some views connected with
the old place. And we cannot expect much help (in the way of
money) for the repairs, only from those who take interest in such old
relics of the past, and are desirous of preserving them from total
oblivion. Early next year Mr. Clark, of Llandaff, intends to make
casts of the stones which are on the pilgrims* graves, with the
object of placing them in the Welsh National Museum at Cardiff.
Also, we have been advised by experts that the stones should after-
wards be fixed in their place in concrete, so as to avoid the possibility
of their being lost. They (the stones) are unique throughout Wales,
and have a national value.
The field on the east side of the church is called Paro-y- Parsonage,
in which may be seen to-day raised embankments running in dif-
ferent directions. There is a tradition that there was once a village
here, and the raised embankments may bear the traces of the
buildings and the garden enclosures. It is quite possible that there
was also a parsonage-house somewhere in the field, hence the name
Parc-y- Parsonaga
Two fields distant, on the north-west side, there is an ancient and
historic farmhouse, called Trefenty. In its very centre may be seen
to-day the old passage through which it is said the parishioners had
to pass on their way to church, and there record their names.
Probably this was a device to preserve private interests The
people were asked to go through it only on special occasions, and
once a year. There was no right-of-way ; and to prevent that
being created, the people had to be occasionally subject to the yoke of
the passage. The funeral processions passed through for the same
reason, and the offertory was taken there at one time at least, but
not during the latter half of the eighteenth century.
For carrying the dead to the churchyard, instead of the bier or
hearse of to-day, the parish possessed a horse-bier, horse-litter, or
corpse-litter — in Welsh elorfeirch — which occurs in the Bible in the
last chapter of Isaiah. A description of this horse-litter is given in
the Arc/i, Camb, for last April, p. 136: "It had long arms, or
shafts, behind and before, into which the horses were put, one in
each shaft, and secured by specially-made gear.'* Some people who
lived in the parish fifty or sixty years ago remember speaking to
old people who had seen this horse-litter in use, though for many years
previous it had gone out of use. I believe it was peculiar to this
parish only in this part of the country. It was generally used in
some district in North Wales. This kind of bier was very necessary,
not only because of the long distances (for some funerals came
many miles outside the parish), but also because of the badness of
the roads of those days.
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220 CAMBRIAN ARCHiEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
Trefenty farmhouse is sapposed to ocoapj the site of a moaasterj.
(Curtis, 253.)
I find the time is going, and I shall only touch very briefly on a
few more points of interest
Opposite the front of the house, i.e., Trefenty, there is a site of an
old encampment, or earthwork. Here, tradition says, a great
battle was once fought. In the same field, within living memory,
there was to be seen an entrance to a subterranean passage, or
a fine arched cave, which was supposed to pass to Laugharne
others say to Llangunnock, and even so far as Abergwili. The
mouth of this cave was closed some sixty-five years ago, being a
constant danger to animals to fall into. I might have dwelt on the
beautiful well that was once on the north side, inside the churchyard,
and on the tradition attached to the same, (it was closed in my
time, some twenty years ago) ; on the state of the fences here
twenty-five years ago, and the large sums of money that have from
time to time been spent on the same, in order to keep out the
animals, which were once allowed to graze here ; on the briars,
thorns, and nettles that grew in wild luxuriance ; on clearing and
levelling the ground, and planting it with ornamental trees and
shrubs ; on the number of headstones that were found in the
hedges and ditches and in the surrounding farmhouses, but which
now have been replaced in God*6 Acre.
I had better not dwell any longer on this matter — it is such a sad
history. The church and churchyard pi*esented a picture of great
neglect and desolation not easily imagined. However, I think I
ought to call your attention to the church of St. Teilo, Llandeilo-
Abercowin, which stands on the opposite side of the river, and
which some have visited this afternoon, or at least intended to do
so. It is a plain building, but is supposed to be very old — older
than this one. The renewed GriflBth Jones held the rectory, to^
gether with that of Llandowror, for nearly fifty years. There is an
ancient building near the church which bears marks of great age.
The lower part of the building is now used for a dairy.
In conclusion, I wish to say that what we see left of this old
building can only be described as a fragment, yet a fragment
that testifies to the grandeur of the building in ages past. History,
written and unwritten, bears ample testimony to the fact; the
church and churchyard have truly shared in the joys and sorrows of
the parishioners for centuries, and afibrded them, regardless of
wordly rank and station, a peaceful resting-place from their various
labours — and " May they rest in peace.*'
Archdeacon Thomas said the church would originally be an
oratory on a pilgrim-route. They were close to the Laugharne
river ; and although he did not know the geography of the place,
he had very little doubt there was a pilgrim-road running from
there probably to St. David's, and taking Whitland on the way.
Rev. J. Thomas, Laugharne, said there was a *' H^n Ff ordd "
leading down to the river.
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CARMARTHEN MKETING. EXCURSIONS. 221
Archdeacon Thomas went, on to say that the stones belonged to
pre-Norman days, and he took it that the font to which their
attention had been drawn was earlier than Norman. It had, of
course, the ronnd circles and the subdivision into the acnte arch,
bat there were many features about it that belonged to the earlier
period, and were more characteristic of the ornamentation they
found in Anglo-Saxon drawings and carvings. He thought their
attention was not drawn to the two brackets on the east wall
under the window, where probably there might have been altar-
lights, or possibly images ; but on both sides they noticed there was
a high recess, and that on the north side, he fancied, and that on the
south, formerly contained shrines. The remark made about the
field on the right-hand side being called Parc-y- Parsonage rather
implied that in the early days, when Palmers passed that way they
must have had lodgings, and if they could only dig below the
surface they might find the foundations of the Palmer's houses.
The question was asked whether there was any evidence that the
Palmers were bound for Whitland or St. David's, and Archdeacon
Thomas said St. David's would be the ultimate destination. In
North Wales they had pilgrim roads in many parts towards the
Island of the Blest — Bardsey. Witli regard to the horse-bier, there
were two in existence : one between Towyn and Barmouth, in
a church now disused ; and another in a church on the banks of
Bala Lake, looking exactly as described in the Paper.
Mr. E. Laws remarked that the headstones they had examined
were, to his mind, the most valuable seen in Wales. Those on the
top had beasts on them, something resembling the ones at Penally.
Those at the bottom had got mounted men. He believed if they
looked at them they would see they were things which ought to be
very carefully copied for their Joui^nal,
Rev. W. Da vies said there would be casts taken of them by next
year.
Mrs. Allen said she was there fifty years ago, when the roof .was
on the buildiTig, and the gravestones were not in the place where
they are now. There were three gravestones to the west of the
tower, then in an upright position, and not as they are now in
divisions. She thought she had a drawing somewhere of the church,
with the roof on, that she made. She rode there on horseback
to see the pilgrims' graves, and it made an impression on her.
Archdeacon Thomas supposed the pilgrim stones, as they were
now, represented a good many more than three.
Mrs. Allen : There were three upright then.
Bev. W. Da vies said some people in the parish remembered sixty
years ago, and he never heard of the upright stones from them.
Colonel G Wynne Hughes : Is there any idea of the approximate
age of the stones ?
Archdeacon Thomas : If I ventured to guess, I would say about
the year 800.
The party then proceeded to farther inspect the interesting stones,
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222 CAMBRIAN ARCHiEOLOOICAL ASSOCIATION.
and subsequently left Trefenty, where they had had tea, by the kind
inritation of the Vicar and Mrs. Davies, for the new church of
Llanfihangel Abercowin, where the Norman font of the old church
was seen, and rubbings taken of ifc; also the ancient Bibles and
Prayer Books referred to in the Vicar's Paper, as well as the church
plate. The drive home was on the St. Clears road, passing at a
distance Bwl-y-Seiri (a British camp), Castell-y-Qtier, Derllys Court,
and Llanllwch.
With regard to the fund started for the preservation of the ruins
of the Pilgrims' Church, we may state that there was collected on
the spot, £5 158. ; and donations have since come to hand of
£3 6s. 9(£., making the total £9 Is. 9d. Included among the donors
were Rev. J. G. Swainson, M.A., £1 lOs, ; Rector of Wistanstow,
£1 1$. ; Mrs. Pnghe Evans, £1 ; "Antiquary," £1 ; Mr. Stepney-
Gulston, 10s ; and Mr. Foulkes Roberts, Denbigh^ 10«. Besides
these, £2 78. 8d. was realised by the sale of views connected with
the old church, sold on the day, making a grand total of £11 14«. 5d, :
an excellent start of a fund for a very deserving object. Sab-
scriptions may be sent to Mr. P. J. Wheldon, National Provincial
Bank, Carmarthen (Treasurer) ; or to the Rev. W. Davies, Vicar of
LlanBhangel- Abercowin, St. Clears.
The following drawings by Mr. D. C. Evans, F.G.S., of St. Clears,
were exhibited in the Temporary Museum formed during the
meeting : —
Sketches of " Pilgrim Stones," Llandowror :
a. Grave i. Face. b. Grave. Reverse. c. Grave ii.
[These two stones had been taken out of the ground for this
visit; the sketches show the entire stones.]
Sketches of " Pilgrim Stones,*' Llanfihangel-aber-Cywyn :
a. Grave i.
[E£5gy with crossed arms; headstone with two concentric
circles; plain footstone, modern.]
b. Grave ii.
[Effigy with crossed arms ; on either side of head, an animal,
left, a stag (?) or goat (?) ; right, a stag-hound ; right
hand grasps a javelin or spear; headstone with cross-
formed in raised circle ; footstone weathered.]
c. Grave iii.
[Coped slab ; along ridge lies main beam of a calvary ; head-
stone has a wheel cross ; part of footstone missing.]
d. Grave iv.
[Slab almost identically the same as iii ; headstone has plain
face, edge ornamented with lines in chevron pattern ; foot-
stone very dilapidated.]
Grave v.
[Seems to be incorrect copy of No. i, much broken, portion
carrying head is missing; head- and foot-stones each bear
figure of man or woman on horseback ; edges ornamented
with cable pattern.]
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CARMARTHEN MEBTrNG. — EXCURSIONS.
223
Grave yi.
[Small stone, now loose in nave of rained charoh ; figare of
a child in long robe, bar across the hips. All these stones
are fully described by the draughtsman ^Mr. D. C. E7ans
— and these sketches are reproduced, with the articles, in
Transactions of C. A. S., vol. ii.]
Fig. 1. — Norman Font from the Old Church of Llanfihangel Abercowin,
now removed to the New Church.
The New Church of Llanfihangel Abercowin. — This is situated
3 miles north of the old church, on the high road from St. Clears
to Carmarthen, at the point where the branch road from Trefenty
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224 CANfBKIAN ARCHiEOLOCIICAL ASSOCIATION.
joins it. The new church was built in 1848, in the revived Gothic
stjle of that period. The only object of interest here is the arcaded
Norman font (Fig. 1) removed from the old church.
EXCOBSION NO. 2.— WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15th.
LAUGHARNE.
Boute. — The members assembled in the Guildhall Square at
8.45 A.M., and were conveyed by carriage to St. Clears (10 miles
west) ; thence through Llandow^or to Bglwys Cymmyn (5 miles
south-west of St. Clears) ; and on through Llandawke to Laugharne
(5 miles east of Eglwys Cymmyn),
The return journey was made through St. Clears (A^ miles north
of Laugharne) without any stops.
The members were entertained to luncheon at Cwmbrwyn by
invitation of Mr. and Mrs. R. M. Thomas, and to tea at Laugharne
by Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Power.
St. Clears. — On reaching the gates of St. Clears Church, where
the fine Norman arch was to be inspected, there was a torrential
downpour of rain, which caused those in the rear vehicles to dart
into the doorways of houses and shops, to await a cessation before
they could proceed into the church. Here, in the absence of the
Vicar (Rev. C. F. Owen, M.A.), Archdeacon Thomas read an inter-
esting Paper prepared by him, dealing with the history of the
church and priory, and also the meaning of the name St. Clears.
Commenting upon it, the Archdeacon said they were very glad to
have this compendious summary of the history of the church, in
which there was a very good Norman arch, but of such a very
depressed type as was unusual. He did not remember seeing one
in that form before. On the capitals was some curious carving.
It being too wet to go to Banc-y-Beili, Mr. D. 0. Evans, P.G.S.,
St. Clears, gave a description, inside the church, of this old " motte
and bailey" Castle. He said there had beeu some misapprehension
as to the site of the old Castle of St. Clears. Of course, most
writers referred to the mound there as having probably formed a
part. However, a few writers, some years ago, made out that the
Castle was situated up the town, at that part where the *' Blue
Boar*' was. But he thought it was not only probable, but quite
certain, the Castle was situated down there where they saw the
mound. It was probably a ** motte and bailey" Castle," that was,
an earthwork surrounded by a structure of timber. The " keep "
was placed on top of the mound. If they went to the top of the
mound and looked across the field, they would see permanent
railings, and he had measured them, and found them enclosing a
space of 56 yards long and 44 yards wide. That was probably the
inner "bailey." If they looked round to the Co win, they would
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — EXCURSIONS. 225
find there was a ridge, which was probably the onter rampart
enclosing the onter wall. On the left there was a smaller monnd,
which probably carried a small turret to defend the gateway between
the small mound and the bigger wall. This he called the Water-gate,
for just at that point the River Co win came up close, so that this
gate could be entered either by water or by land. The rampart on
the eastern side might be traced for some distance straightforward
towards the junction of the Co win and the T&f, but the southern
part of it had been made use of as a backing for limekilns, which
have now disappeared. At the corner of the field there was a rise,
which suggested there was a smaller mound there, probably defend-
ing another corner of the outer wall. Immediately north of the
mound there wore traces of other ramparts, showing ramparts
coming round to the *' keep," and approaching very nearly to the
smaller of the two mounds. It was probable there was a little
turret there as well, to cover the gate he had mentioned Other
onter ramparts had existed, but had disappeared. They had probably
been levelled, and now tho site was occupied by gardens and cottages.
He examined, some time ago, the structure of the ground about
there, and he found there was a small hill there previous to
these works being carried out, and this small hill was a very
convenient place for the Norman to erect his castle. These mounds
and ramparts had been constructed from material immediately
at hand, at a minimum of cost and labour. The first mention of
the Castle was by Giraldus Cambrensis, who passed there in 1187
with Archbishop Baldwin. The Castle had probably changed hands
several times during the short time of its existence. It had been
suggested to him it was improbable the Castle was there, because of
the higher ground, from which it could easily be taken. It was, in
fact, taken very frequently, and burnt very frequently, which seemed
to indicate very clearly the Castle was buUt of something very com-
bnstible.
Llandowror Church. — Leaving St. Clears the party journeyed to
Llandowror, where the church was interesting, because of its asso-
ciation with the Rev. Griffith Jones, "the 'morning star' of the Welsh
Reformation, and the founder of the itinerary schools." Here a
most instructive Paper was read by Mr. D. C. Evans, who referred
to the two so-called pilgrim tombstones to be seen in the field close
to the churchyard. He said there were some genuine pilgrim
monuments to be met with occasionally, but here there was nothing
but tradition to uphold the theory. The first slab was of local
stone, which appeared to have been exposed to the weather, if not
water- worn befere being made use of as a gravestone. There was no
trace of tooling, except the sculpture of a cross — one on the back
and one on the face. The number of crosses, as well as the character
of the workmanship, seemed to suggest they were not of the same
age, and that they indicated three separate burials. The second
slab had no inscription of any kind either, and it was quite evident
6ru sBtt., VOL. VII. II
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226 CAMBRIAN ARCHiEOLOOICAL ABSOOTATION.
from the plaoe of the cross these were intended to be upright, and
not recnmbent. A woald be idle to estimate as to the age, but thej
were older than any portion of the churoh as it now stood, and
marked the burial-place of some of the earlj sons of that district.
This was not the church in which GriflBth Jones was wont to
officiate. He concluded with some particulars of the Rev. Griffith
Jones's connection with the district.
Archdeacon Thomas wished he could hare told them somethiug
more about the old church, but they were under the influence of
Griffith Jones, and Wales owed a great debt of gratitude to his
noble serrice, and to the great Society which enabled him to do so
much good work — the Society for the Promotion of Christian
Knowledge. He should like to know what special pilgrim marks
Mr. Evans referred to, the absence of which made him doubtful
as to the age of those stones.
Mr. Evans replied they were usually marked with a wallet or*
scrip, a staff, scallop-shells, and branches of palm, and various other
things indicating the fact that they were pilgrims.
Archdeacon Thomas : I do not think those marks belong to that
period. These stones must have been of earlier date. I have no
doubt of that. There is nothing to show they are pilgrim stones,
but they are very ancient stones.
On an examination of the stones, Mr. A. Stepney- Gulston said
they were found very nearly where they now stood, and that field
was probably part of the churchyard. There used to be three of
them, but one had been broken or lost, but it was hoped it would be
recovered.
A good deal of interest was taken in the chair that belonged to
Madam Bevan, a financial helper of Griffith Jones, which was on
exhibition outside the Old Tavern. It was incidentally mentioned
that Madam Bevan was a sister of Mr. Stepney Gnlston's grand-
mother in the fifth degree. The party then preceded to Cwmbrwyn.
Gwmbrwyn. — Continuing the journey, a short drive brought the
party to a spot where a lane led off from the road, and was believed
to be a short cut to Cwmbrwyn. It turned out to be a muddy,
winding path, and those who kept to the road had the best of the
walk. Arriving at the farm owned by Mr. Bo wen, they made an
inspection of finds at thesite of a Roman settlement then being
excavated by the Carmarthenshire Antiquarian Society, with the
assistance of Mr. John Ward, Curator of the Welsh National
Museam, Cardiff. These included fragments of stone querns or
handmills, portions of upper stones of common Roman form; a
bronze coin of Carausius, a.d. 286-93 ; stone spindle-whorl ; frag-
ments of Samian pottery, fine and coarse buff and reddish ware,
with coarse black and grey waves ; window glass ; fragments of
red roofing-tiles, consisting of fragments of flat tegulce and half-
round imbrices ; part of bronze handle of backet-like vessel or
tittUa, similar to those found at Pompeii : fragments of flue- tiles,
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — EXCURSIONS. 227
and roof-riates of common Roman form. With these Owmbrwyn
finds, Mr. Ward exhibited, with the kind permission of the owner,
Mr. HugheS'Garbett, of Bristol, the Roman bronze sancepan-like
patella and the strainer which were found at Kyngadle, near
Laugharne, some time ante 1889. They represent one of the chief
Roman finds in Wales, and were fnlly described and illustrated by
Mr. J. Romilly Allen, F.S.A., in ArchcBologia Cambrmsis about six
years ago. The patella was first described as a " sacrificial censer"
in the Gentleman's Magazine of 1839. When found, the patella con-
tained many coins, mostly of Carausius (ld. 286 to 293), which have
long been lost.
On the excavated site of the Roman settlement Mr. Ward gave an
extremely lucid account of the discoveries made there. He said he
remembered, some few years ago, showing a lady friend a field like
* that : a larger site, with magnificent excavated trenches and pitfalls,
• and afterwards asking her, '* What do you think of it all ?" ** Well,"
she replied, ** I think it is a good field spoiled." He was afraid
their good friend, Mr. Bowen, would have in his own mind pretty
much the same feeling. He had been very good, not only in giving
permission, but rendering every assistance, and taking the greatest
interest in the work. The site was about 240 ft. long, north to south,
in exterior length, and about 140 ft. internal length. It was ur -
rounded by a rampart, which was formed of the stuff thrown up
from the ditch, and the ditch was of the usual Roman V-shaped
form, about 17 ft. wide, and 8 ft. 6 ins. deep, cutting down into the
rock at the bottom. Between the ditoh and the rampart, which was
originally 15 ft. wide^ was a space of 6 ft. or 7 ft. It was impossible
to say how the rampart was constructed beyond, that it consisted of
the stone and clay, etc., out of the ditoh ; they could find no sign of
a retaining or external wall, but on the inner edge they found here
and there tumbled-down stones, which might be the remains of an
inner retaining wall to support the foot of the rampart ; or, possibly,
i^e rampart itself might have been surmounted by a wall, and
that might account for the large amount of stones they found roll-
ing down the sides of the ditch, and also the stones on the inner side
of the rampart. But it was quite impossible to say. They had
looked for any kind of a base or support, to support the earth of the
rampart. As they saw the rampart now it was spread, and not
much more than 2 ft. high anywhere, and it had partly filled the
ditch — the ditch and rampart showing a slight hollow and a slight
rise 30 ft. wide. On the west side was the single entrance, with side
walls, of which they had the foundations still left, with an opening
about 11 ft. or 12 ft. wide. Through the opening came the track-
way or road which extended across. They would see some remains
of the paving or foundation of the road. On each side of that they
had a yard, and the yard was gravelled. About that corner they
saw a tumbled amount of stones, which suggested buildings or sheds
of some kind. Along the back was a long building about 110 ft.
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228 CAMBRIAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
by 28 ft wide. That extended the full length of the back, and
behind that was the back rampart and the back ditch.
On the other side they had a cnrions bit, very ronghly laid, of
stonework, which they thonght was the well, but they found out after-
wards that it was cut into the rock, and there it stopped. It was
very likely that was a cesspool to catch drainage. Below that was a
small flue — two little walls about 9 ins. high, with a space between
of 1 ft, and an open space in front where the fire was kindled.
Such a little flue had been found in Silchester and Gaerwent, and
had been used to heat coppers and other things. At the back
was a very rough patch of pitching, covered with earth and cinders,
where there was a little wooden building — a smithy, or something
of the'^kind. The long building had a little building at the end,
which appeared to have been tacked on, probably at a more recent
date. The main building was a parallelogram, of which the founda*
tions remain, bat not entirely, and the floor of the building where-
ever exposed was formed of the natural soil, mixed with gravel, and
rammed down very hard, and no doubt mixed with lime. Many
years ago, Mr. Bo wen made some cattings there for the sake
of the stone ; and as far as one could see there might have been a
hypooaust, or some arrangement for heating the place. They went
down a depth of 2 ft or 3 ft. from the main floor to a hard sarface,
and nearly all those plain tiles came from that part. As to what
the long building was, he really could not tell them. There
appeared to be no cross walls, but all the heating was done from one
end. The fortified enclosure was not square — and Roman forti-
fications were almost invariably square — ^yet there was some sem-
blance of squareness along the back and side. He thought at first
it might be a villa, but they did not find villas with fortifications as
large as some of the largest schemes. It was obvious nobody would
go to the trouble of fortifying a house to this extent. (R«v.
J. Thomas : In Wales ?). Well, perhaps the wild Welshmen were
very troublesome. It was not a Roman fort, becaase it was al-
together too small ; but then he thought it might be a Roman
mansio. According to classical writers, along the lines of Roman
main roads there were stations and mansiones. These mansiones
were to all intents and purposes imperial posting-stations, where
relays of horses were kept, and where, in a partly-subjected country,
they might keep a detachment or " century" of soldiers to the neigh-
bouring station. The only difficulty was, there was no indication of
a main Roman road. His attention had since been called to the
Roman camp on that side of St. Clears, and it was just possible this
little work might be really a sort of redoubt connected with that
fort or camp — ^assuming it to be one — about two miles away. They
got on Hadrian's Wall a succession of stations and small fortlets, to
which daily or weekly detachments could be sent from the main
fort. The long building tended to confirm that view. In all Roman
forts of which they had plans, they would find barracks consisting
of a long building, 120 ft. to 150 ft, to accommodate a '* century'
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — EXCUHSIONS. 229
— eightj men, with a centurion and nnder-offioers. It was, of
conrse, much smaller than that at Gelligaer, which was a cohort
camp, where they found eight of these buildings. It struck him as
being connected with some larger camp, to which they might send
a ** century " of men to occupy it periodically. In such a case the
open space in front would be very useful for massing a body of troops.
All the 6nd8 were de6nitcly Roman, and this was no doubt a
Roman site. But towards the end of the building, where the
ground was very much disturbed, were things which might be very
much later, of medisBval date : an ale-pot of 1 700, or earlier, and
rather deep down what appeared to be an ordinary wine-bottle of
100 or 150 years ago. Mr. Bowen said he believed there used to be
a small cottage built out of the ruins where he found the ground
disturbed. There was no evidence of the site being pre- Roman, and
they had slight evidence it might have formed just a little domain —
a small cottage — but one find threw an interesting light upon
the whole thing : that was a single small bronze coin of the
Imperator Carausius, who seized the sovereignty of Britain in 286,
and came to the end of his tether in 298. That was in a very fresh
condition, and very sharp, so it could not have been long in circula-
tion. That rather suggested, at any rate, that about the close of the
fourth century this site was in occupation. It might have been
200 or 300 years earlier. He daresay they saw also the very inter-
esting bronze saucepan, or patella, with a little colander, or sieve,
which came from Kingaddle, that, according to the discoverer,
about a century ago contained coins of Carausius.
Rev. J. Thomas : In the south transept of Laugharne Church an
urn was found with a great number of coins of Carausius.
Mr. E. Laws : Coins of Carausius are common in Pembrokeshire.
Mr. Ward said in the time of Carausius our shores were very
seriously raided by successive attacks on the east, by the Irish on
the west, and by the Scotch on the north. It was during that
period that we got our coast forts, like Cardiff Castle, Richborough,
and others. It was just possible this might be a late Roman fort-
let, having been connected with keeping off pirates from the
sea. He believed there was some evidence that Laugharue itself
was a Roman station ; and if that was so, this might very easily be
a sort of outpost of Laugharne. Shortly there would be a full report
published, so they would have an opportunity of following out his
stat-ement in detail.
Archdeacon Thomas proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Ward for
his interesting and instructive address. They would not only be
able to look around them with intelligence, but look forward with
great interest for the fuller account he had promised. He took this
opportunity of congratulating the Carmarthenshire Antiquarian
Society on being so vigorous and so active, and taking a work of
this kind in hand. He also congratulated them upon having as
their exponent such an expert aa Mr. Ward. He had further to
thank them for giving the Cambrian Association that opportunity
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230 OAMBECtAN AtlOHJSOLOQtCAL ASSOCtATtON.
of seeing what they were doing, and learning about Cwmbrwyn.
Reference had been made to the work that was formerly done there,
and he thoaght Mr. Laws knew something of that, and perhaps he
would tell them a little about what was done then. Then of
Colbren, which was not excavated; he believed Colonel Morgan
.could tell them something, and they had also among them a very
able expert upon ancient camps ; and he hoped Mr. Willoughby
Gardner would have a word on the subject
Mr. E. Laws snid he heard of the digging up there some years
ago, and came and spent a few hours there. They dug at one end,
and they saw and left in sight a little heap of hypocanst tiles. That
was all he saw, and all he could tell them about it
Colonel Morgan, referring to Colbren, in Brecon shire, on the road
between Neath and Brecon, said they had discovered there certain
things that had not been found at any other Roman station before.
In all other stations the foundations for the rampart had been found
to be either stone walls or stone paving. In this case he found the
most beautiful log pavements, sometimes 1 ft 3 ins. in diameter,
extending under the wall of the rampart, and running the whole
length of it. It was in a beautiful state of preservation — some very
nearly turned into bog oak ; but they could see perfectly plainly the
marks of the axe. On the outside was a very wide brim, and it
showed the outer entrenchments extremely accurately. Beyond
that they found two trenches — not of great importance as far as
size was concerned, but showing a particular stage of Roman forti-
fication not very much studied in England. .They found obstacle
trenches, and they found obstacles in the shape of oak spikes as
perfect as the day they were put in, sharply pointed, only not in 9itu
because they had tumbled down. They found a very large number
of them in that ditch, and any amount of them could be found there
now. Sucb works were only occupied a short time — about thirty
years — and they had not time to replace them by stone walls. In
England all the early Roman entrenchments were afterwards con-
verted into stone-walled camps, and obstacle trenches were done
away with. He hoped, if they had a little better weather this
autumn, he might be able to make a fuller report of what he
thought would turn out one of the most interesting stations in
Wales.
Mr. Willoughby Gardner, speaking of the Cwmbrwyn discovery,
said he never saw anything quite the same as this before. It was
unique of its kind. All he could do was to congratulate Mr. Ward
and the members of the Association on what they had done. It was
very remarkable and interesting.
Eglwys Gymmyn. — Continuing the journey, the party, after a
pleasant drive, arrived at Eglwys Cymmyn Church, where it was
disappointing to learn that Mr. G. G. T. Treherne, of London, who
has made the antiquities of what he calls " Laaghameshire'* his
special study, was unable to be present owing to indisposition.
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CAtlMA&THBN M^firmO. — teXOXTRStONS. 231
Unfortanafcely, too, the Papers which Mr. Treherne had promised to
read, thoagh thej had been posted, had gone astray in transit ; bat
the diflScolty was got over by some observations on Eglwys Cyramyn,
Parc-y-Cerig Sanctaidd, and Landawke, by Archdeacon Thomas
and other speakers. With regard to the ancient Oh arch of Eglwys
Cymmyn, Archdeacon Thomas said it was evident this was a very
early church, becaase of the extremely sharp-pointod vanlted roof,
and the chancel arch was very rude, being simply cat out of the
wall. There was no timber or pillar, or anything of the kind.
It was of the Pembrokeshire type, and like what they had seen in one
or two places already. The porch was also vaalted, and it was
very carions to see another door so close to the original one. He
did not know how that was to be accoanted for. In the side of the
chancel was a piscina with a ledge, and under the window they
wonld see in a glass case a small vessel of glassware that was
found close to the church, when some parts of it were being repaired
or rebuilt. Then there was an Ogam stone at the west end of the
church inside a box. There were also stained windows of St.
Margaret of Antioch, St. Margaret of Scotland, and St. Margaret of
Marros, the daughter of Guy de Brian.
The Bev. Geo. Eyre Evans said that thirty years ago he was
in the church, and they would hardly know it was restored, so well
had the work been carried out. They had there an example of
what could be done, using restoration in the right sensa He had
remembrance as a child of seeing what was now missing — a silver
chalice. That chalice had disappeared. There had been rumours
of its whereabouts, and possibly it might be recovered. But it was one
of a very beautiful series, of which they had so many in Carmarthen-
shire, dated 1574. No one could tell how much that church owed
to Mr. Treherne — how much and how wisely he had worked there.
They had got a master-hand who saw how things should be rightly
and properly done; and the glass case in the chancel preserving a
relic was an object-lesson to all of them as to what they might do in
some way. In Cardiganshire, Bishop Morgan's Bible was put in a
glass case, in a dry part of the church, where all could see it. They
found evidence all round of great taste in restoring the building.
It was intended to put a window on the site of the old door, but it
would be put in so that people would know a door was there.
Archdeacon Thomas said the church stands in an old earthwork,
or*'i-ath."
The Rev. J. Thomas : We are now standing within the boundary
of the fort. This was an old British track which led by Tavern
Spite on to Menapia. He therefore thought the Roman fort would
be on the burrow.
Mr. Egerton Phillimore said this cair would have nothing to do
with the boundary of the land of Llandowror. The name cair was
the name of a brook.
Professor Anwyl proceeded to explain the inscription on the
Ogham stone. He saw the Ogham was fairly plain, and the Latin
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232
CAMBRIAN AUCHi^JOLOGlCAL ASSOCIATION.
was a translatdon of the Ogham. The words of the Ogham are
Avitoriges (the g probably not being pronounced) inigina Gunigniy
and the Latin read Avitoria filia Cunigni, that was to say,
" Avitoria, the daughter ot Cynin" — Cunignos at that time. Avi-
toriges soemed to be a compound word, meaning the granddaughter
Fig. 2. — Inscribed Stone at Eglwys Cymmyn, Carmarthenshire.
[Prom a Photograph by T. Mansd Pranlderty Esq.)
of Toros. Further, the name Cunignos was the same as Cynin,
which they got in Eglwys Cymmyn.
Parc-y-Cerig Sanctaidd. — Leaving Eglwys Cymmyn for Lang-
hame, a halt was made at Parcy-Gerig Sanctaidd, where some
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CARMARTHEl^ MEETING. — EXCURSIONS. 2^3
disonssion took place in regard to the " holy stones." Mrs. Allen
thoaght the round stone was the ba£(e of a cross. She woald
like to know whether there had been a battle anywhere there,
because sometimes they erected a cross on the '* field of sorrows*'
after a fight. There was one in North Wales.
Rev. J. Thomas said in a field near there was a large tumulus
ploughed down, and they were surrounded by very ancient habita-
tions. The tradition of the locality was that when funerals came
along the road to Llansadwrnen they used to go round there to
rest the coffin, and use that hollow stone as a stoup for holy water.
Mr. E. Laws pointed out that if they looked under the stone with
a cross they would find a lot of small white stones. In any sepul-
chral place he had opened he had found them.
The Rev. J. Thomas said they were commonly called " cursing
stones."
Mr. Ward said, so far as he understood, these stones did not
occupy quite the same position as they did formerly. According to
the late Miss Curtis, in her gossipy little book on Laugharne, she
mentioned these stones as resting- stones. When coffins passed
there to church, they rested upon these stones while they repeated
the Lord's Prayer, or something. The parish boundary went along
there ; and Mr. Treherne and himself went very carefully over the
ground, and had reason to think a direct lane to the parish church
passed over there, so that the present road was probably modern.
That was the highest point of the road, and what more natural than
that there should be there a wayside cross — these crosses were
common thi*oughout the country in pre- Reformation times — and it
was preceded by a pre-Norman cross for the very same purpose ; or
it may have marked the tomb of somebody, and placed near the
wayside. According to that, the four stones were simple founda-
tions. The cross was a thirteenth- or fourteenth-century cross.^
Mr. E. Laws thought it was sepulchral.
Llandawke. — Proceeding to Llandawke, the party inspected the
church and an Ogam stone kept therein, Professor Rhys giving a
description of the stone. He said it was peculiar in several respects.
Generally, when they had an inscription in two languages on stones
in this part of the country, one was more or less a translation of the
other, but in this case it was not. The Latin was ^' Barrivendi filius
Vendubari," and there was '' Hie jacet " on the edge of the stone.
The man must have thought he had not room to write " Hie jacet,"
and in the early copy of the inscription that was not seen. He first
saw the stone as a threshold, and the end had been smashed. A
big piece had been splintered away, which ought to be found yet,
and the surface was a good deal polished, and many of the strokes
worn by the feet of the parishioners. It commemorated the son of
the son of somebody, and was one of the earliest inscriptions. He
should say it went iMok to the fifth century.
* It appears to us to be much earlier. — Ed.
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234
CAMBRIAN ARCH^OLDGtOAL AS800IATlO>^.
Laughame. — The day's work was broufifht to an and at Laag-
hame, where the Castle was gone over, and Mr. Power gave some
explanatory notes as to its constraction and history. The earliest
part is the round tower, and it was the military base to cover the
Fig. 3.— Pre-Norman Cross at Laugharne, Carmarthenshire.
{Prom a Photograph by T. Mantd PranJdeny Etq.)
constrnction of the main castle against attack. The portion called
Sir John Perrott's gateway was added to the Castle by him in 1560,
and no doubt represented the best apartments. It was besieged by
Cromwell for somewhere about a month, and eventually lost, largely
from the same cause that reduced Pembroke— the cutting-off of the
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OARMAftTHtlN MBBTlNG. — EiClTRSIONS. ^^S
water-supply. The Governor of the Castle, — General Langhame —
wan first a ParliamentariaD, and aabseqnentlj held the Castle for the
King. The garrison made a sortie from the gateway, and oat to the
lane to recover the water-supply, bat were defeated. The attackers
rashed the gate, and then Cromwell ordered the place to be dis-
mantled. Like every other castle, it had served as a qaarry for the
town, and that had done more harm than anything.
In the Town Hall the Recorder of Laugharne, Mr. Jeremy, gave
some particulars of the government of the town by the ancient Cor-
poration, stating the same method as two hundred years ago was
still carried on. He mentioned that in 1731 a bai'gess would not
take the oath of allegiance, so was not elected Portreeve. Ancient
deeds were produced and inspected, as well as an old Winchester
measure and some tally-sticks. The property of the Corporation
consisted of some cottages and 725 acres of land, some portions of
which were divided among seventy-six senior burghers and held by
them for life. There was an annual beating of the boundaries, with
certain halting-places for refreshments, and for hoisting and whip-
ping the boys. The Portreeve of 1864 was the last to act as
magistrate.
The Church was also visited, and here the Rev. J. Thomas read a
Paper, and a large quantity of silver plate, some dating from 1600,
was on view, and including a silver flagon and paten presented to
the church two years ago. After a long day, the party reached
Carmarthen at ten o'clock p.m.
BXCITASION NO. 3.— THUASBAT, AUaiTST 16th.
CARJdARTHEN AND KIDWELLY.
iRoute. — The members assembled at St. Peter's Church, and spent
the morning in inspecting the antiquities of the town of Carmarthen.
After luncheon the members assembled at the Great Western
Railway Station at 1 p.m., and were conveyed by train to Ferry side
(eight miles), and thence by carriage through Llansaint to Kidwelly
(four miles south-east of Ferryside).
The return journey was made by carriage through Llandefeilog.
The members were entertained to tea at Kidwelly by the Mayor
and Mayoress (Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Smart).
Carmartheit — St. Peter's Church, the old Castle, and other
historic remains in Carmarthen, occupied the attention of the mem-
bers of the Cambrian Archaeological Society on the morning of
Thursday, August 16th. The assembly was at the Church, and
here Mr. T. E. Brigstocke, whose knowledge of the subject is pro-
fuse and sound, read a Paper on the ancient edifice. He pointed
out the features of. interest, including the tomb of Sir Rhys ap
Thomas and Dame Eva, his second wife, which was originally in
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236 CAMBRIAN ARCHJIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATlOK.
the monastery of tbe Grey Friars, in Lammas Street^ and was
removed therefrom some 350 years ago to the chancel of thechnrch,
and afterwards, on the erection of the organ, placed in its present
position. He raised an interesting point in regard to the plainness
of the architectnre of a chnrch of sach dimensions and importance,
suggesting that possibly it included the remains of a still earlier
edifice.
Archdeacon Thomas referred to a picture he had seen of the
church, in which a very curious feature was shown by the south
door, namely, a little corner walled off which was called the
" charnel-house," or Golgotha, where in former times the bones
collected in the churchyard were placed. Those who had been in
Brittany would remember what a great feature the Golgotha was
there. The iiesh turned to dust, but the bones were collected
together and placed in these, while the skulls were put on raised
shelves in the cemeteries.
In the absence of Mrs. Dawson, daughter of Archdeacon Bevan,
her Paper on St. Tewdrig was read by the Rev. Charles Chidlow.
Archdeacon Thomas said the life of Tewdrig belonged more to
Tiutern than to Carmarthen, It certainly did not fit in with the
conclusions brought before them by Professor Lloyd, in his Paper
on Monday evening, that it was the Church of Teilyddog. He did
not think St. Tewdrig had anything to do with Carmarthen.
Passing through the churchyard to the Vicarage, the ladies of
Dolaucotbi were exceedingly amused by the specimen of colloquial
** Welsh" used by a native of Carmarthen, in response to a question
as to what they were doing to the paths. " Ob," he replied, " we
buildo yr wall all round."
In the Vicarage garden the members inspected a Roman domestic
altar, another carved stone with a boss, and a third built into a
wall inscribed " R. P. Nato," which were briefly described by Mr.
Walter Spurrell.
Proceeding to the Castle, the party inspected the outer wall, and
then being admitted through the prison gates, ascended to the top
of the old mount, where Mr. W. Spurrell read a Paper by Mrs.
Armitage, who, he said was particularly interested in the early Nor-
man castles, and, as many of them knew, had rather strong views as
to the age of these fortifications. She did him the honour of calling
upon him when visiting the town ; and when he asked Mr. Holmes
to prepare a Paper on the Castle, he thought he would write to Mrs.
Armitage, and ask her what conclusion she had arrived at as to the
Castle mound on which they were standing. Mr. Holmes's Paper
took the form of a criticism of Mrs. Armitage*s Paper and other
authorities. In her Paper Mrs. Armitage said she had considerable
doubts about the stone keep, as to whether it was an abutment of
the upper portion of the *' motte," or whether it stood on the original
top, and hfikd been filled with soil. Outside there was a considerable
rise of tower, but from the inside none. After the introduction
of artillery, it became usual to construct a wall and fill up with earth
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CARMARTHEN MEBTINO. — EXCURSIONS. 237
to resist shot. She would be sfratefnl to know whether there was
evideDoe of an old entrance. Basement entrances were rare before
the thirteenth centnry. The best " motte" she saw in the neigh-
bonrhood of Carmarthen was at Wistou, in Pembrokeshire. It was
a wall apfainst which lean-to buildings in wood were supposed to be
erected. In 1096 Ehydy^ors was abandoned to the Welsh, but
restored, and afterwards they never heard of it again ; but in 1113
they heard for the first time of the Castle of Carmarthen. Where
was the castle of Rhydygors ? It had been sought for and placed
at a farmhouse called Rhydgors, near Carmarthen, opposite to
which there are earthworks : some think the embankments of the
river. The Castle of Carmarthen was for many centuries a royal
castle, and it was extremely probable that it was built by order of
William Rufus. Undoubtedly the mound was the " motte" of the
typical early Norman castles. These castles were not of stone, but
of earth, with wooden superstructures. More than 90 per cent, of
the castles built by the Normans were of this description. The date
of the castle stone keep was difficult to determine, as both keep and
** motte" are so travestied by modern arrangements, that it would
be difficult to plan them out correctly. Carmarthen Castle was
razed to the ground in 1215, and it was possible this keep repre-
sented the rebuilding which followed that event. The gate-house
was of the Perpendicular period, and probably there was no masonry
older than Henry III ; it was not unlikely there was no masonry
building there until the fourteenth century.
The Paper by Mr. H. S. Holmes, B.Sc., B.A., Vice-Principal
of the Training College, Carmarthen, tended to show that the
structure was much older than Mrs. Armitage put it. Qiraldns, in
1204, described the town as an ancient city with walls. If the town
was enclosed by strong walls, the castle would be more than an
earth-and-timber block house, built by the Normans to keep in check
the Welsh guerillas. In 1273 the walls were stated to be in a
mined condition. The town was sacked in 1244, and again in 1246 ;
but the castle was apparently too strong ; or, on the other hand, the
attacks on the town were merely raids. Therd was no record of
remains having been found within the area of these walls, but con-
siderable Roman remains of different kinds had been found east
of the town wall.
Colonel Morgan being called upon to give his opinion, said that
was undoubtedly a stone revetment against a moated mound, and
he did not put the revetment anterior to Charles I. He thought
there were innumerable signs this was of the date of the Civil War.
Then the face was made, and he could see no break in the other
part; so, though there might have been a shell- keep that was
older, the greater part of the stone revetment was not earlier than
Charles I.
Rev. J. M. Phillips asked if there was any reason to suppose that
the Castle built at Carmarthen could be called the Castle of Rhydy-
gors?
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238 CAMBBIAN AROH^OLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
Archdeacon Thomas : I do not think it is an nmianal thing when a
castle is replaced by another one close by, or within a short distance
of it, for the second one to take the name of the former. It supple-
ments the first.
Mr. J. M. Phillips : But if there was no castle down at Rhydygors
originally, why should the name be attached to the castle here, as
Mrs. Armitage suggested ?
The question was asked, how far they were from the ford ; and
the Rev. J. M. Phillips replied, half a mile.
Mr. A. LI. Davies : There is a ford just down here.
Mr. Egerton Phillimore remarked that these names did get mis-
placed, and he mentioned a place on the Severn, the name of which
was taken by a farm a mile and a-half from the Severn now.
Colonel Morgan : A short distance from here you have got the
remains of outworks of Charles Fs time, quite unique, not only in
England, but in the whole of Europe. They are beautiful specimens
of the bastion traces of Charles I's time, which have been destroyed
everywhere with the exception of at Carmarthen.
The party then went round the southern wall of the Castle,
taking note of a portion which served as an outer wall to a modern
dwelling-house, and inspecting the rooms above the fine old gateway.
Afterwards they proceeded to the Diocesan Registry Qjice, where
they viewed underneath the offices an extensive crypt and vault,
which are supposed to have formed a portion of an early church —
Prince Edward's Chapel. Mr. T. W. Barker had laid out in his
rooms a portion of a stone cross and column, lent by Mr. Victor
Jones, which came from the old Priory of St. John. Here also were
to be seen the early manuscripts of episcopal acts, including the
earliest book, which was lent by permission of the Record Office,
and dated from 1399 ; also other books and articles of value con-
nected with the diocese. Visits of inspection were subsequently
paid to Bishop Ferrar's tablet in Nott Square, the vault beneath the
Sheaf Inn, the town walls in Quay Street and Blue Street, the
sculptured stone at the rear of the Town Hall, and the remains of
the Grey Friars' Monastery in Lammas Street. They then went to
the Dyke and Ditch behind Christ Church, upon which Colonel
Morgan dilated at some length. He considered this to be one of
the most valuable possessions of the borough. At the time of the
Civil War, he said, it was decided to fortify the town of Carmarthen,
and the ramparts they then saw were the remains of works that
originally went all round the town. The last remaining of the
works were destroyed about ten or fifteen years ago, when Francis
Terrace was mada These works were quite the finest specimens of
the bastion traces as executed in the time of the Civil War in
England, and probably even on the Continent. The system of
fortification here introduced had been first started by an engineer
of the name of Erard, who published his works in 1594. They
seem to have been adopted up to the time of the end of the Civil
War, when they were supplanted by a style of Count d© Pargon,
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — EXCURSIONS. 289
-who published his works in 1665 ; so that these particnlar ramparts
must have been executed some time between 1594 and 1665. The
characteristic feature of the Erard system was that the flank was
placed at right angles to the curtain, while de Pargon had it at
right angles to the face of the bastion. He showed how the defen-
ders could sweep down this earthwork to clear the attacking partj.
Nothing of this style remained on the Continent.
Llansaint. — In the afternoon the members proceeded by train to
Ferryside, where brakes were in readiness to convey them to Llan
Ishmael. This was one of the most interesting churches visited
during the tour, and a Paper was read by the Kev. G-eorge Eyre
Evans, dealing with its chief characteristics.
The drive was continued to Llansaint, in the same parish, passing
on the road the buried village of Hawton, demolished by a tidal
wave about 1639, and marked on Speed's Map of 1610. The party
entered the chapel, where there was one of the largest gatherings of
the Association, under the presidency of Sir John Williams. Here
a Paper was read by the Rev. George Eyre Evans on the newly-
discovered inscribed stone, which he read —
CIMESETLI AVICATI,
and another and larger stone, 4 ft. 6 ins. in length, which is given
by Westwood as reading —
VBNNISETLI PIUVS
EROAOMI.
Much interest was taken in the newly-discovered inscribed stone,
and Professor Rhys complimented Mr. Evans upon his find. He
said he was not going then to say very much about the stone, as
he hoped to have an occasion to say something more at length that
evening. He had examined the stone, and had some trouble in
copying the inscription, which was upside down. The other stone
was all right ; but he got definite evidence from a man in the
village— whom the young fellows called an old man — he was only
69, and he (Professor Rhys) did not agree with them — that both
stones were taken out of the walls of the previous chui-ch, forty-five
or forty-six years ago. That was a fact that, he supposed, could be
easily ascertained when the restoration took place. He remembered
distinctly that stone being put like that, upside down, and then 2 ft.
built on it, when there was a great fuss and controversy about the stone
having been put upside down. They wanted to get it out, but the
contractor — a certain Wm. Matthias — would not undo the wall, as
that, he (Professor Rhys) supposed, would cost money. That was
definite evidence that the stones had been moved from the walls of
the earlier church, but he could not ascertain whether they were
inside the church or outside.
The Vicar said the man told him they were outside. The wall
was taken down with a view of throwing out a vestry there, and
the stones were in the original wall of the building. When the
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240 CAMBBIAN ARCHjEOLOOICAL ASSOCIATION.
vestry was thrown out they were removed, and placed where they
are now.
Professor Rhys : Rogers did not know, according to his deliberate
statement to me, whether they were inside or ontside.
At the Evening Meeting on that day, Professor Rhys gave a
learned address of over an hoar's duration, apon the various inscribed
stones visited during the meetings of the Association in South
Wales. Referring to the recent discovery made by the Rev. George
Eyre Evans, Aberystwith, of the inscribed stone inserted upside
down in the wall of Llansaint Church, which had hitherto been
covered with ivy, he said that the lettering, "Cimesetli Avicat,"
seemed to imply a place or monument to " a man of ransomed life "
— son of Avi Caton (that is, " one admired as a warrior"). Dealing
with the name " Llansaint," Professor Rhys suggested that it was
dedicated to two relatives whose names ended in *' Setli," who were
probably Irish saints.
Kidwelly. — Proceeding further towards Kidwelly there were to
be seen the ivy-clad ruin of Penalit Priory, and Clomendy, a well-
preserved old pigeon-house, which probably belonged to the Priory.
Arriving at the corporate borough, the party were welcomed at
the Castle by the Mayor and Mayoress (Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Smart).
An interesting history and description of the architecture of the
ruin was given by Colonel Morgan.
Some photographs of the group, which have resulted in excellent
pictures, were taken by the ex-Mayor (Mr. A. Stephens, Broomhill).
An adjournment was made to the Town Hall, where, at the
invitation of the Mayor and Mayoress, tea was partaken of ; after
which
Canon Morris proposed a vote of thanks to them for their hos-
pitality. It was very important to their Society, and archoeology
generally, that they should have the support of the authorities in
the various towns ; and it was very gratifying to know in every
place they had been to they found this hearty welcome, and this
readiness to help them in preserving monuments and other interest-
ing things in connection with the past history of the country.
The Mayor said his wife and he were extremely obliged to
them for the vote of thanks for the little they had done. He
could assure the Association they were exceedingly pleased to have
had the opportunity of entertaining them. He was sorry that the
Corporation had not much to show. The old charters had been
lost, and they had tried many times to find them. Although they
had not succeeded, they had not given up the search, and they
hoped in time the charters, which had somehow or other been lost
or mislaid, would be found. They had the two silver maces of the
borough, copies of one of the old charters (but the wording of it was
not interesting), and the borough seal. Also a piece of old cloth
dated 1759, and having on it the name of Griffith Jones, Mayor,
which used to be on the magistrates' bench.
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — EXCURSIONS. 241
The parish church was then risited, and here a Paper on the
stmofcare was read by the Rev. D. D. Jones, Vicar, and listened to
with much interest.
Canon Owen proposed a vote of thanks, and Mr. E. Laws secon-
ded, remarking he had seen a great many charches, bnt he did not
know anyone that had such interesting features in it as this one. He
conid not lielp thinking there was Early Engh'sh work in the arch.
Sir Gilbert Scott notwithstanding. More than that, they had two
tombs, one to the Lady Ysoude, and the other a civilian holding his
glove in his hand. He thons^ht they ran into Early English times,
too, and that rather backed him np in his heresy. One of the most
significant things was the enormous number of staircases. There
was a staircase to the rood-loft, anotlier going to the room over the
sacristy, and there was a very interesting little wall- window above,
for the priest to look down apon the altar, in order to ring the bell
on the elevation of the Host. There was a staircase, which the
Vicar thought went to a stone pulpit, which had disappeared, and
still another staircase ; also a beautiful piscina and sedilia, and a
charming little window decorated.
After spending an interesting half honr inspecting the chnrch, in
the vestry being seen an elaborate alabaster figure of the Blessed
Virgin and Child, which was for years buried in the churchyard, the
party drove home vid Llandefoilog, where the Rev. Peter Williams,
theedit or of the first Welsh annotated Bible, printed by John Ross,
in 1770, is buried.
BXCXTRSION NO. 4.— FRIDAY, AITOirST 17th.
WHITLAND.
Route. — Members assembled at the Great Western Railway
Station at 9.50 a.m., and were conveyed by train to Whitland
(18 miles west), and thence by carriage to Parcau, Gwarmacwydd,
and Llandyssilio (seven miles north-west of Whitland).
The return journey was made by carriage to Clynderwen Railway
Station (two miles south of Llandyssilio), and from there back to
Carmarthen by train.
The members were entertained to luncheon at Gwarmacwydd by
invitation of Mrs. Bowen Jones, and to tea at Llandyssilio by the
Vicar, the Rev. 0. Jones Thomas.
Whitland. — On Friday morning, August 17th, members travelled
by train to Whitland, where they were met by conveyances, and
driven to the Abbey (Ty-Gwyn-ar-Daf), where an able Paper was
read by Mr. E. Ltiws, Tenby, and an interesting discussion took
place regarding the name, which Archdeacon Thomas said was a
curious study in philology. The old name, Ty-Gwyn-ar-Daf, meant
the white house on the h^nks of the Taf River. That got translated
6th ber., vol. vii. 16
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242
CAMBRIAN ARCH:fiOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
first of all with the omission of the definite article, and they Bad
Tygwyn-landaf. Then they got Alba Landa ; the house was left
ont, and they had white and landa, which became misleading —
it was white on the banks of the Taf. Then came another stage,
the English of Alba Landa — Whiteland, the Taf was lost altogether.
Tlien came another change, the dropping of the ** e" in the white
Fig. 4. — Inscribed Stone at Parcau, Carmarthenshire.
— Whitland, and when they got to Whitland they got to the reverse
of Lantwit, from which Paulinas was said to have come.
The Rev George Eyre Evans asked if anything was known of the
small circular gold vessel dug up twenty-three years ago in the
garden in which they were standing ? He had spoken to the man
who saw it dng up.
Mr. D. 0. Evans said he had made enquiries, but could not find
it The name had led people astray, and placed this spot in the
Isle of Wight,
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Fig. 6. Inscbibed Stone from Castbll Dwyban, now at Gwarmacwydd,
Ca RM ARTHEN8HIBF.
{From a Photograph by J. E. Omoer, 7, Laminas Street, Carmarthen.)
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CARMARTHEN MEETING.— EXCURSIONS. 243
Mr. Egerton Pbillimore said G-iraldns Cambrensis made it too.
There was not the slightest gronnd for belieWng that Panlinas had
e^er anything to do with Whitland. He had looked at all the
manascripts he oonld get at Oxford on the *' Life of St. David ;"
and in the latest version by Usher, the word he had to copy was so
difficult and so unintelligible, that he said an " insula quadem" — a
certain island. In the twelfth century it was written, '^ insula
inwincdi lantquendi ;" some of the later manuscripts say, ** insula
whitlandi ;" others say, " insula whit." Professor Rhys thought
** lantquendi" did not stand for Whitland. He (Mr. Phillimore) did
not think it did before the time of HywelDda. He could not believe
'*alba landa" had anything to do with the Taf ; the place had been
put in Whitorn, in Galloway. The latest manuscripts say " insula
whit." In some of the later manuscripts — in some of the Irish ones
— these names were corrupted into " delanda bendi."
Mr. D. C. Evans remarked that there was a hill close by called
Castle Hill, which to some extent had been quarried away. When
digging the ground twenty-five skeletons were come across, showing
that the graveyard went that way.
A short time was spent in examining the surroundings, where
remains of ironworks and earthworks are to be seen ; and consider-
able interest was taken in a beautiful piece of white marble, with
designs in relief, which had been found. The coat-of-arms over the
hall-door of the present residence also received attention, showing
a Tudor rose, portcullis, dog and griffin, fleur-de-lis, and lions,
quartered.
Parcau and Owarmacwydd. — Leaving Whitland, the party pro-
ceeded to Parcau, where the inscribed stone " Quenvendani fili
Barcuni" was seen (Fig. 4), and on to Gwarmacwydd. Here, encircled
by a wooden fence, was the Ogam stone with Latin inscription,
*' Memoria Voteporigis protictoris " (Fig. 5) ; and several members
busied themselves in taking a rubbing of the Ogam. This stone was
removed from Castelldwyrau churchyard.
Llandyssilio. — Afterwai*ds the party resumed the journey to
Llaudyssilio, where the parish church was visited, and a great deal
of interest was taken in the three inscribed stones to be found in
the outer south wall of the edifice (Figs. 6, 7, and 8). Inside the
church a silver cup, dated 1636, was inspected, and another of
Early Elizabethan period, also a register dated from 1720 to 1814.
Archdeacon Thomas said the present church was modern ; but in
the old church there was what they did not often see, the font
brought up near the chancel, whereas its proper position was at the
entrance to the church. It was symbolic, as so many parts of
the church were, to the gradual growth of the Christian life, and
the means of grace, leading up from the entrance by the font to the
Lord's table. There was on the south side of the chancel a small
piscina. It was very simple, but was large enough for the purpose
16 «
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CABfBRIAN ARCHAOLOGIOAL ASSOCIATION.
for which it was used — the rinsing-ont of the sacred vessels. The
ohanoel and the chancel arch had not been touched at all ; it was a
plain rude pointed arch, cut out of the wall apparently, and on the
north side there are two depressed arches separating the chancel
from what was now the vestry-room, bat which he had no doubt
was at one time a chantry chapel ; very plain and rude, and cut out
of the wall, as in the neighbouring churches of Pembrokeshire.
CtVT©
Fig. 6.— luscribed Stone No. 1, at LlandyMUio, Pembrokeshire.
Scale, T^y linear.
There was a very curious book there : a small diary kept by a former
curate, who was the Vicar of Llan-y-cefn, John Griffiths. No doubt
he had his full duties to do on the Sunday, and he (the Archdeacon)
was quite sure he had a great deal more than he ought to have
undertaken or laid upon him daring week days : because in the little
diary book, which he seemed to have carried about with him, and
filled in day by day, he jotted down marriages, birtlis, and deaths
in the different parishes during the week day, representing his
secular duties. He was sorry to say that the aggregate of those
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GA&MAJElTfiEK MtHSTtNO. — EXCURSIONS.
245
pan'sliefl in which be had to do duty during the week day was no
fewer than twenty- six. A thing of that kind was a great abuse.
He had heard of three or four parishes worked together, but twenty-
Fig. 7. — Inscribed Stone No. 2, at Llandysdlio, Pembrokeshire.
Scale, ^ linear.
Fig. 8.— Inscribed Stone No. 8, at Llandyssilio, Pembrokeshire,
discoyered by Mrs. Thomas Allen. Scale, i linear.
six was almost incredible. That was what they were told in the
diary, if he understood it aright. The Communion plate dated
from 1651, and it was rare to find Communion plate of that date;
it was during the interregnum of the Commonwealth. The then
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246 CAMBRIAK ARCH^OLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
Vicar remained in charge, he anppoBed ; but not having registers
going back so far, they could not say for certain.
Bev. J. M. Phillips : I do not think he did.
Archdeacon Thomas : Yon believe he was deprived ?
Bev. J. M. Phillips : I believe he was.
Archdeacon Thomas said the chalice or Communion cup of Egre-
mont was also there for inspection^ and that was a much earlier one
than the Llandyssilio cup. It was an Elizabethan cup, but was not
dated. It had the form and the characteristic band which was
invariably found on Elizabethan cups.
Mr. Stepney- G-ulston said the date of the cup belonging to that
church was 1651, but the hall mark was 1632 or 1684 probibly. It
was interesting to show that the date upon it was subsequent to the
time of its original making.
Mr. Egerton Phillimore made some very interesting remarks upon
the inscribed stones.
Mr. T. E. Morris referred to the small book in the church, which
he said was highly interesting in these days of public libraries :
inasmuch as it said that, as early as the year 1761 there was
in that parish a circulating libi*ary, and it gave the names of
all the books in the library. He found that in the year 1761
there were in the possession of the parish as many as 800 books,
among others some of the best and well-known Welsh books — Bardd
Ctosg and Drych y Prif OeB-oedd, There was also a catalogue giving
the price of some of the books, and he saw there was paid the sum
of \8, for Bardd Ctrng. It also gave the names of the persons to
whom the books were lent from time to time. There were also a
number of very interesting sentiments and toasts — he was not going
to give any extracts — but anyone who was curious would be amply
rewarded if he looked through that book.
Archdeacon Thomas thought in a large number of parishes they
found Dr. Bray's libraries — possibly in each deanery.
Owing to the time having expired, Egremont Church, where
there is an inscribed stone, had to be left out of the programme, and
the members returned by train from Clynderwen.
ALTERNATIVE EXCITESION NO. 4a.— FBIDAT,
ADOITST 17th.
CLAWDD MAWB.
Route. — The members assembled in Guildhall Square at 9 A.M.,
and were conveyed by carriage up the Valley of the Gwili to Conwil
Elvet (seven miles north), and then four miles further north along
the road to Llandyssyl, which follows the course of the Afon Duad^
to the earthwork called Clawdd Mawr, opposite Nant-yr-hyddod.
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^Q^.
Fig. 9. Inscribed Stone No. 1 at Traws Mawr, Carmarthenshire,
Removed from Newchurch, aud now u.sed at* the Pedental for a Sundial.
{From a Photograph hy T. Maimd FranUen, Es<j.)
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CARMARTHEN MEETING. — fiXCURSlOJJS. 247
The return journey was made through Conwil Elvet and New-
church (four miles north of Carmarthen).
Luncheon was provided for the members at Conwil Elvet.
Glawdd Mawr. — The party proceeded through the Vale of Gwili
to Conwil, and thence to Clawdd Mawr, an ancient earthwork
composed of a dyke and ditch, about a mile and a-half long.
Opposite Nant-yr-hyddod Farm a longitudinal section of the earth-
Fig. 10. — Inscribed Stone No. 2, at Traws Mawr, Carmarthenshire.
work was examined by Mr. Walter Spurrell, Mr. Glascodine, and
Colonel Morgan. About 10 ft. above the base of the section a
horizontal layer of peaty material, about 3 ins. in thickness, was
observed, affording evidence that this was at one time the surface of
the ground.
Traws Mawr. — After lunch at Conwil, and a visit to the neigh-
bouring church, the company proceeded to Traws Mawr to view two
inscribed stones, and a stone with an incised cross, standing
upright in the private grounds of the mansion. On one of the
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248 CAMBRIAN AitCHiSiOLOGICAL ASSOCIAtlON.
upright stones was the ioscription, " Severini iili Severi*' (Fig. 9),
and on the other "Cunegni" (Fig. 10). The inscription on the
" Severini " stone has every appearance of having been re-cat and
otherwise tampered with.
From Traws Mawr the party visited *• Castell-y-Gaer," an ancient
earthwork, with a saucer-shaped hollow on top, about 90 ft in
diameter. Bound this mound there runs a wide ditch, but not
filled with water in the manner of an ordinary castle moat.
Fig. 11. — Rude Pillar Stone, with Incised Cross, at Traws Mawr,
Carmarthenshire.
Owing to the heavy rain, it was found impossible to visit Gum
Fawr and the Caturus stone in the Church of Merthyr Monach.
The party returned through Trevaughan, reaching Carmarthen
soon after 5 p.m., having spent on the whole a delightful day.
Note. — This report has been compiled chiefly from the account
given in the Welshman.
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CARMARTHEN MltBTlNG.
24d
CAMBRIAN ARCHiBOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION.
Carmarthen Mbbtino, August, 1906.
Subtcriptiofu to Local Fund,
Sir John Williams, Bart., President
Earl Cawdor
Alan Stepnej-GulstoD, Esq,, Chairman
T. W. Barker, Esq. ...
Henry Owen, Esq., D.C.L.
R. H. Wood, Esq.
Colonel W. L. Moi^gan...
R. E. Jennings, Esq. ...
Sir James ffills-Johncs, V.C., G.C.B.
Lady Hills-Jolmes
Mrs. Johnes
Rey. J. Thomas
Rev. W. Davies
H. Meuric Lloyd, Esq.
Rev. T. R. Walters ...
Rev. W. W. Poole Hughes
Rev. W. Done Bushell
H. S. Holmes, Esq. ...
Mrs. D. Pugh Evans ...
Miss C. M. C. Stepney
Dr. W. W. Leigh
Charles Lloyd, Esq. ...
Rev. D. D. Evans
Miss Evelyn Lewis
Dr. Charles Spurrell ...
Colonel H. Davies-Evans
Miss Thursby Pelham ...
R. E.Williams, Esq. ...
D. Moi-gan, Esq.
F. W. Gibbins, Esq. ...
John fVanoii, Esq.
Mrs. Olive...
Yen. Archdeacon Owen Evans
Pepyat Evans, Esq. ...
Misses Grifiath
Mrs. Gwynne-Hughes...
Miss Rickard
Sir Lewis Morris
R. M. Thomas, Esq. ...
Mrs. W. J. Williams ...
T. Morse Thomas, Esq.
D. C. Evans, Esq.
Colonel Gwynne-Hughes
Rev. Sir George Cornwall, Bart.
W. LI. Williams, Esq., M.P.
J. Lewes Thomas, Esq.
Miss Penman
Miss S. A. Evans
David Gethin, Esq.
B. A. Lewis, Esq.
Carried forward ...
£ <.
d.
. 10 0
0
3 8
0
2 2
0
2 2
0
2 2
0
. 2 2
0
1 1
0
. 1 1
0
1 1
0
1 1
0
1 1
0
. 1 1
0
1 1
0
1 1
0
1 1
0
1 1
0
1 1
0
0 10
6
0 10
6
0 15
0
0 10
6
0 10
0
0 5
0
. 0 6
0
1 1
0
. 2 2
0
. 1 1
0
0 2
0
. 0 10
0
0 10
6
. 0 12
0
. 0 7
6
. 1 1
0
. 0 10
6
0 12
0
1 1
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. 0 7
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. 1 1
0
1 1
0
1 1
0
. 0 6
0
. 0 7
6
1 1
0
0 7
6
0 12
0
. 0 7
6
. 0 7
6
0 7
6
0 7
6
0 7
6
54 0
0
Digitized by VjOOQIC
250
CAMBRTAN ARCH^EOLOaiCAL ASSOCIAtIoK.
Brought forward
Rev. T. Lewie
Miss H«nry
Ernest Collier, Esq. ...
D. Hamer, Esq.
MissPlatts
John Lewis, Esq
W. R. Evans, Esq. ...
Mrs. Stacey Jonee
Mrs. John Snow
A. Llewelyn Davies, Esq.
BALANCE SHEET.
Reckipts.
To subscriptions received as per list
EXFKMBITURB.
By Hire of Wagon
„ Ditto Furniture ...
„ Ditto Assembly Rooms
„ Ditto Brake
„ Ditto Rooms
„ Gratuities to Assistants
„ Secretary's Postages
„ Ditto Sundry Disbursements
„ Paid Reporter
„ Excavating for Remain**
„ Choque Book
,, Balance in Hand ...
Examined and found correct.
A. Llewelyn Davibs, Auditor.
Alan Stepney- Gulston, Chairman of Local Committee.
A* $.
d.
54 0
0
1 1
0
0 7
6
1 1
0
0 7
6
0 7
6
0 12
0
0 12
0
1 1
0
0 7
6
1 1
0
MO 18
0
£ 8.
d.
60 18
0
0 7
0
0 7
6
6 4
0
1 1
0
0 7
6
1 7
0
4 4
6
1 5
1
1 11
6
1 10
5
0 1
0
42 11
6
JB60 18
0
February 25th, 1907.
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254
iaetotetos; anH Botitti of Soo&s;.
Leland*s Itinerary in Wales. Arranged and Edited by Lucy
ToDLMiN Smith. London : George Bell and Sons, 1906.
It was a Lappj idea of Miss Tonlmin Smith to pnblisli the portion
of John Leiand's famoos Itinerary that relates to Wales in a volume
to itself; and as she has added some — though by no means all — of
the notices of the Principality contained in the Collectanea, the book
will prove almost indispensable t() the Welsh antiquary. The text
has been collated with the original manuscript, which is now in the
Bodleian, so that we probably have as perfect an edition as it is
possible to produce. In the mere reproduction of an important
volume like the Ithieraiy, this is much to be thankful for, but it is
hardly sufficient for an exacting age. Leland*s bald topographical
details are in many places no more than parts of a badly-articulated
skeleton, the bones of which require to be decently stuffed and
clothed by a painstaking and encyclopsBdic editor. Miss Toulmin
Smith has not attempted to bring Leland up to date. She has
preferred to leave him pretty severely alone, her notes being for the
most part oonBned to trifling textual details. The really important
work required in a modern edition of the Itinerary is that which
should be given to a careful examination and identification of Leland*s
topographical forms ; and for this Miss Toulmin Smith obtained the
assistance of Dr. Gwenogfryn Evans. We much regret that we
cannot speak with unqualified praise of the manner in which that
gentleman has executed his task. There are plenty of perfectly
obvious identifications which are hardly required for the enlighten-
ment of the densest of Saxons. What is gained by a note identi-
fying ' Place Newith ' with * Plas Newydd, ' unless it is that it
affords an opportunity for Dr. Evans to introduce his topographical
fad of a barred * d * for the regularly-used double * d * of ordinary
Welsh orthography ? It is the same affectation of superior accuracy
that doubtless leads Dr. Evans to identify ' Mouthey* with ^ Mow-
ddwy' (with the usual barred 'd'), though the modern spelling is
universally 'Mawddwy.* Leland's *Gurnay* is throughout given
by Dr. Evans as * Gurvei,' whereas the ordinary style is * Gwirfai * (or
* Gwyrfai *), which indeed is the spelling adopted by Leland himself
on another occasion. The castle two miles from Usk, called by
Leland ' Trergreg,* is identified by Dr. Evans as * Tre y grug,* but
that form was never in use for the well-known manor of the lordship
of Usk known as ' Trergrug.* * Gogarth * is not the Welsh name
for the Great Ormc*s Head, but for a particular part of that pro-
montory. It is, however, not so much the erroneous identifications
that we regret — for these, after all, are not numerous— so much as
the many really difficult place-names in the text that are left uniden-
tified altogether. There is hardly a page that does not contain
some word that calls for explanation, for which no explanation is
even attempted. Thus, on p. 43, Leland says that a point marking
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REVIEWS AND NOTICES OP BOOKS. 255
the ntmost limits of Wales in one direction was * Port Hojger by
Holihed in Anglesey,' which enables ns to identify the name with
that of the Forth Wygyr of the Triads, and to locate it somewhere
on the northern coast of Anglesey. It should have been pointed
out that Leland's ' Lng Harneis' was more frequently called ' Leigh
Hames.' The river at Wrexham, now covered over in its coarse
throngh the town, and so in danger of being forgotten save when
it takes its revenge npon the olfactory nerves of the citizens dnring
hot weather, is given by Leland as the *Wenbro,* which a note
should have explained was intended to represent ' Gwenfro/ In
the neighbourhood of Wrexham, too, a branch of the Pnlestous
was seated at a residence called by Leland *' Marsche.' Surely Dr.
Owenogfryn Evans should have known that these were the Pule-
stons of Berse.
Notwithstanding the blemishes which we have pointed out for
correction by those who possess the book, and many others which
our space will not allow us to indicate, we can honestly recommend
our members to obtain it. Indeed, we heartily trust it will find its
way into popular favour, so as to enable a fresh edition to be
produced ; and we would then recommend the able editor to obtain
the assistance of the one man in Wales (or elsewhere) capable of
nnravelling Leland's conundrums in notes that would prove at once
the admiration and the despair of every Welsh antiquary, Mr.
Egerton Phillimore.
Edward n im Glamorgan: Thb Stoet op the Dov^npall op the
PiEST Prince op Walks, etc. By the Eev. John Griffith.
London, 1904. Price 5s.
This is a book of 257 pages (with 57 additional pages of Appen-
dices), which would have been all the better for considerable com-
pression. There is still some obscurity about the events of the last
few months of the unfortunate Edward II's life, and, as most of
that time was spent in Wales, it was a happy idea on Mr. Griffith's
part to study the episode of the King's wanderings from the point
of view of the Welsh historian. We cannot say that he has succeeded
in advancing our knowledge of the deepening tragedy of the
monarch's death ; but the story was well worthy of reconsideration,
and, if possible, of reconstruction, in the light of Welsh history and
tradition. Instead, however, of writing his book in a style that was
appropriate to the dignity and pathos of the events which he records,
Mr. Griffith has adopted a method which we cannot but regard as
unworthy and inappropriate. He is a perferrid Welshman of the
most " Nationalist" type, and, like many another, thinks the proper
medium for the display of his patriotism is abuse of the other fellow.
Such hysterical emotion as Mr. Griffith too frequently indulges in
may be charitably regarded as an excusable incident of the National
Eisteddfod, but is quite out of place in a serious work of history —
and we trust that Mr. Griffith is desirous of having his little book
regarded as such. The chief merit of our author is that he recognises
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256 REVIBWS AND NOTICES OF BOOKS.
the sovereign importance, in an inquiry snch as be is instituting, of
reliance upon original authorities for his facts. He has worked through
the printed volumes of the " Patent and Close Rolls" with diligence
and good results, and this must be counted unto him for righteous-
ness ill a sphere where the imagination still exercises too potent
a sway. He is exceedingly fond of quotation; but, amid many
" authorities" who are frequently not authoritative upon the points
upon which they are quoted, Mr. Griflfith rightly places in his first
rank the late Bishop of Chester and Professor Tout ; and if he is
not sufficiently careful in his use of so charming and picturesque a *
volume as Mr. 0. M. Edwards's Wales, it must \^ admitted that the
passages therefrom add to the eminent readableness of his book. Why
Mr. Griffith has encumbered his volume with chapters upon **The
Ancient Gods of Glamorgan," " The Picts and P and Q Celts," and
others that have no possible connection with his subject, it would be
difficult to conjecture ; they may be skipped by the reader with no
loss of interest in Eang Edward's fate, and a considerable saving of
his time and patience.
The author, notwithstanding his diligence, has not been able to
throw any fresh light upon the events that led up to the unfortunate
Eang's capture. English authorities are inclined upon good grounds
to regard Llantrissant as the place where he fell into the hands of
his enemies. Mr. Griffith, relying upon a chronicle which he thinks
was written by a Welshman, argues with much plausibility in favour
of Penrhys, in the Rhondda Valley; though he prints a note
producing a hitherto unnoticed authority whicb specifies Neath
as the scene of the King's surrender. Nor has Mr. Griffith been
more fortunate in penetrating the darkness that broods over
the shocking murder of the King. He contents himself with
a long extract from Bishop Stubbs' preface to his edition of the
Chronicle which that great authority attributed to Thomas de la
Moor, but which is now recognised as the work of Geoffrey le Baker,
and rather tamely continues : " Now that the archives of the Vatican
and of the Continent generally are rummaged and calendared by
English experts, under the supervision of the Master of the Rolls,
we may hear of other documents bearing on the historic doubt " —
the mystery of the King's death. We may inform Mr. Griffith that
there lurks at the Public Record Office the record of some judicial
proceedings which arose incidentally out of the crime, and in which
Edward's strong partisan, Rhys ap Gruffudd, plays an interesting
part We are in hopes that this valuable contribution towards the
elucidation of one of the minor points in our history may be given
to scholars through the medium of this Journal. And we also trust
that with enthusiasm unabated, but with style somewhat more
chastened, Mr. Griffith may give us further evidence of his un-
doubted capacity for the popularisation of history. Wo should like
to have made some remarks upon the Appendices, which are the
most valuable part of his book, but our space is exhausted, and we
can do no more than recommend them in general terms to our
members.
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^n:h»^0l00t» (I{»mIrr^nHtH.
SIXTH SERIES.— VOL. VII, PART III.
JULY, 1907.
NOTES ON EGLWYS CYMMYN, PARC-Y-CERYG
SANCTAIDD, AND LLANDAWKE.
By G. G. T. TREHERNE, Esq.
{Bead duriff^g L(mgha/me Excursion, Augutt 16th, 1906.)
Eglwys Cymmyn.
The ancient little mountain church, Eglwys Cymmyn,
is of singular interest in its situation, history, construc-
tions, and dedication ; and, indeed, in spite of its rude
and unpretentious appearance, presents in itself an
epitome of Welsh ecclesiastical history. It stands
in a commanding position in a circular " rath," or
encampment (of about 250 yards in diameter, faced
with stone and surrounded by an outer ditch and
rampart), which forms the centre of — and is probably
connected historically with — a group of earthwork forts
contained within the territory formerly known as
Swydd, or Cwmwt, Talacharn, and now represented by
the comparatively modern Lord-Marchership of Laug-
harne. Space forbids further reference to this group of
forts, of which I have had careful surveys made, and
from which I hope, with the aid of pick and shovel, to
extract much information ; but now I can call atten-
tion only to the important promontory fort of Pencoed,
in this parish. Lewis and Carlisle both refer to the
parish as the scene of a great battle and subsecjuent
treaty, as alluded to by Sir John Price in his History
6th skr., vol. VII. 17
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258 NOTES ON EGLWYS CYMMYN, PARC-Y-CERYG
of the Welsh Wars. I cannot find any work by Sir
John Price with this title, neither can I find any refer-
ence to Pencoed in any of his works. Cath Pencoed
is one of the three decisive battles fought by Rhodri
Melynog in the eighth century, and in the farm called
Pencoed, in this parish, are two fields, called respec-
tively Pare y Castell Vawr and Vach : the former
containing an important promontory fort, with a broad
and level field adjoining on the north side, called Pare
yr Hedd — ** The Field of Peace" — which has been tmns-
mogrified by English scribes into ** Pease Field." This
Battle of Pencoed, or Cath Pencoed, opens out a wide
field of inquiry, upon which I must not enter to-day,
except to say that I am glad to observe a note on p. 206
of Dr. Henry Owen's new volume of Pembrokeshire on
Cath Pencoed, which, although it does not directly
mention our Pencoed, indirectly tends to favour the sug-
gestion that this was the scene of the battle in question.
This Territory or Lordship of Laugharne, bounded on
the south by the sea, on the east and north by the River
Taf, and on the west by the Pembrokeshire frontier, was
until the reign of Henry VIII included in the County
of Pembroke. The parish of Eglwys Cymmyn is co-
terminous with the manor of the same name, held of the
Superior Lordship of Laugharne, and the church and its
surroundings probably occupy the site of the head-
quarters of the chief of the territory or tribal district
which was subsequently converted into a Norman manor
and an ecclesiastical parish. The name Eglwys Cymmyn
in itself is remarkable, as offering a key to the history
of the church. Taking first the generic " Eglwys,** and
bearing in mind that in the Clergy List of to-day,
" Llan ' appears as the proenomen of more than four
hundred Welsh churches, and '* Eglwys" of only some
half dozen cn^cient churches, it is curious that no serious
explanation of this remarkable fact has, so far as I am
aware, been attempted.
As a result of much inquiry, and personal visits to
most (if not all), of the ancient Eglwys churches, I am
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SANCTAlDD, ANt> LLANDAWKB. 259
inclined to offer the following explanation, which may
at all events call attention to the paradox, and possibly
result in further and better suggestions. The early
missionaries, who presumably spoke Greek as the
ecclesiastical language, would naturally on landing in
this country ask the chief man of the* district for a
piece of land on which to build their little church, and
this they would naturally call their ** Eccleeia," of which
" Eglwys" would be the Welsh expression. The mis-
sionary having built his church would gather round
him his followers, who in turn would form themselves
into a monastic settlement, or religious tribe, and would
occupy an enclosed territory, or *' Llan," the prototype
of the modern parish. Thus we get the full title of the
church of the religious tribe as Eglwys Llan Teilo, (or
whoever the saint might be) Sant, ** Tne Church of the
Religious Tribe or Community of St. Teilo." By a
natural process of abscission the head and tail of the
lengthy sentence would perish, leaving the kernel sur-
viving as " Llan Teilo." If, however, this explanation
is accepted, the question remains, why do any ancient
churches retain the name of ** Eglwys" and omit that of
" Llan." I suggest that " Eglwys," as applied to an
ancient church, denotes the chapel-royal of the head
man of the religious (or, indeed, secular) tribe ; and my
inquiries into the incidents of the few ancient " Eglwys"
churches remaining tend to confirm this suggestion.
Confining our attention more particularly to the
church now under consideration, we find that, apart
from the circular fort in which the church is situated,
and which probably formed the headquarters of the
chieftain, we have adjacent to the north-east rampart
enclosing the churchyard the remains of the old buildings
of " Manor Court," a name which is still retained by the
farm, although new buildings were erected further from
the church late in the eighteenth century. Next we
haye a custom, surviving to within the last few years,
for the principal parishioners to maintain and repair
each an allotted portion of the churchyard wall or
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260 NOTES ON BGLWYS OYMMYN, f ARC-Y-CERYO
rampart ; and you will find still remaining on the face
of the wall the initials of each farmer incised and
marking the limit of the particular portion allotted to
his care : a custom which may well be a survival of the
liability attaching to the tenants of an ancient Welsh
manor, to repair the walls of their lord's fortress
(Seebohm's Tribal System in Wales, p. 12).
This leads me to the specific name ** Cymmyn." As
you are aware, the church contains a remarkable bi-
lingual Ogam stone, notes on and illustrations of which
will be found in the Arch. Camh., 5th Ser., voL vi
(1889), p. 224. It is also described by Mr. Romilly
Allen in his Monumental History of the nritish Church,
S.P.C.K., 1889, pp. 76, etc. We have the good fortune
to-day to have Professor Rhys with us; and in the
hope that he may explain to us the speci^i details
of value of this famous — and in some ways unique —
monument, I will only say a few words by way of
introduction, and confine myself to the part taken by
this stone in the history of the church. When I first
found this stone, in or about the year 1880, it was one
of two steps on the right of the path leading from the
entrance-gate to the south porch of the church (the
other still remains in situ), which gave access from the
pathway to the higher level of the churchyard to the
east of the pathway. It was brought into the church,
but subsequently removed and lost sight of, till dis-
covered a second time in the rectory garden. On the
occasion of repairing the nave in 1901, under the care
of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings,
much and anxious consideration was given to the best
mode of putting an efiectual check on the stone's
erratic propensities ; and it was finally decided to build
the strong oaken chest for it in which it now rests
under the west window, securely safeguarded by lid,
bar, and padlock, while giving the reverent inquirer
easy access and fairly easy view. This stone com*
memorates Avitoria, the daughter of Cynin ; and
Professor Rhys some time since formed an opinion,
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SANOTAIDD, AND LLANDAWKE. 261
which he tells me he has no reason to alter, that in the
name ** Cymmin*' we have a mis-spelling of ** Cynin ; "
and although we cannot find any documentary evidence
in support of this theory, it must be rememoered that
we have no document earlier than 1248, the date of
a conveyance of the Manor of Eglwys Cymmyn by
the then Bishop of St. David's, Thomas Wallensis,
as a marriage portion for his niece : so that if we take
the date of the stone to be not later than the fifth
century, we have a period of at least 700 years in
which the transposition of " n" to " m" may have taken
In a MS. in the British Museum of Edward IIFs
time, the church is described as ^' Ecclesia de Santo
Cumano." On the other hand, in s^n Inq, post-mortem
of 1 Edward II, which I have very carefully examined
at the Record OflBce, the parchment is so rubbed that
the third letter of the word *' Cymin" may quite well be
an " n" and not an " m.*' The transmutation of *' n"
and ** m" is, of course, not uncommon, e.g., to quote
iDcal instances, *' Penfro" and " Pembroke," " Lampeter"
and "Llanpedr," but it is objected that there is no
instance of such a mutation between two flanking
vowels. The name of a church in Radnorshire, Llan
Anno, which is sometimes found as ** Amo," is the only
instance of this which I have come across, and it is not
very convincing; but we have no time to-day for
etymological discussions. At any rate, it is beyond
question that Cynin, whether or no he gave his name
to the church, was a very considerable person in the
district ; and it is probable that the church which we
have come to see stands on the site of his chapel-royal.
We have in the parish a farm called ** Pare Cymmin,"
which, if Professor Rhys's theory is correct, should be
" Cynin." (As an instance of English free translation,
the farm immediately adjoining the churchyard on the
west is called Common Church, a translation of the same
character as that which converted the neighbouring
hamlet of " Rhos Goch" into '' Red Roses.") At Tavern
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262 NOTES ON EOLWYS CYMMYN, PARC-Y-OERYG
Spite, three miles or so to the westward, we have Castell
Gynin, a few miles to the north-east of us we have a
church and parish called Llanginning, and in that
parish a farm known as " Llangarth Gynin ; *' then a
little further east the River Ginning, which we crossed
to-day in coming from St. Clears, and at Trawsmawr,
still further to the north-east, we have a stone which
we are to see on Friday, which is inscribed ** Cunegni,"
and which probably records Cynin's burial. In the
parish in which Trawsmawr is situated there are three
farms bearing his name ; and far away in Cardigan-
shire, in the parish of Llanbadarn Fawr, he has given
his name to a district, ** Brogynin," in or over which
he presumably had interest or influence. Now, who
was this " Cynin V Mr. Fisher has very kindly given
me his full Notes and References, but I have not
time to quote them now ; suffice it to say that Cynin
appears to have been a distinguished member of a
distinguished family, the saintly family of Brychan, a
fact to which I shall have to araw particular atten-
tion when we are visiting the Pare y Ceryg Sanc-
taidd ; and that he is said by Rees (in his Essay)
to have been a Chorepiscopus (whatever that may
precisely mean) of the fifth century. At all events,
he appears to have been a leading member of the
Church Militant in his day ; and the fact that Llan-
ginning is described in the Myvyrian ArchcBology as the
Church of Cynin, ** a' i Weision neu a' i Feibion" (his
servants and his sons) suggests that it was his monastic
foundation, as distinct from his headquarters and chapel-
royal at Eglwys Cymmyn. The author of an Ode to
King Henry VII, given in the lolo MSS. 314, suppli-
cates Cynin, amongst other saints, to grant the King a
long life, and Lewys Glyn Cothy (fifteenth century) in
his poems frequently invokes this saint. The Irish form
of the name, " Coinin," appears as the name of a bishop
in the Martyrology of Donegal. It is interesting to
remember that three miles or so to the north of
Eglwys Cymmyn we have '*Tygwyn ar Daf" (now
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SANCTAroO, AND LLANDAWKB. 263
Whitland), the site of Paul Hdn's famous monastery ;
that David and Teilo were amongst the students in the
monastery ; that Eglwys Cymrayn is one of the several
parishes mentioned as the birthplace of Teilo ; that the
church of the adjoining parish of Kyffijf appears as a
Teilo Church in the Book of Llan Dav ; and it does not
require much eflfort of the imagination to suggest that
Eglwys Cymmyn has been honoured with the presence
of these leaders of the early Church ; and that the place-
name Brogynin may suggest (dates permitting) that
Cynin accompanied Saints David and Teilo to the Synod
of Llanddewi Brefi. I cannot find a trace of any local
saint of the name of ** Cymin."
Another suggestion for the origin of the name Eglwys
Cymmyn is the ** Church of the Communion," and in
support of this there is a tradition that on Communion
Sundays, " in olden times," a flag was hoisted on the
church so that the people might flock from far and
near : a tradition consonant with the pre-eminence which
seems to have distinguished the church throughout the
ages, and which may have arisen from the fact that the
church was served by a bishop, who in the early days
of the Church would alone have had authority to con-
secrate and administer the sacred elements. Another
suggestion, ** The Church of— or on — the Common," is
scarcely worth notice ; and still less a suggestion by
Carlisle that the incription on an Elizabethan chalice
(1574), '* Poculum ecclesia de Eglos Skymine," gives the
correct name of the church, *' Sky mine" meaning
** bleak," the church standing on high ground, bare of
trees. This chalice, I regret to say, disappeared thirty
years ago, and all efibrts to recover it have failed. A
similar chalice, and of even date (1574), still exists in
Cynin 's other church, Llanginning. In later times, the
church was attached to the Benedictine cell of Monckton,
by Pembroke, founded by Arnulph de Montgomery, who
presumably created the Norman Manor of Eglwys Cym-
myn. Monckton (being held of the alien Priory of Seez
founded by Arnulph s fether, Robert), and its dependent
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264 NOTBS ON EGLWYS CyMMYN, PARC-Y-OERYG
churches, on the occasion of the frequent wars with
France fell into the hands of the Crown ; consequently,
Eglwys Cymmyn was presented by Henry VI to his
uncle, " the good" Duke Humphrey, who in turn gave it
to St. Alban's Abbey. It is now in the gift of the Lord
Chancellor. On a panel at the west end of the church
you will find the names of all the rectors of the church
whom we have been able to ascertain, from 1329 to the
present day. Among them is Philip Marios (1389), of
whom I shall have something to say when we visit
Llandawke on leaving Eglwys Cymmyn. He subse-
quently became Vicar of Ciistle Martin, co. Pembroke,
which was also attached to Monckton Priory ; Michael
Owen (1677), of whom you will find mention on a tablet
in Laugharne Church; John Evans (1730), the no-
torious author of a scurrilous pamphlet defaming
Griffith Jones, of Llandowror ; and who turned adriu
his curate, Peter Williams, the editor of the first
Welsh Annotated Bible, who was born at Laug-
harne and buried at Llandefeilog, which we visit to-
morrow.
With regard to the construction of the church, I
have here a plan prepared by Mr. Weir, who was
appointed by the Society for the Protection of Ancient
Buildings to superintend and carry out the recent
repaii-s, and which shows very clearly the probable
dates and order of building. The oldest detail in the
church is the small square-headed window in the north
wall, to the west of the north door, which does not
seem to have been glazed, and the original use of which
is doubtful, but it may possibly have been the window
of an anchorage. The wall between this and the interior
of the church was apparently thickened at the time of
the vaulting of the church, so as to make the interior
surface level for carrying the vaulting, which seems to
have been added late in the fourteenth century, when
the window in the north wall against the pulpit was
inserted. In the south wall and to the west of the
porch is a low archway, now walled up, which it is
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SANCTAIDD, AND LLANDAWKE. 265
difficult to account for, unless it were a barrow-hole,
through which the earth on which the vaulting was
built was removed. This is Mr. Micklethwaite's sug-
gestion. To the east of the south porch is an ancient
doorway, probably the priest's door to the older church.
There are traces of an older west window, the present
window having been substituted at the time of the
thickening of the north wall and the vaulting of the
nave.
The present chancel is modern, having been built in
1877-78. The chancel-arch is of curiously rude con-
struction (the details are shown in Mr. Weir's plan),
and is very similar to that at Llandawke Church,
which we shall see this afternoon. Both churches have
a smaller arch in the east wall of the nave, and to the
north of the chancel-arch, giving access to the rood-
loft. Here this arch was walled up at the time of the
rebuilding of the chancel. At Llandawke the archway
and a portion of the stairs still remain.
It is noteworthy that under the entrance slabs of the
north doorway, which appears to be older than the
southern porch, we found five water-worn *' nine-pin''
stones, or ** muUers/' similar to but smaller than that
forming the Ogam stone. Similar stones were found
under the chancel-arch, and a large stone, of very much
the same dimensions and quality as the Ogam stone,
was found built into the east wall of the nave, to the
south of the chancel arch, and there it remains. These
stones are all shown in Mr. Weir's plan, which is safely
deposited in the church chest. As will be noticed, on
looking at the gable of the west wall from the outside,
the roof covering the vaulting was at one time of a
more acute pitch, and very likely covered with thatch.
The present bell-cote was probably added when the
E resent out;er roof was built. The font is old, and may
e an adaptation of an original Norman font, cut down
to its present dimensions. The base is new. Against
the east wall of the nave, and over the chancel arch,
is a tablet in memory of Sir John Perrott, at one time
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266 NOTES ON EGLWYS CYMMYN, PAJIC-Y-OBRYO
lord of the Lordship of Laughame and of the Manor of
Eglwys Cymmyn. It is worth notice, for the quaint-
ness of the composition and the neatness of the letter-
ing. The large slab in the chancel, to the north of the
chancel-arch, commemorates the Shewen family of
Rhosgoch, in this parish. The name appears several
times in the registers of Llanelly parish church. In
the church chest there are two coins found in the
churchyard — a silver halfpenny of Edward I reign, and
a copper Bristol token.
On the north wall of the nave are the remains of
four successive mural paintinffs. The oldest shows
traces of polychromatic figured design ; over that red
Tudor lettering and scroll border, and over that again
two paintings in black lettering— one in English, the
other in Welsh — of the Ten Commandments. The new
memorial lectern is the work of Mr. Jack, and will
repay inspection.
In the tabernacle, on the south wall of the chancel,
will be found a small cruet, of English glaze ware,
3f ins. in height, which was found embedded in the
south wall of the old chancel (near where the taber-
nacle is hung), on the occasion of its rebuilding in
1877-8. Its use is unknown, and the authorities of the
British Museum know of only one other in England, of
which a photograph and description will be found
hanging on the south wall of the chancel, close to the
cruet. On the north wall of the chancel will be found
a facsimile representation in colour of a mural painting
of Queen Margaret of Scotland, which still exists on
the north wall of Binstead Church, by Arundel, co.
Sussex, and the story of the painting is told in the
printed description hanging by the side. This painting,
and the Margaret Memorial Window lately erected in
the east wall, are connected with the singular dedica-
tion of this and the two neighbouring churches of
Llandawke and Pendine, in honour of St. Margaret
Marios : a unique dedication, said to have been given to
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8AN0TAIDD, AND LLANDAWKE. 267
them by Sir Guy de Bryan, a great warrior, statesman,
and church builder of the fourteenth century. He was
Lord Marcher of Laugharne, fifty -seventh Knight of
the Garter, and one of the chief benefactors of Tewkes-
bury Abbey, where he lies, in a fine canopied tomb in
a chapel built by him and dedicated to St. Margaret of
Scotland, who was ancestress and patron saint of his
family. Margaret Marios was the daughter of his
sister Margaret, who married Sir Robert Marios, a
resident landowner in this parish. The Scottish royal
saint was grand-niece of the Confessor, who — and whose
family — held St. Margaret of Antioch in special re-
verence, and in whose honour the Confessor dedicated
his first church at Westminster. The east window
commemorates this remarkable Communion of Saints^
and portrays the three Margarets of Antioch, Scotland,
and Marios. The time allotted for this Paper does not
allow further reference to this remarkable and, indeed,
unique dedication, but further particulars will be found
in a pamphlet which I wrote some few years ago, and
which can be obtained from the Rector at a cost of
sixpence, which goes to the Margaret Memorial Fund.
The window is the work of Mr. F. C. Eden, and has
been erected chiefly at the expense of those bearing the
name of Margaret throughout the Empire.
A facsimile of Queen Margaret of Scotland's famous
Gospel- book is preserved in the church chest.
Parc-y-Ceryg Sanctaidd.
The field in which we are standing is one of two
bearing the name of Parc-y-Ceryg Sanctaidd, or *' The
Field of the Holy Stones." The other and smaller field
of the same name, with the addition of " Bach" (little),
lies to the west of the larger field, and is separated
from it by two hedges and a trackway. It, too, con-
tains a longitudinal mound which, so far as I know,
has never been examined. This field is partly in the
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268 NOTES ON BGLWYS OYMMYN, PARO-Y-CBEYG
parish of Llansadurnen and partly in that of Llan-
dawke, the parish boundary running parallel to the
road and cutting the field in half lengthways ; the
stones which we are looking at stand immediately on
the boundary line.
The road from the church and village of Llansadurnen
on the south-east, which now is brought into the
present high road by a sharp turning to the north-
west, and forms the eastern boundary of this field,
used formerly to cross the field on a line with the parish
boundary. Immediately to the north of the smaller
field, and separated from it by the road, is a ruined
cottage, with the strange name ** Tavern diflas," and
the field immediately in the north of the ruins is called
" Pare difleis." This field contains a tumulus, on the
hithermost side of which, and close to it, a stone axe of
dolerite was, two years ago, found in ploughing, and
is now in the possession of the British Museum.
If, as I venture to suggest, "Tafarn diflas" is the Welsh
form of the English " Cold Harbour" (Tafarn, Latin
Tahema ; Diflas, '* insipid, worthless"), and " Tafarn"
as an ancient place-name, indicates the line of a Roman ^
road, it is interesting to note that an ancient trackway '
leads from Tafarn diflas in the direction of Cwmbrwyn
and its Roman remains which we visited this morning,
and to this day affords the shortest route between the
two places.
I read a Paper on these stones on 22nd August.
1903, which was fully reported in the Welshman of the
27th August of that year, and led to some corre-
spondence. To-day, time permits of only a condensed
resumS of what I then said.
I must premise by saying that the wall which you
see built round the remains is of recent date, and was
built to protect our treasures from cattle and other
obtrusive creatures.
When my attention was first called to these remains,
some years since, all that I could see was a low mound a
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J^AKCf Albt), ANt) LLANbAWKBl. 269
few inches only in height, of darker green colour than the
surrounding humus, and marked by the four amorph-
ous stones standing in the position in which you see
them to-day. The circular stone, with the cup or
hollow in the centre, then lay at the north-west comer
of and beyond the mound, and at its north-east corner
lay the panelled stone with the incised circle and cross,
which you see now placed on end slantwise, and in
front of the larger upright stone which is placed erect
behind it. Nothing else was to be seen until, in the
summer of 1890, Mr. Edward Laws and I set to work
to investigate the site. We commenced operations by
digging carefully round the edge of the mound marked
by the four stones, and found that they marked the
corners of a fragmentary building of roughly-dressed
stones, put together without mortar. We next drove a
sectional trench, starting four feet or so from the south
side of the enclosure, and digging down into the bed-
rock some 3 ft. deep. We carried our trench across
the enclosure from south-west to north-east, without
finding the slightest trace of any burial. We found
that the enclosed space consisted chiefly of loose stones
thrown or fallen together, and mixed with these we
found a few smooth water-wora pebbles, in size and
shape like potatoes, small and big. These were all we
found, with the exception of a small piece of white
quartz or crystal, of the kind usually known as St.
David's diamonds, and of about the size of a walnut ;
also a small fragment of burnt red clay, of the size of
a marble. Under the circular stone and covered by
from 8 ins. to 12 ins. of soil, we found what turned out
to be the lower portion of the cross-marked stone
already referred to. This larger stone was lying recum-
bent on its back, and looked at first sight very much
like the lower half of the stone already discovered.
This surmise has proved to be correct, Not only do
the details of the fracture along the upper edge of the
larger stone correspond (except where by weather or
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
270 NOTES ON teOLWtS CVMMYN, tAHO-Y-CERtG
other agent fragments have been removed) with those
of the fracture along the lower edge of the smaller
stone, but on the upper part of the larger stone traces
of a cross and circle similar to that in the smaller stone
can be detected (more easily by the eye of a camera than
by the human eye), a portion of the upper segment of
which is wanting, and is found on the upper stone.
The bigger st.one, you will observe, is also panelled,
but, owing to its being very much more weathered and
damaged, the details are difficult to decipher. It was
thought better not to attempt to re-join the stones, but
to place them in their present position, so as to enable
the spectator to form a fairly accurate notion of their
original appearance when forming one stone. The four
amorphous blocks were left in their original position.
The loose stones found in the mound were, as you see^
placed around the mound, making its boundaries,
and in the limestone slab on which the upper part
of the incised stone rests a hollow was made, in
which the small stones or pebbles above referred to
were placed.
Now, what are we to say as to the origin of these
stones ? Local tradition tells us that in old days coffins
on their way to burial were wont to be rested on the
cross-inscribed stone, and sprinkled with holy water
from the cup in the round stone ; this is referred
to in Miss Curtis's book, Antiquities of Laugharne,
Pendine, and their Neighbourhood ; and the custom of
resting coffins on convenient stones, or by roadside
crosses, was not infrequent or unreasonable, especially
in days when the journey was long and the road
difficult.
Probably, however, these stones belong to an age
long prior to the use of coffins, although they may well
have been subsequently used for such a purpose.
The result of my investigation tends to confirm a
suggestion made to me by Mr. Romilly Allen, that we
may possibly have here the remains of a building
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SANCTAIDD, and LLANDAWfefi. 271
similar to the so-called altar stations (** Altoir") which
stand to this day in the Cashel on the Island of Innish-
murray, off the coast of Sligo. (In illustration of this
possible connection, I may mention that Zimmer, in his
Celtic Church in England, p. 35, gives '*Altoir" as one
of the Irish words derived from the Latin through a
British medium, and so indicating that Christianity
came to Ireland from Britain.)
The Innishmurray remains are fully described and
illustrated in Mr. W. F. Wakeman's Book of Survey
of the Antiquarian Remains in the Island of Innish-
murray. I vol. London, 1893.
These Altoirs consist of quadrangular heaps of stones,
5 ft. to 7 ft. long by about 5 ft. wide and 3 ft. in height,
and built without mortar, with a large stone, or
** Dalian" (in some cases there are two such stones),
standing upright in the middle or at one end of the
altar, the Dalian being generally inscribed with a circle
and cross. On the top of these structures are found
smooth water- worn stones or pebbles, of various sizes
and descriptions, in some cases incised, and which are
locally known as *^ cursing-stones." It is, or was in
quite recent years, the practice of the inhabitants, when
in a prayerful mood, to go round these altars from left
to right with the sun, thus forming the Irish '*desiul,"
or holy round ; or, if revenge was in their mind, they
would reverse the operation by going against the sun
" widdershins," turning the stones as they went, and
uttering a curse against the particular object of their
hatred. On one of these altars called '* Altoir beg "
(the little altar), illustrated at p. 71 of Mr. Wakemans
book, are a considerable number of small water- worn
pebbles, apparently taken from the sea-shore. On others
the stones are larger, and in some cases incised.
I have here a curious stone which I found two or
three years ago on the farm of Beefs Park, in the
adjacent parisn of Marros, and which is seemingly
of the same character as some of the larger cursing-
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272 NOTEIS 01^ BQLWVS CYMMYN, tAfeC-Y-CERYG
stones found at Tnnishmurray. If this stone is of that
class, it implies the existence in former days of an altar
station in that neighbourhood ; but possibly (although
this is less likely) it may have been removed from here
thither.^ I had every intention of visiting Innish-
murray this summer, as in such cases seeing is believing,
and it is diflScult to compare two objects without seeing
both. Unfortunately, I have had no time to make this
rather difficult journey, but I have been fortunate in
making the acquaintance of Mr. Cuthbert Harrison, of
Sligo, who has visited Innishmurray and phographed
(he is a professional photographer) the remains ; and he
has not only sent me some specimens of his work, but
has kindly undertaken to make another visit to the
island, in order to take photographs of further details ;
and hopes to be able some time next month to come
over and visit Pare y Ceryg Sanctaidd, so that we may
compare notes. There do not appear to be at Innish-
murray any stones resembling our circular cup-stone (if
** cup-stone" is the correct term for it). Cup-stones, as
we know, are exceedingly rare in Wales, although
we have on Pendine Head, two miles to the south-
west, a flat recumbent stone with two cups. Pendine
Head, let me say in passing, well deserves a visit,
which I regret extremely that time now forbids.
We must hope that members will be so satisfied
with what they have seen in Swydd Talacharn that
they will individually, if not collectively, pay another
visit. I can promise that their curiosity will be re-
warded.
The cup, or hollow, in this circular stone measures
about 8 ins. in diameter and 6^ ins. in depth. Possibly
the stone may be wholly unconnected with the other
relics, and have formed the base of a roadside cross
standing on this ** Holy Ground."
The four amorphous blocks resemble similar stones
^ This stone is now in the Welsh Masoum at Cardiff.
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SANCTAIDD, AND LLANDAWKE. 273
placed at one end of one of the Innishmurray Altars,
and on which devout worshippers were wont to kneel.
If these remains prove to be akin (analagous, if not
actually homologous) to those at Innishmurray, it fol-
lows that the builders of both must have been con-
nected in circumstances or idea, or have had knowledge
of each others' method of work ; and here we may
possibly have a clue through the medium of the multi-
tudinous Brychan family. At Eglwys Cymmyn, as we
have seen, we were brought vis-a-vis a distinguished
member of this saintly family; St. Cynin. In the next
parish, between us and the sea, we have a farm called
Pare Cynog, containing Ffynon Cynog, orCynog's Well,
and as a place-name Merthyr Cynog, a name which
appears in Glamorganshire, and indicates presumably
the possession of the relics of the Saint. The name
" Cynog " appears amongst the numerous progeny of
Brychan. It has been suggested that ** Toch,'' in
" Castle Toch," the name of an adjoining farm which
we passed on our way hither from Eglwys Cymmyn, is
a corruption of Doch or Doc, a shortened form of Cadoc,
another eminent Brychanite. The same origin has
been suggested for **dawke" in Llandawke, the name
of the church which we shall next visit ; and we have
other Brychanite names in the neighbourhood, such as
Brynach, Elidyr, Clydwyn, and Pab. Several field- and
place-names in this locality also denote an Irish (to use
a popular phrase) origin, and amongst the many nebu-
lous circumstances which surround the Brychan story,
his connection with Ireland is sufficiently clear. Next,
the connection of St. Columba with St. Molaise of
Innishmurray is, I believe, generally accepted ; and we
find on Innishmurray traces of Columba and his so-
called twelve apostles, such, for instance, as Reilig (the
"resting-place" of) Columcil, Reilig Odrain, etc. Among
the twelve apostles whom Columba took with him to
Scotland were Rhun, whom Skene in his Four Ancient
Books of Wales, vol. i, p. 52, identifies as one of the
0TH 8ER., VOL, Vn. 18
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274 NOTES ON EOLWYS CYMMYN, PARC-Y-CERYG
sons of Brychan ; and Aedan, whom Professor Rhys, in
his Celtic Bintain, refers to as the son of a daughter of
Brychan ; and we know that Rhun, or a man of that
name) is said to have been buried at Llandevaelog,
which may possibly be (there are two parishes of this
name) the Llandefeilog in this county, which we hope
to visit to-morrow.
Now, this suggested origin of these remains seems to
be worthy of careful considemtion by those of our
members whom I have the pleasure of addressing to-
day. This theory, if found to be justified by the facts,
would seem to account for the origin of some, at all
events, of the many solitary pillar stones, or Menhir,
found throughout the Principality. The loose walling
forming the altar would naturally disappear in the
course of ages, leaving the monolith standing alone to
tell its tale. The inaccessibility of Innishmurray has,
fortunately, preserved its precious relics for us ; and if
these relics now before us are in the result found to be
akin to those on Innishmurray, may we not confidently
look forward to other traces of similar remains, espe-
cially in those districts of Wales where the Brychanite
influence prevailed, as is the case in that portion of
Carmarthenshire in which we now find ourselves.
Since this Paper was written, I have received the
following letter from Mr. John Ward, the Curator of
the Welsh Museum at Cardiff : —
** 1. Parc-y-Ceryg Sanctaidd. — The hypothesis you refer to was
suggested by Miss Curtis's view of the Grist Cross at Laug-
harne. She shows the lower fragment of a raediteval shaft
inserted into a circular base-stone, much like your " cup-stone*' at
the above. Circular bases are unusual, but I feel sure I have
seen several examples.
" By the half-buried road on Merthyr Mawr Warren are the
remains of a wayside cross. If my memory serves me aright,
the base-stone is circular, with a circular socket, only, unlike the
Grist base, it is decorated with a thirteenth-century moulding.
The usual form is square or octagonal.
"It cannot be doubted that the parish boundary through
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SANCTALDD, AND LLANDAWKB. 275
Parc-y-Ceryg Sanctaidd perpetuates a former road : in fact, we
found some indistinct traces of such a road. A cross by its side
would almost certainly rest upon a mount of steps, and the square
structure with the four great corner-stones suggests the plat-
form, or lower step-course. To put it another way — it equally
tits the theory of a mediaeval wayside cross with the theory of
an ' altoir/
" We know that in pre-Reformation times funerals halted at
wayside crosses for a paternoster, etc ; and we can well imagine
that after the cross was thrown down, or fell from neglect, and
even after the road ceased to be used for ordinary traffic, forcef
of long habit would keep alive the custom of funerals passing by
the site, and making the halt for the Lord's Prayer. The cross
faded from memory, and the stones, from the circumstances just
given, came to be known as ' resting-stones.*
"The relation of this supposed mediaeval cross to the pre-
Norman crossed slab on the site is a little difficult. So far as I
am aware, the pre-Norman crosses were sepulchral ; but they
were by no means always associated with churches ; yet there is
no evidence (that I am aware of) that any of them were origin-
ally regarded as simply wayside crosses, although it is con-
ceivable that they were often raised near lines of traffic. We
may imagine that our stone commemorated some early ' saint,*
and that in later times it was replaced by another of a form
which would then more strongly appeal to the passer-by as a
cross. Or, possibly, the old stone, from some cause or other,
was broken, as we now see it, and this led to the erection of the
second structure.
" This second structure would probably take the form of a
crucifix, or it may have had a coped head, containing a crucifix
on one side, and, say, St. Mary on the other.
" Of course, this is only hypothesis, but the more hypotheses
the more likely is one to prove correct.'*
Furthermore, since this Paper vras written, Mr.
Cuthbert Harrison has visited the Parc-y-Ceryg Sanc-
taidd with me ; and so far as he could judge from the
little that remains to be seen, he was emphatic in his
opinion that, had he come upon these remains in his own
(adopted) country, he would have considered them to
be of the same class as the '^ altoirs" on Innishmurray.
The central large stone, or Dalian, however, he states,
18 --^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
27G NOTES ON EGLWYS CYMMYN, PARC-Y-CERYO
is very much larger than any at Innishmurray, and
there is nothing there in the least resembling the
circular stone with central cup which we have here.
He kindly gave me photographs taken by him at
Innishmurray, and hopes to take and send me more
this next summer : which with his permission I will
send to the Journal for publication, together with
photographs of our relics here, for the purpose of easy
reference and comparison.
Llandawke.
A visit to this secluded and picturesque little church
follows in appropriate sequence our visit to the far older
and historically more interesting church, Eglwys Cym-
myn. We saw in the Margaret Memorial Window
there a representation of Sir Guy de Bryan, holding a
model of Llandawke Church in his hands in the act of
dedication. Among the list of rectors there we noticed
the name of " Philip Marios" as Rector in 1389 ; and
here we have the reputed eflSgy of Margaret Marios ;
and there is good reason for believing Philip and
Margaret Marios to have been brother and sister,
children of Sir Robert Marios and his wife Margery
(or Margaret), the sister of Sir Guy de Bryan. Each of
these two churches is said to have been dedicated by
Sir Guy in honour of " St. Margaret Marios ; " and the
tradition that this little church was built in connection
with a small religious establishment founded by Sir
Guy, and presided over by his niece, seems to be justi-
fied by appearance and circumstance. There is no trace
of any village near the church, or in any part of the
parish. The Rectory House, which is modern, stands,
as you see, close to the churchyard, and may mark
the site of an ancient conventual building ; while the
fine timber surrounding the churchyard, the pond,
the extensive range of buildings now belonging to the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
SAKCTAJDt), AND LLANbAWKfi* 277
Erincipal farmhouse or mansion of Llandawke, the farm
eing co-terminous with the parish, all tend to suggest
a settlement, or Home of Ancient Peace.
The living is in the gift of the Nanteos family, as
also is the neighbouring church of Pendine, which is
held with Llandawke.
Miss Curtis, whom I have already quoted in my
account of Parc-y-Ceryg Sanctaidd, writes (in 1880)
that a manor house once stood close to Llandawke
church, and that two members of the de Bryan family
were buried in the church. She refers to the finding
of a gold urn of early date, and to various local legends
incident to the church and its surroundings. She also
refers to the eflSgy as representing the foundress of the
church, and relates a tradition that, one day, when she
(the foundress) was returning from her house at Broad-
way (a mile or more to the south of Llandawke) from
arranging afiairs regarding the church, she was attacked
by robbers, who cut her into three pieces ; and that to
commemorate her martyrdom her eflSgy was divided
into three separate pieces. This story was doubtless
invented to account for the fact that the eflSgy is
divided into three parts by two sharp divisions, which
it is diflficult to account for. They are too sharp and
regular to have been caused by a blow, and there are
no traces of saw-work. When I first saw the eflSgy
(which I have the authority of Abbot Gasquet for
saying, is undoubtedly that of a religious lady of rank
of the late fourteenth or early fifteenth century), many
years ago, it was lying covered with moss and tangle in
the south-west corner of the churchyard, and in 1903
was placed in its present position at the expense of the
late Mr. Thomas Harries, who owned the whole parish
(consisting of one farm and under thirty inhabitants),
and who also, with characteristic generosity, paid the
expenses of the work done for the preservation of the
relics in Parc-y-Ceryg Sanctaidd.
Of the construction and architecture of the little
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
278 NOTES ON EOLWYS OYMMYN, PARC-Y-CERYG
church, the nave of which measures 83 ft. by 17 ft.,
there is not much to be noted. The simple chancel-
arch and the opening in the east wall of the nave,
originally giving access to the rood-loft, are very
similar (either copied the one from the other or the
work of the same builder) to what we saw at Eglwys-
cymmyn. Generally speaking, the building may well
be of late fourteenth-century (Sir Guy de Bryan died
in 1391) work, and notwithstanding restoration, pre-
serves much of its simple charm and seemliness. The
windows, particularly that in the south wall of the
chancel, are worthy of notice. The font seems to me
to be of older date than the church, but it is difficult,
if not impossible in Wales, to compute the dates of
works of Art by English standards. A notable in-
stance of this is furnished by the effigy where we find
details of the lady's attire (for instance, the tight
sleeves with buttons along the outside seam), identical
with those in the dress worn by her namesake Margaret
de Camoys, as shown by her brass in Trotton Church,
CO. Sussex, and who died in 1310, or nearly one hundred
years before our foundressi A beautiful drawing of the
effigy has been most kindly made for me by Miss
Edwards : who, I should like to be allowed to hope,
may be induced some day to include Carmarthenshire
in the good work she is doing in Pembrokeshire, in
making drawings of the ancient monuments throughout
the county. And now, before coming to (in the eyes
of archseologists) the most valuable possession of the
church, I should like to invite suggestions as to the origin
of the name Jj\a,ndaivke. It is variously spelt " Dawg"
or " Dawke." In does not appear in the Taxatio.
In the Valor it is Llandawke ; in the Liber, Llandawk
(without the final e). Speed's Map of Carmarthenshire,
1662, gives it as LlanaacA. Leland gives Llanrfou^
and lAsindotighe as a place-name in Glamorganshire,
possibly identical with one of the two churches of that
name (also called Llandoch, or Llandocha), both dedi-
cated to St. Dochdwy, who is said by Rees {Essay^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
SANCTAlDD, AND LLANDAWKfi. 279
p. 219) to haye been a Bishop of the sixth century, to
have accompanied Cadvan to Bardsey, and to have
had the care of the diocese of Llandaff during Teilo s
absence.
If " Dawke or " Dawg" can be made out of *' Doch,"
we may have here another instance of the connection of
Teilo with this district. The Glamorganshire Llan-
dough appears variously as Llanc?ocA, docha, doghe
(1314), aochar, doche, dochey. Other suggestions are,
that in Dawk we have a shortened form of Oudoceus,
who succeeded (Rees, p. 253) his maternal uncle Teilo
(again) as Bishop of Llandaff; or of Cadog, or Cadoc,
whose name not infrequently appears in the shortened
form Doc (another Brychanite, by the way), who founded
Llangadog, in this county. The Toch, in Castell Toch^
— the name of a neighbouring farm to which reference
has already been made — suggests a similar origin.
Another suggestion is that '* Dawke" is a corrupt ren-
dering of "Dog" (in Dogmael), "Dog" standing as
the name of the saint, with " mael " as an added adjec-
tive. We have "Dog" also as the first syllable of
"Dogfan," appearing in the Cognacio as a son of Bry-
chan, said to have been slain at Merthyr Dogfan, in
Dyfed, or Pembrokeshire, and that a church (of which
no trace is left, even the site being unknown) was
consecrated in his memory. And now we come to the
Ogam stone, any description of which I am glad to be
able to leave to Professor Rhys, who has already written
more than once about it, and from whom we may hope
to-day to hear his matured opinion. I will merely say,
that when I first saw the stone, many years ago, it
formed a stepping-stone into the church, whence it was
removed to the vestry, under the tower, and in 1903
to its present and, I hope, final resting-place. A mirror
has been placed against the wall opposite and along
the back of the stone, so that both sides may be seen
without removing the stone.
^ " T" and " D" would, in certain circumstances, be interchange-
ablo in Welsh.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
280 NOTES ON EGLWYS CYMMYN, ETC.
The stone is noticed in —
1. Ogam^ Inscribed Monuments of the GaedhilL R B. Brash,
London, 1879, p. 347, with illustrations.
2. Lapidarium Wallics, J. O. Westwood, Oxford, 1876-9, p. 92
with illustrations.
3. Arch, Camb,, 1867, p. 343 ; 1874, p. 19; 1875, p. 413. This
last was the date of the last visit of the Society.
4. Y Cymmrodor, vol. xviii, 1904, p. 21. Professor Rhys on the
Welsh Englyn, where the Latin inscription is given as an
instance of the uge of " Hexameters" in the Welsh Englyn,
as also is that on the Eglwys Cymmyn stone.
5. The Gentlemaris Magazine for January 7th, 1838, vol. ix,
p. 44. .
6. Lectures on Welsh Philology. John Rhys. London^ 1877,
p. 298.
7. Ogham Inscriptions in Ireland, Wales, and Scotland, Sir
Samuel Ferguson. Edinburgh, 1887, p. 118.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
281
^^;.
CARMARTHEN IN EARLY NORMAN TIMES.
By Professor J. E. LLOYD.
The story of Carmarthen is, in certain of its aspects, a
familiar one, which has often been told and which
scarcely needs re-telling on the occasion of this — the
second — visit of the Association to the historic centre
of the Dimetian country. Its legendary connection
with the wizard Merlin, its importance as a military
station in Roman times, and the part it played as a
royal borough, protected by a strong castle, during the
ages of conflict between Welsh and English, have often
been discussed. There is, however, one period of its
history, and that not the least interesting, to which
little attention has been given ; and it is in the hope
that I may enlist your interest in this neglected period
that I venture to offer the following observations.
I refer to the interval between the Roman occupation
and the emergence of the town (in 1137) as an important
stronghold of Norman power, carried by storm in that
year by Owain and Cadwaladr, the sons of Owain
Gwynedd. There is, of coui'se, a great lack of historical
material for those years ; but the judicious use of what
we have will enable us, I think, to reach some conclu-
sions which will fairly fill the gap between the Mari-
dunum of the Romans and the Carmarthen of the reign
of Stephen. The first point is the identification of
Carmarthen with the Llandeulyddog of the well-known
list of the Seven Bishop-houses of Dyfed. In that list,
which is known to us from the Dimetian Code of the
Laws of Hywel Dda,^ Llandeulyddog stands sixth ; it
was supposed by Rees, the author of the Welsh Saints,
^ Ed. Aneurin Owen, vol. i, p. 668 (Llann Denljdawc) ; vol. ii,
pp, 790, 869.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
282 CARMAtlTHEN tN EARLY NOftMAN TtMKS.
to be " in the southern part of Pembrokeshire' V and
Aneurin Owen, in his edition of the Laws, could only
suggest it was Llandudoch or St. Dogmaels. But in
the Liber Landavensis there is a reference to " lann
toulidauc ig cair mirdin,"^ and the allusion, slight as it
was, did not escape the keen eye of Dr. Gwenogvryn
Evans, who, in his Index,* locates this church definitely
at Carmarthen. It thus becomes plain that Carmarthen,
when the walls of its Roman fort had been dismantled
and its first military period came to an end, began life
again as an important ecclesiastical centre. For the
bishop-houses of this list were not ordinary churches or
ordinary episcopal manors ; what is recorded of them
shows that they were churches of special distinction and
ample resources, served by groups of clergy who in-
herited monastic traditions. Whether the name "es-
gopty" may be taken as proof that each had originally
its bishop, is perhaps open to doubt ; but it is certain
that, when the list was drawn up in its present form,
Llandeulyddog had an abbot, a man of wealth and high
social standing. Now an abbot implies a body of
dependent ecclesiastics, and thus we may proceed to
include the place under the general denomination of
** Clas"; it belonged to that type, of which there are so
many examples in the early Middle Ages, both in North
and South Wales, viz., the primitive monastery still
retaining some monastic features, such as the title of
abbot, but converted in practice into a group of secular
clergy.
Llandeulyddog had an endowment of lands, and this
partially accounts for its appearance in the Liber Landa-
vensis. According to the legend of St. Teilo, Teulyddog
was onQ of his disciples,* and the church of LlandafiP,
1 Welsh Saints, p. 253,
^ Ed. Gwenogvrjn Evans, p. 62. On p. 124, " rairdin" baa
dropped out. 3 p, 409.
-* Ibid., p. 115 (Toulidaac). The "dd" is not only to be naturally
inferred from the Old Welsh form, bat is actually found in the
poems of Lewis Glyn Cothi. — See the Oxford (1837) edition, p. 49 :
** Mac Teilaw iddaw ; mae Telyddog."
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CAtlMARTHEK IN KARLY KORMAN TIMBS. 283
under the energetic leadership of Bishop Urban, was
for claiming as the inalienable property of that see, not
only all the Teilo churches in South Wales, but also
those which bore the names of his disciples. The fight,
in this case against St. David's, was waged for many
years, but without success ; with the death of Urban
in 1133 (or 1134), all the spirit died out of it, and St.
David's was suflFered to enjoy without question its
authority over the Teilo churches west of the Tawe,
and, among them, over Llandeulyddog.
Until the death of Rhys ap Tewdwr in 1093, this
district was not aff*ected by the Norman Conquest.
But, immediately after that ciniel blow to the hopes of
the men of South Wales, Norman invaders poured into
Ceredigion, Dyfed, and Ystrad Tywi. While the west
of Dyfed was given by Rufus to Arnulf Montgomery,
the first builder of Pembroke Castle, its eastern half
was bestowed upon William fitz-Baldwin, who was
a cousin of Gilbert fitz-Richard (the first Norman Lord
of Ceredigion), and succeeded his father, Baldwin de
Meules, as Sheriff of the County of Devon.^ William,
it may be remarked, was not the only Devonshire man
who joined in the attack upon South Wales during this
reign ; Richard of Grain ville, the conqueror of the
Neath Valley, was of Bideford ;* the fitz-Martins, who
settled in Cemais, came thither from the neighbourhood
of llfracombe,* and the founder of Whitland Abbey
was a John of Torrington.* The natural issue of the
grant to William was the building of a castle to secure
the new lordship, and this was placed, not at Car-
marthen, where the "clas" were left for the time in
1 Brut y Tyurysogion, od. Ab Ithel, 8. a. 1094 (i-eally 1096) ;
Roand, Feudal England, p. 330.
^ He gave a reut of twenty shillings ia Littlehara, hard by Bide-
ford, to Neath Abbey when he founded this house in 1130. — Afonast,
Angl, V, 259.
3 Owen's Pembroleshire, ©d. Dr. Henry Owen, pp. 430*2.
* Mona^t. Angl. (new edit), v. 591 : Royal Charters ofCarmnrHien,
ed. Alcwyn C. Evans (1878), p. 73.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
284 CARMARTHEN IN feAllLY NOtlMAN ttMEfil.
undisturbed occupation of the old ** caer" or fort, but a
mile lower down the river, at Rhvd y Gors. For a few
years, therefore, nothing is heard of Carmarthen, and
the place it occupied later as the chief stronghold of the
district is temporarily filled by Rhyd y Gors. The
history of this castle was so short that, so far as I
know, no remains of it have survived ; not even its site
is certainly known. In the general upheaval of 1094,
when the Welsh of Deheubarth rose in revolt againpt
their new masters, it was one of two castles (Pembroke
being the other) which survived in Dyfed and Ceredi-
fion. In 1096, William died while the revolt was at its
eight; this so discouraged the garrison that they
abandoned Rhyd y Gors, probably retiring by sea to
their Devonshire homes. The district then for a few
years relapsed into Welsh hands. Henry I, indeed,
recognised the claim of Richard fitz- Baldwin to succeed
to what his brother had held in Wales, but Richard
made no attempt to enter into possession until 1105,
when he gave orders for the rebuilding of the castle.^
Hostilities now followed with the Welsh lord of Kid-
welly, a commote which marches with Dyfed from the
mouth of the Towy to Abergwili. Hywel ap Gronw
attempted to destroy the rising fortress which so
seriously menaced the peace of his borders, but in
vain ; in 1106 he was himself slain by the treachery of
one of his own men, acting in concert with the garrison
of Rhyd y Gors.* In this way Norman supremacy in
the district was assured.
This is the last mention of Rhyd y Gors Castle, which
at this point drops silently out of history, together
with the claims of Richard fitz-Baldwin. Though
Richard lived until 1136, and continued to be one of
the great men of his county, he played no further part
in the affairs of South Wales, and never again put
forward any claim — so far as is known — to exercise
authority in the valley of the Towy. When light is
^ Bj-ut y Tywt/sogion^ s. a. 1102.
' Ibid,, 8. a. 1103.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CAKMAUTHEN IN EARLY NORMAN TIMES. 285
next thrown on the affairs of the district, in 1109,
Walter of Gloucester, sheriff of that county, and one of
Henry's active officials, is found at Carmarthen,^ and it
is clear that the first steps are being taken for the
building on the spot of a royal stronghold, to supersede
Rhyd y Gors, and to keep Welsh prince and Norman
baron alike in check in the interests of the Crown. We
next come to the year of the rising of Giniffydd ap
Rhys, who, in 1116, rallied around him the youth of
South Wales in an effort to regain the lost crown of
Deheubarth. Enthusiasm was on the side of Gruffydd,
but the movement did not commend itself to the more
experienced Welsh leadera, who knew the strength of
Henry's position, and many of them took the king's
side. Among these was Owain ap Caradog, a chieftain
of Cantref Mawr, who, in return for his loyalty, was
entrusted with the defence, during a particular fortnight,
of Carmarthen Castle. It chanced, unhappily for him,
that the attack of Gruffydd was delivered during
Owain's term of office as guardian of the Castle.
Advancing incautiously to meet the foe, he found
himself without support, and was overwhelmed and
slain.* The enemy forthwith destroyed the " rhag-
gastell," or outworks, but failed to capture the **twr,"
or keep : a distinction which shows that the first Castle
of Carmarthen was of the type commonly found in this
age. It had a mote, or mound, crowned with a tower
or donjoUj and surrounded by a ditch ; while an outer
court, or bailey, adjoined the ditch, having its own
defences.
Later in the same year,^ when Owain ap Cadwgan,
of Powys, had taken the field against the insurgents, a
party of them is found fleeing for protection to Car-
marthen, where they were treated with some indul-
gence. Owain himself showed them no mercy ; but as
he was carrying them off as prisoners, he was overtaken
^ Bnit y Tywyiogion, b. a. 1106, p. 88 (Gwallter ncheluaer Kaer
lioyw).
2 Ibid., pp. 124, 120. 3 Pp. 136, 138.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
286 CARMARTHEN JN EARLY NORMAN TIMES.
by Gerald of Windsor — with whom, since the affair of
Cenarth Bychan, he had been in bitter feud — and a
force of Flemings from Rhos, and, being thus taken by
surprise, was forthwith slain. The chronicle explains
how Gerald and his Flemings happened to be at
Carmarthen. They were there to meet the King's son
— the young William who was heir to the Crown, and
who, being now thirteen years of age, had on March 19th
of this year received at Salisbury the homage of the
great men of the land.^ The incident is one more
iUustration of the fact that Carmarthen had now
become a centre of royal administration for South-
West Wales. Homage was no doubt done to William
here by the Norman and the Welsh magnates of the
district, whose jealous watchfulness of each other's
doings had not allowed them to travel to Salisbury.
The new castle of Carmarthen had not been placed
within the limits of the Roman fortress, but on a height
a few yards to the west, on the very brink of the river
Towy. The little settlement of foreign tradei-s and
artisans which, under the name of a **burgus/' or
borough, was generally planted at the foot of an
important castle, also lay outside the old fort to the
north of the castle. Thus arose a distinction which
persisted until 1764 between Old and New Carmarthen,
the Vetus and the Nova Villa, or Civitas.* New
Carmarthen was a royal borough, of which the first
known charter dates from the reign of John,' but which
had no doubt from the beginning such special privileges
as would attract to the spot the settlers so necessary
for the comfort and ease of the garrison. Old Car-
marthen remained an ecclesiastical preserve, still under
the protection of the venerable and mysterious Teuly-
ddog.* In the corner of the old fort nearest to the
^ Florence of Worcester.
2 Spnrreirs Carmarthen, 1879, p. 24.
5 Royal Charters, p. 1.
^ See, for instance, No. 135 in the Cartulary of Carmarthen
Priory, in which ** Thomas, prior monasterii Saucti Johannis Evan-
geliste de KermerdTn, dominns Veteris Yille de Kermerdyn,"
claims a number of franchises.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CARMARTHEN IN EARLY NORMAN TIMES. 287
town and Castle a new church was built in honour of
St. Peter, and this was the ordinary resort, no doubt,
of the burgesses and the garrison, though Llandeulyddog
continued to be the mother-church, with the right to
receive the tithes of its extensive parish, which included
Llan Gain, Llanllwch, and Eglwys Newydd. About
1120, however, an inoportant change took place. It
was the policy of the Norman conquerors to establish
in their lordships, in close proximity to the principal
castle, a monastic house, generally a cell of some
English or foreign abbey, which would secure for theui
on the spot the advantages of spiritual support in their
long and weary struggle with tne Welsh. It was also
their policy to break up where they could the organisa-
tion of the " clas," an institution which made no appeal
to them, since its monastic features had become attenu-
ated almost beyond recognition, and it corresponded
to no ecclesiastical type of high repute with which they
were familiar. Thus Henry I was but following in the
footsteps of his marcher vassals, when he gave Llan-
deulyddog to the great abbey of Battle, in Sussex,
which his father had founded in memory of the victory
of Hastings. The chronicle of the abbey says that, in
the time of Abbot Ralph (110M124) the King, of his
great love for the Abbey, bestowed upon it " a certain
church in Wales, founded in honour of St. Peter the
Apostle, and situated in the city called Carmarthen
(Chsermerdi), with all its appendant rights, to be freely
and quietly possessed for ever. He also gave another
church, founded there in remote ages in honour of St.
Theodore the Martyr (a bold shot at the unknown
Teulyddog !), and land therewith not far distant which
is called Pentewi ; because he thought this would be
advantageous, it being very fruitful in corn."^
The next figure who appears in the history of
Carmarthen is Bishop Bernard, of St. David's. Bernard
was the first Norman bishop of that See, appointed in
1 Chronic(yn Monasterii de Bdlo^ LondoD, 1846, pp. 55, 56,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
288 CAKMARTHEN IN BARLY NORMAN TIMES.
1115 in direct furtherance of Henry's policy of subju-
gating the Welsh church to the royal power, so that its
influence might no longer be used on behalf of the
Welsh in the struggle between the two races. The
Bishop had a manor at Abergwili, and no doubt often
visited Carmarthen. He was anxious to strengthen
the new colony established there, and thought that,
instead of the little cell of Battle,* a more imposing
foundation might be placed there, and one, too, more
dependent upon himself He was in favour at Court,
having been one of Queen Matilda's chaplains, and he
used his position to press this matter persistently upon
the king, to the annoyance of the monks of Battle.
At last, on the occasion of the election of a new abbot,
in 1125, he carried his point. The King transferred to
Bernard the Carmarthen possessions of Battle, and
gave that Abbey compensation in Hampshire.* Bernard
now instituted at Llandeulyddog a house of Regular
Canons of the Augustinian pattern, under the govern-
ment of a prior. There was a re-dedication of the church
to St. John the Evangelist, and the official style of the
place now becomes '* the church of St. John the
Evangelist and St. Theuloc of Carmarthen." Teu-
lyddog's name is in this form so abbreviated that some
have supposed that the real patron was St. Teilo, but
there can be no doubt in the mind of anyone who has
carefully followed the sequence of events.
The Cartulary of the Black Canons of Carmarthen
has, fortunately, been preserved in a seventeenth-
century transcript, now in the Peniarth collection. It
was printed from this MS. (Hengim^t MS. 440^) by
^ That a cell was actually established is shown by the langnage
of the ChroDicIe : '* abi jam fratres ad Deo serTiendam adunati
fuerant"(p. 61).
2 Ibid.j pp. 61, 62. See also J. H. Round's volame of ^iicten^
Charters, edited for the Pipe Roll Society (vol. x, 1888), pp. 27, 28.
3 Described in Arch, Camb,, 4th Ser., vol. ii, p. 105. Not being a
MS. in the Welsh language, it is not calendared in Dr. G-wenogvryn
Evans's Report,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CABMARTflEN IN EARLY NORMAN TIMES. 289
Sir Thomas Phillips, of Middle Hill, in 1865 ; but the
edition was a very limited one/ and copies are now not
easily obtained. This is, perhaps, the reason why so
little use has been made of the material here available
for the history of the priory, borough, and district.
The documents belong in the main to the fourteenth
century, but there are some of earlier date, and a few
which go back to the first years of the priory's exist-
ence. Henry Us charter of 1176-1184, confirming to
the priory the gifts of earlier benefactors, is known
from the collection of Royal Charters relating to the
town and county, published by Mr. Alcwyn Evans in
1878.^ But in the Cartulary several of the original
grants are preserved, and with their aid it is possible
to tell the story of the first endowment of the house.
The nucleus was furnished by the first Henry's grant
of the **Vetus Civitas" of Carmarthen; with the
churches of St. Peter and of St. Teulyddog, the Castle
chapel, and all other chapels attached to these two ;
and in addition a carucate of land at Pentewi, i.e.,
Pentjrwyn, in the parish of Llanstephan, near the
outlet of the Taf. In the Cariulam^ is a letter addressed
\rj Bishop Bernard to Maurice fitz-Gerald, who was
Lord of Llanstephan,^ warning him that '* Pentewi "
has been given to the canons, and that he must on no
account interfere with it. The bishop was himself a
donor to the priory. He gave, no doubt, out of the
lands of the See, two carucates in Cymau,*^ a couple of
miles to the west of the town, and thus was established
the connection commemorated to this day in the name
Maes y Prior. One of the knights of the Carmarthen
district, named Alfred Drue, whose lands lay between
^ The list of names of subscribers (iDolnding Jesas College,
Oxford, and the Royal Institution. Swansea) suggests that only
twenty-three copies appeared. The printer was John Lowe, of
Cheltenham.
* It is contained in an " inspeximus'* of 31 Henry III (pp. 4-6).
8 No. 36.
* Qir. Camb., Dt Behus a Se Gestis, lib. i, cap. 9 (Works, i, 59).
« No. 26.
6th 8KB., VOL. VII. 19
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
290 CA.RMARTHEN IN EA.RLY NORMAN TIMK8.
the Towy and the Cy wyn, gave the church of Llangain,
with one carucate of land. This became the property
known as Maenor Grain.^ Lastly, a person whose
identity is somewhat disguised in the charters, but who
may safely be identified with Bledri ap Cydifor, ances-
tor of the Lords of Cilsant, gives, between 1129 and
1134, four carucates in Eglwys Newydd, or Newchurch.^
Bledri appears in the charters of the Priory as
''Bledericus Latimerus," i.e., interpreter, the Welsh
*' lladmerydd." It is thus suggested that he acted as
an intermediary between the authorities at Carmarthen
and his fellow countrymen, and the idea derives con-
firmation from other sources. Bledri was one of the
Welshmen who adhered to the King in the commotion
of 1116 ;^ he was entrusted with the defence of a castle
belonging to one " Robert Lawgam,"* or " Courtemain,"
as he is called by the compiler of Brut y Saeson, who
may be the same as the '* Robertus cum tortis manibus,"
mentioned in the Liber Landavensis,^ but is otherwise
unknown. Th6 site of the castle is also not easy to
identify, but it may have stood at the mouth of the
Cywyn.® Bledri further appears as a partially Norman-
ised Welshman in another historical source for this
period, to which I wish to draw special attention, as it
is very rarely used for Welsh history — I mean the Pipe
1 No. 34.
^ See the oonfirmatioQ by Henry I (No. 33). The grant was
renewed by BleHri's Ron Gruffydd iu the time of Bishop Dayid
fitz-Gemld (No. 32). i.e., between 1148 and 1176.
^ Brut y Tywy$ogion, ed. Ab Ithel, p. 126.
^ The 'Maw^n*' of the Red Hook of Hergeat (ed. lilies and Evans,
vol. ii, p. 297; is a mistake for " lawgam " See the text of the
(older) Mostyn MS, 116, as given by Dr. Gwenogvryn E/ans, in his
Report (vol. i, p. 59).
^ Ed. Evans, p. 93.
• Abercywyn appears in Lib, Land,, p. 124, as *'Aper couin."
If the second part of the name were written **oouaT," it might easily
yield the ** cofwy*' of Mostyn MS. 116 and the Red Booh Brut y
Saeson has "comnyn" (Myvyrtan Arduiioloyy, second ed., p. 673,
col. 2).
Digitized by VjOOQIC
CARMARTHEN IN EARLY NORMAN T[MES. 291
Roll of the thirty-first year of Henry I.^ In this record,
which shows what payments were due from and made
by sheriffs and similar officers to the Royal Exchequer
in Michaelmas, 1130, a glimpse — ^alas, too brief! — is
afforded to us of the state of affairs in South- West
Wales towards the close of Henry's reign. I will only
cite a few entries of special interest from the Car-
marthen section of the Roll : " Bledri the Welshman
owes twenty shillings in atonement for the murder of a
Fleming by his men."* A little lower down, he appears
among a number of knights who owe various sums for
the last aid due to the King.^ Alfred Drue, the bene-
factor of the Priory, has his place in the list, though it
is said the debt was incurred in the time of his father,
Anschetil. He has only just succeeded to his father's
fief, and still owes sixty shillings in respect thereof.*
" Bleddyn of Mabudrud (the region around Pencader)
and his brothers owe seven marks of silver for carrying
off the daughter of BUdri by force."* And lastly,
"the men of Cantref Mawr owe 40 shillings for the
slaughter of a man of the Bishop of Salisbury."® The
powerful Roger of Salisbury is shown by a charter of
Kidwelly Priory to have held the commote of that
' Edited for the Reoord Commissioa bj Josepb Hanfcer in 1833.
^ ** Blehericas Waleasis debet xx solidos proconoordia Flandreasis
qaem homines sui interfeoerant" (p. 89).
^ " Bleliericus Walensis debet i roarcam argenti de eodem aaxilio"
(ihid.),
^ '* Alnredas filios Anschetil drine i maroam argenti de eodem
auxih'o de tempore patris sai" (ibid.) : " Alaredas filias Ansdietil
Drine debet Ix solidos pro terra patris sui" (p. 90).
* ** Blehien de Mabaderi et fratres sui debent vii marcas argenti
pro filia Bleheri quam vi rapuerunt" (p. 90). For the situation of
Mabndrnd, which was one of the seven commotes of Cantref Mawr,
see the volume of Appendices to the Report of the Welsh Land Com-
mission (fiondon, 1896), p. 442, and cf. Lewis Dwnn, Heraldic
VisitatioTiSj i, 148 (Glan Blodenn), where the text has '' Mab
Edvich."
• ** Homines de Oatmanr [probably for Ca? maur] debent xl
solidos pro homine episcopi Saresburiensis quern occiderunt"
(p. 90).
192
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
292 CARMARTHEN IN EARLY NORMAN TIMES.
name in the middle of the reign of Henry ;^ and as Kid-
welly and Cantref Mawr were contiguous between
Abergwili and Merlin s Hill, it is not surprising that
conflicts should have arisen such as gave occasion for
the imposition of this fine.
Thus, when the " Lion of Justice," who had kept
South Wales so well under his control, died on Decem-
ber 1st, 1135, Carmarthen had attained the position it
was to hold for so many centuries as the chief military
and administrative centre of the Crown in these regions.
Its castle was built, its borough settled, its priory
endowed, and its oflScers installed for the transaction of
the King's business
1 Monast. Anglicy vol iv, pp. 64-5. The grant here recorded was
made before the death of Bishop Wilfrid, of St. David's, in 1115,
and the promotion of Prior Turstin to the dignity of Abbot in 1122.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
293
THE CAPEL MAIR STONE.
By Professor JOHN RHYS» M.A., D.Litt.
Lewis, in his Topographical Dictionary (vol. ii, dated
1844), mentions a chapel of ease dedicated to St. Mary,
and thence called Capel Mair, in the Carmarthenshire
parish of Llangeler ; but he says that even then the
chapel had ** been entirely demolished." He adds the
words : — ** A monumental stone, bearing an inscription
in rude characters, and said to be in the Welsh lan-
guage, is still remaining. *' From this it does not
appear that Lewis had seen the stone.
In the year 1855 Westwood {LapidaHum Wallice,
p. 93) was informed by Longueville Jones that the
stone " was broken to pieces by the farmer who occupied
the land some years previously, because people tres-
passed on his land to see it."
The Rev. E. L. Barnwell wrote in the Journal of the
Cambrian Archaeological Association for 1872, p. 67,
that he was informed by Mr. R. Randall Roberts, that
the latter " was unable to find any trace of letters or
oghams on the stone, which is near Capel Mair." He
adds that ** some of the residents say that it had some
characters on it, and that a wax (?) impression was sent
to a gentleman in London, whose name could not be
ascertained. It is," he goes on to say, ** in a farmyard
near Capel Mair, where it was originally found. The
stone is about b^ ft. long, and 2 ft. broad." He then
mentions a ** copy kindly sent" to him by Mr. Spurrell of
Carmarthen ; and, in passing, he states that the stone
was originally found in 1828.
In September, 1875,1 wrote to the Journal of the
Cambrian Archaeological Association, p. 371, that I called
on Mr. George Spurrell at Carmarthen, and that he gave
me the reading of the Latin version as deca bar-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
294 tHft OAPEL MAlR STONE.
BALOM I FiLivs BROCAQN-, while the Ogam was Deccai-
hanvdihdis. I recognise the latter as my own translitera-
tion of the scoring which he showed me. I began my
note by stating that Mr. Spurrell informed me, " that
some time a,go he handed to one of our leading archaeo-
logists a detailed account of the inscribed stone at
Capel Mair.*' This was probably the copy which Mr.
Barnwell mentioned in 1872, as received by him from
Mr. Spurrell, a reference which I had forgotten, if I had
ever noticed it.
In June, 1876, an important note was sent to the
Journal^ and pubh'shed in the July number, p. 236, by
the Rev. Aaron Roberts, then Vicar of Newchurch, to
the following effect: — '* About the year 1828 there was
an inscribed stone near St Mary s Chapel, Llan Geler.
The inscription was obliterated some years ago by
a meddlesome bucolic. Fortunately, however, the
Rev. David Morgan, Knightsford, Newchurch, at that
time Viciir of Llan Geler, took a sketch of the stone
and inscription thereon. One, in Roman capitals, was
DECA BARBALOM FiLius BROCAGN. On the ridge above,
or rather sideways, was an inscription in Ogham. As
this latter appears in the copy I have I cannot make
anything out of it. The sketch by Mr. Morgan was
found among the papers of the late Captain David
Davies, Trawsmawr, by his executor, Mr. George
Spurrell, to whom I am indebted for my ability to
place it on record.'' Captain Davies was probably in-
terested in sculptured and inscribed stones : at any
rate several were brought together in his grounds —
see Westwood's Lap. WallicSy pp. 88, 89.
It was, I think, after the publication of this letter of
Mr. A. Roberts, that I made his acquaintance at Aber-
gwili under circumstances which I have forgotten : I
believe it was also from him that I got another
reading, beginning with DECAPARBEILOM. About that
time I visited Capel Mair, and failed to find anybody
who could tell me anything about the inscription. It
is true that a stone was shown me which was alleged
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE CAPEL MAIR STONE. 295
to have on^been inscribed and then to have had the
writing on^t effaced, but I could discover nothing
calculated to corroborate that story.
From these statements it seems that the inscribed
stone was known at Capel Mair about the year 1828,
whether that was the date of its discovery or not.
It was broken to pieces some years before 1855, and
the reason for the tenant's action is said to have been
the fact, that people who came to see it trespassed on
his land. It cannot have been the stone in the farm-
yard shown to me and others.
There is evidence which will be mentioned presently
that the obliteration story does not apply to the stone
with the inscription deca, etc. Of this stone a copy
came into the possession of Mr. George Spurrell, who
gave it, or a copy of it — probably the former — to Mr.
Barnwell, who passed it on to Mr. West wood for his
Lapida/iium WallicB, where it has been figured in
Plate 47. But Mr. Spurrell kept the original copy, or a
copy of it — probably the latter — as he was able to give
Mr. A. Roberts a copy — a bad one, as the latter gentle-
man suggests. I suspect Roberts's reading of it was
partly to blame.
At all events, the copy which Spurrell allowed me to
tnmscribe cannot have been a bad one, though I forget
what it looked like. Mr. Spurrell may have given
away more copies, but they must have been copies
direct or indirect of the one made by Morgan, the
Vicar of Llangeler. In fact, there seems to be no trace
of the existence of any copy independent of the one by
Morgan. For the version decaparbeilom is easily ac-
counted for as a misreading of one of Spurrells copies,
by neglecting the lower portion of the bipartite B
so as to bungle it into P ; and similarly El was guessed
out of a carelessly formed A with its top possibly
square. So we are confined to the one copy, namely,
that made by Morgan, or at any rate handed down
by him.
Now, Morgan 8 copy having, as already suggested.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
296 THE OA^^lL MAlB StON£.
passed through the hands of Spurrell, Barnwell, and
Westwood, has been deposited among the Carmarthen-
shire ** Rubbings for West wood's LapidariumWaMicB'' in
the Bodleian Library. The shelf-mark of the volume is
" MS. Top. Caermarthenshire, a, l,"and our document
is on an open sheet of notepaper, there paged (in pencil)
258. Below the sketch of the stone come jottings in
pencil by Westwood, one of which mentions the fact
that Lewis alludes to the stone, and how it was broken
to pieces ; also stating that this copy reached West-
wood from Barnwell in July, 1871. In the right-hand
bottom corner, in red ink, one reads as follows : ** From
George Spurrell, Carmarthen, May 4th, 1871." This
was probably written by Spurrell when sending the
paper away to Barnwell. In the left-hand bottom
corner one reads the following, Fig. 2 :
" Found about
1828, when
Rev. David Morgan
(Of Kuightsford) was Vicar."
This is in black ink, but apparently in the same hand
as the entry in red. I take it that it was made by
Spurrell when the copy came into his possession. We
have an older hand in the description of the copy itself:
" Representation of a stone found near Saint Mary's
Chapel in the Parish of Llangeler, Carmarthenshire."
This may be in Morgan's own hand ; at any rate, it
probably dates before 1855 and the final smashing of
the stone. To render all this clear to the reader, I
have had the sheet of notepaper photographed, in-
cluding West wood's attempt (in pencil) to read the
Ogam scores in the wrong direction. The sheet has
been cut in two for reproduction, as Figs. 1 and 2.
The capitals have the appearance of forming a very
s^couvixte facsimile of the original. Fig. 1. The extremely
bipartite look of the B must have been suggested by the
original, and the form of the R is also well known.
The straggling shape of the M is familiar elsewhere, and
so is the sloping top of the F ; but the bottom portion
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
a
eS
H ^
S "s
n u
s s
GO >>
^ II
SO O
it
B |.§
02 la
•H O
6
S
s
Digitized by VjOOQIC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
triB OAtBL MAttt STONE. 29^
of the s has incorporated with it some accidental scratch
which was no portion of the letter as cut on the stone.
Lastly, a horizontal i at the end of a line was to be
expected. I treat the reading i\a making the following
epitaph : piLh^^ROCAGm ^^^'^ Decabar Balom, name
and epithet, in the nominative case, without the usual
ending us added on to make them into Latin as
Decabarus Balomus,
It will be observed that when the copy was made,
the stone appears to have been broken at its lower end.
This did not touch the Roman lettering, but it did the
Ogam, near its commencement. For, as usual, the Ogam
read in the direction contrary to the Latin, and a very
jagged breakage is suggested as occurring across the
face of the stone, in such a manner as to sever the first
vowel from the consonant following it. As it stands,
Morgan gives the following scores : —
II Mil \ III MM . I MM . . . I II MM,
^TT ' '"" I ' Mill III ' II I ""• III!
Deht ca i ban Vatobd i s
Now, the third symbol is not such : it has been copied
as if sloping backwards to meet the breakage, and
form a sort of delta with it. Had it been a letter
it could only be h, but it should really be counted
with the 1_LL following, and with it form MM, that is
another c. We should thus have JJ_LJ_L!_U., cc. It is
possible that the inclination of the two consonants was
intended to be diflferent, vn\_J_LM , in order to make
the reading easier. In any case we should thus have
decc corresponding to the dec of the Latin, in fact,
Deccaiban corresponding to decabar. Here one cannot
hesitate long between n and r. In Ogam they are
respectively ppTTf and ////^ , so one can hardly doubt
that the r has it, or avoid concluding that the con-
tinuations of the r scores on the left of the edge had
been worn away or so damaged that they escaped the
eye of the copyist. This suggests the meting-out of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
298 THfe CAPEL kAltl STONlS.
similar treatment to the Ogam j, 6, and the regarding
it as originally r m ; but one has no excuse here for
doing so, as the spelling with b would have to be
treated as the more correct, as will be pointed out
later. For the present, suflSce it to say that both b
and m would here have their mutational value of v.
Then, as regards the initials of balom and of the Ogmic
valoby one need only mention the fact that in Late
Latin 6 had the values cf b and v from the fourth
century down. It follows here that whether you wrote
BALOM in Roman letters or valob in Ogam, the pronun-
ciation was approximately valov, possibly for an earlier
walob; but this means allowing the vowels a and o
Erovisionally to stand. The latter is suggested by the
atin spelUng balom, and the other is adopted from
the copy of the Ogam version, though it fails conspi-
cuously to fill the space between the Ogam scores on
both sides of it. The guesses made thus far may be
represented as follows : —
I I ■ I I ■ I I I I I I I I I I ///// ■ ' , ■ I I ■ I I M
.1.1 ...... I . ///// I I I < I I M I "'1.1111
De c ca i bar Vatobd i s
One or two points may be mentioned in relation to
the making of the copy of the Ogam legend; for
instance, there are traces of its having l^en taken
down in pencil before it was inked, and there is evi-
dence of at least one correction : the last score ot
III I II — r is preceded by a score made in pencil ; the
pencilling appears to have been rubbed out, but the
groove made by the pencil remains, and can be detected
in the original photograph. Before proceeding any
further, I have the pleasure of introducing a fact or two
of another order. One day, in the month of March, 1901,
a Mr. Jones, a Welsh undergraduate of this University,
and a native of the neighbourhood of Llangeler, called
and left me a copy of two pieces of the lost stone, with
lettering as follows : —
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
TUB OAt>Bt MAIR STONB.
299
O
Fig. 3. — Sketch of the two Existing Fragments of the Capel Mair Inscribed
Stone made by Mr. Jones, of Llangeler.
It did not appear to me then how the Ogam on Jones's
larger piece would fit the Morgan copy ; so it was put
by till the other day, when I received from the Editor
of this Journal a cutting from the Western Mail for
January 23rd, 1900: it consisted of a letter, signed
'* Thomas Williams, Oakland, Drefach, Llandyssil."
Mr. Williams provided his letter with a sketch of the
bigger fragment as below : —
Fig. 4. — Sketch of the bigger of the same two Fragments given by
Mr. Thomas Williams in the Wettem Mail for January 23rd, 1900.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
306 THb OAPEL MAlii, STOKB.
The diflFerence between the two sketches suggested
to me that possibly neither was quite accurate, and I
guessed that the original scoring intended was —
1 1
1 1
-^ = o6c/, or III , I'=u6c?,
the d being the beginning of Morgan's syllable dis.
That is how I would have fitted the fragment into the
Morgan copy of the stone ; but how mistaken my guess
has proved will be seen immediately.
After speculating thus far, I wrote to the Rev. W.
James, of Llandyssul, and to Mr. Thomas Williams,
making various enquiries about the fragments. The
result was that Mr. James went to Capel Mair with
James Jones, the mason, who found the fragments
in 1900, when he was engaged as head-mason on
the outbuildings of Tan y Capel, a farmhouse within
earshot of the supposed site of old Capel Mair. His
men were pulling down the old cowhouse, built
about 1828, in order to lay the foundations of an-
other. One of them called his attention to a piece of
stone with letters. He (James Jones) told the man to
throw it aside, as well as any other piece that might
turn up. He had heard of the Capel Mair stone, and
thought that the whole stone might be discovered, but
only the two pieces came to light. This is a portion of
the mason s account, as reported to me last February
by Mr. James. The discovered pieces were, for a time,
kept at the farmhouse, but latterly they appear to have
been deposited in the grounds of the New Church or
new Capel Mair (opened in September, 1899), namely,
** just near the foundation stone." Mr. James and the
mason discovered that both pieces were there till quite
lately ; but they failed entirely to trace the smaller bit.
The stones belong to Colonel Lewes, of Llysnewydd,
the owner of Tan y Capel, who has been so extremely
obliging as to send me the bigger fragment for me to
study it at leisure.
My friend Professor Sol las describes the fragment
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE CAPEL MAIR STONE.
301
as grey fine-grained siliceous grit, and it measures
1 ft. 4^ ins. long by about 11 ins. wide, and 2 ins.
or 2^ ins. thick. The surface is rough and very un-
even.
It will have been noticed that the top of the stone, as
represented in the Morgan copy, is impossible as a piece
of sketching : some of the lines appear to me to be drawn
to supersede the others, that is, the copyist tried to cor-
rect himself. The top of the stone is more as represented
in Mr. Jones's sketch of the bigger fragment, except
that he makes the stone rather too much broken to-
wards the right-hand corner, and that the left-hand
X5orner should appear more rounded, which, however, is
of no consequence here, as it had no writing. All these
points will be better understood by glancing at the
following sketch made from my rubbing with the aid
Pig. 5. — Extant Fragment of Capel Mair Stone : View of Front.
Scale, i linear.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
302 THE CAPBL MAIR STONE.
of photographs. The greatest surprise to rae, how-
tver, was to find Morgan's ' ' { { ] j | ... all on the top
edge of the stone ; so that his . ■ ■ 1 i ■ i should end
at the corner. Thus Morgan turns out to have put all
the writing on a single straight line, which may have
been done from motives of convenience; but when one
moves his ' ' [ j 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 to the top edge, one perceives
how greatly his copy of the Ogam on the side edge is
out of scale. Where, then, comes the bigger fragment
with the Ogams represented by Mr. Jones, as » ' i ' ' ?
The vowel, rightly copied by him, may have been misread
by Morgan as yj-j- = v, whicn was very easy to do, because
the edge there slopes away very gently : it requires
careful observation to see that the imaginary line of
the edge is crossed by the scores. Thus it. is with
Morgan's j-pp that the fragment begins : Morgan has
marked one notch in the interval which follows between
his j-j-| and his Tr = ^; but, as already indicated, the
single notch by no means fills the gap, and there the
fragment has what Jones has copied as a jm sloping
parallel to the vowel notches (Fig. 3) ; but those two
scores slope much more, and cannot be read, in my
opinion, as anything other than the left half of a // = 5^.
From the imperfect j-f on to the corner, the- edge is all
gone, having evidently been hammered oflp; and it leaves
a crack which defines a flake that has not come off. So
we have to supply the two consonants jT ^^^ T ^'^^^
Morgan 8 copy, and an intervening o from his balom :
thus we get —
If, as I hope to show presently, we have here the
Goidelic etymological equivalent of what is given in
the Latin version as BALOM, we have to complete the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE CAPEL MATR STONB. 303
legend as hugloh, with the initial 6 of balom ; or else
with another spelling , . . [ } [. V . . | ] . , vuglob, with the
jj7j which the lost bit copied by Mr. Jones serves to
supply : at any rate, there seems to be no use for that
bit elsewhere. This means that Morgan in his copy has
accidentally left out the Ogam for v, namely, yj-i > unless
one should rather regard the omission as a part of the
error which has yielded us his yjj for [ j ] • That is to
say, for 1 1 1 1 1 1 he has given us only the first of the two
sets of three digits. The insertion of it goes now some
way to lengthen his line of scores on the side edge of
the stone, and to bring his copy so much the nearer
to scale.
The vocable in question, whether vuglob or some
similar spelling, I regard as having occupied the edge up
to the right-hand corner of the stone ; but the original
corner and the adjacent part of the edge of the top of
the stone have been hammered off. One seems, how-
ever, to detect on the top near the present corner of the
stone just the left ends of an Ogam J-L= d; the broken
edge towards the left would have supplied room for
' '^^ = i, after which we come to traces of
■tki
I I I I -7 ^*
ese consist of the upper ends of the scores reaching
towards the edge, for lower down the back of the stone
the hollows representing them are very faint and ill-
defined, because the stone shows signs of having scaled
there : in fact, there are still bits there which are not far
from getting loose. This is not all, for the s scores are
followed by a final vowel j {-n-lr*, the notches of which
are not hard to trace. It is strange that Morgan did
not copy them as part of the writing. The piece of the
edge with these vowel-notches thins out somewhat in a
weage-like fashion, so the notches are to be seen from
the front as gaps in the rim, but the bottom of each
hollow has been smoothed and rounded. The com-
parative thinness of the edge made them look un-
like the other vowels on the stone ; certainly unlike
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
304 THE CAPBL MAIR STONE.
the jjj which Morgan copied as j-pp, where there was
no proper edge at all. This is probably the explana-
tion why Morgan did not regard what followed his
II
1 1 1 1 1
1,1, ■ . ■ . as forming part of the lettering. Lastly,
it is of some importance for the reading to mention
that these vowel-notches showing from the front of the
stone diflPer in that respect decidedly from the upper
ends of the scores for 5, for these latter are situated
distinctly more on the back. The whole of the Ogam
on the top of the stone may be approximately repre-
sented thus : -^ V:V:^ , m !f n = ^^^^•
Helped by the conjectural emendations which I have
indicated, and the corrections warranted by the frag-
ments, the complete version in Ogam may be represen-
ted as having originally read as follows . —
2 €^ CL c A / /^''r
Fig. 6. — Ogam Inscription on the Capel Mair Stone restored.
Now that I have done all I can to establish the
Ogam text of the inscription, it may be pointed out
that the fragments found in the cowhouse walls in
1900 establish the substantial accuracy of Morgan's
copy as to the scores which he jotted down. He failed
mostly in omitting scores which a more experienced
reader could have readily deciphered; but in some
instances portions of the lettering seem to have been
merely overlooked by accident or carelessness, such for
example as the initial letter of Vugloh. The two frag-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE CAPBL MAIR STONE. 305
ments, however, besides enabling us to correct Morgan's
copy, prove that the story as to a stone which had the
writing on it erased, did not apply to this monument.
What happened to the latter was, that, some time
after it was discovered and copied, it was broken up to
be used in the building of the walls of the Tan y Capel
cowhouse ; and in spite of the mason's vigilance in
1900, the walls of the reconstructed outhouse probably
contain the whole of the stone except the two frag-
ments here in question.
Settinor out from the Latin version of the inscription
DECABAR BALOM FiLivs BROCAGN-, one may mention first
the^t Brocagn-i h the genitive of the name which meets
us as Broccdn in the hagiology of Ireland, and Brychan
in that of Wales : neither of those names requires any
further notice at present. We then come to balom,
which, as already suggested, was pronounced Valov,
This we cannot be wrong in identifying without hesi-
tation with the modern Irish falamh or folamh (with
mh sounded t;), meaning ** empty, void, vacant, poor,
without means." The Scotch Gaelic is also falamh (pro-
nounced faP-uv) and means likewise " empty, void, in
want, unoccupied." In Medieval Irish, the tovmfalumh^
occurs, meaning ** empty"; see Stokes's "Book of Lismore
Saints" (in the Anecdota Oxoniensia for 1890), 4707.
This use of a word meaning poor and devoid of woidly
goods was meant to be complimentary, and reminds one
of Caiman Bochty that is, *' Colman the Poor," on a tomb-
stone at Clonmacnoise ; see Miss Stokes's edition of
Petrie's Christian Inscriptions in the Irish Language,
Vol. i, p. 16, Plate ii. Fig. 4. Thus the Latin epitaph
may be rendered " Decabar the Poor, son of Broccd,n."
The Ogmic version has been approximately estab-
lished as Deccaibar Vugloh disi, where the first diffi-
1 The Manx form is follym, *' empty," with an unmatated m .:
some other instances ot the kind occur in that langoage. Tlie
most probable explanation is ih&tjollym owes if s tn to the inflaence
of the adjective cDrresponding to Irnsh fo-lomm, ** bare." This
would not be surprising, considering that some scholars seem to
regard falumh as a form of folomm.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
306 THE CAPBL MAfR STONE.
culty is as to the etymological equivalence of balom
and Viiglob. Assuming that equivalence, we have to
suppose the former to have passed through a precedinfjf
stage, Baglom, with a soft spirant g liable to be eli-
minated, which was here done in the Latin spelling,
just as sinum occurs for signum in the Whithorn
inscription ; see The Academy fi>r 1891, September 5th,
p. 201.
In this word vagloh we seem to have u form in-
volving the Celtic prefix vo, which makes in later
Goidelicyb,/u,ya, and in Welsh ivo, gwo, Modern go or
gwa : the rest of the word seems referable to the same
root as the Greek y\d<l><o or yXvffxD^ " I hollow out."
With the Irish word has been identified in The Englyn,
p. 73» the Nennian word guoloppum, "an empty space,"
and ccctguoloph,'' a space empty of war, that is, an in-
terval of peace." The digraph pp could stand probably
for either j'f or v, just as tt did for either th or d, and
ph bad also either the sound of jf' or oft; in Medieval
Welsh. So here, doubtless, the pronunciation intended
was guoloV'Um" and cad-ghuolov. Moreover, the passage
suggests a neuter substantive rather than an adjective ;
but an adjective could readily be formed by means of the
termination j^o-s, |^a, io-n, namely, uolob-j^o-, uolob-j^a;
Needles to say this would be in an early stage of the
language, for later it would yield the form gueilyv (to be
written gweilyf), according to the analogy ofheinif, heini,
"active, agile," from ho-gnim, of the same formation
as Irish so-gnim, and gweini, *' the act of serving," from
uO'ffni : compare Irish fogniu, ** I serve." The form
gweilyf is not attested, but we have the variant
gweilyiy with d forf{ = v), a substitution not unknown
in other Welsh words. Dr. Davies, citing gweilydd
from the Welsh Laws, explains it as " Vacuus, inanis,
voluntarius, avrofiaro^.'' In Aneurin Owen's edition it
^ We seem to hayo this in anolof, anolo, *' iDeffectire, yoid, nse-
less;'' made up of golof, golo^ with an intensive prefix an. See Silvan
Evaos's Geiriadur, also Dn Dayies's Dictionary : both cite instance«
from the Welsh bekws,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE CAPEL MAIR STONE. 307
occurs, for instance, in Volume IT, Bk. xiv, Chap, xxiii,
6-8 (pp. 664, 665), where the editor has translated it
"absolver." Moreover, words ending in yd frequently
have an optional ending i, as in the case of Dewyi, now
Detail *^ St. David," and trefyA or trefi, ** towns." So here,
Dr. Davies, under vacuus, gives gweili, gweilydd, anolo^
and other adjectives. The first is, in fact, a living word
in parts of North Wales, especially Lleyn, where one says
trol Weill, " an empty or unladen cart," ceffyl gweili^ " a
spare horse," and the blank pages at the end of a book
are sometimes called dalennau gweili. For these details
I am indebted to the unpublished dialect studies of Mr.
Glyn Davies, of the University Library, Aberystwyth.
The name decabar maybe compared in part with
Calabar or Catahor — it is hard to say whether the
ending has a or o — in an Ogam inscription in Co. Water-
ford : Brash has it at p. 266. It is at the first glance
tempting to identify this with the name written Cath-
barr in the Book of Leinstev (fo. 324^ 338**), meaning
*• battle-head," and as a common noun, ** a helmet;" the
second element being 6aiT, '' head or top," as in Barri-
vend'i on the Llandawke stone (Journal of the Camb.
Arch. Assoc, 1907, p. 77) ; but the second r stands in
the way, and we seem to have here the same element ns
in -FaZfeAar, mentioned in O'Curry's Manners and Cus-
toms of the Ancient Irish, iii, 158. In my Paper (read to
the British Academy) entitled '* Studies in Early Irish
History," p. 29, I suggested that we have an early
form of the plural of this name in that of the tribe
called in Ptolemy's Geography OveXKdfiopot, whom he
places in the south-west of Ireland : see Muller's
edition, pp. 76-8. He cites the pseudo-Ethicus and
Orosius HS calling them Velahri, which is probably to
be emended into Velahori. We have a later form of
the singular — feminine, however, not masculine — in the
Llandyssul inscription VELVOR filia BROhO. Here Vel-
vor would, in a normalised orthography, be Velbor,
derived from a far earlier Velabora. But the combina-
tion Broh' for what would in GoidtJic have been
20^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
308 THK CAPEL MAIR STONK.
BrocC'y shows that the inscription was in Latin of the
Brjthonic rather than of the Goidelic description.
That is, in Brythonic mouths the tendency of later
Goidelic to substitute a for o had been avoided, so that
we have the latter vowel here, as in the early Goidelic
Vellahor-iy while the a is found established in Falbhar
just as in our DECABAR and Deccaibar. The meaning
of the element 6or-, bar- is doubtful, but with regard
to the other, decay one may perhaps venture to suggest
that this may be of the same origin as the Latin dectiSy
** ornament, grace, honour, glory," and of the tribe-
name of the Decantae of the extreme North ; also of the
" Decantorum arx," the Deganvjy whose ruins stand
near Llandudno and the river Conwy.
The names here in question raise a number of difficult
questions which I cannot discuss at present; but I
may call attention to one or two more points connected
with the spelling. The Latin version nas a single c in
Brocagniy where the pronunciation was that of a hard ife,
and also a single c in Decahar, where the c was mutated
into the Goidelic guttural spirant ch, which in some
Ogam inscriptions is represented by the digraph cc :
that is how we have the c doubled in the Ogmic spel-
ling Deccaibar. The ai of this last is of more doubtful
standing. It would be rather a violent emendation to
treat the notch for the vowel a as an error in Morgan's
copy, though it would simplify the form into Decxibar.
But on the whole one has, I think, to accept the ai, and
I should be inclined to treat it as a digraph for the
vowel g, which the author of the epitaph thought was
the vowel sound which he detected in the syllable fol-
lowing the stress. Ai^ cb, and e have, roughly speakings
one and the same value in Old Irish glosses; and what
may perhaps be still more to the point is that we have
ai in other Ogam inscriptions, to wit, in such names as
Bivaidonas^ Dovaidonay and others mentioned in my
paper on the Kilmannin Inscription in the Journal of
the Irish Antiqiiaines for 1907, pp. 65-7.
That paper gives another inatapce of the use of th^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THB OAPEL MAIK 8T0N£. 309
syllable ' HI 1 1 1 1 1 1 =■ dis, which has puzzled me so
long in Morgan's copy of the Capel Main Ogam. Fo^
the Kilmannin epitaph begins with ddisi, which I
provisionally analysed into ddis-i, and took to mean
below, or here below, with ddis derived from Is, " lower."
For I ventured to equate ddis- with the modern Irish
thioSt " below, beneath," which Old Irish scribes wrote
<&, while, as I thought, giving the t one of the sounds
of th. But since then Dr. Stokes^ has written to roe
that if anything is certain in Irish grammar it is that
the aspiration in this and similar forms is merely "Middle
Irish,* not older, say, than the eleventh century. So
for the present I give up the attempt to explain the
etymology of ddisi or disi. But I am inclined to think
that the word meant, if not ** here below,'' at any rate
" here." The Capel Mair Ogam might accordingly be
taken to have conveyed some such meaning as *' Dec-
caibar the Poor (lies) here." Perhaps, however, some-
body will find in disi a verb of rest and repose.
Lastly, the Ogam version belongs to the same class
as the Kilmannin one, which I have ventured to regard
as dating from the seventh century. It is only a guess,
and both inscriptions may prove to be somewhat later.
ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS
RBARINO ON MY PRKVIOUS PAPBB, PP. 70, 89-91.
1. My attention has been kindly called by Professor Ed.
Lloyd to my rendering lletfer by " weak-kneed " in my fonner
paper, p. 91. It should have been half-vnld or aevii'Savcige, as
proved by a passage in " Buchedd Gruffudd ab Cynan "; see the
Myvyrian Archaiology of Wales, II, p. 586, where we have
Llymminawc lledfei- given in Latin as Saltus ferinus, with the
fidjective ferinus meaning "of or belonging to wild beasts," and
1 In proposing an etymology for the Welsh word blew '* hair," I
forgot that it had been dealt with in Stokes's Urkdtischer Sprach^
ichatZf p, 187, where it is referred by Bezzenbergci to the same
origin as the Greek (f>koi6t, the " rind of trees, peel, bark, bass."
For Sanskrit grtva read griva, " neck," and for RusFian yrtva read
gritfa, " mane."
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
810 THB CAPBL MAIR STONK.
deriving from the simpler adjective ferus/' wild^' lintamed."
This word ferns was borrowed into Welsh, as proved by the
instances given by Dr. Davies and Dr. Pughe under ffh'. It is
needless to say that there is another Welsh word ffir, namely,
that which is used in North Wales for " ankle ; " but Pughe's
fferu, meaning " to congeal, to liecome rigid with cold," is pro-
nounced and properly written fferriL His spelling of it enables
him to refer it to one and the same origin with the two
words ^^, for he would seem to have made the meanings con-
verge on that of *• dense** or " solid/* while Dr. Davies regarded
the adjective as more or less synonymous with cadam. Exami-
nation of the uses made of the word would probably result in
proving it to have retained more or less closely the sense of the
Latin ferus. Meanwhile, I have chanced on the compounds
kadfer and llawffer (Skene, ii, 56, 143).
2. Apropos of Cian of Nanhyfer, I am I'eminded of Nennius's
" Cian qui vocatur Guenith Guaut" who was one of those who
were distinguished "in poemate Britannico/' On the wliole, I
am disposed to think that that the latter was an earlier man
than our Neveru Cian. I may mention that there was also
a Cian after whom Llangian in Lleyn is called. Rees. ia
his Welsh Saints, p. 302, associates him with Peris of Llan-
beris, and mentions his day as December llth. All this only
makes it rather more diflScrdt to say who Cian of Nanhyfer was,
or to settle the question whether he was a Goidel or a Brython,
I may here mention that the other name Cu-Duilich, in Welsh
Gynddylig or Gynddilig, weis borne by a saint of whom Rees.
p. 281, writes as follows : — " Cynddilig, a son of Cennydd ab
Gildaa His memory has been celebrated in the parish of Llan-
rhystud, Cardiganshire, on the 1st of November/*
3. The difficulty as to the Scots of Nanhyfer coming dros nor,
" over sea," depends a good deal on the place of the battle ; for
without coming from Ireland they might be voyaging from
Neyem or Newport to.some place on the coast of North Wales.'
The weight, however, of historical opinion inclines to South
Wales, and the correct date, I am told, is 1081.
4,. In connection with Pont y Gini, Professor Lloyd also
states that there is a large farm called Gim in the parish of
Llanengan in Lleyn. I should like to be assured whether it is
Gim or T Gim , for the presence or the absence of the definite
;irticle may prove to be a difference of some importance.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
311
THE TOWN OF HOLT, IN COUNTY
DENBIGH :
ITS CASTLK, CHURCH, FRANCHISE, AND DKMBSNE.
Br ALFRED NEOBARD PALMEK.
{Continued from pagt 34.)
CHAPTER II (oew^tViuoi).— SECTION II.
The survey of Bromfield and Yale, known from the
name of the surveyor by whom it was executed as
Tidderley's Survey, and now at the Public Record
OflSce, has next to be dealt with. It is undated, but
the internal evidence points to its beings taken at the
end of the reiga of Henry VIII. First comes a quaint
description of " the towne of the Lyons, oderwise
named le Holte." *' The said towne standythe yn Wales
witheyn the lordshipp of Bromefeld and Yale one di'
[le., half] mile ffrome the ent'yng towards yt over a
stouyn [stone] brydge whiche partithe England and
Wales. The same beyng an auntient Borough towne,
but slenderly builte with tymber worke and the
buyldings stondyng yn distance^ the one flFrome the
oder on the este side of whiche towne ther stondithe
the castell equaly withe the said towne. And yn in
the same towne ther are ffaire Hawles' whereas the
kyng*8 tenn*" of Wales witheyn the said lordshipp
haven justice ministred to theyme. And in one of
theyme the Meire and Burgises of the said town do use
to sytte and kipe theyr courtes whiche Meire and Bur-
geses do clayme to have dyv's p'vileges and lib'tyes by
the grannie of a charter made unto theyme by [blank].
y We should, perhaps, suppose some such word as '* eveu," or
'' equal,'' to have been intended here. -
^ The first of these fair halls was the Welsh ooart*hoase in the
castle precinct, and the other the Holt Town Hall.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
3 12 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
" And yn the s tid towne are yerely kept two feires,
one at the feast of sent Barnabe [llth June] And the
oder yn the feast of St. Luke [I8th October] yerely
and eu'y Ffrydey a comen markett yn the said towne.
The Toll therof beyng set for II5. l)y the yereto the
Bailyesof the said towne. And yn the said towne ys a
maire, two bailies, two leve-lookers and coronor."^
Next follows an equally picturesque and valuable
account of '* the castell of the Holte : " " The said
cabtell stondithe yn the este side of the said towne and
northe from the utter warde of the same. A gate
howse beyng builte withe tymber worke abowte a
Ix paces from the castell, wherunto is joyned upon the
este side stabulls belowe ccc fote in lenght and ou'
[over] the same stables faire loftes for haye. And west
from the same gate a tfaire barne conteynyng in lenght
XXXV paces and in widenes a xiij paces westward
adioyning to the same a faire courte howse* of tymber
for the kyng 8 justices and officers do sytte yn at tymes
of sessions and courts to be kepte ther for all the
kyng's tenn^ witheyn the lordshipp of Bromeflfeld and
Yale beyng witheoute the ffraunchise of the towne of
the Holte. And at the weste ende of the same courte
howse a pale and a quyke sett hedge stondyng towards
a parke adioynyng to the said castell named the Litell
Parke witheyn which bwilding hedge and pale there ys
a courte betwene that and the mote of the said castell.
At the whiche zouth ende of whiche courte there ys a
garden encloseid w** a pale and hedge and at the est
ende of the same courte a doffe [dove] house of tymber.
And adioynyng to the mote upon the lefte hande
ent^yng the castell a som' howse of quyke sett trees
like an arbor made withe a fframe of tymber. And as
I <« Leve-lookers." It is almost certain that these were the two
oflBcers yearly elected, who were afterwards called "appraisers.**
There were " leave-lookers*' in the borongh of Denbigh also, who in
1827 were orderf»d to inspect the slanghter-honses* See Williams's
Records nf DefnJbigh and its Lordship^ p. 161. .
. 2 ,Xhe Welsh court-house, or lordship court. See note 2, page 311,
aad elsewhere. • . ; •
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
m coir!rrY Denbigh. 313
ye enter ynto the said oastell the waye lyythe zouth
esteward. The said castell stondeth equally withe the
towne very strongly bwilte upon a rocke. The waye
ffrom the said gate to the enteryng ynto the first warde
conteynythe ffiftye paces, the first entye beyng ou'
[over] a bridge of tymber and under the same a drye
mote. The said warde beyng a square towre^ strongly
bwilte with two strong gates yn eyther side one beyng
XXX** fote betweene the said gates, and at eu'y gate a
purtecules of tymber, and ffrome the same warde ent^yng
the castell a bridge of tymber xx*^ flPote of lenght and
ten in bre**the. The mote beyng ffiftye ffete depe
underneth the same bridge. The saide towre^ stonding
yn the midds of the mote betwene the saide two
bridges. And then ent'yng the said castell two oder
stronge gates, beyng fortye flfote betwene the same
gates withe a portcules of iron for the inner gate, a
courte paved of fy ve square beyng c . . . [a blank after
the first c] ffote over witheyn tne inner gate. The
said mote compassyng ffbure squares of the same castell,
and the ryver of Dye [ = Dee] runyng by the este side
of the said castell upon the wall side on the fyveth
[fifth] square therof, tne mote beyng one hundred flfote
yn breathe and metyng withe tne saide river on
eyther side. And witheyn the saide castell ther are
all bowses of office mete for a prynce to kepe his house
yn. And on the lefte side of the inner gate ther ys a
flfaire steres [stairs] of stone work vii fote wide goyng
up to the haule, a streight steiie, and on the right
hande of the steire heade the hawle, and at the lower
ende therof a buttrey, a pantrey, and a flTaire kychen
withe a drawght well yn the same. And a large
chymney in the lefte side of the saide hawle, And at
the ou' [over = upper] ende of the haule on the right
side of the same ent'yng the greate chamber, and so
directly two oder chambers rownde abowte bwilte
- ^ This refers to the square Exchequer tower, separated from th^
castle proper bj a moat, whioh also snrroanded it on every side.
The boilding first described was the outer [or ^* utter'^ gate*boase.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tli THE TOWK OF HOLT,
beyng the highest storye castelljke, with chymneys yn
eu'y [every] of theyme. And underneth the said
hawle and chambers thre stories for lodgeyngs and
howses of office, amongst which ther ys a horse myll a
stable for xx horses and ou' [over] the leadds ther is a
faire waike and a goodly p'especte [prospect]. The
castell beyng bwilte fy ve square, and att eu'y square a
rownde towre of flfy ve stories highe, and on eu'y story
a chymney and owte of eu'y the same towers a steire
up to the leads, and from the leadds two seu'all
wyndyng steires downe to the tower p'te [part] of the
courte. And aswell the castell and the fyve towres as
the utter warde beyng builte with ffrestone playne
aishelar and embateled. And a secrete narrow wey
goyng owte of the same courte downe a steres of stone
and vawted [vaulted] with stone ynto the saide ryver
of Dye whereto the warde and dore ys of iron. Two
squares of the leadds of the said castell nedith to be
emendyd, the reste are well repayred. The parpwynte
[parapet] of the utter wall nyne ffote thycke, the
inn[er] wall [blank] ffote. The said castell beyng more
strongly bwilded with stone and tymber then [than]
stately lodgeing or conveyant [convenient],
" And adioyninge the mote on the weste side of the
said castell an arbor and adioynyng the same on the
zoUthe side over a bride [? bridge] a litel p'ke [park]
paled abowte lyyng upon the said river of Dye, beyng
replenyshed with xvi dere of auntler and rascalP yn the
kypyng of S' Barye Acoton [Acton] knyght, and
[blank] Pylleston, the arbage [herbage] whereof ys
worthe yerely xxxs.
" The saide castell and towne lyythe %ve miles
ffrome the Cytye of West Chester,* and yn no clene
ay re, but yn a sou re countrey. The ryver also beyng
^ Rasoal, *' a term of the ohase. Certain animals not worth
liantiiig were so called. The hart, till he was six years old, was
accoanted r(wcay/tf.**— Skeat" " A dear lean and out of season." —
Dyce.
* Actually; Holt is aboat 8^ miles from Chester
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COtJNTt DEKBIGfl. 315
a darke muddy e water the lere [i.e., look] of the zoyle
beyng a redde erthe."
On folio 3 is the following description of Mersley
Park : " In the ffranchese of the holte and witheyn one
mile of the said castell ther ys a faire p'ke beyng thre
miles abowte the same being paled Rownde w"* M pale
w^ pke is more yn lawnes and playnes then [than]
cou^'te. The midd® of the said p 'ke beyng cou'te with
okes and smale Tymber witheout any oder Cou'te.
And in the zouthe ende of the same cou'te a pretve
lodge for the kyper well bwillte [so in MS. for ** built '].
All the growl ids of the said p'ke beyng level! And very
goMe and depe pasture ground Replenyshed with Ixx
dere of Auntler eight score dere of Rascall and foui-
score fiiiwnes. Th arbage [herbage] therof worthe to
be sett beside flpyndyng of the game yerely [blank].
The fejrping wherof is graunted by the kyng* maiestye
his graces lett s patent to George cotton knyght for
t'me of his liffe."^
The followingr is also worthy of note : "The bayly-
wickes of hewlingtoii, hem man'm [that is, Hem manor]
and Rydley are p'cell of the demayns of the said
Castell which iij p'cells are of the yerely value of [blank]
herafler p'ticularly sett forthe yn this boke of Survey
the same lyyng by the said Castle being a veiy good
fertile grownde both for medowe pasture and Errable
londe which are letten to dyu's p'sons for t'me [term]
of yeres by the kynge's letters patent as yn the same
Baylywykes Aperithe. ...
" Ther be thre very ffayre powles* [pools] lyyng
^Mersley Park was the great park in Allingtou (long ago dis-
parked) attached to Holt Castle, of which an aooonnt is given in
the " History of the Townships of the old Parish of Ghresford,"
pp. 145-7, Areh. Camh., 1906, pp. 195-7. It was coterminous with
the OoDlmon Wood, Holt, bat paled off from it.
' These were the fishpools in Frog Lane for the sopply of Holt
Castle. They occupied the site of the meadow nearly opposite
Esphill, which nieadow has still a very irregular and uneven surface.
The field, called '* Fishpoolfield," in which many of the burgesses of
Holt had distinct ** acres, ** probably adjoined the 6shpools.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
316 TttE TOWN OP HOLt,
witheya one quarter of a myle to the Castell which
haven bene heretofore replenyshed with ffreshe water
ffishe the same being lyke to be distroyed for lack of
scowryng and seeing vnto wherby the kyngs highness
taketh no yerely p'fBt.
**Thre miles frome the Castell of hclte ther ys a
grownde which ys a myle and di* [that is, a haU]
Abowte callyd I'he Warren^ Wheryn ther hath bene
game of cunneys [conies] and the Custodye therof
corny ttyd to one Edward Breerton [of Burras Hall]
withe the yerely ffee of 1x5. xd. tharbage [the herbage]
wherof of late . . . ys graunted to the said Edward for
t'me of . . . for the yerely rent of [blank] so that the
said Warren ys conu'tyd to A yerely iFerme and no
game of cunneys theryn kepte. The same grownde
beyng one myle and di' Abowte all couerte and over
growen with brakes and Thornes except Thre akers
therof thorowgh which grownde there are llire highe
comen wayes." . . .
*• Witheyn one myle of the castell and townt of the
holte ther ys a faire comon* beyng thre quartrs of one
myle Abowte of good pasture grownde whiche the bur-
gesses of the holte clayme to have to theyme and to
theyr heirs yn flfee by a charter made to theyme by
[blank], sometime lord of Bromfelde and Yale, the
same comon beyng adjoynt to the p'ke of marslie."
Also, ** ther ys a ffre Chapel witheyn the Castell of
the holte, of the kyngs Majestyes gyfte, of the yerely
vaylue of Ten poundes, beyng yeven to one S' Thomas
Birde, clerk, wherunto ther doth belong the tythe of
s'ten [certain] land, lying witheyn the Baylywyke
of Burton called Pastelande, and Tire Boroughe, the
same beyng worthe by the year iii/i."*
^ This warren was Pare CwiiiDg, in the townghip of Bieston,
perhaps nsed for the snpplj of rabhits (conies) to Holt Castle, ns
well as for the diversion of the lord or his officer (see my History of
the Country Towruhips of the old Parish of Wrexham^ pp. 155 and
159. 2 The Common Wood of Holt
• This iigure is somewhat vaguely written. In Norden's Survey
of the manor of Borton the lands belonging to the casUe chapel ar^
described as worth £10 in the time of Henry VIII.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 317
Whatever is not quite plain in Tidderley's description
of the castle will become clear when, in a future chapter,
plans and views will be given, and other particulars
furnished relating to the same.
Meanwhile, it may be well so far to anticipate the
further and more minute description of the castle and
its precincts, so promised, by saying that an inquiry^
was made at Holt on the 30th January, 158f, by
Roger Puleston and George Olive, Esquires, by virtue
of a writ to them, and to Sir Hugh Cholmondeley,
Knight, directed. Eight witnesses were examined, but
the only points that need be noticed here are these :
John Ledsum, of the town of Lyons, aged 72, said that
" the first chamb' going up the store [stair] on the right
hand of the gate coming into the inner Court the Con-
stable did use to leade his prisoners to a tower adioyn-
ing to the same, w'^^ tower also the Constable used to
keepe his prysoners in, and so ascending to the said
stores the Chamb' over the Gate was comonly cauled
the Constables Chamber, w*^** his deputy lodged in, and
thother chamber on the left hand of the said lodging
the Constable used to laie his wood and coale in, and
wherein also bedds were set"; and so had been used for
sixty years. Richard Roydon, of the town of Lyons,
Gent., aged 68,^ testified that " the tower, w*"^ hath a
chymney in yt, and adioyneth is the chamber w*'** the
Constable had his wood and coale in was also app^'tain-
ing to the Constables oflBce, w*^** he hath knowen for
these xlvi yeares or therabouts, and further saith that
when Mr. Edward Aimer, being deputie steward, did
lye in the said Castle Thomas Powell, who was then
Cunstable, did locke and keepe all the foresaid roomes
from the use of the said M' Aimer." William Kitchen,
^ I owe my knowledge of this, as well as of the other inqnirj,
presently to be named, to my friend, Mr. Edward Owen.
^ See page 319, where, on 80th January, 158^, Richard Roydon's
age is given as 60. Both documents are correctly copied^ bat there
ia an evident error in one of them, in the respect noted, 68 bein^
written for 60, or contrariwise.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
318 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
of the town of Lyons, aged 56 years, said that the
"chamber over the gate coming into the inner court
hath bene alwaies reputed and cauled the Ounstables
Chamb', and the next chamber, w** was called the
second chamber, and the tower having a chymney in
yt, one Bernard Bewley, who served as deputie cun-
stable, did use and occupie." . Robert Powell, alias
Smyth, of the town of Lyons, smith, aged 42, testified
to the taking downe of two portculleses of yron, w***in
the said Castle by the com'ndem*^ of Edward Hughes,
esqui*"/' Launcelot Bates, of the Holt, aged 60, de-
posed that ** he hath hard [heard] one iron doore being
belowe in the house towards the Riu' of Dee (in the
tyme of M' Hughes) ys taken awaie." Being examined
as to certain outhouses, he said that xxx"® yeres agoe
[they] were ruynows, but since M' Hughes his tyme
they are well repaired, and the same nowe holdeii by
M' Hughes and his assignes. And that he knoweth
about 4 yeres agoe ther was a slaughter house went to
decaie." John Bewley, of Allington, aged 56, formerly
a horse-smith within the Castle precincts, spoke of
certain outhouses therein, which he remembered, since
'taken awaie, but by whom he knoweth not"; but said
also that "to his nowledge the said castle ys in better
rep^'aco'n then [than] yt was xlviii yeres agoe, when he
first did knowe the same"; and Richard Symkins, of the
Holt, aged 74, testified that *' the said Castle ys in
better rep^'acon [reparation = repair] then yt was when
M' Hughes came to yt."
The second inquiry before alluded to was taken in
Holt parish church, 9th January, 30 Eliz., 158^, before
Owen Brereton, Thomas Powell, Ralph Ellis, and John
Salusbury, the plaintiflF being Launcelot Bostock, touch-
ing the right of Thomas Lother to the utter [Outer]
Gatehouse. Some of the depositions are interesting
from the light they throw on the condition of the castle
and on other matters. For example : *' John Dauyes of
Earles" [Erlas Hall], aged 42, knew Bernard Bewley,
servant to Richard Eaton, Constable of th^ Castle,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 319
dwelling in the utter gjitehouse ; he knew also Thomas
Lother dwelling there, as servant to Richard Eaton,
Constable ; he remembered a letter coming to his
roaster from Launcelot Bostock, begging that Lother
tnight dwell in and have the use of tlie utter gatehouse
in variance ; and Richard Roydon, of Holt, aged 60
years (see note 2, page 317), remembered John Picker-
ing, the porter, with rooms in the inner gate on the
right hand going into the said castle. Pickering never
dwelt in the utter gatehouse, which the Constable
used for prisonere for debt and misdemeanours, and
used the gaol within the body of the castle for felons
and murderers. The castle ditch belonged to the Con-
stable, etc.
It may seem to the reader that the foregoing parti-
culars of the inquiries at Holt on 30th January, 158^,
and 9th January, 158^, have been dealt with some-
what out of place. But many of the witnesses at the
inquiries were old men, and were examined specially
as to what they remembered of the castle : four of them
speaking concerning its condition thirty, forty-six, forty-
eight, and even sixty years before. Mention of these
testimonies at this stage is, therefore, on reflection, not
so much out of order or by any way of anticipation as
it would at first seem.
At the time of Tidderley s survey, the afternamed
streets and lanes in Holt were already well established :
Frog lane. Castle street, High street, " Brigestrete,"
Wrexham lane, mylne lane [Mill lane], GaTlow tree
lane (the Holt end of Francis lane, properly Franchise
lane), Chester lane and " Werrock lane, ' which appears
to be another name for Chester lane, and should be
spelled " Weirhook lane." So also are named " the
devyn," or " devon" [brook] ** the hogmore " [now
" Hugmore''] area, and *' the underwood called * Cor-
nysh.' " There were four shops under the Town Hall,
and there was a horse-mill, more particularly described
hereafter. The "espyes" were fields somewhere near
where Esphill now is. Already, besides the free bur-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
320 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
gesses and those holding demesne land by twenty-one
years' leases, was a class of forty years' leaseholders^
perhaps men to whom were granted burgages and lands
which had escheated to the lord. And there was
nothing in the way of a free burgess holding leasehold
land also. Many of the burgages had two or more
burgages ; and some, it would seem, had a single large
house occupying the site of several adjoining burgages.
In Appendix I will be found a list of the tenants ot
Holt at the time of Tidderley's survey.
I have not yet been able to find a convenient place
to speak of the known constables, chaplains, and other
officials of Holt Castle, and so supply a list of them in
Appendix II to this chapter.
And in what follows this paragraph of tlie same
chapter, it will be fitting to say what remains to be
said touching the history of the lordship generally from
the time of Henry VII onwards.
In 1534, Bromfield, Yale, and Chirkland were
granted by Henry VIII to his illegitimate son, Henry
Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond, then only fifteen yeai-s oi
age ; but the lad died about two years afterwards, and
the lordship came back to the Crown once more.
Permant says that in the reign of Eidwurd VI
Bromfield and Yale were **in possession of Thomas
Seymour, Lord-Admiral, and turbulent brother to the
Protector Somerset. He made the fortress of Holt
subservient to his ambitious designs, and formed there
a great magazine of warlike stores. His deserved but
illegal execution again flung Bromfield into the pos-
session of the Crown." The statement, so put, implies
that there had been a grant to Admiral Seymour of the
lordship as such : a most improbable circumstance, con-
sidering all that is otherwise known. But the Patent
Roll of 28 Henry VIII (1536) proves that on the 2nd
October of that year there was conceded to Geoi^Q
Cotton and Thomas Seymour, a gentleman of the Privy
Council, the survivorship of the office of.**ma3t^
steward" of the Castle of Lyons alias Holte, and of the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 321
manors or lordships of Bromefelde and Yale," void by,
the attainder of ^William Brereton (Chamberlain of
Chester, executed 17th May, 1536), with a fee of £20
yearly, which was always the fee of the seneschal, or
chief steward, as it still is. Nq doubt, Seymour as
seneschal could procure the appointment of the Con-
stable of Holt Castle, and would thus have the control
of the Castle itself, making it, as Dugdale says, *'a
magazine of warlike provision"; but the offices of Steward
of Bromfield atld Yale and Constable of the Castle were
distipct,;.and a grant of either or both of them did not
involve a [grant <if the lordship. There is also a later
grailt (dated 1st Edward VI) to Seymour of various
manors and l^nds ip the lordship ; and this grant, no
doubt, led Pennant (or Dugdale, on whom he probably
relied) to the mis<(^ken assumption, which his words
imply, that Thomas^ Admiral Lord Seymour of Sudeley,
was Lord of Bromfield and Yale.
The next event in the history of Holt, so far as the
subject of this -chapter is concerned, was the accession
of Queen Elizabeth; in the first year of whose reign ten
of the burgesses of Holt were bound over, each in the
sum of £100, to stand to such order as should be made
in the Court of Exchequer at Westminster touching
the revival of **Decaies" of rent which had grown
ivithin the town and liberties. Then, in the fourth
year of thet Queens reign^ by virtue of a commission,
directed on 1st August, -1561, to. William, Marquis of
Winchester (Lord Treasurer), Sir iiRichard Sackville,
Knight (Under Treasurer), and Sir Walter Mildmay,
Knight (Cheincellor of the,, Exchequer), these, three
appdintea as .sub-oommissioners (to make a surVey oi
the lordship,, revive decayed rents, and compound with
the tenanjis), Robei^t l^oulton (then Auditor of Wales),
John Puleaftoii, John Gwynne, John Trevor (of Tref-
^.lyn), and Robert Tarbridge, Esquires, who thereupon
proceeded to. make stich a survey and agreement as
was from ttiem^ requi'red. . So far as the town and
franchise of Holt were concerned, the burgesses were
6th SkB., VOL. vit. 21
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322 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
called upon, according to a decree made in Hilary term
in the fifth year of the Queen's reign, to pay their
ancient rents, which were more by £12 8^. lOa. than
their existing rents, and to perform other things which
need not be here particularised. This device seems to
have been confirmed in the Court of Exchequer on the
6th June, fifth year of James I (1607). The town was
also charged with the collection of the borough rents.
But some simple folk — free burgesses ignorant of their
rights — took forty years' leases of their lands from the
Queen; and in 1620 the burgesses asked that their
descendants might have the benefit of the charter
rnted to them by Thomas, Earl of Arundel, of which
the fifth year of Elizabeth's reign the burgesses
obtained a confirmation.
In the survey of 4 Elizabeth (1562), the aftemamed
streets and lanes in Holt are named : Chester lane,
'* Warrhooke lane,*' **ffrog lane," Castle street, Wrex-
ham lane, Cornish lane, gallow tree lane, " hogmore
lane," Pepper street, Bennets lane, *' the pavement
leading to Comon Wood," "mooregate," and **over-
whart street." I have never elsewhere found any
mention of the street last indicated in Holt : it was
probably a cross street, " overwhart" having the mean-
ing of over against^ or crossing. " Hogmore" is always
so spelled. There appears as yet to have been no
house at Cornish, or " Cornis," as it is once called.
''Hodhill" was near the burgage of Thomas Crue,
which burgage is now represented by Holt Hill. The
high cross, "high greene," and '* litle green," by fish-
poolfield, are also mentioned. ^* Knight s wood next
Wrexham Lane" is referred to, also " the pool of Dee"
[stagnum Dee], The " devon" brook is often named.
The basement of the Town Hall is still occupied by
four shops, and the site of the horse-mill described as
containing 60 yards, and having the Dee on the east
side of it, the land of John Pickering on the west,
Saunders liey on the north, and the land of Edward
Aimer, Esq., on the south. We may compare these
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 323
names with those given in Tidderley's survey (on
page 319).
There will be found in Appendix III to this chapter
a list of the tenants of Holt in 1562.
Queen Elizabeth seems to have neglected to appoint
most of the ancient officers of the lordship, so as to sav«
expense, and obtained money by granting leases of
many of the demesne lands, or by selling them. In the
second year of her reign she sold outright not merely
the chantry lands belonging to Holt Church, but also
the tithes of those other lands which had been appro-
priated to the use of the chaplain in the chapel of Holt
Castle. As to the first of these, mention will be made
when, in a later chapter, the church of Holt has to be
described, but this is the place to speak of the last-
named. Those lands have already been discussed in
my Country Townships of the Old Parish of Gresford^
p. 134, and a reference to them and to the free chapel
in the castle is contained in Tidderley's Survey (see
before, p. 316). But it is necessary now to enter into
further particulars. The tithes of the chapel within
{infra) the Castle are mentioned in April, 1451, and
the chapel itself is indicated in the earlier plan of the
same, hereafter to be considered. Also, in the will of
John Roden, Serjeant-at-Arms, dated 6th March, 15 If,
the " fre chapell of the castell of the Holt" is named, but
only in such a way as to imply that the testator was
farmer of the lands attached to it. On the 14th June,
1548, Edward VI leased [the tithes of] certain lands
and tenements called bourd [board] lands and passe
[" passe" for *' past," that is '* pastus"] lands in the
townships of Burton, AUington, Merford and Hoseley,
" lately parcel of the possessions of the chantry or free
chapel within the Castle of Lyons," to Thomas Barrett,
John Wrighte, and John Coldewell. On the 20th
January, 15f^, the Queen sold these tithes to John
Norden and Clement Roberts and their heirs, who no
doubt speedily conveyed them to other persons ; and
21 «
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
324 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
the said tithes came ultimately into the possession of
the Trevors.^
, . The chapel of the Castle was " free/' because the lord
of Bromfield and Yale not merely provided it, kept it
in repair, maintained the chaplain by the allotment of
lands, the tithes whereof went to his support, and
appointed that official, but held him and the chapel
free from the jurisdiction and control of the Arch-
deacon, as well as from the control of the incumbent of
the parish in which the castle stood.
It seems improbable that the chapel in the Castle
was used as such after the tithes appropriated to it
had been leased, and certain that it was not so used
after they had been alienated.
The Castle chaplains known to me are so few that
they can soon be named.
On the 24th January, 151^, Sir Anthony Byrne was
granted the chaplaincy of the Castle, in the same way
that William Alom formerly held it. To Anthony
Byrne, son of Ralph Byrne, Sir Williain Roden, Rector
of Gresford, bequeathed (24th June, 1526) a breviary,
a samite hood, and a surplice. And, according to the
late Mr. Ellison Powell, Henry VIII, in the 29th year
of his reign, granted to Thomas Byrde, clerk, the free
chantry or chapel of Holt Castle ; and this chaplain was
still in possession at the time of Tjdderley^s Survey
(see p. 316).
On the 4th June, 1610, in the 8th year of James I,
the King granted the title of Prince of Wales and Earl
of Chester to Henry, his elder son, and then, or shortly
^ The lands, still called " boardlands," ont of which the tithes
were due, or some of thera, belonp^d to John Trevor in 1523, as
appeal's by a canons entry on folio 39 of the Survey of 4 Qneen Eliz. ;
from which we learn that at the time of the survey John Trevor had
a capital messuage and thirteen acres of pasture pertaining thereto
in IVIerford, Hoseley and TrovalliD, premises anciently belonging *' to
the free chapel of the castle of the lordship of holt," and obtained
by exchange, formerly the lands of Jenkin ap David Griffith and
Jbhn'ap John ap Robert, as shown under the seal of GHstle Lyons,
5th July, 15 Henry VIII.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COmnT DSNBIGH. 325
afterwards, gave him the lordship oi Bronifield and
Yale, the tenants, free and leasehold, whereof yielded
a mize of 600 marks (£400) to the said Prince ; having
already, on the King's accession to the throne and to
the lordship, given a mize of like amount to James.
After Prince Henry's death, the Principality of Wales
and the lordship of Bromfield and Yale were granted
(3rd November, 1616) to Prince Charles, afterwards
Charles I, whereupon another mize of 600 marks was
rendered.
On the 3rd of March, 16^, a commission was made
out to John Norden the elder, and John Norden the
younger, the Prince's own surveyor, Sir Richard Smith
being in personal attendance upon Charles, to make a
new survey of Bromtield and Yale, and other the Prince's
possessions in Wales. The survey of Holt was begun
on the 11th April, 1620, and is very valuable. It will
be dealt with in another chapter.
Meanwhile, I may say (as explained in my History
of the Country Townships of the OldPaiish of Wi^exham,
p. 40) that James I, as a device for raising money, on
the 27th January, in the 22nd year of his reign, 162|,
leased Bromfield and Yale, for ninety-nine years, to
commissioners, who were empowered to sell escheat,
leasehold, and demesne lands ; and to make, in con-
sideration of the payment of a sum of money (amount-
ing in some cases which have come under my cognisance,
to twenty-five years' purchase, calculated on tne exist-
ingrents) freehold or fee-farm estates.
Under the powers of this patent, or commission,
many of the manors, demesnes, leasehold lands, and
rents were sold. Thus, the Earl of Bridge water acquired
the manor of Ridley, in Isycoed, at a reserved rent of
£11 Is. 4fd. Also, on 3rd July, 1628, the commis-
sioners, or patentees, of James I, as they may be called,
conveyed Mersley Park, together with the Broadland
and ^Dushy land, for £2,000, at a reserved yearly rent
of £20, to the same John, Earl of Bridgewater, the
two last-named pieces being apparently taken out of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
326 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
common wood. We see, in short, one process by which
landlordism, on the large scale, was being built up.
But many leaseholders also purchased, under this
patent, the lands which they held by forty years' leases,
and became small proprietors.
When Charles I was beheaded, Bromfield and Yale
were treated, for ten years, as part of the public estates
of the Commonwealth ; and a survey was then made, to
which there may be occasion to refer hereafter. But,
save for these ten years, the lordship has remained in
the hands of the Crown since Charles I became King,
and is still vested therein, being administered by the
Commissioners of Woods, Forests, and Land Revenues.
A steward is appointed for the same by the King, on
the recommendation of the Prime Minister ; which
steward receives the ancient salary of £20 yearly, and
vacates his seat, if a Member of Parliament, on accept-
ing the oflBce.
William III intended to have granted the lordrfxip
to William Bentinck, Elarl of Portland, and a mighty
pother was made : Sir William Williams, Sir Roger
Pules ton of Emral, Mr. Robert Price of Gilar, and
Sir Robert Cotton of Combermere, with others, ap-
pearing before the Lords of the Treasury to oppose the
suggested grant. The concession proposed was there-
upon withdrawn, and the reserved rents, when they can
he identified, are still paid.
So ends this account of the lords of Holt.
APPENDIX I.— CHAPTER IL
(See p. 320.)
List of the Tenants of Holt at the time of
Tiddbrley's Sukvey.
1. — Free Tenants.
John Rodon Lancelot Prestlond
John Knyght John hychyn [Hutchen]
John Alford William ap John
Richard Baker William Pate
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN OOTTNTT DENBIGH.
327
Robert Abathowe [Ab Atba]
James Gbytam [Cheetham]
David Wyld
Thomas Grue
WiUiam Woddall
John Williams
Ralph Pnlforth
John Adjo
Robert hychin [Hntohin]
Joan Balfer, late wife of John
Balfer
Owen Breerton, gent.
Thomas ap hoell
John ap Riohard
John Griffith
William ap William
Roger Wylkynson
John Aimer, gent
John Tayler
John Chethame
John Hanson
David ap O . . •
William Owdall [Udnl]
John maddoc ap Jollvn and
Thomas maddoc ap Jolljn
Ralph Bnlkelej
hngh hanky, sen
hngh hanky, jnn'
Thomas Belott
John Clnbbe
Riohard ap Jenkyn
Robert Aldford
Thomas Barbor
Richard Hanson
fflorenc lother
William Smythe
John Roydon
Thomas Edgworth
Thomas Arodon [Rodon]
John Erthley
Edward Aimer, esq.
Ralph Rawlins, chaplain
2. — Tenants at Terms of Yeabs at samb Time.
John Alford
Richard Baker
John Pykering
Anthony Crewe
Ralph Pnlforth
William Crewe
William Woddall
Thomas ap hoell
fflorenc lother
John ap Won [? Gwion]
Robert Aleford [Aldford]
Richard Hanson
Thomas Arodon
Robert hyohen
3. — Tenants at Will at same Time.
William Pate
Robert hychin
William beggewvke
William ap William Segge-
wiok
John Pnlforth, lancelot pnlforth
and William pnlforth
John Pnlforth and William Pnl-
forth
Lancelot Polford
Brian Bayte
APPENDIX IT.— CHAPTER II.
(See p. 320.)
Resident Cokbtables or Holt Castlk
The first Constable of whom I have any note was David
Byton ap Llewelyn, of Upper Eyton, in the parish of Bangor
is y Coed His grandfather, Ednyfed a^ Gruffith ap lorwerth,
of Eyton, was a famous bard, who was living in the twelfth year
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
32 8 THE TOWN OF HdLt,
of Edward III, when he appeared in the Court of the rhag-
lotry. And this David Eyton ap Llewelyn was the *' Dauid de
Eyton, Constable of the* Castle of Lyons," who occupied that
post in 1391. He was an early example of the policy,* often
pursued, of appointing the head, or at least a member, of a great
Welsh family to an important Welsh office.
In the tenth year of Henry V, Dr. A. E. Lewis infonns me,
Egbert Corbet was Constable of Holt.
I possessed the names of three other Constables — Lancelot
Lothar, Lancelot Bostocke, and Thomw Powell — but Mr. Edward
Owen supplied me with the names or two more, obtained from
an "Exchequer Deposition" of 1591, which referred to Richard
Eyton as being succeeded by I^uncelot Bostocke in the con-
stableship of Holt Castle. It mentioned, also, Lancelot Lothar,
Thomas Powell, David Price of Yale, and Sergeant Eyton as
having been previous Constables. This would seem to imply
the following order: Lancelot Lothar, Thomas Powell, David
Price, Serjeant Richard Eyton [for Serjeant Eyton and Richard
Eyton were presumably one], and Lancelot Bostocke. And this
order corresponds with what is otherwise known. Some com-
ment on these five names may not be unacceptable.
Lancelot Lothar was Constable of Holt in the twenty-first
year of Henry VII, and in the tenth and eleventh years of
Henry VIII. He was appointed Constable, it may well be,
after the execution of Sir William Stanley, and in that com
nmst have received Henry VII when that monarch visited Holt
on the 17th July, 1495, on his way to visit his mother, Margaret
[Beaufort], she having married Thomas Stanley, Earl of Derby,
brother of the above-named Sir William Stanley, of Holt
Mr. Hughes, of KJhmel, believes Lancelot Lothar, or Lowther,
to have been a son of Sir Hugh Lowther, by his wife Anne.
daughter of Sir Lancelot Threlkeld, and there is much to .be
urged in favour of this suggestion. Constable Lothar (for so he
seems to have spelled his name) was Deputy-Receiver of Brom-
field and Yale in 1519. There is at St. Asaph the office-copy
of the will of a Lancelot Lothar, of the parish of Gres-
ford, dated 19th April, 1578, proved 19th June in the same
year. He desired to be buried at Gresford, spoke of "Elyn
nowe my wife," of his son, Thomas Lothar,* and of his cousin,
^ A sagaciops policy; not so much followed,. however^ between the
reien of Henry IV and that of Henry VIZ.
*^ There was a Thomas Lothar to whom Constable Richard Ejtou
granted lodjfing in " the uttergate heuse*' of Holt Castle (see before,
T>. 318). He was afterwards employed in some capacity by Mr.
I'albot, of Grafton. This information I owe to Mr. Edward Owen.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 329
Roger Wynn, who cannot be identified with certainty. How-
ever, this testator appears to be another and later Lancelot
Lothar. Lancelot Lothar, the Constable, had undoubtedly two
daughters, one of whom, Catherine,* married the first Thomas
Powell, of Horsley, his successor in the constableship, and the
other, Elizabeth, became the wife of John Heynes, Keceiver of
North Wales, whose daughter, Anne, married the second Robert
Davies, of Gwysanney, in 1620, one of the burgesses or free-
holders of Holt. Mr. Hughes tells me that there was a double con-
nection between the Lowl^ers and Davieses, which will be shown
sufficiently by a note at tlie foot of this page.^ Mr. Hughes also
tells me that Ltmcelot Lothar, the Constable, married Elizabeth,
daughter and heir of Raudle Minshall. This particular Con-
stable was very popular, so that about and soon after his time
we meet with such names as Lancelot Powell, Lancelot Lloyd,
Lancelot Roydon, and Lancelot Pickering, denominating connec-
tions of his in the second generation ; also with the names
Lancelot Maddocks, of Marchwiel ; Lancelot Calcott, of Wrex-
ham ; Lancelot Lewys, of Gwersylit, Lancelot Phillips, Lancelot
Aldford, of Holt; Lancelot Yardley, of Holt ; Lancelot Hanson,
of Holt ; Lancelot Broughton, of Eyton ; Lancelot ap Ellis, of
The Court, Wrexham, and many others. These Christian names
gave rise, in many cases, to corresponding surnames, so that we
get presently John Lancelot, of Wrexham ; John and Edward
Lancelot, of Caeca Dutton; William Lancelot, of Pickhill, to
mention no more ; and " Lancelot " has been ever since a not
wholly uncommon surname in this district. The fee of Lancelot
There was anotlier Thomas Lothar, son of George Lothar, deceased i
who held land in Holt in the year 1562, the widow, Alice, of the
said George Lothar being then married to John Salasbary, gent.
William Woodall, gent., had also at the same tiaie, by right of the
said Alice, widow of George Lothar, a lease of some land in Holt.
And in the same year a *' fflorenc lother^' was a burgess of the town
(see Appendix I, p.j3271, .
^ One of her sons was Lancelot Powell.
Catherine, dau.=j= Robert =(2) Elizabeth, dau. of George Lowther, and relict
of George Davies. of John Heynee, Receiver of North Walea,
Ravenscroft. who died 27th May, 1591. Elizabeth was
I buried at Mold, 11th March, 1636.
Robert Davies j^Anue, dau. of John Heynes. She was buried at Mold,
buried 27th SOth Aug., 1636.
Jan., 1688.
Robert Davies ; died Sept, 1667.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
330 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
Lothar, as Constable, was £10, to which must be added his fee as
Deputy-Receiver. And there were free lodging and various
perquisites.
For Thomas Powell, of Horsley, the next Constable, son-in-
law to his predecessor, Lancelot Lothar, the reader may be
referred to my History of the TovmBhips of the Old Parish of
Oresford, Powell pedigree, opposite p. 118. While he lodged in
the Castle, Mr. Edward Aimer, the Deputy- Stevirard, also lodged
there (see before, p. 317).
David Price, of Yale, followed Thomas Powell, apparently,
but I can attach no date to him or identify him.
Richard Etton, Serjeant-at-Arms, the next Constable named,
appears to have been Richard, third son of John Eyton, Esq., of
Watstay, but this identification is not without doubt To him
was leased, "about 7 Eliz.," by the Crown a meadow called
" Constable's Meadow," still so called, near Coed Evan, in the
manor of Oobham Isycoed (township of Dutton DifiFaeth).
There was also a suit concerning this meadow in the thirty-
fourth year of Queen Elizabeth. William, son of Serjeant
Richard Eyton, was baptised at Ruabon in December, 1577.
Lancelot Bostocke, High Sheriff of Flmtshire in 1574, the
last Constable, appointed as such in November, 1585, of whom
we have any trace, was son of Robert Bostocke, formerly of
Churton, by his wife Jane, daughter of Richard Roydon, of
pedigree of bostocke of holt.
Robert Bostocke (son of Robt. ^Dorothy, dau. of Sir Geoi^ge Cftlveley, of Lea,
Bostocke, of Churton. Baokford parish, Cheshire.
Lancelot Bostocke, Constable of=Fjane, dau. of Richard Roydon, of Holt, by Anne
Holt Castle, * 'the pensioner. ' his wife, one of the daughters of the first
I Thomas Powell, of Horsley.
Qeorge Bostocke of Holt ; will dated=T=Dorothy, dau. of Hugh Calveley, of Lea,
17th Sept., 1627, proved 1628. Cheshire.
1. I 2.
Jane, dau. and heir of = George Bostocke ofsKatherine, dau. of Hugh Jones,
David ap Edward, of Holt ; will dated of Wrexham, widow of Ed-
Dinbren, o. «. p, 3rd Aug., proved ward Jones, of Wrexham.
(HaUUm MS.) 8th Oct., 1668. (HdUton MS,)
Dorothy. "Thomas Yale, son of Mary.=j=Thomas Williams of PlAs Jenkin
in Dutton, parish of Holt, and
of Abenbury, son and heir of
Roger Williams, of Oswestry.
the first Thomas
Yale, of Plas yn
Yale.
Lancelot Williams, alias Bostocke, 2nd son, devisee of his unde Geoiige
Bostocke ; buried at Holt, Ist Jan., 166i.
George Bostocke, of Holt, was pardoned, 5th Oct., 1694, for killing John Roydon.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 331
Holt, gent.^ His only son was George Bostocke, of whom
more in the next chapter. Mr. Hughes, of Kinmel, suggests that
Lancelot Bostocke, the Constable and " psnsiouer," belonged to
the '' Band of Gentlemen Pensioners," gentlemen of blood and
coat armour, instituted by Henry VIII, and now known as
" His Majesty's Honourable Corps of Gentlemen-at-Arms."
Sir Richard Lloyd, of Esclus, who defended Holt Castle for
Charles I during the Civil War was, of course. Governor of the
same, but he was so much else that his name is not put in this
list of Constables as not standing in the direct line of succession,
which had been brought to an end some time before, and I
propose to deal with him in a future chapter.
Nor does it seem fit to give here any list of the seneschals or
receivers, whose place would rather be in a history of the Lord-
ship generally ; but I should like to say a few words concerning
one Receiver in particular, Edward Hughes,* who actually lived
at Holt Castle. He was High Sheriff of Denbighshire in 1582,
and died on the 23rd October, 1592. His daughter, and ulti-
mate heiress, Mary, became the fourth wife of John Massie, of
Coddington^ son of Roger Massie of the same. It has not been
found possible to discover with anything like certainty the
paternity of this Edward Hughes, but Mr. Edward Massie, of
Coddington, and Mr. Hughes, of Kinmel, state that Robert Cooke,
Clarencieux (1567-1592), granted him the aftemamed coat-of-
arms : Gnles, a fret argent on a canton o?' a pheou of the first,
and he is then described as " of Denbighshire, servant to Mr.
Dudley." He also became Receiver for the counties of Chester
and Flint. In his will, proved at Chester in 1592 (a summary
whereof Mr. Hughes, of Kinmel, has given me), the testator
leaves everything to his wife, Ann Hughes, trusting that she
will behave as a good mother to his children, and begging his
loving and worthy friend, " Mr. Roger Puleston, of Emmerald
1 For the above-named Richard Bojdeo, see note on p. 31? ; and
the Bostockes of Holt obtained their lands in the franchise, or part
thereof, by descent from him. In 1627, a Richard Roydon was
living in Castle Street, Holt. Mr. E. B. Royden tells me that
Richard Roydon, father-in-law of Lancelot Bostocke, Constable, had
besides Jane, five other daughters — Dorothy, Maud, Mary, Anne,
and Alice, and that he was the son of Thomas Roydon, son of
Richard Roydon, son of William Roydon, English bailiff of Wrex-
ham in 1467.
^ Mr. Edward Massie informs me, on the authority of Sir Henry
Maxwell Lyte, that Edward Hnghes was appointed Receiver for the
Grown in September, 1568, and that in March, 1569, he received
authority to inhabit Holt Castle, and to have twenty cartloads of
wood out of Mersley Park.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
332 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
[Eiural], Esq.," and his cousin, Mr. JoUu Tuieston, of Llwyn y
Knottie, to aid and assist her, the will being witnessed by John
Roydon, Thomas Crue, Richard Case, and John Leeche. Mr.
E. B. Royden has also supplied me with the summary of a
case in the Court of Exchequer, Trinity Term, 1598, in which
Christopher Hughes, son and heir of the late Edward Hughes,
Esq., late Receiver-General of the revenues of North Wales and
of the county and city of Chester, sets forth for himself, as well
as on behalf of Anne and Margaret Hughes, daughters of the
said Edward Hughes, that his father, at the time of his death,
possessed various free lands in the parish of Holt, worth about
£20 yearly, certain copyhold lauds there worth £7 yearly, and
personal estate worth about £2700; and by his last will appointed
Anne« his wife, aged about 66, his sole executrix, and directed
her therewith, together with £800 then in his house, to satisfy
the money due from him to the Crown, or sell his lands for that
purpose, and for the benefit of his unprovided children. When
the said Edward Hughes died, 25th October, 1592, he was in-
debted to the Crown in £1,822 odd, whereof the said Anne paid
within a year aBout £66, leaving £1,162^ unpaid. Afterwards,
about Bartholomew-tide, four years past, the said Anne Hughes
married^ John Roydon, gentleman [of Isycoed], who entered upon
the lands of the late Edward Hughes, got hold of his personal
estate, paid into the Exchequer £670 only, leaving £800 unpaid,
and, affirming that the said personal estate would be insufficient,
sought to sell the lands of the deceased. About four years
past, Roger Roydon and John Taylor were authorised to receive
csrtain arrears of revenue owing to Edward Hughes, and they
collected about £650, which they had accounted for to the
Exchequer, and the complainant begged for a subpa^na against
John Roydon, Roger Roydon, and John Taylor. In reply to
these ex parte statements, John Roydon declared in Michaelmas
term, 43 Queen Elizabeth, that Thomas Crew, of Holt, gentle-
man (who was son-in-law of the said Anne Hughes), and John
IjCach, since deceased, were, by commission, authorised to receive
the Crown revenues of North Wales, Cheshire, and lordship of
Denbigh, up to Michaelmas then last past, and rendered up
their account to the Exchequer on behalf of Anne Hughes, but
detained thereof the respective sums of £691, £99, and £30
odd, for which John Roydon, as husband of the said Anne, was
answerable, who prayed for a subpcena against Thomas Crew,
and Thomasine, widow of John Leech,* both **very rich and
^ There is something wrong in the arithmetic here.
' Anne, widow of Edward HugheR, was John Roydon's 2nd wife.
3 John L«eob, of Holt, gont, was living on the 27th Jane, 1598,
when he was about iO years old. Lands and goods in the possession
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 383
wealthy persons/' while he (John Koyden) was in hia eetatd
decayed by reason of the charge he had been at in finding out
the falsehood of the account aforesaid. Thomas Crew and
Thomasine Leech gave in their answers on 13th April, 1601.
One would like to know what was the name of the daughter
of Anne Hughes who married Thomas Crue. Strange also it is
that no mention is made of Edward Hughes' daughter, Mary,
who married John Massie, of Coddington. The Massies still
quarter her father's arms, and regard her as his heiress. Perhaps
the other children named in the pleas died without issue, and
Mrs. Massey would not associate herself in "the complaint"
with her brother, Christopher Hughes, with her sisters, Anne
and Margaret Hughes, or with Mr. John Royden, and so is not
mentioned in the bilL
It is. perhaps, worth while to refer to a bit of Welsh verse,
formerly in the Shirburn Collection (Report on Welsh AtSS,,
voL ii, part ii, p. 648, by Dr. Gwenogvryn Evans), addressed to
John Salusbury, heir of Lleweni, when he overcame in the field
Captain O. Salusbury, of Holt, in 1593. It does not now seem
possible to identify either of the persons just named. "Mr.
Salsburie his Cham be''" in Holt Castle, is mentioned on 27
June, 1598; and, according to Mrs. Slopes, a Captain Owen
Salusbury was slain in Essex Gallery, London, 10 February,
160®, at the rising of the Earl of Essex, and was buried at St.
Clement Danes, Strand.
APPENDIX III.— CHAPTER II.
(See p. 323.)
Tenants of Holt in the Fourth Year (1562) of
Queen Elizabeth.
(1) Free Tenants.
Lancelot Yardley William Kethyn, for life of Robt.
Edward Davje Kethyn, his father
Thomas Crewe, senior Randle Pulforde
Brian Bate John hjlchyu [Hutcheon]
John Wilkinson Launcelot Baker
John Grifif[ith] Thomas Edgworth
John Nuttall Thomas Crewe, gent.
of Mr. John Roy don, formerly those of Mr. Edward Hnghes, were
seized on the 80th March, 1598, to satisfy the claims of the Crown,
by Sir Richard Treror, Roger Puleston of Eroral, Esq., and Mor^n
Broaghton, Esq., the estimated valne of the whole being £od I 13s. 4d.;
a total which included an ifcem of J&300 for plate, goods, household
sin if, and jewels.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
334
THE TOWN OF HOLT, IN COUNTY DENBIGH.
William Woodall, sen'
William Woodall, gent
Thomas Caloott
Richard Rodon, son of Thomas
Rodon
John Crewe
Thomas Yaixleley
Balfe Bainvile and Edward Tay-
lor
Edward Allmer, esq.
Susanna, lately wife of . . . Han-
son
William Bird and Richard Bird
John Greene
Thomas Billot
John Knight
William Pate
Ridiard Aldforde
William ap Batha and the wife of
Ralph ap Atha
William Smyth
Ralph Bulkeley
John Stokeley
Owen Brereton, esq. ["William
Briereton" crossed out]
Launcelot Bamston
John Clubbe
Peter Rodon
Katherene, lately wife of John
dyo
Wife of Geoffry Smyth
Thomas Powell
Edward Puleston
William Woodall
(2) Tenants for Term op Years and at Will.
John Pickering
Heirs of Thomas lowther [John
Salesbury's name crossed out]
Launcelott Prestland
Launcelott Hanson
Edward Davies
Edward Crew
.... Pova
Handle David
Thomas Pulforde
John ap Griff[ith]
John Ledsam
William Kethyn [Gethyn]
John Goz ap Richard
Randle Pulford
John Hugh Grififfith]
William Godson [now dead, John
Godson his son]
Launcelott Baker
William Woodall, gent, [by right
of Alice his wife, lately wife
of George Lowther]
Richard Rodon, sun of Thomas
Rodon
Thomas Edgworth
David Wilde and Edward WUde
Edward AUmer
Joan Pulford, widow, late wife of
William Pulford and Thomas
Marter
Launcelott Philipps
David Gyttyn
John Princeston .[crossed out and
John heynys substituted]
John Alforde
John Rodon
John ap JeuNi ap dd
John Stokeley [crossed out and a
name, illegible, substituted]
Thomas Maddock
Peter Rodon
Thomas Powell, gent.
Edward Jones, gent.
1 William Woodall [crossed out
and John Heynys substitu-
ted]
Edward Puleston
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
385
ST. PETER'S CHURCH, CARMARTHEN.
Br T. E. BRIGSTOCKE, Esq,
In writing an article on this ancient parish church — a
church wnich to-day stands as a noble living link
between the Welsh Church of a thousand years ago
and that of the present time — I propose to deal chiefly
with matters of historical and monumental interest
rather than with the architecture of the building,
which latter I could only but very imperfectly describe.
The present church, replacing no doubt an earlier one,
is generally attributed to the thirteenth century, and to
which period belong the lower portion of the nave walls
— with the recesses for altar-tombs — and the greater part
of the tower; the chancel and south aisle being decidedly
later. The church consists of a nave, chancel, soutn
aisle, western tower, and north transept. The north
transept is probably built on an older foundation, and it
is difficult to say to what period it belongs. The eastern
portion of the south aisle is used as the Consistory Court
of the Diocese, and up to fifty years ago was separated by
a screen from the rest of the aisle. In old documents
this part is also often described as the " town chancel."
There are two vestries — one being a recently- built choir
vestry. The nave is divided from the south aisle by five
lofty arches, resting on massive buttresses of a severely
plain character.
The length of the church from entrance door to the
east window is 170 ft, while the width of the fabric
is 50 ft.
The singular site of St. Peter's, outside the walls of
" Kaermerdin '' (to use the spelling of the early
Charter-rolls), and between these and the old City
of Carmarthen — ^now forming the eastern portion of
the town, is a matter of much interest. To quote from
Archdeacon Be van's lecture on St. Peter's in 1884 :
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
336 ST. petbr's oauRou, oakmabthbk.
" It would be interesting to know the relations that
may have existed between St. Peter's and the older
church of St. Teilo, previously to the appropriation of
these churches to the Priory of St. John, Carmarthen,
in Henry the First's reign (1100-1 135), and ascertain how
it was that St. Peter's became the parish church rather
than the other ; to define the relations,, ecclesiastically
speaking, between the old City of Carmarthen, to
which St. Peter's was more particularly attached, and
Fig. 1. — Interior of St. Peter's Church, Carmarthen : View looking Eafit.
{Excelsior Co., Carmarthen Photo.)
the new town, outside whose walls the church stood ;
and to discuss the question whether St. Peter's was in
any way responsible for the spiritual cure of the in^
habitants within the walls." Unfortunately, it seems
very difficult still to clear up this interesting matter.
The visitor on entering St. Peter's for the first tim^
cannot but be struck with a certain noble impressiveness,
in spite of the plainness of the interior, and many
architectural defects which alterations made in different
periods have brought about.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ST. PBTBR's church, CARMARTHEN. 337
Considering the antiquity and importance of this
church, its central position in the diocese, as well as
its contiguity to Norman castles and influences, one is
disappointed not to find any traces of medisBval or
later embellishments. The quaintly-carved gargoyles
of the tower alone remain of this class of work.
Probably this defect — one which applies to so many
of the churches of the district — is due to the absence
of good local stone suitable for the purpose. The earlier
church on this site may possibly have been burnt and
destroyed in the fierce Welsh conflicts of the thirteenth
and fourteenth centuries ; but had it been much more
ornate than the present one, we might have expected
some traces of it to have been handed down to us in
portions of the stone work.
The first mention of this church occurs in the
Annals of Battle Abbey, to which it was given by
Henry I (1100-1135) in the earlier years of his reign.
The gift included, as well, one other church of an earlier
origin, named the Church of St. John the Evangelist
ana St. Teilo, and the old City of Carmarthen. As
St. Peters appears to have had chapelries attached
to it at this time (Newchurch and Llangain), it favours
the belief of many authorities that even at this time
the church wiis an old one. Bernard, the first Norman
bishop of St. David's, was appointed in 1115. He
seems early in his episcopate to have taken steps to
get the king — with whom he had considerable influence
— to exchange St. Peter's for some other possessions in
Hampshire, with the view, no doubt, of appropriating
the living in favour of the newly-founded Priory of St.
John, Carmarthen. The bishop seems to have been
much interested in this Priory, and gave it an endow-
ment. The king's consent was obtained about 1125,
though it was not until after Bernard's death that the
transfer was confirmed by a grant from Henry II in
1180. One of the witnesses to this deed was Peter
de Leia, Bishop of St. David, and formerly Prior of
the Cluniac Abbey of Wenlock, Salop. In connection
6th 8ER., VOL, VII. 22
Digitized by VjOOQIC
883
.9T. Peter's ohu«ch, Carmarthen.
with this arrangement jthere is extant a very curiously
;i;irorded deed^ showin;^ that, as the results of the com-:
plaint of one Richard ap John, Vicar of St. Peter's in
1278, to the Bishop of St. David's (Richard de Carew)
against, the Prior of St. John, for making too scanty
an allowance to him the Vicar, the Prior agreed to
Fig. 2. — Coat-of-Arms from St. John's Priory, now in South-
East Wall of St. Peter's Carmarthen.
{Exceltior Co.t Carmarthen Photo.)
pay the Vicar in future ten marks a-year, the payment
to be made quarterly. The deed is dated at Lamphey,
April 4, 1278, and in it occurs the first reference to
the vicarage. This arrangement with the Prior, by
which the Vicar of St. Peter's got paid a small pension
of £6 1 3s. 4d. out of the tithes, instead of a certain
portion of the latter being assigned to him, bore very
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ST. pxtbr's chuuch, oaiImakthun. 339
UQsaitisfactory results when the Priory was dissolved
by Henry VIII, The latter directed that the lessee of
the tithes 3hould continue to do what the Prior had
done in the past— pay a slightly increased stipend of
Sn to the Vicar ; and, unfortunately, this arrangement
had continued to modern times, in spite of the greatly
increased value of the tithes, the latter being now
worth nearly £1,000 a year.
Through the kindness of Mr. T. W. Barker, the
Diocesan Registrar, I am enabled to give the following
extracts from the oldest diocesan registers on some
early appointmenta to 8t, Peter's by the Priory authori-
ties. Under date December 20, 1403, David Robyn
was made Vicar on the presentation of the Prior and
Convent of St. John's, Carmarthen; July 12, 1408,
William Sty ward, Chaplain, was presented to St.
Peter's by the same authorities ; February 22, 1486,
John David, M. A^, was collated to this church ; July 3,
1600, John Harry to Vicarage vacant by death of John
ap David on presentation by Prior, etc., of Carmarthen ;
January 1, 1501, Admission of Sir David Webbe to
Vicarage vacant by death of John Harry.
In 1394, we find by a Charter-Roll of Richard II,
one Thomas Rede, of Carmarthen, received permission
to assign certain lands for endowing a chaplain *' to
daily celebrate Divine service to the honour of the
Blessed Marv, in a certain chauntry, anciently founded
within the ohurch of the blessed Peter, of Kermerdyn,"
etc. It is difficult now to identify the position of this
I^ady Chapel; but on the supposition that the earlier
church was in a cruciform shape, this chauntry may
have been on the south side, and was possibly absorbed
when the south aisle was added. On the south wall
may be noticed a niche for a holy-water stoup. Speed's
Map of 1610 pictures a church almost identical with
that of to-day ; but the fact that the centre of the roof
of the nave is not in line with that of the chancel
favours the idea that either the chancel arch was en-
larged, or a south aisle was added in the fourteenth or
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
340 BT. pbtbr's church, carmarthsn.
fifteenth century. The steps leading to the rood-loft
were noticed in the wall behind the pulpit, when
alterations were being carried out some nfty to sixty
years ago. The remains of the ridge of a higher roof
may be noticed on the north side of the tower, but
whether this lowering was done by Nash when re-roofing
and re-ceiling the church in 1790 is a matter of con-
jecture only. Before referring to just a few of the
numerous monuments which are in the church, it may
not be amiss to touch on some historical and social
incidents.
Just as the parishioners to-day have a warm affection
for this ancient House of God — oonsecrated as it is to
them by the worship, the hopes and fears, the joys and
sorrows of many generations of their forefathers — so
in days gone by the same reverent care was displayed.
In 1557 we find (thanks to the Rev. G. Eyre Evans'
careful researches into the Old Minutes of the Cor-
poration) by an entry " that in consequence of the
decay into which the parish church had gone for want
of care to provide material," an annual rate of j£20
a year (a large sum for those days) was to be levied
on the parishioners, and the churchwardens were to
account to the Mayor and the Council for the same.
This attachment further evidences itself in many wills,
both where bequests are left to the church or vicar, or
where directions are given for burial there. An ex-
tract from one or two wills will illustrate what I
allude to.
Amongst the leading citizens in Queen Elizabeth's
reign was Alderman Edward Myddleton, whose beautiful
autograph signature might have been noticed in the
Old Corporation Minute Book, kindly lent for the
exhibition at the Assembly Rooms, Carmarthen, in
August, 1 906. Besides being Mayor (1583), he seems to
have been a merchant- trader, ship-owner, patriot and
educationist, and preceded Robert Toye as Mayor, the
latter being one of those who had petitioned Queen
Elizabeth for a grammar school for Cfi^rmarthep, From
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ST. pbteb's church, carmakthen, 341
Mjddleton's will, dated October 6th, 1537, we give the
foUowing extract : —
" Edward Myddleton, Alderman of the To.wne and
Cpuntie of Caermarthen, being sicke in body— T <lesire
to be buried in the Church of Carmarthen named St.
Peter. To the repair of the said church I give 208. ;
to the repairs of the Bridge, lOs. ; to the poore, lOs, ;.
to the Free Schools of Carmarthen, 10s. yearly for ever,
out of the rente of my two Houses in Water Street,
within the Towne of Carmarthen ; to my servants,
Thomas Cook and Griffith Adkins, the one haufe of my
Bark named * The Margett,' which is betwixt me and
Griffith Howell, etc.''
Or, again, observe the curiously-expressed desire ot
a certain Dame Margaret Lloyd to be buried at St.
Peter's without the expensive ostentation so usual at
that time. The tablet to this worthy lady may be
noticed in the north transept. Her will, dated December
27, 1755, contains the following : — " If I should depart
this life in the County, of Ca^*aigan, my Executor shall
provide a carriage to carry me to the Parish Church of
St. Peter's, Carmarthen ; and I beg that my corpse may
be there laid in the same grave with, or as near as
may be to my late dear husband, and my late dear
daughter, Elizabeth Evans ; and that a funeral sermon
shall be preached, and the text taken from the 88th
Psalm, and the latter part of the 13th verse ; and I
hereby desire that my coffin may be made of good
oak, without any ornament or covering ; and that
instead of scarfs or hatbands at my Funeral, that twelve
poor old women be clothed with black bays gowns, a
yard of flannel on their heads, and each a pair of
gloves, and that they walk before my corpse to my
grave/'
From the middle of the sixteenth century this church
becomeis closely identified with many of those whose:
names and lives live in history
Had you en1;ered the church in February, 1555, you
might have witnessed the strange, sad spectacle of the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
342 ST. Peter's chdkoh, carmarthkn.
Bishop of St. David's, Robert Ferrar, being handed over
by the Sheriffs of the County as a prisoner to the
custody of his successor in the Diocese, one Henry
Morgan ; and on six subsequent occasions Ferrar was
brought up here for examination. Here he received
his final condemnation shortly before his martyrdom at
the market cross, on March 30th, 1555.
In the answers which Ferrar gives to some of the
charges brought against him by his enemies, there are
frequent references to this church. For instance, he
states that (1) he had preached right often at Car-
marthen, the latter being described as " an English
Towne and the chiefe of his Diocis ; (II) that ** while
sitting in the Church in Carmarthen with the Chan-
cellor to hear causes, and seeing the Vicar with other
priestes, with song and lights bringing a corpse up
to the Church, he called forthwith the Vicar and
priestes and rebuked them in open courte as cormorants
and Ravens flying about the dead carcase for lucr€
sake;'' and (HI) *'that George Constantine having
pulled downe without any authority the Communion
Altar in Carmarthen Church, appointing the use thereof
in another place of the Church, not without grudge of
the people,' he, the Bishop, fearing tumult, "commanded
the Vicar to set up the Communion Table (for the time)
neare to the place where it was before." The Bishop
evidently shows by this last answer that he wished
to make changes cautiously, when the congregation
were so conservative in their ideas. In November,
1576, the body of Walter Devereux, K.G., Earl of
Essex, a native of Carmarthen, and father of the great
Earl, was brought here for burial, the Earl having
died in Ireland. The funeral sermon was preached
by Richard Davies, Bishop of St. David s, the coad-
jutor of Salesbury in getting the New Testament
translated into Welsh. The remains of the Earl are
believed to be underneath the site of the organ, and
Di)uovan, in hh Excursions Through Wodes^ in 1804,
mentions that the Vicar, the Rev. W. Higgs Barker,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ST. Peter's church, Carmarthen. 343
gave him the following description of the coflfin, as
observed by the sexton when preparing a fresh grave
near the chancel : "The outer coffin was of oak, but of
singular construction. It was somewhat cymbiform,
Eointed at both extremities, and strongly bbund with
oops of iron. The inner shell was lead, in which the
body lay, embalmed in a pecular sort of spirituous
liquor, that had retained its purity in an astonishing
manner, and was scarcely diminished in quantity since
the time the body was enclosed in the coffin, being
nearly full when first opened." Evidently the Irish
concoction was very good for the purpose, or the remains
could not have been so well preserved at the end of two
centuries.
Some half century after the burial of Essex, viz., on
Sunday, September 11th, 1625, we find the stern
Bishop Laud preaching the Assize sermon before the
judges ; and once again, on October 9th of the same
year, we find Laud occupying the pulpit of St. Peter's.
On Sunday, August 10th, 1684, there was a State
service in honour of the visit of his Grace, Henry, Duke
of Beaufort, Lord-President of the Council in Wales.
Whether we consider its dignity or its pageantry, it
was probably unrivalled in the history of the church.
One Dineley, who acted as his Grace's Secretary, gives
many details of this visit. His Grace was accompanied,
not only by his own retinue of noblemen, including his
son, the Earl of Worcester, Sir John Talbot, Sir William
Rice, and many othei-s, but by the Carmarthenshire
militia, a great number of the gentry, as well as by the
mayor and aldermen in their formalities. The pro-
cession of the Corporation itself was in those days much
more imposing than it is to-day, for it included — as a
modern writer tells us — not only the mayor, recorder,
aldermen, and common councillors, but bailiffs, cham-
berlains, serjeants-at-arms, serjeants-at-mace, sword-
bearers, beadles and constables, all in quaint costumes.
The Bishop of St David's (Lawrence Womack) preached,
we are told, a learned sermon, '' after which his Grace
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
344 ST. pbtkr'm chukgh, oarmartbek.
and whole company were nobly entertained in town by
the deputy-lieutenant and gentlemen of the county at
the loagings prepared for him. After which, and even-
ing prayer, his Grace and company took a view of the
** key and towne, and were nobly coUationed."
Dineley gives many details of the monuments that
are still at St. Peter's, as well as an interesting and
unique view of the church from the south side. In this
view a ** bone-house/' situated to the left of the
Spilman Street porch, is shown, as mentioned by Arch-
deacon Thomas at the last meeting.
From the Register we learn that Sir Richard Steele,
the essayist, was buried in this church on Septem-
ber 4th, 1729, his remains being placed in the vault of
liis wife's family, the Scurlocks. This is situated in
the Consistory Court ; and here, in July, 1876, the
vault was accidentally laid open, and the cofl&n of Steele
was noticed in a very decayed state. The writer
noticed that the skull was very well preserved, and
bore a periwig, with a bow of black ribbon tied at the
end. It may be added that the churchwardens had a
small leaden coffin made for the skull, and after in-
scribing the name outside, this was placed back in the
vault. The latter is now covered over by the tiling of
the Consistory Court, the spot being about 8 to 10 fl.
from the entrance porch. Of events in the eighteenth
century there is little to record, though it is interesting
to recall that John Wesley was present on July 13th,
1777, and again on August 22nd, 1784, at the Sunday
morning services, and commended the sermons. In 1797,
many of the French prisoners en route from Fishguard
were detained for a snort time in the church, owing to
the want of room in the prison and town hall. In the
last century Bishop Thirlwall nearly always occupied
the pulpit on Christmas morning, as well as on many
other occasions ; whilst amongst others who preached
there were Bishop Tait (afterwards Archbishop), when
Bishop of London, and Archbishop Benson.
The Registers date from 1671 ; the bells from 1722,
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ST. PETEU'S CHURCH, CARMAKTHEN. 345
though nearly all the latter have been reciust since, and a
full peal provided. The communion plate is compara-
tively modern, the exception being the cover of a chalice,
inscribed : " Poculum Ecclesie Santi Petri Carmarthen,
1 577." The old colours of the 23rd Royal Welsh Fusiliers
were impressively handed over (which now adorn the
chancel in this church) to the custody of the Mayor, for
preservation, in the year 1846. Many Peninsular
veterans were present on the occasion.
Of the numerous monumental remains, a few only
can be noticed. The oldest is undoubtedly the stone
cofl&n-lid discovered some fifty years ago, in one of the
recesses in the north wall of the nave. For a long
period the latter had been concealed by the tiers of
pews, which ran back against the wall, until the church
was re-pewed at the period referred to.
The inscription on the bevelled edges at the head
and on the right side is now much worn and difficult to
decipher. Fortunately, in Spurrells History ofCanfnar-
then, we have the letters as noted some years ago, viz. :
RICAR KG
B BER ICl DEV DE l'aLMP EIT MERCI
The late Mr. Spurrell attributed it to the eleventh or
twelfth century. On the surface there is a head, in
relief, with a floriated cross below, as shown in Miss
Edwards' admirable sketch. Mr. Edward Lawes care-
fully examined the lid at the last meeting of the
Cambrian Archaeological Association ; and judging from
the mode in which the hair is dressed inclined to the
opinion that the figure represented a civilian of the
latter part of the tnirteenth century, or early in the
fourteenth century. Possibly the lid belongs to the
coffin of some important man originally buried at the
Priory of St. John or at the Grey Friars' Monastery,
and removed here at the Dissolution ; while on the
other hand the original resting-place of the coffin may
have been the recess where it was found.
In an adjoining recess there is a half-length stone
effigy of a man with one arm folded across his chest.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
346
ST. PETER^S CHURCH, CAJIMARTHKN.
Fig. 3.— Sepulchral Slab of Richard in St. Peter's Church,
Carmarthen.
{Drawn by Mist Emily JET. Edward^,)
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ST. PfiTEk's OrtUROH, CARMARTHKK.
347
but of the history of this little is known. In the
chancel wall, near the vestry door, there is a portion of
an early but much-worn effigy, plastered into the wall.
Originally, it seems to have covered a vault under or
near the chancel arch, where the organ now is.
The most interesting monument in St. Peter's
IS
Fig. 4.— Tomb of Sir Rhys ap Thomas in St. Peter's Church,
Carmarthen.
{Excelsior Co,^ Carmarthen Photo.)
undoubtedly the stately tomb of Sir Rhys ap Thomas,
K.G., in the south aisle, with the recumbent effigies of
Sir Rhys in chain armour, and his second wife, Janet,
surmounting it. Sir Rhys was the third son of Thomas
ap Gruffydd) of the illustrious House of Dynevor, and
famous for his successful efforts in supporting the claim
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
348 ST. Peter's church, Carmarthen.
of Henry Tudor, Earl ot fiicbmond, afterwards Henry
VII, to the throne of England.
Sir Rhys died in 1527, aged 76, and was buried at
the Grey Friars' monastery of Carmarthen. On* the
dissolution of the monastery in 1537, the remains of
Sir Rhys and his wife were removed to St. Peter's, and
were placed within the communion railings on the
north side. Here they remained from 1539 to 1865.
Unfortunately, Sir Rhys' banner, armour and helmet,
as well as the iron railings, disappeared at the time, or
after the removal to the church. The indenture in the
Record Office as to the dissolution of the Grey Friars'
monastery at Carmarthen, dated August 30, 1539,
after stating that one " John Trahern " was warden of
the Convent," " Makethe mencyon of all the stufis of
the Grey Frieres of Karmardein receyved by the Lorde
Visitor, under the Lorde Prevey Scale for the King's
Grace, and delyvered to mv Lorde William, Bishop of
Seinthe David and Thomas rrichar. Vicar of Carmarden,
to se and order to the King's use with the House and
all the appurtenances tille the King^s pleasure be further
knoweing, and * Mr. Meyer ' to have ye oversithe of the
same." Among the " stuflfe " referred to are ;
Item. '* A Paule of clothe of tussey for the Erie of
Richemunde tumbe." (This fine tomb was removed to
St. David's Cathedral from the monastery.)
Item. " A goodlye tumbe for Sir Rhys ap Thomas
with a grate of yron abouthe him."
Item. '* A stremer banner of his armys with his cote
armer and helmit."
In the autumn of 1865 it was deemed desirable to
have the tomb removed to a more convenient site
under the arch between the chancel and Consistory
Court ; and the expense of removing and restoring it
was borne by the fourth Baron Dynevor, a descenoapt^
of Sir Rhys.
It was with much interest that one watched the
opening of the tomb on September 11, 1SQ5, and the
discovery of the remains of the old warrior knight.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ST. pbt£r's chuech, cabmarthen. 349
The skull and most of the bones were found under a
slab level with the floor of the chancel. The remains
were carefully collected, and later on plax^ed in a stone
sarcophagus within the tomb. The interior of the body
of the tomb was filled up with pieces of stone, some of
them coloured, earth, mortar, and portions of old
tesselated pavement.
The tomb may be said to follow after the design, on
a much simpler and more modest scale, of that of
Henry the Seventh's tomb at Westminster Abbey : the
monarch whom Sir Rhys served so faithfully in his
lifetime.
The inscription around the tomb was added at the
restoration, and commences — " Here rest the remains
of Sir Rhys ap Thomas, K.G., who fought at Bosworth
Field, and of Dame Eva, his wife," etc. (It should be
Dame Jknet.) A few years ago the tomb was once
more removed to its present position, so as to provide a
more convenient site for the organ.
In the south wall, opposite the back of the organ
and adjoining the monuments to Bishop Ferrar and
Greneral Sir William Nott, as well as Sir Richard Steele's
tablet, may be noticed a stone slab inserted in the wall,
and bearing a carved armorial shield (see illustration,
p. 338). Tnis was found in 1878, when repairing some
cottages adjoining the site of St. John's Priory, the stone
being used as a hearthstone in a cottage, but fortu-
nately with the carved face underneath. From Spur-
relFs History of Carmarthen^ we find that it carries "the
armes first borne by Henry V, when Prince of Wales,
and by other Princes of Wales, up to Edward VI . The
shape of the shield indicates the middle of the fifteenth
century-T-^emp. Henry VI — and the arms are those of
his only son, Edward. The latter was born in 1453,
seventeen years after the destruction of the Priory by
fire. Possibly his arms were placed on a part of the
building not restored until after his birth."
In a niche in the chancel is a beautiful recessed
rnonum^nt — being the eflSgy of a kneeling lady. It is
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
350 ST. PSTBa's OHUBCB, CARMAttTH^K.
the monument of Anue, the liady Vaughan. who is
portrayed kneeling, owing to her having been found
dead in the attitude of prayer at her beapide. There
is the following quaint epitaph beneath to this chari-
table lady :
'* Kinde Reader nnderneath thii Tomb doth Ije
Choice Blizar of mortalitie
By carefall proTidence Create wealth did store
For her relations and the Poore.
In Essex borne bat Mpent her gainfnl dajes
In Terra Coed to her eternall prajse
Where bj her loanea in spit of adrerse fates
She did preserve men*8 persons and estates.
A Create Exemplar to onr nation
Her to imitate in Life and action
Would joa then know who was this good woman,
*Twas rirtnoDS Anne, the Lady Vanghan."
** She died May 15, 1672. Being aged 84 years.''
It may be mentioned here that below the chancel
and Consistory Court the church is so honeycombed
with vaults containing the remains of old citizens and
representatives of old Court families, that St. Peters
may well be called the " Abbey " church of the district.
Space will only allow of my calling attention to a few
other monuments of interest Some of the most
beautiful and delicate sculpture work in the church
may be noticed on the mural tablet affixed to the wall
behind the pulpit in memory of George Lewis, Armiger,
who died December 21, 1715. The cherubs' heads in
white marble are worthy of careful inspection. The
handsome memorial pulpit of carved wood and stone was
the gift of the family oi the late Rev. Latimer M. Jones,
B.D., who was for fourteen years the devoted Vicar of
the parish. The Lych-gate at the entrance is the
Earishioners' memorial to the same Vicar ; while the fine
rass lectern is the gift of the relatives of the late
Mr. Valentine Davis, Registrar of the Diocese. The
latter gentleman was a munificent contributor to the
repair and beautifying of St. Peter's.
The living of St. Peter's is in the gift of the Bishop,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ST. peteh's ohxjbch, cakmarthen. 351
and is worth £282 with a vicarage. This is not a large
income for the vicar of so large and important a churcn ;
while it was very much less than this until the middle
of the last century. This poverty of the vicarage may
be directly traced to the very much one-sided settle-
ment referred to in this article, when, for the sake of
peace, in 1278, Richard ap-John, the then Vicar, agreed
to take ten marks yearly from the Prior of St. John
for his share of the tithe.
Much might be said about the many thousands of
parishioners who sleep — ^high and low, rich and poor —
in the broad Grod's acre surrounding the church, but
space will only permit me to conclude with a few lines
by Henry Kingsley on another parish church, but which
may well apply to St. Peter's.
" Eight hundred years of memory are crowded into
this dark old church, and the flood of change beats
round the walls and shakes the doors in vain, but never
enters. The dead stand thick together, as if to make
a brave resistance to the moving world outside, which
jars upon their slumber."
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
352
NOTES ON THE EAST WINDOW OF THE
CHURCH OF ALL SAINTS, GRESFORD.
By thb Rkv. E. A. FISHBOURNE, M.A.
The church of Gresford is fortunate in many ways,
but most fortunate in that so much of its ancient glass
remains to show us something of its former glory. The
east window and one in the north aisle chapel are
complete, while others have remnants of great interest.
The great size and lofty position of this east window,
filled with beautiful glass, seen beyond and above the
dark oak screen, render it the most striking object in a
church of no mean beauty.
As it was restored by Messrs. Clayton and Bell in
1867, the window having become quite unintelligible,
filled with confused remnants of glass, and much of it
also having been destroyed, it appears to me very
desirable to put on record what was done at the time,
hence the following notes.
The church was practically rebuilt in the closing years
of the fifteenth century ; the window is therefore
in the latest style of Perpendicular, with flattened
arch. It is 21 ft. in height by 14 ft. in breadth, and
is of seven lights. The glass was given by Thomas
Stanley, Earl of Derby, in the year 1500, when the art
of glass- painting was at its best. The following is a
description of the window as it is to-day. In the
tracery above there is a Tree of Jesse, culminating in
the Virgin and Child. The tone of tJiis part of the
window is rather darker than the rest. Along the
upper half of the lights there is a row of six single
figures, the seventh light containing two, enclosed in
vesicas of broad yellow rays. Above them are small
attendant angels. In the centre light stands God the
Father. He is triple-crowned, and holds the orb and
sceptre. Towards the left is the sitting figure of God
the Son. He also is triple-crowned, the lowest being
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CHURCH OF ALL SAINTS, GRfcSFOKD. 353
the crown of thorns. His hands are extended, and
show the wound prints. His right foot is placed on a
globe. Between His knees the Virgin Mother is seated
on a lower throne, her hands upheld in front, and her
right foot is also placed upon the globe. Further to the
left is St. John the Evangelist, and next to him the
Blessed Virgin, carrying on one arm the lily, and on the
other either the gillyflower, or the palm of light which the
angel brought to her from Paradise. On the other side
of the central figure is God the Holy Ghost, seated
and wearing a triple crown. Further to the right are
the angel Gabriel and the Blessed Virgin, designating
the Annunciation.
Beneath these figures there are five rows of three-
quarter figures, one hundred and eight in number —
apostles, martyrs, virgins, angels, and seraphim. These
rows are marked off* by the corresponding words of ** Te
Deum laudamus," making it what is called a Te Deum
window. Positive colour is very sparingly introduced
into this lower division, and consequently the upper
figures stand out with all the greater brilliancy and
splendour. The whole conception is very fine, and calls
forth the admiration of all experts.
As for its history since it was erected, we know
but little. Two windows only, on the north side of
the church, appear to have been destroyed in conse-
quence of the orders of 1547, for there were seventeen
still remaining in 1574. In 1634, Anthony Lewis, of
Burton, bequeathed ** a somme of one hundred pounds
to mende and make clean the fayre, costly and curious
painted glasse windowes in Gresford Church that I
sawe was falling in decay, to be mended neatly with
couUered glasse, where a head, arme, body, legg or
coate of tne Personages be broken or inscripcion gone,
to mende them art like in shape and proper couller."
It must be remembered that this represented a
bequest of from five to six hundred pounds at the
present value.
After this repair, it would seem that all windows
were allowed to perish from sheer neglect; and pro-
6th sbb. yoL. vn. 23
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
354 NOTES ON THE EAST WINDOW OP THE
bably it was by mere good fortune that the Madocks
chapel window lived through this time. The east
window must have been patched anyhow with the
pieces which fell from it from time to time, and,
perhaps, with fragments from other windows. It was
described in 1845 as being " entirely filled with confused
remnants of painted glass, from the Abbey of Basing-
werk, in Flintshire. A figure of a pope, with triple
crown, and one of the Virgin, are perfect, also heads of
apostles."
Those now who remember it before 1867 say that it
was impossible to make out any design, and that a
considerable portion of the lower part — about two-
thirds — waa completely destroyed, and replaced by
plain glass.
When Archdeacon Wickham undertook the renova-
tion of the church, this window, together with the east
window in the Madocks chapel, was sent to London ;
and its restoration by Messrs. Clayton and Bell was so
excellently carried out that it is difficult even for an
expert to distinguish in every case the new from the
old. Now for the object of these notes.
While reasoning lately on the d priori ground that
it was improbable a Te Deum window would be erected
to express the All Saints idea, I became convinced that
the words from the Te Deum were inserted by Messrs.
Clayton and Bell, and that, consequently, all the angels
and cherubim were also new. This was but a slender
thread to go by, but it led to definite results. To set
the matter at rest, I wrote to the firm for information,
on the chance of some record having been kept. They
most kindly gave me all the information in their power ;
and as they had but little to go upon before them, they
sent Mr. Clement Bell to inspect the window, and
point out to me what was new and what was old.
They wrote : '* We think the words from the Te Deum
were certainly new, as we have no knowledge of a
window being made in this country in illustration of
the Te Deum until very long after the date of the
original east window glass; although attempts have
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
efltJKOH OF All SAlNtS, GRfeSFOBD. 365
been made to prove the contrary on the evidence of
saints, martyrs, etc., as in the case of the sculptured
figures on the west front of Wells Cathedral."
It is evident, therefore, that true principles of
•* restoration" were not thoroughly understood forty
years ago, and the window, which originally expressed
only the thought of the adoration of all the saints (the
church itself being dedicated under the name of All
Saints) was altered to express a rather wider idea, not
quite so appropriate as the first.
Mr. Bell informed me that the Tree of Jesse in the
tracery was also a new idea, though some five or six
heads, and some of the drapery here and there are
old, which were worked into the new design. Of the
great figures, he said, that of the Virgin on the left is
entirely old. The St. John is almost entirely new ;
only the feet, and a portion of the green robe near the
feet, are old. There is nothing to show that the original
figure was St. John, but who else could be more
suitably placed there ? In the next light the head of
the Virgin is new, and to this I wish to direct par-
ticular attention. In a diagram of the window which I
have, Messrs. Clayton and Bell call this subject (see
pp. 352-3 for description) The Assumption ; but as the
Virgin is seated in front of the seated figure of our
Lord, and each has the right foot on the same globe, it
appears to me that this subject represents the divine
Son displaying His Mother to the universe as Queen ot
Heaven ; and that originally the figure was a crowned
figure, as it is in other places in the church — above the
porch door, upon the font, on one of the misiHres, and
in the window of the Madocks chapel.
To strengthen this surmise, I may state that in the
north-east window of the Madocks chapel we have
represented there — first, the funeral of the Blessed
Virgin, with its episode of the wicked Jew ; then her
burial in the Vale of Jehosophat, where, in the clouds
above, the sacred Trinity are seen taking part: the
divine Son with His hand raised in blessing, and the
Holy Spirit sending down His divine influence. The
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
356 NOTftS ON tHE fcAST WtNDOW Of TH*
figure of the Father is now altogether missing. Next
to this is the Assumption, where, "clothed with the
sun," and the girdle falling, the Blessed Virgin ascends
to heaven, surrounded by angels. After this comes the
Coronation in heaven, now almost entirely shattered
and confused.
The scene, then, in the great east window carries the
subject on to the final stage of her glory : where, seated
enthroned as Queen of heaven and of the universe, she,
as " the Mediatrix of Intercession," is " placed between
Christ and the Church." [See Encyclical Letter of
Pius IX, 1849.]
All this fits in with the supposition I have put
forward elsewhere : that the great object of veneration
in this church was an image (probably a wonder-working
image) of the Virgin, which stood in the now empty
niche of what was then the Lady Chapel, an object of
devotion to pilgrims, from whose " oflFrryngs . . . the
churche of the sayd parysche was strongely and
beautyfully made erecte and buylded."
From this digression I return to the description of
the present condition of the window.
Of the central figure — God the Father — the face is
new ; the remaining two have a good deal of new work,
including the faces ; and about two-thirds of the lower
figures are new, which include all the angels and
seraphim, and all the words from the Te Deum.
An interesting suggestion was made by Mr. Bell :
among the angels there is one figure without a halo,
wearing a cap and an ermine tippet. He is of opinion
that this represents the donor of the window — Thomas,
Earl of Derby.
Archaeologists, I am sure, will agree with me that it
is well thus to put on record what little is known of
the history of this beautiful window, possibly now
unique, in order to prevent mistakes in the future. 1
append a diagram of the lowest division, giving the
names of the saints ; it will show in what way it has
been altered.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
CettRCH OJ* ALL SllNfS, GRBSFOilD.
35?
JU . . . .
^00 QQ OQ GO
ja 3 S a
'OQOQOQSO
8
Digitized by VjOOQIC
358
^Ircbaeologtral ^otta ann (Qiimta.
Remains of A.ncient Bkidgb, Carnarvon. — On Angast 5th last,
Mr. J. Issard Davies wrote informing me that the demolition of
Messrs. Pierce and Williams' drapery stores, for the purpose of
erecting a new Lloyd's hank, had disclosed one or two perfect
arches not previonsly known.
I took an early opportunity of going over to Camanron to examine
the discovery.
The site of the new hank is on the north side of East Gate Street.f
between the railway catting and the town wall, and is abont 120 ft.
distant from the East Gate.
The arches are situated under the pavement and roadway, imme-
diately in front of the new pt*emi8e8. The face of the ancient
walling was exposed when the ground was being excavated for the
purpose of obtaining foundations and building walls below the level
of the adjoining streets.
The accompanying illustration shows the ancient work in plan,
and elevation, together with sections of the two arches.
The entire face of the eastern arch, A, was visible, bat only about
half of the western arch, B, as the remaining portion was nitnated
in front of the adjoining premises. It will be noticed that the
crown of the latter arch is more depressed than that of the former.
Although probably there was an original difference between the
heights of the two arches, I think the difference has been increased
by subsequent compression of the western arch. Each archway
consists 01 an inner order of massive ribs, supporting an outer order.
When I visited the plaee three ribs only were visible in connection
with each arch. The foreman employed on the building, however,
told me that there was a repetition of similar ribs extending nnder
the roadway. The sections of the two arches differ slightly. In
both oases the outer order is chamfered on the face. All the ribs of
arch A are of a sqnare section, while the outer rib of arch b is
double-chamfered, and its ribs are further apart than those of
arch A. The chamfers of the outer order of arch A were stopped
above the springing-line. The foreman told me that the arches, or
responds, started several feet below the level at which I saw them.
He further added that he had to go down to a depth of about 18 ft.
below the level shown on the drawing, to obtain a good foundation.
He considered, for this depth, that the ground was made, though it
is quite possible it was, in reality, a river deposit.
The foundations of a return wall, at right angles to the bridge,
could be traced for a distance of 15 ft.
When Camarron was first constructed as a walled town there
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ARCHAEOLOGICAL NOTB8 AND QUERIES.
359
were two main entrances : the one tbe East Gate — Forth Mawr, or
Land Gate ; the other seaward, known as the West Gate, or Forth
jr Anr. The High Street, or Stryd Fawr, connected these two
gateways. The East Gate Street is the continuation of the High
SEXITIONOFARCH.A. SECTION OF ARCH.B
^ELEVATION.-
ANCiEivrr wSll.
Xrcrb
^MODERN-
-r REAxXiNS or Xncieint bridce
LEADING TO EASTCyVTE,CARNARMON
Street without the walls, and terminates in an open space, where
several roads meet, which has been known at varioas periods as
the Oatmeal Market, Fentice Grounds, and Turf Square. In
Leland's Map of 1610 the town is shown, excepting for one small
neck of land, surrounded by water.
The River Cadnant, on the east side, passes below the road
between the Square referred to above and the East Gate, and flows
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
360 ARCHiBOLOOICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
into tbe Menai Straits. Leiand shows a bridge — possiblj intended
for a drawbridge — connecting tha East Gate with some outworks.
With reference to these oater defences, W. H. Jones, in Old
Kamarvon (an undated book), tells us, on p. 103, that there were
two bastion towers, and while rebuilding the cabinet- maker's shop
in East Ghite Street, some years ago, the workmen came across the
foundation of one of these towers, and the prodigious thickness of
the walling and solidity of the work necessitated the use of gun-
powder to remove it.
The other tower must have been opposite this one, and un-
doubtedly the foundations will be discovered when the houses here
are rebuilt. The archjes lately discovered are those of a bridge on
the land side of the outer gateway. The bed of the Cadnant, I am
informed, is now coiiBned, underground, to a position immediately
to the west of the site of the new bank. In Old Kamarvon, p. 86,
we are told that the course of the Cadnant is difficult to trace, as
it has been arched over.
I think there can be little doubt that formerly the bed of the
river was spread over a much larger area, and that the arches lately
discovered carried the road over soma of its branches or swampy
margins. In Old Karwirvoriy p. 85, we are informed that many
years ago the river was diverted at some distance above the town,
and that this so greatly reduced the flow that it was fouud practi-
cable to fill in the bed of the river immediately above an old bridge
which connected Tnrf and Castle Squares.
29th August, 1906. Harold Hughbs.
Annual Mbbtino op the Association. — The Annual Meeting of
the Association for this year will take place at Llangefni, Anglesey,
on Monday, Augnst 26th, and foar following days, under the
presidency of Sir Richard H. Williams-Bulkeley, Bart
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
SIXTH SERIES.— VOL. VII, PART IV.
OCTOBER 1907.
THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARTHEN.
By Propessob ANWYL.
The present Paper, like those of the writer which have
preceded it, aims at giving a succinct account, on the
basis of the scattered information hitherto recorded,
of the condition of man in Carmarthenshire in pre-
historic times, so that future investigators may have, at
the commencement of their task, a bird's-eye view of
the material already obtained. The counties of Wales
with which the writer has already dealt in this way are
Breconshire, Carnarvonshire, and Cardiganshire, A
comparative study of the prehistoric antiquities of the
Welsh counties from this point of view has the advan-
tage of bringing into relief the salient characteristics
of the diflFerent great epochs of early civilization, and of
showing the effects upon that civilization of similar
geographical and climatic conditions.' For this purpose,
the consideration of the antiquities of the present day
county areas is but a conventional one, and the modem
county areas are only adopted as geographical units for
the sake of convenience, and in order to' prevent over-
lapping in the arrangement of the facts. In the present
instance the consideration of prehistoric man in Car-
marthenshire is but a small part of the larger problem
of the life of early man along the north coast of what
is now the Bristol Channel, and indeed of that of the
6th skb., vol. vil 2i
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
Ji62 tflE EARLY SfiTtLEltS OF CAllMAlltHftt^.
life of man in the Bristol Channel district and in South-
West Britain generally. We might even go further,
and say that we have here before us the wide and
difficult problem of man in Western Europe generally,
at a time when Britain was joined to the Continent,
and when Europe itself was linked, by means of land-
bridges, to the north coast of Africa. It may be said at
the outset that in this remote period the area now
covered by the Bristol Channel was a fertile plain,
watered by a river which ultimately flowed into the
sea near Cape Clear. The conditions under which man
lived in Carmarthenshire and elsewhere at this remote
period will be shown later.
Before we proceed, however, to deal with the life of
prehistoric man in Carmarthenshire, perhaps it might
be well to explain what modern Carmarthenshire
is. In his well-known work on Pembrokeshire, Mr.
George Owen expresses a complaint that Carmarthen-
shire had in his time encroached on Pembrokeshire.
His words are : " but in all this tracte betweene the
both shires, Carmarthenshere hath encroached upon
Pern brokesh ere ; makeinge itselfe lardger and demin-
nisheinge Pembrokeshere." In his Taylor^s Cushion he
attributes the encroachment to Sir Thomas Jones,
Knight of the Parliament for Pembrokeshire. In this
connection, as bearing on the topography of Carmar-
thenshire, it may noted that nearly the whole of
Cantref Gwarthaf — one of the "seven hundreds of
Dyfed " — and half of Emlyn, another hundred, are now
parts of Carmarthenshire. The portion of Cantref
Gwarthaf not included in Carmarthenshire is Efelfre,
or Velfrey. The district of Elfed, as Mr. Egerton
Phillimore points out, was in Cantref Gwarthaf, not in
Emlyn. It was in this cantref, too, that the district
of Pelunyawc (Peuliniog) — called after a Peulin (of
Cape] Peulin), or Paulinus — had its situation. This
district of Peulinyawc, in the Red Book of Hergest, in
the story of Kulhwch and Olwen, is wrongly called
Pelumyawc. It should be observed that in later times
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
fHE EAttLY SKtTLEKS Of OARMAltTH^IN. 363
the "cymmwd," or "commote," of the old Welsh came
to be the lordship of the manor, while the cantref in
turn became the mediaeval ** hundred." There is one
district of Carmaithenahire — Derllys — which is thought
by Principal Rhys to have a Goidelic name, the equi-
valent of the Irish Durlas. At the present day it forms
a modern hundred of Carmarthen. As an indication of
the artificiality of the modern boundary on the west
side of Carmarthen, it may be noted that the Church
of Castell Dwyran is in Carmarthenshire ; while, on
the other hand, the churches of Llanfallteg, Llandyssilio,
and Llangan are in Pembrokeshire. Castell Dwyran
and Egremont churches, again, are situated in a re-
markable kind of peninsula of Carmarthenshire, which
projects into Pembrokeshire. It is three miles in length,
but has a neck whose breadth is only a quarter of a
mile.
Our leading authority on Welsh topography, Mr.
Egerton Phillimore (in a note in Owen's Pembrokeshire,
p. 199), points out that, in the beginning of the twelfth
century, the eastern portion of Dyfed was (roughly
speaking) bounded by a line drawn from the Towy at
Carmarthen to the Teifi at Llangeler, and including
within Dyfed both these parishes ; and similarly those
of Penboyr, Trellech, and Abernant. Previous to about
750 A.D., Dyfed included Cantref Mawr ; that is to say,
the portion east of the boundary line of modern Car-
marthenshire north of the Towy. There is no evidence,
Mr. Phillimore says, that in post-Roman times Dyfed
included any part of Ceredigion (now Cardiganshire).
We are further told that the district of Cedweli
(Kidwelly) was a commot of the third hundred of Ystrad
Tywi (said to have been called Cantref Eginog), and
that it obtained its name as a tribal derivative of
Cadwal,just as the name Arwystli comes from Arwystl.
The name Cadwal is the Welsh equivalent of the Irish
Cathal, from an original Catu-uallos. This district of
Cedweli was bounded on the east by Carnwyllon and
Iscennen ( the latter a *' cwmmwd " of Cantref Bychan).
242
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
364 THE EARLY SETTLERS OF GARMARTHl^K.
CarnwjUon lay between Cedweli and Gwyr, or Gower,
the latter being bounded on the west by the Llychwr.
Llanelly, it may be noted, was included in the ancient
Carnwyllon, the name of which is still preserved in
those of two farms called " CarnawUon," and ** Cam-
awllon Fach," near Pontyberem, on the Gwendraeth
Fawr. Gwyr, or Gower, which lay between the rivers
Llwchwr and Tawe, Brycheiniog and the sea, was in
the old district of Ystrad Tywi, and consisted of the
modern hundreds of Swansea and Gower (English
Gower), and a part at least of that of Llangyfelach (or
Welsh Gower). In this name (/yfelach, again, Professor
Rhys detects a Goidelic survival of a name equivalent
to the Welsh Cyfeiliog, as he also does in Tachlowmon
for the older Telich Clowmon, near Llandeilo. The three
commotes of Cedweli, Carnwyllon, and Gower made up
the third "cantref" of *' Ystrad Tywi," the other can-
trefydd being " Cantref Mawr" and •* Cantref Bychan."
As the result of some later division, however, the lowest
of the three commots of Cantref Bychan, that ot
Iscennen, came to be substituted for Gower in the
grouping. On the other hand, it may be noted that
the Deanery of Kidwelly consisted of Cedweli and
Carnwyllon, but did not include Iscennen. It included
the parish of Llangyndeyrn (a daughter-church of Llan-
dyfaelog), but not tnat of Llanddarog, which was in
the Deanery of Ystrad Tywi (later on known as that of
Llandeilo and Llangadock), and therefore in Cantref
Bychan (Owen's Pemhrokeshirey p. 206). Another name,
Talacharn, now the Welsh designation of Laughame,
was originally, as Mr. Phillimore points out, in all
|)robability that of a district, the old name of the site
of the castle or town of Laugharne being Aber Coran.
This old commot of Talacharn doubtless lay between
the estuary of the Taf and the eastern boundaiy of the
hundred of Pen fro, which ran from EglwysFair, on the
Taf, to the coast at Amroth Castle. Its northern
boundary was probably the Taf, so that it would thus
include Llanddowror, but not St. Clears. The name
^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE BABLY SETTLERS OP CARMARTHEN. 365
Talacharn is probably made up of " tal" — a forehead or
end — and "acham" — an intensive of "earn," a cairn,
just as " achas" is the intensive of " cas."
Another point of topography that should be noted is
that the lordship of Llanstephan is approximately iden-
tical with the old Welsh commot of Penrhyn, bracketed
with that of Derllys, which bounded it on the north.
Both of these districts formed part of Cantref Gwarthaf.
It may be further mentioned, too, that Llanddowror had
at one time a double name, Llandeilo Llanddyfrwyr, or,
as it is spelt in the Book of Llan Dav^ Lanndubrguir.
From these considerations, it will be seen that modern
Carmarthenshire, which is treated as a unit for the pur-
pose of the present Paper, consists substantially of the
ancient Welsh division of Ystrad Tywi, but with two
exceptions that are of importance : 1st, that it does not
include the commot of Gower ; and 2ndly, that it
includes, with the exception of the little district of
Velfrey, and possibly the district of Peuliniog (not yet
identified), the whole of Cantref Gwarthaf, the largest
of the seven hundreds of Dyfed. The whole of the
two chief cantrefs of Ystrad Tywi, viz., Cantref Ma wr,
north of the Tywi, and Cantref Bychan (south of it),
are in Carmarthenshire.
With regard to the references already made to pos-
sible traces of a Goidelic population, in addition to the
Ogham inscriptions, Professor Rhys mentions not only
Derllys (Durlas), but also Llethrach (from Leitir),
identified by him with the Irish Leitrioch or Leatracha
Odhrdin (of St. Oran), now Latteragh, near Nenagh,
county Tipperary. Of other possible Goidelic traces,
whether of survivals from the Bronze Age, or of later
settlers in Roman or post-Roman times, it may be noted
that there is a Llwyn Gwyddel in Lampeter Velfrey,
and a Pant y Gwyddel in Llanfyrnach. Cerfciinly,
from the evidence of the Ogham inscriptions and of
Nennius, Goidelic settlements, whatever may have been
their origin, existed in some districts in post-Roman
times. Nennius (Hist Brit, Section 14) says : " Filii
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
366 THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARTHEN.
autem Liethan obtinuerunt in regione Demetonim et
in aliis regionibus, id est, Guir et Cetgueli, donee
expulsi sunt a Cuneda et a filiis ejus ab omnibus Brit-
tanicis regionibus." The situation of these districts
seem to suggest, as in the case of the D^si, a settlement
from the sea.
After this preliminary topographical statement, we
come now to the subject of the present Paper, namely,
the life of man in Carmarthenshire in prehistoric times.
It is a commonplace of anthropology that the forms
which man's development took were largely determined
by geological, geographical, climatic, and economic con-
siderations. In some parts of the area, such as at
Coygan, near Laugharne, we have most valuable re-
mains of animal life, which go back to as remote a time
as any similar remains in Europe. In other portions of
the area, the earlier vestiges have disappeared, and the
presence of early man is a matter of indirect inference.
As a rule, it is only when his most convenient materials
were of stone that traces, of him are still distinctly
visible. When his shelter, where he had it, consisted
of the trees of the forest, nothing now remains to
reveal his former presence with any degree of cer-
tainty. Of late, however, special attention has been
called to the survival of prehistoric hearths ; and the
search for these, to which reference will be made later,
has opened up a new and fruitful field for inves-
tigation.
The distribution of early man, like that of man in all
ages, was conditioned by economic considerations, and the
governing considerations were the accessibility of food
and water. The geologist, the zoologist, and the botanist
could, from a joint survey of a given district, give a very
shrewd guess as to the places where early man would
be likely to cluster his communities together, and those
for whose possession the stress of competition would be
greatest. In the remotest times mining formed no factor
in the distribution of the population, but the " Gogofau"
of Dolau Cothi show that there came a time (when, is
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THB EARLY SBTTLERS OF CARMA.RTHBN. 367
very uncertain) when mining (not improbably for gold)
had its share in the economical development of the
county, even in the dim period of antiquity.
Though some of the later problems of the population
of Carmarthenshire in early times have, for certain
reasons, already been anticipated, yet it will be con-
venient in the remainder of the Paper to trace in order
the great stages of prehistoric civilization, and to see
what relics they have here left behind. In the case of
the Coygan cave we have traces of the conditions of
life under which lived the cave man of Palaeolithic
times, much as we find them in the caves of the Vale
of Clwyd and of other districts where they afforded
shelter to man and beast ; while in the " kitchen-
middens" near Pendine we have the remains of early
man's diet of shell- fish. The caves of the Bristol
Channel area continued in use during Neolithic times ;
and consideration will be given to these and to the
conditions which they reveal in connection with that
period. In the case of stone implements it is not
always easy to be sure of the period to which they
belonff, because the introduction of bronze, and even of
iron, aid not mean that the use of stone was abandoned
for implement-making, especially in the districts which
were least accessible to commerce, or were least econo-
mically flourishing. This caution should, consequently,
be borne in mind in considering the following records
of the finds of stone implements and other relics ap-
parently of the Stone Age. In Arch. Camb. for 1851
(p. 334), there is an account of a stone celt found on
the Henllan demesne, and exhibited at the Tenby
Meeting of the Association by J. Lewis, Esq., of Henllan.
A stone hatchet was also found in a rab-quarry, em-
bedded in the rab at Llan, in the parish of Llanfallteg.
In Arch. Camb. for 1853 (p. 262) there is an account
of " Y Gam Goch '' (a fortress certainly much later than
the Stone Age), by Mr. John Williams, of 127, King's
Road, Brighton, wherein mention is made of certain
triliths on a small scale, said to be still visible there.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
368 THE EARLY SETTLERS OP CARMARTHEN.
It is not impossible from their cromlech-like character
that they may prove to be of the Stone Age, and older
than the fortification itself. In Arch. Camb. for 1856,
p. 103, there is an account of a cromlech known as
GwS,l y Filiast, Carmarthenshire; and, on p. 107 of
the same volume there is mentioned a circle of 8tx>ues
called Buarth Arthur, as well as another called Meini
Gwyr. It is of interest to note that the writer who
makes reference to them is the late Mr. T. Stephens, of
Merthyr, the distinguished author of The Literature of
the Kyminf. This cromlech, like others, probably has
come down from the Stone Age, but stone circles aro
usually the relics, not of the Stone but of the
Bronze Age, and generally surround the tumuli of that
period. Again, in Arch. Camb. for 1858, p. 371, there
is a Paper by the late Mr. T. O. Morgan, of Aber-
ystwyth, on a series of cairns on Craig Cwm Twrch,
which are designated on the Ordnance Survey as Cam
Carnau, Carn, Cam Fawr, and Cam Fach respectively.
On the line of these cairns, Mr. Morgan says that there
is an immense stone called Maen Prenvol, or Penfoel,
near Lluest y Bwlch and Esgair Ddu on Waun Cellan,
which appears to have been the capstone of a cromlech,
but to have fallen from its original position. It is 16 ft.
in length, and 24 ft. in circumference, and lies upon a
moated tumulus of earth. About two yards from it
was a walled erection and some scattered stones. Mr.
Morgan thought that the whole once formed a crom-
lech. The existence, however, of the moated tumulus
of earth suggests that further investigation is needed
before this view is adopted. In Arch. Camb. for the
same year, p. 371, mention is made of a monolith called
Hirfaen Gwyddog, which stands 16 ft. above ground ;
but we are under no necessity of assigning this to the
Age of Stone. In Arch. Camb. for 1864, in the account
of the temporary Museum at Haverfordwest, reference
is made to a stone celt from Llethr, in Brawdy parish ;
but as there is another from a tumulus near Llanrhian
(which tumulus is most probably from the Bronze Age),
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARTHEN. 369
it IB not impossible that both really belong to that
period. In Arch. Camb. for 1875, p. 415, we have an
account of a stone celt found on Caerau Gaer, in the
parish of Llanddewi Velfrey ; and again in Arch. Camb.
for 1876, p. 236, there is an account of a very curious
cromlech at Ffynnon Newydd, in the parish of Llan-
gunnog. The three supporting stones are said to form
a parallelogram-shaped chamber, open on the west, while
the capstone leans on the northern support, with one
end resting on the ground. This is called **Twlc y
Viliast." A few yards to the east, there is, we are
told, a semicircular rock known as " Bord Arthur." In
Arch. Camb. for 1877, p. 81, the late Rev. E. L. Barn-
well has a Paper on " Early Remains in Carmarthen-
shire," dealing mainly with " Y Clawdd Mawr" in
Cynwyl Elfed. Of this the writer says : " The object
was evidently that of defence from attack from the
opposite heights, or to command the road in the valley
below ; and neither of these motives could have acted
on a leader whose great end was to get over the ground
as soon as he could." Mr. Barnwell thought that the work
" was probably connected with the adjoining Megalithic
remains, formerly of a much more extensive and impor-
tant character than they are at present." Here, again,
it would be extremely rash to assign these remains to
Neolithic times. In view of their elaborate character,
it is impossible not to suspect that they are of a much
later period than the Stone Age ; and it would not be
surprising if they proved to be Late Celtic, like Y Garn
Goch and Tre'r Ceiri ; or they may be even later, as
Mr. Phillimore suggests, in Owen's Pembrokeshire.
Owing to this uncertainty about the period to which
they belong, judgment should be suspended until a
fiirther investigation of them is made. Mr. Barnwell
thought that a certain group of stones formed a crom-
lech, but he remarks : ** It is very rare to find the
actual supporters of a capstone more than four." Mr.
Barnwell held that the chambers of Clawdd Mawr were
once covered up.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
370 THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARTHEN.
In the article in question we are further told that,
on the way to Ystrad, on the left-hand of the road
leading to Carmarthen, are four stones, one of which is
smaller than the others. The stone to the right is of
coarse grit ; the small one and the stone next to it are
of quartz conglomerate, the largest one being of old red
sandstone. The three largest ones formed the walls of
a chamber, and may have aided in supporting the cap-
stone. Their denudation is complete ; nor is there the
slightest vestige of the former mound.
These are Mr. Barnwell's words: — "Within the
grounds of Ystrad are one or two pillar-stones, one of
which was said to have been Roman, but is an ordinary
menhir. They are not remarkable as regards dimen-
sions. No other remains exist near them. They may
perhaps have been ancient boundary stones, but are
more likely to be ordinary meini hirion." On the left-
hand of the road from Llanboidy Church to Dolwilym
is a more important group (Fig. 5), concealed by a high
and thick hedge from the road. The stones lie in a
field called "Parcy Bigwrn," a portion of Pensarn Farm.
The original chamber is easily made out, though only
two of its stones remain erect. The fallen ones, with
the exception of one, have not been removed, so that
their original position, when upright, is easily ascer-
tained. The stones average about 7 ft. high above the
ground, with an average thickness of 3 ft. ; the longest,
that lying apart under the hedge, measuring more than
8 ft. The chamber was nearly perfect within human
memory, and seems to have been broken up about sixty
years ago. It had no doubt been deprived of its cover-
ing of earth or stone ages before, as our informant never
saw any indications of such a mound, although the
cromlecn or chamber was perfect in his early days.
This man, John Jones, of 80 years of age, a man of good
character, had lived close to the spot all his days. His
memory was remarkably clear, and his veracity never
suspected. He does not remember the covering stone
in its original horizontal position, for at the time he
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARTHEN. 371
speaks of, it had been tipped over and shifted from its
western bearer, one end resting on the ground. He
had, however, often been told by his seniors that it was
once horizontal, and known as " The Table" — a term
that proved its former position. Six horses and ten
men were required to draw the stone. From all indi-
cations the chamber in question was a cromlech, and as
such may well have belonged to the Stone Age. The
cromlech may be regarded as a kind of artificial cave in
which burial generally of a number of bodies took place,
as it did in the natural caves. Even natural caves in
France have been found to contain burials of thePolished
Stone or Neolithic period, and the traces of funeral rites
found in them were identical with those found in arti-
ficial chambers. In some instances the chambers are
only partly natural. Sometimes, in France, they have
been simply excavated out of the rocky ground to a
certain depth, and covered up with a large stone slab.
Mr. Barnwell quotes some observations of M. Bert-
rand on the cave-burial of Belport, in France, discovered
in 1876, when some quarry men laid bare a cavern ; and
also of M. Duport on the famous cave called " Le Trou
de Frontal,*' found at Furfooz, in Belgium, and described
in that writer's work called VHomme Pendant les Ages
de la Pierre (p. 195, Second Edition). These were
burials in a place of shelter — or recess — rather than in
a cave. With the type of chambered cromlech in
question, Mr. Barnwell compares the Henblas cromlech
of Anglesey. As for the distribution of cromlechs in
Europe, the best statement is that of Sir John Evans,
at the Stockholm International Meeting, when he said
that " their distribution depended on the distribution
of their materials." To the foregoing may be added
the Llwyndu cromlech, that has lost its capstone,
which is near the road from Carmarthen to Llan-
stephan.
In the Arch. Camh. for 1878, p. 321, there is a
reference to the Lampeter Meeting, at which Miss
Johnes, of Dolau Cothi, exhibited some objects found
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
372 THE EARLY SETTLERS OP CARMARTHEN.
in her neighbourhood, such as a stone celt and some
spindle- whorls, which may possibly have belonged to
Neolithic times. In the Journal of the Society for
1879 (p. 55), there is an interesting article on "Pre-
historic and Other Remains in Cynwil Gaio," by the
Ven. Archdeacon Thomas, M.A. Mr. Worthington
Smith and Archdeacon Thomas had availed themselves
of an invitation of the Rev. Charles Chidlow to go to
spend a few days at Caio, for the purpose of explorin^f
some curious remains on Craig Twrch, and some cists and
barrows on the hills of Mallaen. None of these appear,
however, to belong, with any certainty, to the Stone
Age ; but some may belong to the Bronze Period. In
the Arch. Camh. for 1884, the Rev. E. L. Barnwell has
given an account among the cromlechs of South Wales
of Longhouse (p. 141), Llanwnda(p. 137), and Dol wily m,
near Whitland, and of the latter a picture is given.
Valuable light is thrown on the conditions of life of
prehistoric man in Carmarthenshire, notably on the sea-
border, by the investigations of Mr. Edward Laws,
Professor Boyd Dawkins, and others, into the caves of
South Pembrokeshire, and the adjoining caves of Car-
marthenshire. Mr. Laws has embodied the results of
his researches mainly in his well-known volume on the
History of Little England beyond Wales. In this he
deals with the bone-caves of Hoyle's .Mouth, Caldy
Island, Coygan, etc. ; and at this stage it would be well
to pause for a moment to consider, in the light of his
discoveries, what were the conditions of life on the north
shore of the Bristol Channel in the remotest times.
This account is well given in the words of Professor
Boyd Dawkins, who says that the islands and cliflEs of
South Wales were hills overlooking a vast fertile plain,
occupying what is now the Bristol Channel, where
ample sustenance would be found to feed the herds of
elephants, horses, and reindeer. The Towy and similar
valleys would form adjuncts of this ancient plain, and,
so to speak, extensions of it. Mr. Laws gives it as his
opinion that Hoyle s Mouth was inhabited by man in
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tttE £ARLY SBTTLKlRS Ot CAttMARTflEN. 37^
Palaeolithic times. At the Coygan cave he found an
awl and two flint flakes in tne undisturbed earth
beneath the stalagmite, associated with the bones of
the rhinoceros, ana therefoi'e of the Palaeolithic Age.
Professor Boyd Dawkins also suggests that the same
may have been the case with the Gower caves. The
latter, in his work on Cave limiting, says : — ** We must
therefore picture to ourselves a fertile plain occupying
the whole of the Bristol Channel, and supporting herds
of reindeer, horses, bisons, many elephants and rhino-
ceroses, and now and then being traversed by a stray
hippopotamus, which would afford prey to the lions,
bears, and hyaenas inhabiting the accessible caves, as
well as to their great enemy and destroyer man. It
appears, too, that prehistoric remains are occasionally
dredged up from Carmarthen Bay. A large river prob-
ably flowed into the sea past Lands End.'' On
p. 6 of his book, Mr. Laws says : — *' We never came
across human bones or human handiwork in the Hoyle
Cave that were attributable to Palaeolithic Man." In
a letter to himself from Professor Boyd Dawkins, which
Mr. Laws quotes, he says : — " I never dug out any flint
or horn-stone implements with my own hands in asso-
ciation with Pleistocene beasts in this cave. I believe,
however, that Mr. Ayshford Sandford found them in
association with bear, under the stalagmite and near
the entrance, on the right-hand side, along with frag-
ments of charcoal and splinters of bone : these I con-
sider Pleistocene. Hoyle's Mouth seems to me to have
been used by hyaenas during the old Stone Age. In
Neolithic times it became both a dwelling and a ceme-
tery for men." Similarly of the Little Hoyle : " In
Pleistocene days this was a hyaena den." A rich
Neolithic harvest was here found by Mr. Laws and his
friends.
Of the caves of this series Mr. Laws says : — ** The
most interesting ossiferous cave in West Wales is the
Coygan, near Laugharne, in Carmarthenshire ; and, as
this comes within the zone of the modern county, an
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
3?4 THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CAkMARtHEN.
account of it, based on the investigations of Mr. Edward
Laws, may be given here : * It is excavated from an
outlying hill of mountain limestone, which stands about
a mile from the sea, flat marsh land and sand burrows
intervening. There can be little doubt that in com-
Earatively recent days the sea washed the foot of this
ill. The entrance to the Coygan is extremely low and
narrow, but soon opens out into a lofty and extensive
chamber.' " So far as Mr. Laws knew, there had been
no discovery of Neolithic remains in this cave (but this
is probably accidental). It was deemed by the late
Professor Rolleston to be the most perfect instance of
a hyaena den he had ever met with. Mr. Laws found
hyaena bones in position. The other remains were
similar to those found in Black Rock and Caldy, but
were more plentiful, in good condition, and much scored
by teeth-marks. Mr. Laws further says : — "In addition
to these ordinary cave-bones, I had the good fortune
to find under rhinoceros bones which were overlaid by
stalagmite, a piece of bone, whittled and rounded into
the shape of an awl, lying alongside of two flint flakes:
one of which had indubitably been manipulated ; the
other was a pebble, which had been broten, whether
by natural or artificial means it is impossible to say.
These are in the Tenby Museum, and constitute the
sole proof of Pleistocene Man in West Wales discovered
by me." The Pleistocene fauna appear to have been of
three classes : Northern, Temperate and Southern ; but
the curious state of things is, that as these remains are
found in the closest association together in the caves,
there can be no doubt that they ranged the land to-
gether. As it is important for the purpose of picturing
the life of man in the remotest times in Carmarthen-
shire to know with what animals he lived, some of these
may be enumerated. We have, first, the Northern fauna,
the first of which is the mammoth or elephas primi-
geniu^, which fed on the woody fibre of trees, for
example the larch. Mr. Laws points out that the
Pembrokeshire mammoths of the caves were mostly
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tHE EAitL^ SEWLerS O^ CAtlMARTbEN. 3^5
calves. Next we have the woolly rhinoceros {R. Ticho-
rhinus), whose nostrils were divided by a long ridge.
The British rhinoceros had a thick woolly coat composed
of short hair of a cinereous grey colour, from 1 in. to
3 ins. long, with here and there a black hair longer and
stiffer. The rhinoceros fed, like the mammoth, on the
twigs of the larch and other trees. It can scarcely be
doubted that both these beasts roamed at will at one
time, right into the Towy Valley. Other Northern
beasts whose remains have been found in the West
Wales caves are the reindeer and the elk ; but in
English caves there have been also found remains of the
musk-ox, the lemming, the tailless hare, the marmot,
and the Arctic fox. Of the beasts of the Temperate
group, the following have been found : the wolf, the
fox, the cave and the brown bear, the horse, the ox,
the bison, the Irish elk, and the red deer. All these,
except the cave-bear, have survived from the prehistoric
period. The cave-bear had some points of contact with
the polar bear, though generally he is considered the
prototype of the American grizzly. The animals of the
Southern group, which roamed in the area of the Bristol
Channel, were the lion, the hyaena, and the hippopota-
mus. The cave-hyaena was of a heavier type than that
of South Africa. At that time Britain was joined to
the Continent of Europe, and migration was constant.
The junction of Britain to Europe probably made a
great difierence to the climate ; and further, some of
the animals in question may have been able to adapt
themselves, as man has done, to the zone in which
they chanced to live. The coast of the Bristol Channel
is surrounded by a belt of submerged land. It is not
improbable that the first settlers of Carmarthenshire
formed the northern fringe of the men of the Bristol
Channel area, who penetrated into the adjoining val-
leys. Though there are no remains from Carmarthen-
shire itself to illustrate the life of these men, the re-
mains of the adjoining Pembrokeshire caves afford
abundant indications of its character. From the Little
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
8i^6 THE EARLY SETTLERS OK CARMARTttEl^.
Hoyle in Longbury Bank, Penally, the following re-
mains were unearthed by Mr. Laws, Mr. Wilmot Power,
the late Professor Rolleston, and the late General
Pitt-Rivera, in 1876, 1877, and 1878 : (1) The remains
of certainly nine, if not eleven, human beings ; (2) large
quantities of the bones of domestic and wild animals ;
(3) birds ; (4) shells ; (5) pottery ; (6) charcoal ; (7)
stone and bone implements. These were mixed up with
black earth and angular stones in a sort of hotch-potch.
The precise explanation of this hotch-potch is doubtful ;
but as for the crania themselves. Professor Rolleston
said that they were dolichocephalic, with a remarkably
low cephalic index of 69, and with a pear-shaped contour
when viewed from above, due to a rapid tapering from
the level of the parietal tubera forwards. Among the
natives of Carmarthenshire measured by some of my
colleagues at Aberystwyth and by myself, I remember
none that was found with so remarkably low a cranial
index as 69*
The picture of the life of Neolithic Man in the
northern side of the Bristol Channel is best completed
by the following account given by Mr. Edward Laws,
who has studied the conditions of his life with the
closest attention. In the History of Little England
Beyond Wales, Mr. Laws says, speaking of Eiirly Man's
weapons : '* The projectile weapons were javelins, ar-
rows tipped with flint or bone, and slings ; their side-
arms, polished stone celts, some heavy and some light,
set in wooden handles. Their clothing consisted, no
doubt, partly of cloth, for a carding-comb found in
Hoyle's Mouth and the stone spindle-whorl from Stack-
pole proves that they were weavers. Still, the nu-
merous flint scrapers show that the preparation of hides
was a very important business ; while the bone needle
found in the Little Hoyle is well adapted to sew skins
together. Poundera and mullers of com for rubbing
corn into meal are found." They probably had wheat,
barley, oats, and rye. The cultivation of these was
probably women's work. These men of the Neolithic
Digitized by VjOOQIC
THE BARLY SE1TLERS OF CARMARTHEN. 377
period turned out strong, serviceable ware. In the
Little Hoyle Mr. Laws found shards made of old red
sandstone, ground fine and mixed with clay. This ware
WAS not turned on a wheel, but fashioned by the hand.
They were rich in oxen, sheep, goats and swine, all,
however, of a small breed. The horses of these men
were comparatively scarce, but they had fine dogs, and
one from the Little Hoyle was as large as a mastiflf.
These hounds hunted the brown bear, the red deer, the
roebuck, hares, and foxes. The wild boar seems to have
been scarce, and wolves and beavers are conspicuous by
their absence. The woods were inhabited by black
game, and the hill-sides with partridges. The same
learned archaeologist remarks that oysters, cockles,
periwinkles, whelks, pectens and the like were used in
great numbers ; also an occasional crab, but he found
no remains of lobster. The fish was probably collected
by women and children. Some of the cave-men took
fish, e,g.^ the conger-eel, ray, and angler fish. A dug-
out canoe (either of the Neolithic or the Bronze Age) was
also found close to the Hoyle's mouth.
Coming now to further remains that may be Neo-
lithic, we may note the following. In Arch. Camh. for
1893 (p. 157) there is an account of the exhibition of
a nether millstone found by Mr. Stepney-Gulston on
Carreg Sawdde, near Llangadock, in 1871. Further, on
p. 163, there is a Paper on the Craig Derwyddon Bone
Caves (near Pant-y-llyn, Llandybie, Carmarthenshire),
read upon the spot on August 11th, 1892, by Mr. Alan
Stepney-Gulston, of Derwydd, to whom archaeology in
Carmarthenshire owes a deep debt of gratitude. This
Paper deserves attention. In 1878 Professor Rolleston
visited these caves, and collected all the information
then available. Mr. Stepney-Gulston quotes Professor
Rolleston as saying : ** Many years ago — in fact, in the
month of August, 1813 — ten or eleven skeletons were
found in a cave near Llandybie. One skull from the
find we have in the Oxford University Museum. It is
filled with crystalline loaf-sugar-like stalagmite, which
6th bkb,, vol, Til. i^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
378 THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARTHEN.
has, of course, preserved it in its original outlines . . .
This skull was carried oflF by the Lord Dynevor of the
time being, and by him was transferred to the hands of
Dean Buckland, and so into our Museum . . . the rest
of the human bones, together with the bones of elk and
wild boar, were re-interred in a pit dug for their re-
ception close by. The site of this pit I hope to identify."
Mr. Alan Stepney-Gulston had, however, by careful
investigation, been able to explore and excavate the
ancient sepulchre of the place. His words were as
follows: **This piece of the 'living rock' which you
see here still standing was, it seems, left as a mark of
the whereabouts of the actual site. The vault itself,
lying to the north side, was entered by a lateral
opening, some 30 ft. in length, which had become so
entirely blocked up (whether through the silting-up
action of time, or perhaps through the direct action of
those who chose this solemn retreat as a sepulchre,
must remain a matter for speculation), that the work-
men were not aware of even the existence of the cave
until they broke into it from above in the ordinary
course of their workings." The part of the cavern which
was used for sepulture, and which was entered from
the north side, seems to have measured from 16 ft. to
17 ft. in length by 12 ft. to 13 ft. in width, and was of
an ovate form, the irregular vaultings of the roof
averaging about 4 ft. high in the centre.
** There were twelve skeletons in all, the first seven
lying with their feet towards the entrance, and their
heads towards the west. In juxtaposition were three
other skeletons, placed transversely, with their heads
lying towards the south ; and lastly, at a point about
10 yards further into that part of the cave that
extended towards the south, were two other skeletons
of great size, lying also with their heads towards the
south. It is remarkable that they all lay with their
faces turned upward, and with their heads brought
slightly forward on to their breasts, the skulls in every
case resting on a solid ledge of rock, some 6 ins. higher
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
THE EARLY SBTTLBRS OF CARMARTHEN. 379
than the level plane upon which the rest of the skeleton
lay, and the arms extending flat down each side of the
body, which was laid straight out and face upwards,
the whole of the floor being covered by what is described
as fine sand, one of the skeletons only having been
subjected to the incrustation of the stalagmite referred
to by Professor Rolleston." Mr. Stepney-Gulston then
proceeds to give an account of what had happened to
these " precious prehistoric relics.'* To the skull de-
posited in the Oxford Museum reference has already
been made. Several others of the skulls were taken
away by a gentleman of the name of Wrey, then living
at a place called Thornhill, some four miles distant ;
which place was sold in 1880 by a Miss Fosset, when all
traces of the skulls were lost sight of, a huge stalag-
tite only being still to be seen as an ornament upon the
lawn there.
3. A portion of the bones, together with the stalag-
mite found there, were burned in an old lime-kiln,
which pre-existed on the site of the present kiln, now
marked with a stone, showing the date of 1823: namely,
ten years later than the find.
4. The whole of the remainder of the bones, Mr.
Stepney-Gulston was told, both of the human remains
and also of the elk-horns and teeth of the wild boar,
which latter were only found among the dihris which
stopped up the mouth of the cave, were thrown away,
and were gradually covered up by the *' talus'* or " spoil"
from the quarry. Mr. Stepney-Gulston also says : —
"I have also been informed that certain 'copper'
utensils were known to have been found together with
the skeletons ; and I have great hopes, should this
prove to be a fact, that one or more of them may yet
be recoverable. If bronze implements were found, it is
probable that we may have here some unburnt burials
of the Bronze Age. All the skulls are described as
being exceedingly large, and there exists a tradition
that, at the time of their exhumation, the hat of the
largest-beaded bystander proved, upon trial, to be too
25 »
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
380 TH£ EARLY SBTTLEBS OF CARMARTHEN.
small for the smallest of the ancient skulls.'' In a
memorandum of September 7th, 1892, Mr. Stepney-
Gulston states that by inquiry from an old quarryman,
who was present at the find, the spot where a number
of the bones had been re-interred had been identified.
It would not be at all surprising if this proved to be
a Late-Bronze Age or Late-Celtic burial. Mr. Stepney-
Gulston has rightly called attention also to the im-
portance of a thorough exploration of the Carreg Cennen
cave.
In the Arch. Camb. for 1894 (p. 78), there is an
account of the identification by Horatio Thomas (twelve
years of age), son of Mr. Cerridfyn Thomas, B.Sc, of a
finely-shaped, large-sized, and well-preserved celt, so
smooth that it might almost be called polished ; 10 ins.
long, 8 ins. round in the thickest part and 3j ins. along
the knife-edge end. It was made of grey granite, in
which some specks of felspar and mica were visible. It
was found by the boy's uncle, Mr. John Morris,
of " Rwyddfa Gatw" farm, in the pariah of Llanegwad,
Carmarthenshire, in the first week of October, 1893,
while extending a pond into the peaty soil adjoining.
The most important contribution recently published
connected with prehistoric Carmarthenshire is that
published in the Arch. Camb. for this year, entitled
"Note on the Discovery of Prehistoric Hearths in
South Wales," by Mr. T. C. Cantrill, B.Sc, and Mr.
O. T. Jones, B.Sc, B.A. ; the latter is, I am glad to say,
a distinguished old student of the University College of
Wales, Aberystwyth, and of the University of Cam-
bridge. To some researches by the former I had the
pleasure of referring in my Paper on '* The Early Settlers
of Brecon. *' These hearths appear to have been prehis-
toric cooking-places. I have had the good fortune to
identify a new one of the kind in Cardiganshire, and on
inquiry to find that there are more, which I hope at some
time to describe. The general description of them is
as follows : — These hearths consist of small heaps of
broken and burnt stones, generally near streams, espe^
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tflE iiAHLY SEtTLKftS OF CARMARTHEN. 381
cially where these arise from a strong spring close by.
Occjisionally, the stream is found to have cut into one of
the banks in such a way as to expose a complete section
of the heap, which is seen to consist of a muss of stones
— generally pieces of sandstone or grit — broken to the
size of road-stone and evidently burnt, inasmuch as
they were friable and reddened by heat. The inter-
stices between the stones were found to be iSlled with
fine soil, in which charcoal-dust and fragments were
abundant ; the heap, of course, being covered with grow-
ing turf. The mounds in question were associated with
supplies of good drinking-water, and especially with
springs. They have been found in Carmarthenshire, in
the following places. Several have been found in the
parish of Gwynfe, and seem to indicate the presence in
that district of a flourishing prehistoric community.
The following is a brief summary of the spots in Car-
marthenshire where these sites have been found. For
a fuller account, see Mr. Cantrill and Mr. Jones's
article.
Prehistoric Hearths in Carmarthenshire.
1. In Carmarthenshire, E. bank of lane, 100 yards S.E. of
Ty-brych Farm, IJ mile S.W. of Llanddeusant, near Llan-
gadock.
2. 400 yards W. of Llan Farm, 2 miles E. of Gwynfe, uear
Llangadock.
3. K side of Nant-dwfn, at PwU-y-fuwch Farm, 1 mile S.S.W.
of Capel Gwynfe, Llangadock.
4. S.E. side of stream, 400 yards N.E. of Pare Owen farm,
2^ miles N.W. of Capel Gwynfe, Llangadock.
5. Bank of small stream at foot of Cylchau, and 550 yards
K by S. of Llwyn-y-Wennol Farm, 2 miles E.S.E. of Capel
Gwynfe, Llangadock.
6. Side of small stream, 250 yards N. of Llygad Llwchwr, near
Forge Llandyfan, 4 miles S.E. of Llandeilo. A small flint flake
was found a yard or so away.
7. Side of same stream as N"o. 9, and 70 yards farther up the
stream, 300 yards E.N.E. of Llygad Llwchwr.
8 and 9. 450 yards N.W. of Llygad Llwchwr.
10. S.E. side of small pond, in middle of the upper camp on
Gram-G6ch, Llangadock.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
36i THE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARTHEN.
11. Side of stream, 400 yards S. by, W. of Cwm-fTrwd Farm,
three-quarters of a mile N. of Glanamman Kailway Station,
Amman Valley.
12. Edge of pond, 50 yards W. of Gelli-fawnen Farm, 1 mile
W. by N. of Glanamman Railway Station.
13. Side of path, 200 yards N.W. of Hafod Farm. Lower
Clydach Valley, 4 miles N.W. of Pontardawe.
14 and 15. S.W. side of stream, 300 yards S.S.W. of Tresgyrch-
fach Farm, 3| miles N.W. of Pontardawe.
16. Side of stream, 450 yards S. by E. of Tregib House,
Llandeilo.
17. W. slopes of Cennen Valley, S. of Meusydd Mill, 2 J miles
S.W. of Llandeilo.
18. E. side of stream, 350 yards W. of Penrhiw, J of a mile
E. of Derwydd Koad Station, 3 miles S. of Llandeilo.
19. A few yards below a spring (marked and named on the
6-in. map) close to Nant Gwyddfau, J mile S.S.E. of Garn-
bica Farm, 1 J mile E, of Llandybie.
20 to 23. Side of small stream, 300 yards S.W. of Cilcoll
Farm, 1^ mile E. of Llandybie.
24. 350 yards S. of Castell-y-Graig Farm, 1 mile W. by N.
of Llandybie.
25. 400 yards E. of Gelli Siffor Farm, 1 mile N. by W. of
Ammanford.
26. Within the southern edge of a wood, 170 yards E. of Gelli
SifiTor Farm.
27. (?) Side of stream at N. end of a wood, 400 yards S.K
of Gelli SifiFor Farm.
28. 300 yards N.N.B. of Glyn-gl&s Farm, 1 mile S.W. of
Llandybie.
29. 300 yards N. of Pl^s-Mawr, 2^ miles S.W. of Ammanford.
30. 10 yards W. of the well at Llwyn Ifan Parry Farm, Banc-
y-Mansel, 8 miles E.S.E. of Carmarthen.
31. 350 yards N.K of Garn Farm, If mile N. of Ponty herein.
32. Side of stream, 150 yards N.N.W. of Tor-y-coed-isaf Farm,
J mile E. of Llaugyndeyrn, 5 miles S.E. of Carmarthen.
33. 250 yards S.S.E of Blaenau Farm, If mUe B.NJbL of
Llaugyndeyrn.
34. In a dingle between Cwm-y-dwrandCil-carn-fach Farms,
I mile W.N.W. of Pontyberem.
35. About 300 yards S.W. of Llwyn-gwyn Farm, 1^ mile S.W.
of Llangain, 3 miles S.W. of Carmarthen.
36. Side of stream, 200 yards S.E. of Pengelli-isaf Farm,
li mUe W.S.W. of Llangain.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tHE EARLir SETTLEJRS OP CARMARTHEN. ^83
37. Side of stream, 100 yards N.W. of Pen-picillioii Farm,
1 J mile N.E. of Llanybre, 6 miles S.W. of Carmarthen.
38. 250 yards S.E. of Maes-gwyn Farm. IJ mile E.N.E. of
Llanybre.
39. Side of stream, 200 yards S.W. of Maes-gwyn Farm.
40. 400 yards S.W. of Maes-gwyn Farm.
41. On E. side of stream, 120 yards S.W. of Cwmllyfrau Farm,
1 mile N.N.E. of Llanybre.
42 and 43. Side of stream, 60 yards below Ffynnon-olcwm,
\ mile E. of Llanybre.
44. In a hedge, 100 yards S.E. of Ffynnon-dagrau, near the
Vicarage, Llangynog, 5 miles S.W. of Carmarthen.
45. 100 yards W.S.W. of Gelli Farm, 1^ mile N.E. of Llan-
dilo-Abercowin, near St. Clears.
49. In a coppice, 500 yards E. by N. of Llandilo-Abercowin
Church.
50. In a thicket, 450 yards E. by S. of Llandilo-Abercowin
Church.
51. 300 yards E.N.E. of Ty'r Gate Farm, I mile E. of Lower
St. Clears.
52. Side of stream, 50 yards N.E. of Broadmoor Farm, 1 mile
S. of Lower St. Clears.
53. N. bank of stream in deep valley (transversely the Pem-
broke road) 400 yards S.E. of Parcau Farm, 1 mile S.W. of
Llanddowror, St. Clears.
54. E. side of small pond, 300 yards W. of Blaeu-gors Farm,
^ mile S.W. of Llangynin Church, St. Clears.
55. In corner of field and by side of stream, 400 yards S.E. of
Sabulon Farm, 2 miles W. of Blue Boar, St. Clears.
56. S. side of small pond, 350 E.N.E. of Forest Farm, li mile
W. of Whitland.
57 and 58. 150 yards E.S.E. of Coleman Farm, IJ mile W. of
Kidwelly.
59. 80 yards S.E. of first milestone from Dryslwyn Ford, on
the Castell Rhingyll road, W. of Llandeilo.
60. Side of stream 280 yards N.E. of Crug-y-felin or Crui^-y-
fifetan-fawr, 1^ mile E. of Eed Roses, 3 miles S. of Whitland.
61. Side of footpath, 200 yards S.W. of Cwmfawr Farm, J mile
N.E. of Eed Eoses.
62. Side of stream, 600 yards S.S.E. of Eed Eoses, at head of
stream which flows southwards between Westpool and Sich
Farms. A strong spring breaks out 100 yards N. of the hearth.
63. K side of stream, 150 yards S.E. of Mountain Farm,
Tavernspite, 3 miles S.S.W. of Whitland.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
384 trie tARLlr SBTTLEftS 01* CAftMARTBtBl^.
We now come to the antiquities of the Bronze Age
period. In the Arch. Camb. for 1851 (p. 159) there is
a reference to Allt Cynedda, near Kidwelly, of a very
perfect but ancient encampment, with two barrows or
tumuli to the eastward of it. The larger of these two
barrows was raised about 300 yards from the camp, and
measured 56 ft. in diameter, but wns only elevated
about 5 ft. from the surrounding turf. Two feet below
the original surface of the soil there was a large stone,
cut into a hexagonal figure like an old shield. The
stone measured 8 ft. 4 ins. in length and 7 ft across,
and 12 ins. to 15 ins. in thickness. A cist was found,
in which there lay the bones nearly entire of a very tall
human skeleton. The skull was almost perfect, but
was singularly flat and depressed in front, with a cir-
cular opening upon the left hemisphere, as if beaten in
by the blow of a slingstone or pointed mace ; another
chin-bone was very projecting. The teeth were entire,
but had fallen out of the mouldered jawbone. This
tumulus, which is called Banc Benisel, has a circular
depression at the apex about 5 ft. or 6 ft. in diameter.
In the Arch. Camb. for 1855 (p. 297), there is an
account of the discovery of urns on Y Garn Goch. We
are told that several urns were laid bare, the greater
part of which were ornamented with a more complex
and decorative pattern than is usually found in sepul-
chral urns of this character. All these urns were in-
clined outwardly, all at the same angle ; but this was,
as the writer remarks, probably due to the pressure of
the superincumbent central mass of stones. There was
also an inner circle, not concentric with the outer one.
Smaller urns were discovered in juxtaposition, which
were supposed to have contained food for the departed
spirits, for their support during their transit to their
new abodes (p. 298). Mr. Babington observed that the
position of the urns was usually inclined, Smaller
urns (the so-called incense cups) were often found in
close proximity to larger ones. In the Arch. Camb.
for 1856 (p. 107) there is a reference to a circle of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
fHE tJARLY SETtLBRS OF CARMARTHEN. 386
stones called "Buarth Arthur," and another called
" Meini Gwyr." These were mentioned by the late
Mr. T. Stephens, of Merthyr Tydfil, in November, 1855,
and may have been stone circles surrounding Bronze
Age burials. In the Arch. Camb. tor 1879 (p. 155)
there is an account of prehistoric and other remains
in Cynwil Gaio, by the Ven. Archdeacon D. R. Thomas.
In this article Archdeacon Thomas points out that at
the base of Cerrig Cestyll lie the scattered remains
of a cairn. Cairns, he says, are very numerous
on the hill ; the largest, he says (p. 58), is that
of " Y Garn Fawr," a great stone mound raised on the
highest point of Craig Twrch. The base of the cairn
appears to have measured 30 ft. in diameter, or,
including the enclosing dyke, a diameter of 52 ft. The
upper portion has fallen away, and another part has
been employed in the construction of an abutting
sheepfold (p. 58). At the base of the slope, on the
western side of Cerrig Cestyll, is a group of no less
than five cairns, of which only the bases now remain.
All of them have been disturbed, and some of them
almost entirely removed. They have no surrounding
ditch, and their average diameter is about 25 ft. In
one only was a cist found, and in that a double grave
with a bottom of prepared clay, but no sepulchral re-
mains of any other kind (p. 59). The most curious
feature was the portion of a series of rough slabs placed
edgeways close together, and pointing towards what
was probably the most important portion of the cairii.
A somewhat similar arrangement of stones, laid to rest
on each other in rows, and sloping towards the cist, had
existed, we are told, in Carn Trawshant on the Mallaen
range. They had, however, been removed some fifty
years before, and the cist exposed ; and all that now
remains of it were the containing slabs of the grave,
2 ft. 9 ins. in length and 2 ft. in breadth. The bed of
the grave appears to have been a yellowish clay, from
which all stones had been carefully removed, and this
formed a layer upon the natural soil. '* West of this,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
386 THE EARLY S^TtLBRS OF CAEl^AR^HiK.
at no great distance, is a circular mound of earth, 25 ft.
in diameter, and to all appearance undisturbed, and
so presenting a most favourable field for further ex-
ploration. A third mound, somewhat smaller, measur-
ing 18 ft. in diameter, lay to the south of this last ; but
it has been almost entirely cleared off." There is also
mentioned the cairn called "Y Garn Fawr," to the
north-west of the farmhouse of Bryn Aran. This is a
large stone platform about 50 ft. in diameter, with a
raised cairn in the centre, in which it is probable,
Archdeacon Thomas says, the cist may be found undis-
turbed, although the surrounding portion has been
carted away for walling and road-metal. A smaller
one of 25 ft. diameter, a little to the south, has been
almost entirely carried away ; and near it is an ellipti-
cal arch about 45 ft. by 36 ft. at the greatest length,
formed by a stone rampart 6 ft. in width. In the Arch.
Comb, for 1886 (p. 348) there is an account of a sepul-
chral urn of rude pottery, exhibited in the Swansea
temporary museum by Sir J. T. Dillwyn Llewelyn,
M.A., F.L.S. This was found in Y Gam Goch, and
bore upon it the impression of twisted thongs or rushes.
It has thus the usual characteristics of Bronze-Age
sepulchral urns.
In the Arch. Camh. for 1890 (p. 41), there is an
account by Mr. G. G. T. Treherne of the opening of a
tumulus at Castle Hill, Carmarthenshire. In this
account we are told that the tumulus lay in the south-
east corner of a field called " Pare y Twmp," on the
southern slope of a farm called '* Castle Hill," in the
parish of Kiffig, Carmarthenshire. It was circular in
form, and measured roughly 70 paces in circumference.
It is 25 paces in diameter, and its depth to the clay
floor was 6 ft. 6 ins. in the centre. Mr. Treherne gives
the account as follows : — " We drove an adit 4 ft. wide
from the south side, and found no trace of the usual
stone circle. There was a thin floor of clay level with
the field surface, apparently much trampled, and covered
with a thin covering of black ash. Rather to the south-
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tflfi l&ARVi SteMLERS Oi* CARMARTHEN. 38?
east of the true centre there seemed to be an artificial
depression or hole in the floor, and this was filled with
black ash, fragments of charcoal, slight traces of disin-
tegrated bone, and patches of red earth ; these last
possibly the remains of the original urn. There were
no implements, shells, or anything beyond the burnt
materials. This was of a distinctly greasy character."
The mound, Mr. Treherne says, is formed of earth and
rubble (mostly rubble In the centre), not homogeneous
with the soil of the field surrounding it. We replaced
the ashes in situ, and partly filled up the trench. In
connection with the same account, Mr. Treherne says
that at a distance of 50 paces to the south, in an
old red sandstone quarry, the party found a flint flake,
evidently artificially worked. It is difficult, however,
to be certain to what period the flint flake belonged.
In Arch. Camb. for 1893, p. 89, there is an account
of an artificial mound between the two lakes at Talley,
or Talyllychau, to which attention was called by tne
Rev. Charles Chidlow. An account of it was sent to
Dr. R. Munro, author of The Lake'Diuellings of Europe,
but all that he said of it was : " We are here dealing
with a lake-dwelling, or fort, of unique character, pre-
senting special features I have not hitherto observed in
any of our Scottish or Irish crannogs. This mound at
Talley is said to be riddled through and through with
rabbit-holes, but these have brought to light no trace
of human occupation."
That Carmarthenshire shared further in the Late-
Celtic civilisation is made highly probable by the dis-
covery of various Late-Celtic objects just outside its
two extremities. For example, some enamelled horse-
trappings, which are now in the Cardiff Museum, were
found at Seven Sisters, near Neath, and a fine Late-
Celtic collar, similar to the one at Wraxhall, was found
at LlandyssuL As they certainly were worked in Roman
times, it is not improbable, too, that the Dolau Cothi
mines, which are thought to have contained gold, were
worked in Late-Celtic times. Then, and doubtless
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
,188 TJttE EARLY SETTLERS OF CARMARtHEl^.
earlier, the district lay on one of the trade-routes to the
South of Ireland, and thus participated in the com-
mercial prosperity of the South Wales coast. The
Late-Celtic objects from Kyngadle, near Laugharne,
are also an indication of the same type ; and it may
well be that a thorough investigation of Y Garn Goch
would tend to place it in the same Late-Celtic period
as TreV Ceiri, where a Late-Celtic bead and some traces
of iron were found. The only scientific way to deter-
mine the true age of ancient remains is by patient and
judicious excavation. It is to be hoped that one result
of the present meeting will be to lead to a more
thorough exploration of the ancient remains M the
county. It is possible that the folklore of the county,
both mediaeval and modern, if we only had the key to
it, would yield valuable ethnological results ; but the
difficulty is to distinguish in these stories the kernel of
fact from the added embellishments. The reader who
is interested in the folklore of Carmarthenshire cannot
do better than consult Rhys' Celtic Folklore, where the
ethnological bearing of the mediaeval and modern folk-
lore is discussed. It is not impossible that each stratum
oF the early settlers left in local tradition some memory
of itself. It is to be hoped that the excellent Anti-
quarian Society of the county will keep a careful record
of all material that will throw light on the ethnology
of the district.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
389
THE TOWN OF HOLT, IN COUNTY
DENBIGH :
ITS CASTLE, CHURCH, FRANCHISE, AND DEMESNE.
Bt ALFRED NEOBARD PALMER.
{Continued from page 334.)
CHAPTER III.— NO RD EN'S SURVEY OF 1620.
It is proposed here to deal with Norden's Survey of
Kolt^Harleian MS., vol. 3696). I have myself made
many notes and extracts from this Survey at the
British Museum, and for the rest am dependent upon
a part copy transcribed for the late Chevalier Lloyd,
collated, wherever required, by Mr. Edward Owen.
The men sworn as jurors to assist John Norden were:
George Bostock, Esq, ; David Speed, gent. ; Thomas
Calcott, gent.; Thomas Pate, gent.; William Wyld,
gent. ; Francis Pickering, gent. ; John Yardley, gent. ;
John Wilkinson, Randolph Hutchins, Thomas Wilkin-
son, Thomas Pulford, Roger Edgworth, John Wright,
William Batha, Geor^^e Wright, Richard Vernon, and
Roger Greene — seventeen in all, concerning whom it is
noticeable that one only — William Batha — bore a Welsh
surname. The same seventeen were also sworn in as a
ury of survey for the manors of Hewlington and Cob-
lam Isycoed. Some portions of their presentment will
^e quoted in full, preserving the spelling actually used,
and other portions will be omitted, or only briefly
summarised.
The jurors say that ** there is in the Towne of Lyons
als Holt in the countie of Denbigh one Castle builded
with Stone consisting of five Squares and of five Towers,
covered with lead, having foure Gates^ at y® entrie into
^ These were the onter and inner gates of the main entrance,
together with the two portcullises, or else those two gates and the
inner and outer gates of the Exchequer Tower,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
390 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
y same, w** Castle is nowe in great decay and some
parte of the Roofe thereof fallen dowue and much of
the timber rotted, and y* lead likewise decaying and
worne thinne. Neverthelesse the Lead^ of the said Castle,
and other materialls, if the same should be demolished,
are worth to be solde about . . . poundes besides ye Stone.
There is adioyning to y* said Castle at the first entrance
into y® same one Tower or building of Stone commonlie
called y* Excheq' where y® Recordes touching the Lord-
shipps of Bromtield and Yale are and have been vsuallie
kept w^^ is likewise covered with lead. There are di-
verse Howses of Office belonging to y® said castle, all
builded w** timber as namely, one Gatehouse called the
Outward Gate, Garners for Corne^ Barnes, stables for
Cattell, Killne, Brewhouse and one Pidgeon howse all
decayed conteyning by estimac'on . . . Bayes. There
are within the precinct of the saide Castle certaine
parcells of Land as namely one plott or parcell wherein
the said Castle standeth called the Castle ditch one
parcell called y® outward gate or Court, one garden
place, one parcell called y® greene Court, and one par-
^ Elsewhere, on the back of the ^ound plan of the castle, Norden
inserts his estimate of the valae of the same, thns : —
FooU.
" The lead ouer the 5 towers con tayne ... ... ... ... 4,650
The lead ouer the mayn lodginges yet remayninge and falne downe
with the timber cont* ... ... ... ... ... 14,250
Ouer the gatehouse that stands to little yse, p' est. ... ... 320
19,220
which Although it be the most part very mnch worn and very thjn,
yet onn with another it may be valned at iiiid p' foote which will
amount vnto occl** or thereaboats.'' He adds : " Mnch of the timber
abont the Castle is yet very sounde, but decayes daylie theawgthe
[thronji^h] the defect of the Leades. One mayn floore fell the very
night I came to the holt, the timber and Leade doth lye now very
confusedly ; mnch of the reste is so weake as it is dangerous to
adnentnre vpon it. To re-edifie will cost much new timber and
Leade, the Lead that now is being worne so thyn that being oast
new will yelde mnch drosse, as it doth now much duste; yet fit
eyther timelie to be repaired, or the materialls to be taken downe,
kepte, or soulde."
* Against these words underlined is written : " These were leased
to Kdward Hughes at viij«. iiijo?. p. ann.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 391
cell called y® Orchard conteyning in y® wholle by es-
timac'on Three acres.* There is one Howse or buildinof
upon y* westside of the Court called Green court
commonlie called y® Welshe Courthowse with a loft
over y® same conteyning . . . Bayes w°** is appurtenant
to y® said Castle where y* twoe great Leete Courtes for
the Lordshippes of Bromfield and Yale have heretofore
been vsuallie holden and kept, w°** are discontinued.*
There is one stable place and an vpper Roome at the
Northend af the said Welsh Courthowse with a smithie
or smithes shoppe therevnto adioyninge demised to
Thomas Crew Gent, for Forty yeares dat : Primo die
Junii Anno Rn e Eliz. 35 ^ wherevppon y® yearlie Rent
of Two shillinges is reserved heretofore charged within
y* BaylifFes charge of the Manno' of Hewlington. There
is also at y® southend of y® said Welshe Courthowse one
Large Bay now vsed for a Barne in the holding of one
William Burgeny or his ass's [assigns] w*'** hath been
charged heretofore in the Bayliffes Accouraptes for y*
Manno' of Hewlington." Concerning the last two sen-
tences, a correction is made afterwards in the following
words : '* Memorand : there is one Chamber and a
Lowe' Roome vnd' the same now vsed for a Stable and
a Smithie or Smithes fforge adioyninge to the North
end of the Welsh Court howse in y® Towne of Lyons
als Hoult w**is graunted to Thomas Crue gent, for 40
years by Lease dated primo die Junij 35 Eliz. Rn'e
w^ we finde to bee within the Survey of Holt as an
Appurtenaunt to the Castle & within y* precinct of the
^ Probably customary acres. If so, eqaal to nearly 6J statute
acres.
' Two discrepant statements are made in tlie Survey of 1620
concerning the holding of these leet courts /or the whole lordship: one
statement made doubtless by the jurors, and the other by the sur-
veyor. According to one statement, the two great courts in the
year formerly held were at the time of the Survey discontinued ;
according to another, they were still kept. As a matter of fact,
they were discontinued, but from another point of view the eonrt-
honse, however decayed, was still there ready to accommodate the
Brom6eld and Yale tenants who owed suit and service there, if the
steward or bis deputy should duly summon them.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
392 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
same as by the particulars belonging to the said Castle
in the p'sentment for y® said Castle appeareth. There
is also another part of y® said Welsh Court howse at y®
south end of y® same now vsed for a barne in the
houlding of humphrey hanraer, Gentleman, in right of
his wief, y* late wief of Anthony Burgeney at Will w**
we find likewise appurtenaunt to y® said Castle and no
part of J® Bayliffes charge of this Manner [Hewlingtou]
as wee supposed/' Nevertheless, it is probable that the
first presentment is right, for in the Survey of 1562
these buildings ai'e declared to be in the manor of
Hewlington.
Before proceeding further with our extracts from the
Survey, it is necessary to discuss the sketches and plans
of the Castle and its precincts, given by Norden and
others. These illustrations have appeared before, either
in Pennant, Powys Fadog,^ or elsewhere ; but it would
be impossible to present a history of Holt without
giving therewith the illustrations just named; which,
moreover, it seems to me, have never hitherto been
studied with sufficient care, although they raise as
many problems as they solve.
The Castle is, of course, of a far earlier period than
the earliest pictorial description of it; but, unfortu-
nately, it has never come under the critical eye of a
master of military architecture, such as that of the late
Mr. G. T. Clark. But as its main features probably
continued unchanged down to the early part of the
seventeenth century, we may confidently commence
our description of it with the accounts of eye-witnesses
who had seen the Castle before it became the common
quarry for buildings in the neighbourhood. It should,
however, be borne in mind that not a single one of the
early illustrations referred to (including Buck's view of
17 . .) are characterised by the strict accuracy of a
modern surveyor's drawings, nor were they intended
^ I desire to acknowledge my indebtedness to Mrs. Lloyd- Veruey,
of Clochfaen, for permission to reproduce, fron» Pourys Fadog, one
of the plans,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
r
i^ cdi/j^Tr t)fiNBmH.
393
by their authors to be so. They are none the less
of great value, and enable us to reconstruct the build-
ing of the ^^'arrennes more perfectly than would have
been possible from an examination of the heaps of ruins
which now alone remain.
The elevation and ground plan, marked 3 and 4,
were made evidently by Norden in 1620, and represent
the form and condition of the Castle and its precincts at
the time of his Survey.- But there are two other illus-
^e?
^j'
! fl !<.>.!
W .1 '» . v.-
Fig. 1.— Early Sketch of Holt Castle.
trations of the Castle, preserved in vol. 2073, Harleian
MSS., flF. 112 and 113, which I believe to be earlier
than 1620. The first of these (Fig. 1) is a rough sketch
of the exterior. Daniel King, of Chester, used this
sketch in 1656, passing it oflF as his own, and made an
engraving of it (see Harleian MSS. 2073, 594 B,
fo. 126), with the intention of illustrating Camden's
Britannia} It may be urged, reasonably enough at
first seeming, that if King used the sketch, this would
^ It did not appear in Gbngh's edition of that work, 1695.
6TU 8£R., VOL. VII. 26
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
394 TriE TOWN OF HOLt,
show, at any rate, that the Castle was as represented
by him, he having probably seen the building before
the siege. But the truth seems to be that when King
first saw the Castle it was recently dismantled ; and as
he wished to give a drawing of it, he used this sketch
(probably collected by one of the Randle Holmes),
which was the only representation available* to him. If
this opinion be accepted, Daniel Kings authority for
the drawing disappears. But the drawing itself re-
mains, and the ground plan corresponds with it. And
the more the one and the other are considered, the
more will it appear that both represent an earlier
arrangement than that which Norden represented :
perliaps the arrangement, which Sir William Stanley
found when the grant was made to him. It does not
seem possible to specify the date more exactly.
Assuming, then, that figures 1 and 2 show a much
earlier state of things, in respect of the Castle, than
figures 3 and 4, we will now proceed to discuss the first
two illustrations.
These (Figs. 1 and 2) reveal an irregular pentagonal
castle of small size, enclosing a court, also in form a
pentagon. At each corner, on the outside, but con-
nected internally with the main body, was a round
tower, higher than the battlements of the pentagonal
portion. To one of the five towers, the next south-
eastwards to the tower east of the entrance, was
attached an external rectangular addition, of equal
height with the tower, containing in its lower portion
the chapel. On each of the towers, except on the
chapel tower, was also a small conning- or watch-tower,
which apparently contained a chimney. The entrance
was between the two towers on the north side, and
there was a wooden bridge thrown over the inner
ballium between this entrance and the *' Chequers" or
Exchequer tower, which, according to the plan, was
then a low building. Another wooden bridge spanned
the foss on the other side of the Exchequer tower, and
led to the outer gate. Over the main entrance of the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
m COUNTT DBNBIGli.
395
Castle was sculptured a Hon passant-guardant (see ch, i,
vol. 1906, p. 221).
Coming now to the ground plan of the castle of the
Fig. 2.— Early Ground Plan of Holt Castle.
earlier date, as shown in Fig. 2, it may be well foi* the
benefit of those who find old writing diflBcult to read,
to give the description of the building, court, and
26 «
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
396 THE TOWN OP HdLt,
lowermost chambers in modern print. Here it is : —
" The castle fine [five] square eu'y [every] way with
square in the inside 51 foot betweene wall and wall,
being the breadth of all the romes [rooms], about
22 foot the in'er wall foot, the outerd [out-
ward] wall .... foot, the castle three storyes high :
the tower[s] fowre beside en [every] watch towre w"^**
mak' tiue [five] chappell 12 foote broade and 15 foote
Longe / the ditch 20 yards (and in some places more)
broad.'
Between the entrance and the tower flanking it on
the east was the well-house. The whole of the side
between this and the chapel tower was occupied in the
basement by a stable, as was also the side between the
chapel tower and the tower next southward or south-
eastward. On the next side, towards the west, were
** oflSce romes [rooms] for cook and Butler/* and on the
remaining side, between the tower last named and the
tower on the west flanking the entrance, was the
kitchen.
Across the ground-plan of the interior court are
written these words : " fro the court to the battlem** of
the castle but two storyes high all these romes being
under ground."
At a later date, perhaps in Sir William Stanleys
time, considerable structural alterations were made in
the Castle. The Exchequer was converted into a strong,
square tower with an upper room. The square addition
to the chapel tower was, if the plan is to be truMed^
removed, and the tower restored to its round form. On
the other hand, the next or south-east tower — that one
whose base abutted on the river — was made wholly
square.* And a well was dug in the middle of the
^ It may be well to observe that my friend Mr. Edward Owen,
after a harried examination of the rnins, does not agree with the
above. The internal towers have completely disappeared, so that it
is impossible to decide the particular point in question. Bat his in-
spection of the Castle, with the varions illastrations in band, revealed
so many discrepancies in the latter, not only from each other bat in
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH.
397
court. But, perhaps, the best way will be to set out, in
fair modern print, the several descriptions contained in
Norden's ground plan of the Castle and precincts, as
C/2i%'%J^
^f' : I- -
\ Sir; -t. ,
/
i
-^Vy r-'V' *'-*•''
\ /A- ,-:-'-' '"••
ri.r,!..|».--.. ♦..lu,.,^•^f•
, * r,/, J.///,/|».,..^'/r,/. (.
Fig. 3.— Elevation of Holt Caatle in 1620.
all from th^ rniDS of the Castle itself, that he is disposed to Consider
the absence of the square projection from the chapel tower in one
plan, and the transformation of a round into a square tower in
another, as no more than the errors of the artists, who probably
completed their sketches far from the spot they are intended to
portray
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
398
THB TOWN OP HOLT,
shown in Fig. 4. The elevation, Fig. 3, needs no
comment.
The four round towers are indicated on the plan
(Fig. 4) as supplied " with manie Lodginges and Chim-
neyes couered as is all the Castle that yet standes with
Leade." Then with respect to the square tower, this is
what is said : '* There is a vaulte under this square
i
/Mw2« 4^1.^/. •«*«-^
n* t^^P^^-^^
Fig. 4.— Ground Plan of Holt Castle and Precincts in 1620.
towre secretly to come to the river at 23, were is an
Iron gate as is sayde."^
We come now to speak of the interior of the several
sides of the pentagon. The side between the tower
* In Tidderley's description (see Ch. ii, p.. 814) this secret narrow
passage, yaulted with stone, is mentioned as leading oat of the court
by steep stairs to the river, " whereto the ward and dore ys of yron."
In the inquiry made at Holt Castle on 30th January, 158^ (see
Gh. ii, p. 318), this " iron doore being belowe in the house towards
the Riv' of Dee," is spoken of as having been taken away during the
time of Mr. Edward Hughes, then receiver, and resident within the
castle.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 399
east of the entrance and the next tower south-eastward
was occupied by the hall, reached, as we know from
Tidderley's account, by a straight stone stair, 7 ft.
wide, leading up from the inner gate. The side be-
tween the hall and square tower contained '' Butteries,
Pantries, kitchene, etc.," and the side westward be-
tween the square and the next tower included the
''Great Chamber and other chambers"; while, on the
fourth side, to the tower west of the entrance there is
noted : " At this place timber, Lead and all inwarde
materiall fallen down." And over the entrance, as we
learn from the inquiry of 30th January, 158f , the con-
stable's chamber, also u chamber adjoining in which the
constable kept his coal and wood.
At A (Fig. 4), between the near entrance gateway
and the Exchequer tower, '*the mote [was] 30 foote
deepe vnder the bridge and [there] was a drawbridge."
As to the Exchequer tower (c), it is recorded : " In a
lofte over c lye all the records, and was auntiently the
Chequers," all being surrounded by ** A mote or
Trenche. A verie deepe ditche within which the
Castle stands hewed out of the same rocke wheron the
Castle is most strongly situate."
The outer gate of the Castle yard is also shown, west
of which were first " Barnes" and next " The Shire hall
longe out of use."^ Again, east of the outer gate and
abutting on it were '' olde stables [and] cowhouses" ;
while at right angles to, but detached from, these were
other " olde buildings." Also, in the yard east of the
Castle was ** a decayd doue-house fine square."
An account of the Castle yard given on the plan is
as follows : — **The Castle yarde of noe benefite to his
highnes, for that it is a comon passage, as it is per-
mitted for all the townesmen to driue there Cattle to
the water hauing manie other Wayes, begininge now to
Challendge this by prescription the outer gate standing
nighte and day open, by which all kind of cattle and
^ The Shire Hall, or Welsh Court Hoase was, as we otherwise
learn, on the west side of the Green Court.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
400 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
swyne haue free entrance." This account refers to the
east part of tJie yard, and as to the north-west part
we have this further description : — " A little peece of
the Castle groundes unclosed wher the people now
challendge freedom to sport in and doe already pre-
scribe to be proper vnto them for that vse, so the
P[rince] shall have litle or no profite by the same if it
be not reformed ; the whole Castle yarde with the mote
contaynes about 2^ English or Statute acres."
West of the yard, the east portion of the " litle park
demaynes in the time of H. 8, and in his owne vse
stored with deere, now in the disposinge of the E.
of Bridgwater, claymed as is sayde, in righte of his
oflSce, being stewarde of Bromfeilde and Yale, as he
hath also certayne groundes called the Pooles, som-
tiraes fishpondes, now freme Land all worth per ano.
St. xviZi. The fee of the stewarde in H. 8 time, both
for Holte and Chirklande, is but x\li. ; but there are
since added I know not"
And with regard to "The Ryuer of Dee" is this
note : — '* The overflo winge of this riuer is a great annoy-
ance of the Prince 8 and other mens Lands, confininge
being barred back by a Causeway at Chester" ; and as
to which it may be said that many inquiries were made
and commissions held, but no practical remedy ever
devised, and ultimately the causeway was ordered to
stand.
Meanwhile, it is most necessary to dispel an opinion,
firmly and generally held at Holt, and based upon
misunderstood and imperfect data, that the outer gate
of the Castle stood in Castle Street. This opinion is
due wholly to the fact that Pennant, in his reproduc-
tion of the plan, omitted descriptions of buildings and
areas, and especially failed to record the points of the
compasSy all of which are given in the original (see
p'ig. 4). Now, if the outer gate stood in Castle Street,
it would be due west of the Castle ; but, as a fact, as
shown in the figure, it stood due north of the same, and
was on a line with the Exchequer tower, the ruins of
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 401
which can still be identified. The outer gate stood
at the bottom of the present lane to the Castle, past
the schools. This lane one would expect to be broader
than now, for it was the chief approach from the town
to the outside of the outer gate. In any case, the lane
is old, for it is mentioned in Tidderley's Survey (end of
reign of Henry VIII) in 1562 and in 1620.^ It opened
on a road proceeding directly from the outer gate of the
Castle to the ford above the bridge, and to the bridge
itself, passing the back of Church Street and the front
of the church tower. Traces of this old road are yet
to be seen, a bit of it being in the western end, or new
portion, of the churchyard, and it is mentioned in
1562.*
It has been urged in support of the view that the
outer gate of the Castle was in Castle Street, that in
Pennant's plan a ^ve-sided figure shown thereon is
evidently the Town cross, but the cross is eight-^xdiedi ;
and on referring to the original plan this figure is actu-
ally marked as *' a decayd aouehouse fiue-square,"
standing within the Castle yard and outside the gate of
the Castle itself.
It does not follow from this that there was no com-
munication from Castle Street to the inside of the
Castle yard itself. A road is said to have been laid
bare some yeai^ ago by Mr. George Redrope, 3 ft.
beneath the surface. It started from a point opposite
* In 1620 Sir Richard Trevor is described as haying a curtilage
*• noare the Castle gate extending towards the Riuer of Dee.**
Also, in tlie same year, Lawreuce Welles held a piece of land " neare
ynto the Castle gate in a Lane leading from the pavem^ towardes the
Riyer called Mill Dee." See also next note.
^ In 1562 Edward Aimer is described as haying a messuage with
curtilage near Castle gate, in length from ** the royal way leading
from the castle of the town of Lions to the church or chapel of the
said town, and in breadth from a stable of the said castle towards
the way leading from the said payement towards the horse mill
there." The payement was apparently the paved way or footpath
near the cross, and the horse mill was by the river ; and it is quite
clear, therefore, that the main Castle gate was not in Castle Street,
but in the lane leading towards the Dee,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
402 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
Mrs. Baker's, and entered the Castle yard at a dip in
the crag, which could easily be closed, and passed pre-
sumably beneath the rock where the higher ground
still is to the front of the Exchequer tower.
Pennant's plan is imperfect, and must be used with
discretion and considerable hesitation.
We are now prepared to continue our extracts from,
or summaries of, the text of Norden's Survey. These
will illustrate further the statements made by the sur-
veyor on Fig. 4, as to the Little Park, Pools, etc.
Rent, 30«.
There is one parcell of land adioyniiig to ye Castle,
commonlie called the little Park,^ nowe in the
tenure of John Earle of Bridgewater, or of his
assignes, conteyniug by esfcimao'on, great
measure ... ... ... ... 9 0 0 0*
One close or parcell of land within y* said Towne,
called The Pooles, adioyning to the Highway
or pavements leading from the Holt' towardes
the Common Woode, nowe in the tenure of the
said John Earle of Bridgewater, or his assignee,
con teyning by estimac'on, great measure ... 7 0 0 0^
One meadowe called Crackstringes, aU, Crack-
stones meadowe, conteyning by estimac'on ... 7 0 0 0^
^ This '' Little Park" was that now in three parts, called re-
spectively ••Top Park" and "Bottom Park," extending between the
Castle on the north and the Qus Works on the south, and between
the riyer on the east and Castle Street on the west.
^ In statute measure about 19 acres.
8 On the south side of Common Wood Lane, next the pound and
nearly opposite Esphill, is a meadow called "The Pools." The
unusual configuration of the surface of this meadow suggests at once
that fishponds had formerly been kept here, as indeed the Survey of
1620 elsewhere declares, doubtless for the supply of fish to the
Castle. The lane itself is cobble-paved, and on one or the other
sides of it are five or six fields or meadows called " Pavement Field"
or " Pavement Meadow," illustrating the statement of the Survey
concerning " Pavement Lane," between Frog Lane and Common
Wood Lane, and confirming the identity of the meadow now known
as " The Pools" or *' Pool Meadow," with that described in 1620
under the same name. There was another Fishpool field, probably
adjoining this one, in which various burgesses of Holt had acres.
^ Over 14| statute acres.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COTTNTT DENBIGH. 403
Odo other paroell of lande commonlj oalled the
Heye, als. Saunders Hey, in the tenure of the
said John Flarle of Bridgewater, conteyning by
estimac'on ... ... ... 6 0 0 0*
The jurore then go on to refer to the Friday market
and to the two fairs, one held on St. Barnabas' day in
suramer, and the other on St. Luke's day in winter
(see Ch. ii, p. 312), the toll of which market and fairs
was let for thirty-one years to Sir Peter Warburton,
one of the burgesses of Holt, at a yearly rent of 22s.,
payable to the Prince.
A list of the lands, houses, and one burgage set
aside for the sustentation of a lady- priest to celebrate
within the church or chapel of Holt is next given.
These had been sold, and will be referred to in a future
chapter. On the north of the main road from Wrex-
ham to Holt, by Deevon Bridge, is a field still called
" Priest's field." And in 1620, " St. Mary's lands" are
named, which may be the " Mary's loons" of the Tithe
Assessment Map to the north of the Bible meadow.
These fields are, it is possible, part of the lands so sold,
formerly belonging to Holt Chureh. The separate
items of the yearly rents of these lands in my copy add
up to £6 10^., but the total given seems to be £5 78.
These lands, or part of them, as will hereafter be shown,
had been bequeathed in 1523 by Thomas ap David ap
Deio, of Holt.
The jurors of 1620, in their presentment, next recite
the terms of the charter granted them by Thomas, Earl
of Arundel and Surrey, in the thirteenth year of
Henry IV, declare the decay of rent since that time,
and the revival of it in the fifth year of Queen Eliza-
beth. They deny that any fine is due from them on
the marriage of their daughters, stand upon their
charter, and refer to " an extent made in the fifteenth
yeare of Richard the Second," which extent, unfor-
tunately, does not now seem to be in existence. Next,
they say that " there is within the Towne of Holt, one
Howse builded of timber & covered with shingles com-
^ Oyer 12^ statnte acres.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
404 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
raonly called the Townehall, where the Courtes I name-
ly the Borough Courts] are holden and kept by the
Maio' everie three weekes, and two great Leet Courtes
likewise holden and kept by the Steward aforesaid for
matters happening within the said Towne and Liberties
are vsuallie kept, w** is the Princes bowse, the repaire
whereof from tyme to tyme as occasion shall require
belongeth vnto the Prince his Highness." The lower
story or ground floor of the Town Hall was then divided
into four shops.
Then comes a list of all the freeholders and burgesses
of Holt in 1620, with an exact and full description of
their burgages, houses, and lands. I made a copy of
this list and a summary of the description. This sum-
mary wiH be presented towards the end of the chapter,
as it seems desirable to give first a copy of the rental
[crown rents] of Holt in 1620, and then of the peram-
bulation of the town and franchise in the same year.
The totall sum of the rente of the Holte is IzxiVt.
xim. iud.
Whereof to be dedncted for Certaine Landes grann-
ted to the Earl of Bridgwater in fee, viZt. xii<.
So remajnes with the toll of the Market and
bridge
The BoroDgh Rent as appeares bj the Rentall,
Ixii/t. iiitf. ixe^.
Besides the Castell houses, yixis. iiWd,
Besids for Crackstones meadowe and Saunders Heath
p. ann., xxx^.j
The Toll of the bridge and Market xxii«.
Ixv^t. xii<.
lX7./i.
iiii^. \d.
The above totals do not agree exactly with the sums
which compose them : a slight error in the copy is to
be presumed.
The bounds of the town and liberties of Holt are
described [fo. 43] in these words : ** The Towne of Lyons
als Holt with the Liberties and Franchises of the same
is meered and bounded as followeth. First from the
Bridge called Holt Bridge w^ is the passs^e of the
River of Dee divideing the Countie of Denbigh and the
Countie of Chester, at the Northside of the said Towne
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN CO0NTY DENBIGH. 405
it extendeth itself along to the said River vnto a place
called Moore Dee w** joineth vnto a Meadowe called
the Lords Meadowe beeing parcell of the Manno' of
Hewlington vppon y® soutnside of the said Towne and
so along the skirt of the said Meadowe and other
landes therevnto adioyning called the five acres and
Tier garreggs vnto the lane called Hewlington lane
vppon the west. Then it extendeth a long that Lane
towardes the North vnto the lane called the Gallow-
tree field lane, and so vpwardes or alonge that Lane
Westward vnto another lane leading towardes the
Manor of Iscoeyd vnto certen landes there adioyning
vpon the said Lane called the Gorstifield in the tenure
01 David Sped parcell of the Manner of Hewlington
vpon y® East, and soe along the said lane, including a
parcell of Land called Kae Stockley and two Tenements
in the holding of Peers Spencer and John Goze [i.e.,
John Goch, Red John~\ adioyning to the vpper end of
the said lane vppon the East. From the head of that
Lane it then extendeth itselfe towardes the West vnto
the Manner of Ridley, and excludeth one tenement and
lands in the tenure of Richard Prestland and one Cot-
tage and certaine other parcells part of the said
Manner of Ridley lying upon the Northside the Lane
which leadeth towards Crossyockin Lane upon the
West. From Crossyockin Lane w** is called Hugmore
lane or Wrexham Lane,^ and from the head of the same
I^ne called Hugmore, then it extendeth itselfe againe
towardes the North after the Hedge lying upon the
west w^ divideth the Towneshippes of Gourton and
Boras at the west and of the landes of Owen Jones Gent.,
Owen Breerton, George Bostock Esquires and William
Botha [Batha] as they are particularly mentioned in
the verdit or presentment of the said jury for Holt,
and from the lands of the said William Batha it exten-
^ The meaning here is that from the head of Croes locjn Lane,
otherwise called Hagmore Lane, the bonndarj then extends itself,
etc. The bead of Hagmore Lane was in Wrexham Lane. We are
not to understand that the two lanes last named were one.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
406 THt TOWN OF HOLt,
deth along the lane leading from Borras to the Common
wood upon the East^ and so includeth parcell of y*
great Parke called Mercley [Mersley] Parke adioin-
ing to the Mannor of Burton vpou tlie North ; w**
parcell or parcells are called the Bushell [Bushy] and
Broade land and extendeth from the vpper Parte
of the said broad Land w**** adioyneth vnto the land
leading from the- Common wood upon the North,
towardes AUington vnto the landes called Woerhookes
lying within the Mano' of Hem vpon y* said North
parte. And also along the said groundes called Wer-
hookes unto a passage or bridge over the Brooke called
Devon Commonly called Werhook bridge, neare vnto
the River of Dee upon the North, and so is bounded
with the said River of Dee towardes the Eaat vnto the
Holt bridge where first it begun."
The foregoing account of the boundaries of the liber-
ties and franchise of Holt is for the most part clear
enough, knowing as I do many of the lands designated
by names now forgotten, or almost forgotten. How-
ever, let us understand that the present Parliamentary
borough or parish of Holt is made up practically of the
old franchise and the manor of Hewlington. The
bounds of the old franchise are then recognisable
directly upon the east, west, and north, and only
somewhat uncertain on the south. But when we come
to deal with Hewlington, the perambulation of that
manor by the jury of 1620 will be presented, and then
some of the ambiguity relating to the limits of the
franchise on this side will disappear. Suppose, however,
an attempt be here made to describe, in modem terms,
the bounds of the liberties of Holt as they were in
1620. The northern boundary of Hewlington will then
itself become more intelligible.
The boundary of the old franchise of Holt starts
southward from the borough bridge along the Dee,
which nears the liberties on the eastern side, until it
reaches the first bend on the river above the Little
Park and the meadow called the Moore Dee, along the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
W COUNTY DENBIGH. 40?
south side of which it proceeds, leaving Lord's Meadow
in Hewlington on the left hand, and so by the north
side of the northernmost Tir y garreg [^Land of the
stone, now called " Tithe Garret "] to Hewlington Lane,
which leads from Sutton to Holt, then northwards to
Gallowtree Lane, and westwards by Gallowtree Lane to
Franchise Lane (now called "Francis Lane"), and by
that lane westwards on the whole to Hugmore Lane,
formerly sometimes known as '* Croes locyn Lane,"
along which it proceeds in a northerly direction, until
it marches with the eastern boundaries of Gourton and
Burras RiflFii to Common Wood Lane, a continuation
westwards of Frog Lane. Eastward along that lane it
runs until it reaches the roadway to Red Hall, opposite
the end whereof it strikes in a north-easterly direction,
touching the AUington boundary, having The Lodge
just north and Plas Devon just south of it, and so
reaches the Devon near Wearhookes Bridge ; and fol-
lowing the Devon and AUington boundary comes to
the Dee, and so southward to Holt Bridge again.
Next follows a list of all the freeholders and bur-
gesses of Holt in 1620, with a summary of the descrip-
tion in the Survey of their burgages, houses, and lands.
But the names of the freeholders are here arranged
alphabetically y^ so that they can better be referred to,
and there is given, under the names of the more import-
ant men a short history of the families to which they
belonged : it being thought that this is the most con-
venient place to present what could hardly be intro-
duced elsewhere. There were sixty-five freeholders and
burgesses in all, tenants of the Prince, namely : —
Owen Brereton, Esq., was of Burras Hall (see pedigree of
the Breretons of Burras, opposite page 162, of my History of
the Country Townahips of the Old Parish of Wrexham), He
had two burgages in Frog Lane, of which one was *' neere vnto ye
Crosse," and the other " neere the Pinfold/' and about 130 cus-
tomary— or 275 statute — acres of land within the franchise.
George Bostocke, Esq . had his capital messuage somewhere
in the town of Holt, which, with the bams, outhouses, garden,
^ The arrangement in Norden's Sw^ey is not alphabetical.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
408 THE TOWN O* HOLt,
and orchard appurtenant to the same, represented the site of six
burgages. He had also nine other several burgages, in 1620, in
Pepper Street, Castle Street, and elsewhere in the town, and
much land in the franchise, the exact area of which is uncer-
tain, though it was undoubtedly considerable. He belonged to a
notable family — the Bostockes of Churton — of whom no account
is given, under Churton, in Helsby's Onnerod'a Cheshire, later
than the time of Henry VIII, although they were seated there
long afterwards, for George Bostocke, of Churton, Esq., was
buried at Famdon 4th March, 165|.i The above-named George
Bostocke was Mayor of Holt in 1620, and buried there 24th
December, 1627, being son of Lancelot Bostocke, by Jane his
wife, daughter of Richard Roydon, of Holt, Mr. H. R. Hughes,
of Kinmel, confirmed this account of the parentage of George
Bostocke, and sent me a pedigree copied from one of the Halston
MSS., which I have abbreviated, added to, aud already presented
in Appendix II, Chapter II. His will is dated 17th September,
1627, whereby he bequeathed to his " nobell and good frend. Sir
Robert Chumley, baronett," and his brother-in-law, " Henrie lea
esquire," all his burgages, messuages, lands, etc., " in the town
and liberties of lions, alias Houlte,*' in the holding of various
persons named ; also " one House in the Castell Streete wherein
Richard Roydon dwelleth," half an acre " in the place called the
sent marie loundes vsed to the said house," one croft called
** the kichen aker," and ** a croft called the intake ajoining" ; so
that by the sale of a part thereof they might pay what he owed,
namely £365 10s. to the daughters of Sir George Calveley, knight,
deceased, unless (leorge Bostocke, his son and heir, or any other
that at his death might be his heir or heirs, should take upon
him or them the payment of the said sum. And he gave to his
wife Dorothy [who was perhaps the *' Mrs. Dorothy Bostocke"
buried at Holt 3rd November, 1678] the rest of his goods and
chattels. The Mr. George Bostocke whose will has just been
summarised appeai^s to have been followed at Holt by his son
George. In any case, we find, a few years afterwards, a George
Bostocke, of Holt, Esq., a captain of the local levies raised for
Charles P, concerning whom Philip Henry writes in his diary,
^ It may be permitted to give here a few other extracts from
Farndon Registers relating to the Bostockes :
3 Nov., 1620. Mr. George Bostocke, baried [of Churton].
19 May, 1682. Katherine, wife of George Bostocke, Esq., buried.
30 Aog., 1634. Ann, da' of George Bostocke, Esq., buried.
16 Oct., 1658. Mrs. Elinor Bostocke, widow, buried.
* Mr. W. M. Myddelton, of St Albans, tells me that Mr. Bos-
tocke, on 23rd April, 1663, certified that Thomas Sowne, of Isooed,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 409
under date 14th August, 1663, thus : " Mr. George Bostock dyed.
His death occasioned by a surfet of drink which hee took at
y« time of y® quarter sessions at Uanrust, whether hee had
bound over certain of y« Inhabitants in and about Wrexham
who were deprehended at y® meeting, to their no small trouble.
And now just before the Assize y^ lord hath taken him away
by a remarkable stroke," etc. Whether he died of a surfeit of
drink or not, Mr. Bostocke's death was certainly sudden. In
his will, dated 3rd August, 1663, in which he describes himself
as of " Plas Bostock within the Libertyes of Lyons als. Holt," he
desired to be buried " in my vsuall burying place in my Chan-
cell within ye parrish Church of Lyons ak. Holt." He gave to
his " cozen John Pulford's wife of Wrexham" his mare ; to his
friend, Richard Alport, of Overton, Cheshire, Esq., his " gray
nagge ; 40« to his friend, John Jeffreys, of Acton, etc., and all
his lands and tenements to his well-beloved nephew, Lancelot
Williams, second son of his brother-in-law, Thomas Williams,
of Abenbury vawr, gent, [the Plas Jenkin estate extended into
Abenbury Fychan and Dutton Dififaeth, and included Cae
Mynach], provided that the said Lancelot assumed the surname
and quartered the arms of Bostocke ; and in defect of heirs male,
to the third, fourth, or fifth sons of the said Thomas Williams, and
to their heirs male respectively." Lancelot Bostocke, alias
Williams, the devisee, died apparently unmarried and without
issue, and was buried at Holt, 1st January, 166f . It is not
possible to speak with any certainty as to the subsequent
history of Mr. George Bostocke's estate. The " Mr. Robert Bos-
tocke, of Iscoyd,** who died 13th November, 1670, may have
come into the property, and been another younger son of Mr.
Williams. Also a second Lancelot Bostocke was baptised at
Holt in April, 1665. A Thomas Williams, of Sutton, Gent.,
probably the father of Lancelot Williams, alias Bostocke, re-
nounced his interest in the will of George Bostocke on 14th
October, 1664. This was perhaps the Thomas Williams, of Plas
Jenkin, who was buried at Holt, 12th January, 16|f . However
this may be, I have seen the will of another Thomas Williams
of Place Jenkin, Esq., dated 20th February, 170|^, proved 17th
March, 170|-, who directed his body to be buried in his chancel
within the parish church of Lyons, alias Holt, and left all his
landed estate, subject to certain legacies, to his son and heir,
Peter Williams, who succeeded him, and to his lawful heirs
male, or in default to testator's nephews, Lancelot Bostocke, Esq,,
and John Evans, gent, equally to be divided among them, or in
had been a foot-soldier, and Thomas Holt a sergeant in bis company
in Sir John Owen's regiment.
6Ta s£B, VOL. vn. 27
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
410 .THE TOWN OF HOLT,
(iefanlt to his own right heirs. To his said sou Peter all his
personal estate whatever, and the debts due to him by virtue
of the will of testator's brother, John Williams, Esq., deceased,
son Peter to be executor, and to be assisted by Mr. Richard
Jhomas, of Borras Rififri, and Mr. Andrew Floyd, of Sutton.
The testator bequeathed small legacies to his sister, Mary Evans,
his nephew, John Evans, and his niece, Elizabeth Evans.,
Provision was made, in 1717, for the tuition of Thomas Williams
of Plas Jenkin. After this I cannot find Plas Jenkin so much
as mentioned, except as the name of a field. In order to cast
some light on the connections of the Churton Bostockes, and as
illustrating their relation to William Burganey, it may be said
that in The Cheshire Sheaf for 1891, page 57, a letter is printed
from George Bostocke, of '* Ohorton^* [Churton], dated 18th
March, 1642, in which he speaks of his cousin, William Bur-
ganey, as having a son at Oxford. This son the late Mr. J. P.
Earwaker identified as William Burganey, son of William
Burganey, and grandson of Anthony Burganey, of Pulford [and
Holt], who matriculated from Corpus Christi College, 7th July,
1637. In the same letter Mr. George Bostocke mentions "a
kynsman of myne," " Mr. Bostockes sonne of Acton, a minister."
This was Nathaniel Bostock, who matriculated, Mr. Earwaker
found, from Brasenose College, Oxford, 28th March, 1617,
aged sixteen, son of the Rev. Thomas Bostock, of Acton, Nant-
wich. Mr. George Bostock says further that " my Cosin Burgayny
[that is, William, son of Anthony], his granmother was my
Grandfather Bostockes sister." Here is a clue for whomsoever
has the opportunity to follow it up. The wills at the Chester
Probate Court and the entries in the Farndon registers should
also be consulted.
William Batha. — This William Batha held seven parcels of
land " on the vpper end of Common Wood, lying together, to-
gether with all buildings therevnto belonging, conteyning
Eleaven Acres*' (about 23 statute acres), possibly where Bed
Hall now is.
George Buckley had a burgage and curtilage near the bridge,
and a curtilage near " the Church Ashe.'*
Thomas Bithell had a burgage and a-half in Frog Lane, late
of John Yardley.
Richard Bithell, alias Howell, had also a burgage and a-half,
late land of John Yardley.
William Burganey had two burgages near the pinfold and
seven acres (or nearly 15 statute acres) called " The Bottoms" in
the lane leading from Frog Lane towards Common Wood. He
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 411
was, probably, the son of the "Anthony Burganey of Holt/'^ an
inventory of whose goods, taken in 1611, is in the Chester Pro-
bate Office (see also above, under George Bostock), and is to be
identified with William Burganey, whose grandson, also named
William Burganey (son of the William who died in 1732),
married Rachel, daughter of Handle Holme, of Chester. The
grandson of this last-named William Burganey, namely, John
•Burganey, of Pulford (son of John, son of William), married at
Gresford " Miss Anne Pate," of Croes Howel, in Burton, county
Denbigh ; from which marriage the Burganeys appear to have
obtained Llyn Tro and other messuages and lands in Burton and
Llai.
Thomas Calcott, Gent., had two burgages in High Green,
one burgage in Smithfield, and another in Castle Street, Holt,
but does not appear to have lived in any one of^ them. He had
also a piece of land in or near Wrexham Lane, called ** Annes
hey goch" [that is, " Ynys hey goch," or perhaps Ynysau cochion]
(see next page). He was son of Handle Calcott of Caldecote,
often pronounced "Calcott," or even *' Cawkott," Cheshire, by
his wife, Jane, daughter of Alban Butler, and was Mayor of
Holt in 1631. He married Dorothy, daughter of John Dod, and
had a sou of the same name, probably the " Thomas Caldecot of
Caldecot, Gent," who was buried at Farndon, 1st October, 1672.
But there were so many branches of this family, and so many
Calcotts bearing the same Christian name, that it is difficult to
speak with any confidence. However, it seems certain that Thomas
Calcott, or Caldecot of Caldecot, had a son William, who died a
few years after his father (in December, 1677), and that the
"Mr. Caldecott of Caldecott" mentioned on I6th June, 1690,
was Robert Caldecott. I give four extracts relating to the
Caldecotts from the Holt registers ; and there are many more in
these and in those of Farndon which it is not worth while to
reproduce : —
Thomas, son of WUliam Caulcot, of Holt, Qent., bapt. 5th June, 1675.
William Caldecotte, of Caldecotte, Qent., died in Holt, and was buryed in
Farndon, 30th December, 1677.
Richard Craven, of Ridlej, G't., aad Mrs. Caldecote, of Isacoyd, married 2nd
June, 1699.
Thomas Caldecote, of Holt, buried 30th January, 170J.
Edward Clough, of Common Wood, a small holder.
Edward Crew, Gent., had in Holt one burgage *' in Midding
streete, neare the Crosse, where his Mansion house standeth" ;
three other burgages in the same street, " wherevpon a Barne
* Anthony Burganejr'p widow married, before 1620, Humphrey
Hanmer, Qont.
272
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
412 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
standeth/' one parcel of land near the Cross containing one bur-
gage, and the House called "y® Comon Backhouse*' (Bake-
house), and 21 customary or nearly 45 statute acres of free
lands, and about 6 acres of leasehold land called " the Ladies
Landes." At the same time, an Edward Crew, possibly the
same person, held a dwelling-house in Receiver's Street (now
Queen Street), Wrexham, and much land in the same town.
Edward Crew was buried at Wrexham, 19th January, 163|*
More will be said as to the Crews of Holt in the next entry.
Thomas Crew, or Crue, Gent — This Thomas Crue lived in his
capital messuage near Holt bridge, with another burgage, belong-
ing to him, adjoining it ; five other free burgages and one leasehold
burgage; and among his lands were the Dovehouse Croft, the Stony
Croft, "The Wallock conteyning six Acres'* (equal to about 12 J
statute acres) ; " hilton croft or Cases Croft, of 2 [customary]
acres" ; the Bottoms adjoining Chester Lane ; several parcels
called "Gillwall," an acre adjoining called ''Agnes hey Gough'*;
a parcel of land in a close called " The Espes," etc. It is clear
to me that his house was that now represented by Holt Hill.
The Crews, or Cnies, formed an important family, originating at
Crew-by-Farndon, and establishing themselves at Holt, Wrex-
ham, and elsewhere. I have in my possession sheafs of notes
concerning them, which do not seem capable of being woven into
a consistent or satisfactory pedigree. A Thomas Crew, Gent, of
Holt, was aged 51 in 1597.^ Another of the same name was
buried at Holt in October, 1(513, being perhaps he who dis-
covered and destroyed the " Roraane monument" described in
the Appendix to Chapter I ; and to the memory of another
"Thomas Crue," who died on the 12th August, 1666, age 27;
his kinsman, Silvanus Crue, of Wrexham, engraved the remark-
able brass aflSxcd to the east end of the north wall in Holt
Church, of which brass a reproduction will be given hereafter.
Yet another Thomas Crue, Gent, was buried at Holt, 28th
* Mr. Edward Owen enables me to go still further back, by supply-
ing me with a reference to a complaint of William Holstooke, Gent,
against John Oruwe of the town of Lyons, and also the answer of
Thomas Crue to the same, wherein the respondent refers to an
indenture, dated 7th May, 13 Hen. VII, 1498, between John Crewe
and Robert Troutbeck, in view of the marriage of Thomas, sou of
John Crewe, and Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Troutbeck. Thomas
Crewe also speaks, in his answer of his mother, Margaret Further,
in the Survey of Holt, 23 Hen. VII, the following names appear : —
Thomas Crewe, William Crewe, and the heir [or heirs] of John
Crewe. A Thomas Crewe, Gent., was also one of the jurors in the
jury of survey for Holt, 4th year of Queen Elizabeth, and had pretty
nearly the same lands as had the Thomas Orue of 1620.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN couKtt Denbigh. 413
November, 1699 (see also under Thomas ffoster's name, p. 415).
And, on 28tb July, 1749, Samuel Crew, of Common Wood, Gent.,
was party to a deed wherein he is described as eldest son and
heir-at-law of Thomas Crew, of Holt, Gent., deceased (buried at
Holt, 28th June, 1741), and as having two sisters, Eebecca (with
whom £600 had been paid as marriage portion), married to
Thomas Dod, of Edge, Esq., and Christian, who afterwards
married Mr. John Jones, of Pentref, and was a widow on 6th
June, 1752. It is possible that Holt Hill, one of the houses of
the Holt Crews, came to the Joneses of Ynysfor, Penrhyn Deu-
draeth, through the marriage last named. Samuel Crew, Gent.,
then tenant of Cornish, was buried at Holt, 18th January, 1770.
However, it is almost as dangerous to speculate as to the Crews,
who, according to the proverb, were as " common as crows," as
it is dangerous to speculate as to the Joneses.
George Cowes had a burgage and curtilage in Frog Lane,
also a close of land "neere vnto Devon," in 1620.
Egbert Davies, Esqr. was of Gwysaney, near Mold, son of
the first Robert Davies of the same. He married Anne, only
daughter of John Heynes, by Elizabeth his wife, which Eliza-
beth was one of the daughters and co-heiresses of Lancelot
Lothar, of Holt, Constable of the Castle.^ He held, in 1620,
three of the four shops underneath the Town Hall. On 28th of
October, 1664, Thomas Speed declared by deed that what title
he might have to a certain pew in Holt Church was subject to
the right of Robert Davies, Esq., of Gwysaney, in the same pew
(see Arch. Camb., 1878, p. 147).
WiLUAM Davies held a burgage, wherein he dwelt, in Midd-
ing Street.
William Davies, tanner, had also a burgage in Midding
Street, " an acre" adjoining, and a parcel of land in *' ifishpoole**
[field].
Egger Decka held a curtilage in Smith field Green.
Roger Edgworth held a free burgage in Wrexham Lane,
wherein he dwelt, and a parcel of land in fishpool field. He
had also two parcels of leasehold land in Hewlington, namely.
Cunning's land and "ynys croft dyon," formerly in the tenure
of Thomas Edgworth, The Edgworths constituted a noted local
family, which branched out afterwards to Wrexham, Hoseley,
March wiel, and elsewhither; Thomas Edgworth, of Bryn y grog,
Marchwiel, becoming the first Mayor of Wrexham in 1857. In
1784, the messuage, bam, and other property in Holt then lately
^ It was through this marriage, perhaps, that Mr. Davies became
a freeman of Holt, and acquired lands there (see under Richard
Hooker, below).
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
414 THE TOWN Of HOLf,
belonging to Mr. Thomas Edgworth, deceased, were ofifered for
sale at the " Red Lion" there, the family thus denoting their
final severance from Holt. There is a fuller account of the
Edgworths on pp. 194-197 of my History of, the Town of Wrex-
ham, etc. The will of the Roger Edgworth named in the list of
1620 was proved at Chester in 1629. He was followed by
another Roger Edgworth, " gent., and public notary," who was
an official for one of the Parliamentary Committees during the
Protectorate, and died in May, 1668.
Sir Richard Egerton, knight. — He had a house at Common
Wood, in occupation of Roger Green, and a little over 14 cus-
tomary acres appurtenant there ; a burgage iu Smithfield Green ;
3 other free customary acres, and various leasehold lands in
Hewlington, of which a map is given in Norden's Survey,
namely, Maddock's Moor, Dolvawr or Dolwern, and the Elties
or Elthie. He was son of Ralph Egerton, of Ridley, Cheshire
(who died in 1619), and grandson of another Sir Richard Egerton,
whose widow, Mary, Lady i^erton, speaks in her will, dated
18th October, 1597, of her lands in " Holte, als, the Towne of
Lyons, Alington, als, Trevalyn,'* eta The Sir Richard Egerton
of 1620 died at Ridley, 24th February, 1627, and was buried at
Bunbury (see Ormerod's Cheshire). Peter Egerton, half-brother
of Sir Richard, son of Ralph Egerton, was, possibly, the Lieut.-
Col. Peter Egerton who helped to capture Holt Bridge for the
Parliamentary party in November, 1643.
William Fisher had a burgage in Midding Street, and
3 customary acres of land.
John ffL etcher had three burgages, forming the site of a
house in Wrexham Lane, 10^ customary — or about 22 statute —
acres of land iu Croes locyn Lane, and certain lands " of ancient
demesne" set by lease to him.
Thomas ffosTER, Gent., had one burgage in Castle Street and
no other holding in Holt. There were two Thomas ffosters, the
elder and the youuger, of Parkside, Allington ; see my History
of the Townships of the Old Parish of Gresford, pp. 147 and
179, where I have, by mistake, made the elder ffoster's wife,
Dorothy, to be a daughter of Richard Roydon, of Holt. She
was, in fact, a daughter of John Roydon of Jsycoed by his wife,
Anne, daughter of Richard Chambers, of Sussex, as shown in the
College of Arms pedigree. The Thomas flfoster of 1620 was
probably the elder, and he whose will was proved at Chester in
1636. Thomas ffoster, the younger, afterwards lived at Holt,
where he bought various houses and lands, and served the oflBce
of Mayor in 1642 ; his will is dated 23rd December, 1675, and
was proved 17th January, 167f . He desired to be buried in the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 415
upper end of the south aisle of the parish church of Holt ; and
left the messuage in which he lived and all his messuages and
lands in the town and liberties of Holt, purchased of Soger
Edgworth, Mr. Samuel Davies, Thomas Taylor, Peter Taylor,
subject to legacies, fo his wife Jane, whom he appointed sole
executrix. He bequeathed to his cousins, the brothei*s and
sisters of his cousin Handle Crue, of Holt, £160 ; namely, to
Samuel Crue, £20 ; to William Crue, £100 ; to Dorothy, wife of
John Gough (see below), £20, and to Elizabeth, wife of John
Powell (see p. 421), £20, etc. ; he bequeathed also to his niece,
Elizabeth, relict of Christopher Dutton, £4 a year for life, to
issue out of the further hall field ; to his cousin, Elizabeth, wife
of John Jones, of Darland Green, 40«. ; and besides some minor
bequests, 625. yearly to twelve of the more aged and indigent
poor of the town and liberties of Holt for ever, to take effect
immediately after his own decease, and to be distributed every
sabbath day in bread, the said 52«. to be secured on a field
called " The two acres," alias ** The Espes." Then, after the
decease of testator's wife, all his estate, goods and chattels, were
to go to his cousin, Handle Crue, of Holt [a son, apparently, of
a Thomas Crue of the same] for life, and afterwards to Samuel,
son and heir apparent of the said Handle and his lawful issue
male, or in default to Thomas Crue, Handle's second son, and Ms
lawful issue male ; or in default to William Crue, a younger
brother of the said Handle ; or in default to Handle's right heirs for
ever. Mr. Thomas ffoster was buried at Holt, 31st December,
1675, and his goods were valued on 5th January, 167|-, by Joseph
Powell and Thomas Edgworth, at £345 17^. 8d. Mrs. ffoster,
the widow, was buried at Holt, 5th June, 1689.
Jane Gerard was daughter of William Aimer, Esq., of Pant
locyn, and widow of Gilbert Gerard, of the same, son of Sir
William Gerard, knight. She had, in 1620, two burgages in
Castle Street, one burgage in Frog Lane, and 16 customary — or
nearly 34 statute — acres of land in Holt.
John Godson had a burgage near the bridge, next that of
George Buckley, on the south side of Church Street.
John Gough had two burgages in Frog Lane, and another
John Gough, or the same, had a few acres of free land.
HoGER Greene, besides being Sir Hi chard Egerton's tenant
at Common Wood, had 12 customary acres of leasehold land
between Common Wood and Wrexham Lane.
Edward Griffith had, in 1620, "one Burgage wherevpon
the Mansion-house late of William GriflBth standeth," one other
burgage and 18 customary — or 38 statute — acres of free land.
Richard Hooker, clerk, "holdeth one Aere and a half of
Digitized by VjOOQIC
416 THE TOWN OB* BtOLT,
Land wherevpon a Howse now standeth with all buildings to
the same belonging, sometimes the landes of George Lothar,
late the Landes of John Henry and Robert Davies Esquire and
Anne his wief, and late of Edward Warmingham f also a kiln
near thereto.
Randolph Hutchins. — His capital messuage stood on the
site of three burgages. He had one other burgage, 26^ cus-
tomary acres of land, " in Huejmore and Cornish," 4 customary
acres "in ffishpoolefield," etc. He died 17th July, 1624, leaving,
by his wife Margaret, a son, Thomas (see Owen's Catalogue of
Welsh M8S., etc., Part II, p. 135). This son, Thomas Hutchins,
gent., and Dorothy, his wife, were parties to a fine levied 17th
October, 1660, on a farm at Hugmore, now known as *' Hayes*
Farm/' at the corner of Hugmore Lane and Wrexham Road. In
the 23rd Henry VII, ** John hychen" was a freeholder of Holt,
and '* hychen" is merely the Welsh way of spelling " Hutchen."
John Jenison lield 6 customary — or about 12^ statute— acres,
part of the 30 acres late the lands of Thomas Pulford.
Owen Jones, gent, of Glan y pwU (see my History of the
Country Townships of the Old Parish of Wrexham, p. 158, £md
elsewhere. He had 9 customary acres of free land in Hugmore,
and 5 customary acres of leasehold land.
Thomas John Lewis, of Burton, had three burgages in Frog
Lane.
Edward Maddock had a dwelling-house in Pepper Street,
his curtilage adjoining the pinfold, late the land of Peter Roy-
don ; a burgage adjoining the garden of Greorge Bostock, Esq.;
a parcel of land called " The Espes adioyning to the pavement
leading from fifrog lane towardes the Common Woode,'' and one
of the four shops under the Town Hall.
William Nicholl had three burgages and J of an acre be-
tween Smithfield Green and Fishpool field, late the lands of
Edward Puleston.
Thomas Pate, gent. — He had, in 1620, three burgages repre-
sented by his house, and 5 customary acres near Hall field ; one
other burgage and 27 customary acres of land ; a parcel of
land " in hie greene," with cottage built thereon, lying in breadth
between Wrexham Lane and the said green, containing half a
burgage and the twelfth part of a burgage. And in the manor
of Hewlington he had four closes of leasehold land called " Tier
garregge," that is, '* Tir y garreg,^' or Land of the stone, now
known as the ** Tithe garrets.^' A certain Thomas Pate, of Holt,
gent, deposed, in 1597,^ that he was then fifty years old.
^ Jankyn Pate, senior, Alice his mother, and Richard Pate are
also named among the tenants of Holt in the 28rd year of Hen. VII,
and William Pate among those of 4 Queen Elizabeth.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN CotTN'TY Denbigh. 417
The will of the Thomas Pate of 1620, mayor of the town in
1618, was proved at Chester in 1621. Also, another Thomas
Pate, of Holt, married Martha, one of the daughters of John
Powell of Holt, the fighting Puritan. The Pat^s were a family
of considerable local influence, established not merely in Holt,
but in Allington, Burton, Wrexham, Farndon, Shocklach, and
elsewhere. In Holt itself were two branches of them. On the
11th April, 1625, William Pate, of Holt, gent., entered into a
prenuptial agreement with Thomas Edge, of Hope Owen, Flint-
shire, in view of his marriage with Grace Edge, which marriage
soon after took place; and on 18th October, 1622, William
Pate' settled, in trust for his wife, upon Thomas Edge and John
Meredith, of Allington, gent, among other lands, *'Gwern
Saeson," in Cobham Isycoed, " the tieth garregs" in Hewlington,
and various quillets of land and meadow in Caeca Button.
Later on, we find Ferdinando Pate, of Holt, gent, (whose wife's
name was Mary), in possession of the abovenamed lands, which
afterwards were purchased for the poor of Wrexham. The son,
1 The abovenamed Grace, wife of William Pate, was buried 2l8t
March, 1664, and her hasband 29th March, 1675. Alno the Thomas
Pate, senior, who was buried 3rd March, 166|^, is described dis-
tinctly as brother to William Pate, gent. ; so that the Thomas Pate,
of Holt, who was buried 8th February, 170f, was very likely a son
of Thomas Pate, senior, and nephew of William Pate. [Since
writing the foregoing, I have seen a copy of the will of Thomas
Edge, of Hope Owen, father of Mrs. Grace Pate, dated 26th Decem-
ber, 1634, proved Ist March, 164J, wlierein, after bequeathing varions
sums of money to his nephews and nieces surnamed Edge, he
devised to his grandchild, Thomas Pate, son of William Pate, of
Holt, all that dwelling-house, with the buildings and lands thereto
belonging, *' in the hoult afoi*esaid for the purchase whereof I have
paied Nyne pounds in earnest vnto John Presland and Lancelott
Presland of the holt aforesaid ;" or if the said bargain came to no
effect, then he bequeathed to the said Thomas Pate £86. Whether
this bargain of sale was ever realised does not appear. But the
testator left his wife, Custance, all his leasehold lands and tene-
ments, she bringing up, maintaining, taking order for her learning
and preferring, his granddaughter, Elizabeth Pate, daughter of the
said William Pate : and if the said Elizabeth Pate declined to live
with his wife, Custance, by reason of marriage, or any other cause,
then the testator's will was that all his lands — leasehold and pur-
chased— should be divided into two equal parts, whereof the one
part should be enjoyed by his wife for the term of her life, and the
other by said Elizabeth Pate, who, on his wife's death, should have
both the parts, to hold to her and the heirs of her body, or in default,
to the said Thomas Pate, and the heird of his body ; or ia default,
to William Pate, son of the said William Pate.]
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
418 TUB TOWN O^ ttOLT,
Ferdinando, of this Ferdinando Pate, was baptised 26th Auj^ust,
1723, and died at Poulton, 26th January, 1812, being ninety
years old ; and one of his sons, John Pate, of Chester, upholsterer,
married 24th January, 1814, Sarah Pate, thus uniting the two
Holt branches of the Pate family. This Sarah Pate was a
daughter of the Thomas Pate of Holt who died 22nd Decem-
ber, 1816, aged seventy -nine, and a sister of the Thomas Pate
of Holt, mayor of the borough in 1819, who died 6th November,
1823, aged fifty-two. Mary, daughter of the last-named Thomas
Pate, by Sarah, his wife, married Moses Steven, of Chester, and
the present Mr. Thomas Pate Steven is their grandson, being son
of John Pate Steven, who died in February, 1875. The house
of the Thomas Pate branch still survives opposite Ainsdale, on
the Wrexham road, and will be described hereafter.
Margerie Phillips had three customary acres of free lands
in Hugmore, sometime land of Lancelot Pulford, and then late
of William Batha; 12 acres of leasehold land between Common
Wood and Wrexham Lane ; and over 5 acres called " says hey
lands.*'
Francis Pickering, gent, had, in 1620, three burgages repre-
senting the site of his mansion-house near the churchyard : the
little Wallock (see Chap. I, p. 11) ; the " little annes hey " [*' Yr
Ynysau*' — the holmes] on north side of Wrexham Lane ; and
a parcel of land appurtenant to his mansion house, whereon a
barn was built, adjoining the castle ditch. Mr. Francis Pickering
was mayor of the town in 1632, married Margaret, sister of
Robert Worrall, and died 3rd September, 1635, leaving a sou,
Francis, who, a mere youth, was one of the garrison in Holt
Castle when it was held for Charles I, and, after its surrender,
was fined £70 by the Sequestration Committee. This Francis
Pickering the second, leased for eleven years, on 24th Decem-
ber, 1640, a parcel of land called "Annesse gouch " (Ynys
goch — the red holme) then or lately in the tenure of Koger
Edg worth, of Holt, to Thomas Baker, of Wrexham. He was
still living in J 656. Yr ynys Goch is on the north side of
Wrexham Road (see the map prefixed to Chap. I). A John
Pickering was doorkeeper of Holt Castle in the 21st year of
Henry VII, and in the 10th and 11th years of Henry VIII ;
and in the 14th year of the first-named king there was ap-
pointed, as Receiver of Bromfield and Yale, Sir Edward Picker-
ing, who, as Mr. Hughes of Kinmel thinks, must have been son
of Sir Christopher Pickering, of EUerton, Yorkshire, by his
second wife (Ellen, daughter of Sir Richard Haryngton, knight).
Sir Christopher's first wife was Mary, daughter of Sir Robert
Lowther. The surname " Pickering " still survives at Holt
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 419
John Platt, glover, had a burgage and a half near the Town
Hall.
John Presland had a burgage and some land in Holt. There
was a Richard Presland who lived in the manor of Isycoed, next
adjoining the franchise, at the same time. Doubtless, John Pres-
land was related to him, and the Preslands of Ridley and the Pres-
lands of Presland and Wardle. Cheshire, were of the same stock, the
eldest son — or one son at least, in almost every generation — being
called Richard. When the Earl of Bridgwater purchased the manor
of Ridley from the Crown, he seems to have ignored entirely
the composition made by the forty years* leaseholders with the
Queen's officers, and the right of renewal by the tenants of their
leases, treating them as tenants-at-will, or giving them leases
for lives at arbitrary fines. In October, 1622, the Earl granted
a lease to Richard Presland, the elder, of the house and lands
he then held in Ridley, for ninety-nine years, if he, the said
Richard, Robert Presland his son, and Katherine his daughter,
should live so long. Katherine Presland just named became
afterwards the wife of Captain Edward Taylor (second son of
Thomas Taylor, of Dutton Diffaeth, yeoman), a famous Par-
liamentary officer, who had, with his wife, the reversion of a
lease of one of the farms called " Parkey," in Bedwall. These
Preslands and Taylors were, at the time of the Civil War and
afterwards, strong Presbyterians. Richard Presland, the elder,
had, among other children, Richard Presland, the younger,
Nathaniel Presland, and Mary Presland. His widow, Katherine,
became the second wife of Edward Thomas, of Wrexham, one
of the local officials of the Parliamentary Sequestrators, who
had, by his first wife, two sons, namely, Jonathan Edwards,
who was afterwards Vice-Chancellor of Oxford, and Samuel
Edwards, often mentioned by Philip Henry in his diary. Nearly
all these particulars have been gleaned from Presland deeds
perused by me. A Thomas Presland was bailiff of Hewlington,
by Holt, in the 10th year of Henry VIII : perhaps the same
Thomas who was one of the witnesses to the will of John Roden,
Rector of Gresford, made 24th June, 1506. There was also a
certain Lancelot Presland, son of John and Alice Presland, who
was living in the 44th year of Queen Elizabeth ; and a John
Presland and Lancelot Presland sold before 26th December,
1634, to Thomas Edge, of Hope Owen (see p. 417, note), a
messuage and lands in Holt.
Makgaret Pova had a burgage in Wrexham Lane, between
the burgages of John Read and John ffletcher.
John Powell had a burgage in Frog Lane, Holt, where he
lived, formerly belonging to Edward Aimer, William Aimer,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
420
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Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH.
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Digitized by VjOOQ IC
422 THE TOWN OP HOLT,
and Jane Gerrard, and no other lands there. Nor was there, in
1620, any other freeholder of Holt bearing that name. He was
afterwards a Parliamentary soldier, his will being dated 18th
November, 1644, and not proved until 3rd December, 1664.
There was, it would appear, another John Powell of the parish
of Holt living at this time, but he called himself "John ap
Howell," and was not a burgess. Both these were derived,
according to the late Mr. Ellison Powell (see annexed pedigree),
from an earlier John Powell, who is said to have been a
younger brother of the first Thomas Powell, Esq., of Horsley ;
and so late as 1904, when I sent to the press my pedigree of
the Powells of Horsley (in my History of the Townships of the
Old Parish of Gresford, opposite p. 118), I accepted this deriva-
tion without reserve. But further investigation gave rise to
grave doubts. Mr. Ellison Powell spent an immense amount of
labour in tracing the origin of these Holt Powells; and in
justice to him, as well as to show the point of the criticisms
about to be made, I print the accompanying abbreviated
pedigree, compiled almost entirely from Mr. Ellison Powell's
book, in which pedigree the two possible John Powells of 1620
are indicated by putting their names in italics. Indeed, the
pedigree is correct beyond doubt, if we start in the one case
from John Powell whose will was proved on 15th December,
1638, and in the other from Harry Powell, who is said to have
been his brother. But, first of all, I cannot find any evidence to
show that these two were really brothers: there is certainly
nothing in their wills pointing to any such relationship Next,
in 1589, the aforesaid Harry does not call himself " Powell" at
all, but simply " Harrye ap John ap Howell,'* naming his
brother " William ap John ap Howell," and his own two sons
*^ John ap Harrye and "Rauf ap Harrye," although John ap
Harrye, after his father's death, seems to have adopted ** Powell "
as a surname, and become John Powell, the Parliamentary
soldier aforesaid. But the fact that he took this surname does
not prove that he was of the Horsley stock, nor does his father's
name — " Harrye ap John ap Howell " — establish a derivation
of the sort indicated. Finally, there is no hint in any of the
wills of the Powells of Horsley, known to me, pointing to any
relationship with the Powells of Holt, of either stock. I feel
bound to make these criticisms, although the possibility — ^the
bare possibility — may be admitted of some earlier will coming
to light which shall prove the connection for which Mr. Ellison
Powell contended : and am glad that these " historic doubts" did
not occur to me during that gentleman's lifetime,^ and so have
1 The fact that Joseph Powell, of Cornhill, London (son of Caleb,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 423
possibly interrupted a long, valued, and most fruitful corre-
spondence. A few notes of the principal bequests contained in
the will (made 27th June, 1706, proved 15th March, 1707) of
John Powell, of Holt (son of Alexander Powell) may be in-
teresting here. The testator gave to the poor of Holt for ever
" all that parcell of land adjoining southward to the lande of
Thomas Passnage the Elder, of Holt aforesaid, Ralph Churton
of Aldford, in the County of Chester, and other land along the
Ditch to the land of Caleb Powell afores**, westward to a lane
called Chester Lane, and on the north and east parts thereof to
other lands I lately purchased of Mr. Eddowes, Ironmonger, of
Whitchurch, in the county of Salop, together with the s<* parcell
of land, the rents, issues, and profits thereof." He bequeathed
also two other parcels of land, purchased from the said Mr.
Eddowes, to ** Master Long, now a Nonconformist Minister of
the lately new-built Chappell in Wrexham" [Chester Street] for
life, and to his successors, ministers of the said chapel, for ever.
He left all his personal estate to his kinsman, Mr. Thomas Crue,
and to Mr. Thomas Billington, both of Holt, and appointed them
his executors. Thomas Billington, gent., was buried at Holt,
3rd April, 1734. The house of the Powells still stands in Frog
Lane, Holt, although divided into three or four tenements. In
1843 it belonged to Mary Powell, who had in the borough
nearly 29 acres of land.
. Thomas Pulford, of Barton, and Thomas Pulford, of Holt. —
Thomas Pulford, the elder, of Barton, was buried at Farndon in
April, 1628. The Pulfords were a wide-branching family,
originating, doubtless, at Pulford, but connected mainly with
Holt, Farndon, and Wrexham. An account of them is given on
pp. 20, 34-36, and 186, 187 of my History of the Tovm of
Wrexham, etc. To this account I might append many additions,
but will only make a few here. About the year 1546, John
Pulford, Lancelot Pulford, and William Pulford held at the lord's
will 30 acres of pasture in 5 closes in Hugmore, John and William
Pulford 6 acres of pasture on the north side of "gallowtree
lane," and Lancelot Pulford 10 acres of land and pasture in
three closes next " Comen Wood," and 5 acres of land and 8 of
meadow on the south side of Wrexham Lane. And in 1620
Thomas Wilkinson, of Farndon, Richard Vernon, and John
Jenison had each a part of 60 customary — or nearly 127 statute
— acres, once the lands of Thomas Pulford and of Alice and
Joan Pulford, one of whom was the wife of William Pulford.
grandson of the first Caleb Powell), bore in 1766 the arms of the
Powells of Horsley, need not regarded as Qonqlosive.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
424 THB TOWN OF HOLT,
In 1620, Thomas Pulford [of Holt] held by lease the Clayfield
in Hewlington, in succession to John Pulford, whose estate he
had. There was also a Eichard Pulford, gent., who had lands
called '' Cae hicke'* in Holt, and died 28th February, 1630,
leaving a son, Ferdinand (see Owen's Catalogue of iJie MSS,
relating to Wales in the British Museum, Part II, p. 185) whom
I cannot trace. A Mr. Thomas Pulford, of Wrexham, was in
Holt Castle at the time of its surrender to Colonel Mytton. In
the will of this Thomas Pulford (made 1st December, 1657,
proved 22nd December, 1660), the testator speaks of his
daughter, Katherine Weld, and of his only son, John Pulford.
The John Pulford just named married Ursula, daughter of
Alexander Walthall, of Wistaston, Cheshire, and had several
children, among whom was Alexipider Pulford, of Wrexham,
gent., whose mother, Ursula, married secondly George Gold-
smith, of Wrexham, gent. Two of Alexander Pulford's sons
were John Pulford, the Prothonotary, and the Rev. Thomas
Pulford. These latter remarks are made so as to clear up some
uncertainty, since dissipated, which I felt when writing the
History of the Town of Wrexham,
John Bead had four burgages in Wrexham Lane, whereon
his mansion-house stood, 2 acres of land in " ffishpoolefield," and
a parcel of land called Knight's Wood, adjoining Wrexham
Lane.
Thomas Rogers, alias Cooke, had one burgage in Frog Lane.
John Rogerson had two burgages in Wrexham Lane, whereon
his dwelling-house stood, and three customary acres of " ancient
demesne.*'
William Rogerson had a burgage and three-quarters of a
curtilage in High Green, also IJ acre (customary) of free land
in " little Annes goz " [Ynys goch].
" Roger Roydon, Esq., holdeth Two Burgages whereon his
Capitall Messuage standeth in Castle streete*' (Norden's Survey,
A.D. 1620). ** The same holdeth seaven Burgages adioyninge to
the said Messuage where his oi*chard place is." "The same
holdeth one Burgage in the said Castlestreete where his stable
standeth late the landes of Thomas Billot ;" also the " Moore
hall field" and " lefft hall field '' (28 acres, customary, the rent
of the two fields being reckoned at one shilling an acre) ; also
Mill hey and a meadow adjoining (the rent of which last three
were reckoned at 2s. an acre (that is the site of nine burgages and
46J customary — or over 98 statute — acres of land. " The same
holdeth one parcell of land called Ridley wood contayning
23 acres [=45 J statute acres] late the landes of Launcelot
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 425
Aldford.** And it is added in the Survey that the lands last
mentioned were ancient freehold lands, granted by the charter,
but then held by lease. Mr. Roger Roydon had also until
recently held various parcels of leasehold land in Hewlington,
containing 48 customary — or 101 J statute — acres ; which, how-
ever, had been assigned on the 22nd March, 161f to Mr. David
Speed. Mr. Roger Roydon was the eldest son and heir of John
Roydon, Esq.,^ of Isycoed, by his first wife Anne. Roger married
firstly Jane, daughter of Thomas Powell, of Horsley, Esq., and
among his sisters were Dorothy, wife of Thomas fifoster, and Joan,
wife of Edward Crewe, both named above. It is intended to deal
with the Roydons at greater length when treating of the
chapelry of Isycoed. ,
John Sivedale had an acre and a-half of free land, part of
little " Annes hey goz," near Knight's Wood.
David Speed, gent, had two burgages, whereon his mansion-
house stood^ one other burgage, and over 17 customary — or about
36 statute — acres of free land, besides the leasehold land in
Hewlington mentioned above ; also the Gallowtree field there
(on lease), and an estate at the Rossett. The Speeds were a
notable Holt stock, although which house was the head of their
estate there it is not yet possible to point out. John Speed, the
antiquary, is said to have been born at Farndon in 1552, and to
have been a member of this family. " David Speed, of the
Holt, gent," was buried 11th April, 1633, and his will proved at
Chester in 1639. This man it was who appeared on Norden's
jury of 1620 ; and it is probable that to his nimble brain and
sound knowledge is due the exposition of the case of the forty
years' leaseholders as it stands in the preamble to the present-
ment of the jurors of Hewlington ; the jury for Holt and
Hewlington being composed of the same persons, and he being
named among the jurymen, next after the mayor of Holt He
was followed by another David Speed, recorder, who was, most
likely, the David Speed who married at Farndon, 25th June,
^ In the Survey of 4 Elizabeth, 1562, John Roydon, the father of
Roger, is described as having in the town of Holt one messuage,
two burgages, the fourth part of one burgage, an orchard, in which
formerly were seven burgages, and five parcels of land called
"morehalfield, lesehallfield, milnehey, harbors hey," and a parcel of
meadow lying next said milnehey, lately in tenure of John Roydon,
his fieither. Bat " morehalfiold ** was assigned, in November, 37th
year of Queen Elizabeth, by John Roydon and Roger his son to
John Hare.
6th sbb., vol. vn. 28
Digitized by VjOOQIC
426 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
1623, *' Sydney P . . . bill" This second David made, with three
others, the Parliamentary Survey of 16^. I have seen his
nuncupative will, made I3th July. 1660, the day before he
died, in which he describes himself as of Hewlington, appoints
Sidney, his wife, his executrix, and mentions his son, Thomas
Speed. The inventory of his goods was made on the 18th of
the same month by Mr. Thomas Humberston and John ap
Edward, who designate the deceased as " David Speede gent,
of the towne of Hoult." His son, Thomas Speed, was buried at
Holt, 9th November, 1664; and there was a David Speed, son of
John Speed, gent., who was also there buried 26th December,
1681.
Thomas Spencer, of Farndon, had 6 customary acres of land
adjoining Knight's Wood [in Wrexham Road], formerly the
lands of John Aldford.
EoQER SucKLEY had a burgage next the bridge, next that of
John Godson.
Sir John Trevor, knight, had a burgage in Castle Street, two
burgages and one curtilage in Cross Green, both formerly in
the holding of Edward Aimer and Jane Aimer, widow; a
parcel of land, containing by estimation half a curtilage, whereon
a house was built, and about 31 customary acres of free land.
He was of Pl&s Teg, county Flint.
Sir Richard Trevor, knight, had a curtilage near the Castle
gate, whereon a house was built, extending towards the River
Dee. He was of Trefalyn Hall, and the elder brother of the
aforesaid Sir John Trevor (see the Trevor pedigree opposite
page 100 of my History of the Townships of the Old Parish of
Chresford).
Richard Vernon had 6 customary acres of land, whereon a
house was built, part of the 30 acres formerly belonging to
Thomas Pulford. Richard Vernon's will was proved at Chester
in 1629.
John Welles had a burgage in Midding Street, between
the burgage of William Davies and that wherein William Cork
dwelled (see also under William Wilde).
Lawrence Welles had a burgage in Castle Street, m the
holding of Jane Warburton ; six free customary acres " beyond
devon ;" five leasehold parcels containing 1 1 customary acres in
" Cross yockin [lane] ;" and a leasehold piece of land " in Holt
neare vnto the Castle gate in a lane leading from the pavem^
towardes the River called Mill Dee, wherevpon a Cottage
standeth conteyning the third part of a curtilage." Mr. Hughes,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DKNBIflH. 427
of Kinmel, tells me that a Laurence Wells married Elizabeth,
daughter and heir of Owen floydon, son of Peter Roydon, son of
John Roydon,^ a drover (see also under the next entry).
" William Wilde, ^ent, holdeth nyne Burgages, viz., three
wherevpon his Mansion howse standeth with the orchard,
garden, and backside therevnto belonging, one Croft over against
the said howse conteyning foure burgages, and two burgages are
adioyning to the orchard of Randolph Hutchiiis." " The same
holdeth one parcell of land lying neare devon platt^ adioyning
to the pavement w<* leades to the Coraon Wood conteyning
three Acres." The same holdeth one parcell of land at Bspehill
called The Bspes, conteyning two Acres. The same holdeth
a Curtilage adioyning to the howse called the pavement howse
in the hie Qreene ;" making iu all nine burgages, and over
28 customary — or over 59 statute — acres of free land. Mr.
William Wilde belonged to a very ancient family, members of
which were among the earliest mediaeval English settlers in
Bromfield. John le Wylde, clerk, was one of the witnesses to
an Allington charter of 1391, as I learn from Mr. Edward Owen.
Richard de Wylde, son of John de Wylde, of Holt, married,
according to Poivys Fadog (vol. iii, p. 91), Margaret, daughter of
John Lowther, of Holt ; and their great-great-grandson, Thomais
de Wylde, purchased the house and lands of leuan and Howel,
sons of David Llwyd, forfeited for their share in Owen Glyndwr's
rebellion. This account of the date of the forfeiture is not
quite in accord with chronological facts, but in the 23rd year of
Henry VII {seq, 1508), Thomas the Wylde, and others were
actually in possession of land in Hewlington, "formerly the
land of Madoc ap leuan ap Madoc, Jankyn his brother [and]
leuan and Howel, sons of David Lloyd, John Wele was seneschal
or steward of Bromfield and Yale in 1411, and one of the wit-
1 Mr. E. B. Roydon has sent me a copy of the will of John
RoydoD, of Holt, dated 20th May, 1560, and proved on the 16th
Jnne following, in which the testator names, among other children,
his son Peter. Mr. Roydon thinks that the father of the Elisabeth
Roydon who married liaarenoc Wells may have been Owen Roydon,
son of the abore-named Peter Roydon, son of John Roydon. I find
that Peter Roydon released, on 15th December, 25 Qneen Elizabeth,
1582, to Owen Roydon, his son, his Holt lauds.
2 This shows that the brook crossing Common Wood Lane was
called, in 1620, " The Devon ;" as a passage snbseqnently to be
quoted (under John Wilkinson) shows that the same brook was
then' called Devon, and not ** Ugg," at the point it crossed Wrexham
Road.
28«
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
428 THE TOWN OF HOLT,
nesses of the Holt charter.^ The name of this family came to
be spelled in later times " Weld " and "Wells," or " Welles," as
well as " Wylde," " WUde," and *' Wilds." One branch remained,
or became Boman Catholic ; and a Richard Weld, of Holt, was
" presented " as " a recusant," and buried by night at Tarporley,
Cheshire, 20th Aus^ust, 1626. Samuel Wilds, of Wilds Green, wcw
mayor of Holt in 1624. And a " William Wild, son to Edward
Wild, gent/' was buried at Holt 22nd February, 166}. Other
Welds, amon«^ whom may be named Mr. Peter Weld and Mr.
Rolph Weld, both of High Street, Wrexham, were Presbyterians.
Thomas Weld, citizen and grocer, of London, and of Richmond,
Surrey, in his will of 1678, speaks of " nephew Peter Weld of
Wrexham," This Peter was buried at Wrexham, 16th July,
1688. Mr. Ralph Weld, before the Restoration, Lieutenant
Ralph Weld, buried at Wrexham, 28th August, 1681, was
a fast friend to Philip Henry, leaving him £5 by his will ;
which bequest was delivered by his nephew, also named
Ralph Weld, probably the Rev. Ralph Weld, rector of Great
Saxham, Suffolk, who died 21st September, 1721, leaving £100
to Wrexham Grammar School. Tj^ Mr. Peter Weld, of Wrex-
ham, who died in 1 688, is called tn the Parish Registers, at
different times, " Weild," " Welds," and " Wells," but he described
himself consistently as " Peter Weld.'* The representatives of
the family who spelled their surname " Wells" and " Welles"
are represented in the 1620 list of Holt freeholders by John and
Laurence Wells.
John Wilkinson had three burgages, where his dwelling-
house stood, with barns, etc. ; a burgage in Frog Lane ; a bur-
gage and a-half near the Cross ; a burgage near Cross Green ;
and another burgage ; also " one parcell neare Devon bridge in
Wrexham Lane;" a close called "The Espes," another near
Devon, about 23 customary — or 48 J statute — acres of free land,
an acre of leasehold land called " Y Pase," and 6 customary — or
12 J statute — acres of leasehold land, including the little (Jallow-
tree field, in Hewlington.
Thomas Wilkinson, of Farndon, had a house and 18 cus-
tomary acres, part of the 30 customary acres formerly of Thomas
Pulford, etc., and 3 other like acres of leasehold land.
John Wright had "one curtilage neere vnto the Crosse
adioyning to y« pavement leadinge from the said Crosse towardes
1 To this may be added that Jankyn Wylde and William to
Wylde were tenants of Holt in the 23rd year of Henry Ylly and in
1564 David and Edw^ard Wilde had nine bargages, eta, at Holt.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
tN coxmrr t)BNBiGtt. 429
frog lane where his dwelling howse standeth with all buildings
there vnto belonging late the landes of Edward Puleston/'
12 customary aeres of free land and more of leasehold land in
the franchise of Holt, and Thomas Lothar*s estate in Hewlington,
being a leasehold customary acre demised to Thomas Xiothar,
deceased, on 10th December, 1580 (see also under next entry).
Georgb Wright had 13 customary — or 25J statute — free
acres of land whereon his dwelling-house stood, formerly the
land of Thomas ap Madoc ap lolyn, late of Sutton, and 14 like
acres of leasehold land called " Kay Robbin/' The will of George
Wright, of Holt, was proved at Chester in 1623. Thomas
Wright, of Holt, gent., was buried there in November, 1679,
and Katherine, daughter of George Wright, was married about
1693 or 1694 to Koger Roydon, of Calcott (Caldecote), Cheshire.
On 16th November, 1641, Thomas Niccoe,of Holt, yeoman, and
Jane his wife, sold, in consideration of £37 10s,, to Thomas
Wright, of Holt, yeoman, a close of 3 acres adjoining the land
of George Bostocke, Esq., on the east ; the laud of Arthur Wright,
brother of the said Thomas Wright, on the west ; the land of
Sir John Trevor, knight, on the north, and the King's highway
on the south. In the will tf Joseph Wright, of Tarvin (dated
26th February, 1767, proved 26th March, 1774), the testator
speaks of his two messuages, etc., in Holt ; of his nephew, John
Speed, of the same ; of his niece, Elizabeth Powell, widow [of
John Powell and daughter of John Speed; see the Powell
pedigree, before] ; of his niece, Mary Speed, etc.
Thomas Williams had 7 customary acres of land, with house
and other buildings, " in Crosse Yockin Lane."
John Yakdley, gent., had, in 1620, three burgages, whereon his
dwelling-house stood, one other burgage, and 17 cui?tomary acres
of free land. The Yardleys were well known in Holt, Farndon,
and elsewhere in the neighbourhood, about this time. In 1562,
Lancelot Yardley was a free tenant of Holt. In 1597, Thomas
Yardley, Mr. Edward Owen told me, had a dispute with John
Roydon concerning the right and title to lands in Hewlington
called " the Fourteen Acres," and land in Ridley Wood, late of
John Yardley, plaintiffs father ; the point at issue being whether
these lands were left in trust to Alice, John Yardley's wife. Sir
George Calveley, knight, Thomas Calcott, and others, for the
payment of his debts, and sold by them to the defendant, John
Roydon, without condition of redemption. And I have since
seen a series of depositions, furnished me in summary by Mr.
E. B. Roydon, of Bromborough, relating to this dispute, which
seems to have been a very complicated one. I need only say
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
iSO ttfE Hovmt Off rioLt,
that Thomas Tardley, the complainant, of Orew and Famdon,
was in 1597 about sixty years of age ; that when his father, John
Tardley, died, he, Thomas, was about nine years old, and iu
ward to John Roydon, his uncle. On the 29th day of the eleventh
month, 1659 [January, 16fJ], John Yardley, of Holt,^ and
Elizabeth Farmar, of Shrewsbury, were married at the place last
named, after the fashion of Friends ; and in 1682 a piece of land
in Cross Green, Holt — ^still called " Quakers' Yard " — formerly
the properly of John Yardley, was vested in trustees as a
Friends' burial ground. A " John Yardley, gent," was buried at
Holt, 22nd January, 167^, and a " a Thomas Yarley,'' of Holt,
on 14th March 14th, 167f •
The Mayor and Citizens of Chester held 2| customary —
or 5^ statute — acres of land, with a house thereon built, late
belonging to Alderman Valentine Broughton, of Chester, de-
ceased, and left by him to feoffees for charitable uses.
The foregoing extracts, or summaries of extracts, give
a most vivid and instructive picture of the town of
Holty as it was in 1620. Many of the old burgages
then remained, probably very much in the same con-
dition as when first built and set out, each with its
curtilage in front and with its croft behind, along Castle
Street, Wrexham Lane (now Wrexham Road), near the
bridge (now Church Street), Midding Street, Pepper
Street, and Frog Lane (in which the pinfold was) ; also
around Cross Green, Smithfield Green, and High Green.
But in a great number of cases, two or more burga^es,^
had made way for larger houses, and for the gardens,
stables, and other buildings appurtenant to them. It
mattered not at all to the lord how far this process
^ This was, perhaps, the John Yardley the younger, of Holt, son
of John Yardley the elder, who on the 12th Janaary, 166f , left all hit
estate^ezcept some trifling legacies — to his wife, Elizabeth ; which
Elizabeth, his widow, on 18th December, 1663, renoanced all her
interest in the executorship of her late husband's will to her trusty
friend Charles Bradshaw, the yoanger.
^ Mr. Wilde's house, orchard, stable, and crofb occupied the site of
seven burgages ; and Mr. Boydon's house, orchard, and stable the
site of nine burgages in Castle Street. There is no need to cite
other examples.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IN COUNTY DENBIGH. 431
was carried, so long as it was duly recorded that
the holding of so-and-so represented, say, seven bur-
gages, from which seven times the rents and ser-
vices were to be rendered as were due from a single
burgage. In 1620, 125 ancient burgages were remem-
bered in Holt ; or rather the rents (" crown rents,*' as
they are now called) were remembered. Of course, all
these oldest burgages have long ago vanished, but I
I myself recollect some queer - looking half-timbered
thatched cottages in Church Street and elsewhere in
the town, pemaps as old as the time of Norden's
Survey, which gave a very fair idea of what an old
burgage was like, but these have been much altered
in recent years : windows enlarged, or the thatch
covered with corrugated iron, so that all picturesque-
ness is gone from them. The burgages were built
across the width of long narrow strips, aoout two chains
in length, and containing, so far as can be made out,
a little over a rood of ground, the area varying slightly.
A few Holt houses, although modern, represent, so far
as their site and the size of their gardens are concerned,
exactly the area of the old burgages, with their Cur-
tilages and crofts. But we have to calculate with care,
for in Norden's Survey we are told distinctly of ttuo
adjoining houses which represented three burgages ;
while in another case it appears as though three modem
cottages stood on the site of tvx) burgages, the crofts at
the back being divided into as many gardens as there
are cottages ; and other disturbing factors have been
introduced.
Suppose we now try to picture to ourselves the open
spaces, streets, and lanes in Holt at the date of Norden's
Survey.
And first let us take the open spaces.
** Smithfield Green" denotes the same place that is
still so called.
Church Green is not named, but it is quite clear that
what is now so called was in 1620, and later, known as
Cross Green." It is easy to prove this. I have
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
i€
432 THE TOWN Olf HOtf,
seen the original deed recording the sale (28th Feb-
ruary, 168^) to "the Friends" of the piece of ground
at the comer of Bridge Street and Church Green,
Holt, for the purpose of a Quakers' burial-ground.
Now, this piece of land, the position of which is exactly
known, is described as ** adjoyning thereto a greene
called Crosse Greene." Unless there were once two
crosses standing in the town of Holt, it seems very
probable that the Cross Green was at an early date
continuous with what is now known as " The Cross
Bank ;" in other words, that it extended over the site
of Holt Hall and gardens, and other intervening houses.
However, there was only one cross in Holt in 1620,
several houses being described, as though that descrip-
tion were suflScient, as being '*near the cross." Never-
theless, I do not doubt but that this cross, standing on
Cross Bank, gave its name to Cross Green, now called
Church Green, and that all houses between represent
aucient encroachments, or enclosures, made before
1620.
** High Green" was another open space in 1620. I
feel certain, from the references to it in the Survey ,
that it was the enclosed triangular space between the
point where the Wrexham Road and Gallowtree Lane
(now Francis Lane) enter Holt, and it is still called,
Mr. Edwin Bellis informs me, "The Intak.'* The
Pavement House, and at least five burgages, stood
around it, or **in" it, to use the exact preposition
employed in the Survey.
The identification of High Green, proposed in the
last paragraph, with what is now known as " The
Intak," may explain a fact which has always been a
puzzle. Holt being a town laid out in accordance
with a definite plan, and almost at one time, the
streets in it are almost parallel to each other, or at
least straight.
The roads leading into it were also continuous with
its streets, or opened on unenclosed spaces, with one
conspicuous exception — the present Wrexham Road,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
IM COCNtT DENBIGH. 43.^
•
which enters Castle Street, Holt, at a sharp angle.
But it is probable that in 1620 and before, Wrexham
Road did not enter Castle Street as it does now, but
debouched upon High Green, as other roads in Holt
debouch on open areas.
The reference to Wrexham Road just made leads to
a consideration of the Holt roads, streets, and lanes
mentioned in the Survey of 1620.
" Wrexham Lane," as Wrexham Road was then
called, contained three or four good houses, among
them the Pate house and a few single burgages, one of
which was the burgage of Roger Edg worth. The bridge
over the Devon in Wrexham Lane was known as
•* Devon Bridge."
In Castle Street were many burgages, and at least
one large house, that of Mr. Roger Roy don, with its
extensive orchard (see before under Roger Roydon).
Cross Bank is not mentioned under that name in
the Survey^ but various burgages are described as
*' near the Cross," amongst them that of John Wright
(see before).
Many burgages stood in Midding Street, amongst
them those of EdwardCrue, gent., and William Davies,
tanner.
Also two burgages were in Pepper Street.
The names "Pepper Street " and " Midding Street"
have long ago been forgotten, "Green Street" having
apparently absorbed them both.
It looks as though Frog Lane contained more single
burgages than any other street in Holt. Between Frog
Lane and Common Wood Lane, by the Fishpools, the
road was called " The Pavement." Three burgages in
Frog Lane are described as " near the pinfold." The
Powell house was here also. Further along the lane
was " Devon platt " — the flat bridge over the Devon.
Many burgages are described as " near the Bridge" —
that is. Holt Bridge — and a large house, that of Francis
Pickering, gent., was " near the churchyard," and a
barn, appurtenant to his mansion-house adjoined the
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
434 THE TOWN OP HOLT, IN COtTNTY DENfilGfi.
Castle ditch. George Buckley had also a curtilage near
" the Church Ashe.
As to the lane leading towards the Castle, enough
has been already said.
" Hiefield Lane" cannot at present be identified. Sir
Richard Egerton had, in 1620, 3 acres called ** Spencer's
Acres" adjoining it.
What is said by Norden concerning Hewlington will
be reserved for another chapter.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
435
laetotetDfit anH Jt^ottcest of Soofest.
Thb History op the Dioobsb of St. Asaph : Gknbral, Cathedral,
AND Parochial. By Ven. Arohdeacoa D. R. Thomas. New
Edition. Part If
Wb are glad to welcome Part I of a new edition of the History of the
Diocese of St Asaph, by the learned and accomplished Chairman of
Committee of the Cambrian Archaoological Association. The first
edition of this valaable work was published in 1874. This new
edition is not merely a reissae of the original work, bat contains a
large addition of interesting material ; while the illastrations (if we
may jndge from those gi^en in the Part before as) promise to be
vastly superior in execution and archaoological interest to those
included in the older volume. Amongst these may be mentioned
an excellent reprodaction of the original Charter (preserved in the
Shrewsbury Museum) granted by Bishop Reiner (1186-1225); two
views of Guilsfield Church, nave and gallery, showing the ritual
arrangements and pews of all shapes and sizes ; the nnique wooden
font at Efenechtyd ; the dog-tongs preserved at Llanynys ; Capel
Trillo in Rh6s, an unique illustration of the primaoval oratories
(like that of Ghtllerus, at Kilmalkedar in Ireland) which formed the
type of the earliest British Churches.
As an instance of the care which has been taken by the author to
bring the work up to date, we have, on page 21, an interesting
reference to the English Church History Exhibition, held at St.
Albans in 1905, when a copy of the Missale ad Usum EcdesioB Ban-
goriensis, circa 1400, was shown, with the inscription : *' This Booke
was geven to the hye alter of the Paryshe Churche of Oswestry by
Sr Morys Griffith prist."
Among the minor improvements is the relegation to the foot-notes
of quotations from the original Latin and Welsh, the convenience of
the reader being considered by an adequate and scholarly rendering
in English in the text.
Although the work purports to be a History of one of the Four
Welsh Dioceses, there is much in the earlier part which is of distinct
use and interest to all members of the Church of England at the
present crisis. Chapter I dealing with the Origin of the See ;
Chapter II describing the early foundation, constitution, and cas-
,tom8 of the British Charch; Chapter III setting forth the land-
marks in its early history, and the ecclesiastical policy of the Lords
Marchers and others ; Chapters IV and V, giving the history of
the annexation and subjection of the Welsh Churches to the
Province of Canterbury, contain valuable statemente of historical
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
436 REVIEWS ANl) NOtlCfcS 0*" feOOfeS.
fact, carefully supported by eTidenee, duly marsballed and set forth
with sound judgment and in scholarly style.
The author deals with the great and abiding evils of appropria-
tion, commencing witb the Norman rulers, which has been the very
bane of the Church from their time downwards : a sad story of the
plundering of Church revenues, which was repeated generation
after generation. He does not omit, however, while recording this
grievous treatment of property bestowed for sacred purposes, to
refer to the period after the Wars of the Roses as marked by " a
spirit of church building and restoration that endeavoured vigor-
ously to repair the damage of the past** ; and he mentions '* notably
the Stanley series— as they are sometimes called — at Moid, Holywell
(St. Winifred's Chapel), Holt, and Northop, to which may be added
Gresford, Llangollen, and many others" (p. 70).
It is worthy of note how differently ** gallant little Wales*' was
regarded by those in power during the mediesval period, for the
ordination of Welshmen to any but the lowest order was prohibited
(p. 48) ; and, on the other hand, when the question of an Italian
nominee of the Pope was raised, and '*a reservation" of the
Bishopric of St. Asaph had been made for a foreigner — no doubt an
Italian — this intrusion of Roman influence was opposed, and '* an
Indult was issued to the Dean and Chapter, notwithstanding the
reservation, to elect a bishop of their own, (u the people of Wale$
were too savage to be governed by a foreigner * (p. 6 J).
This preliminary notice must close with the briefest allusion to
the numerous side-lights thrown on the survival of Pagan customa
(p. 22) ; mistaken renderings of Welsh words (p. 2) ; the value and
importance of pilgrimages to St. Winifred's Well and elsewhere
(p. 80). Page 30 contains a most instructive table of tithe appro-
priations at successive intervals, covering 600 years, at the time of
the Norwich Taxation, 1253; the Lincoln Taxation, 1291; the
Dissolution of the Monasteries ; and the Commutation of Tithes,
1836.
We have, on pp. 14, 62, and 153, instances of the free-will
offerings to Parish Priest and Bishop, consisting of particular
kinds of produce, varying in different localities. Such were ** blith
y ddafad," or J^ctualia ; '* cnu'r person," the parson's fleece;
'* blawd y gloch " and *' ysgub y gloch," the clerk's sheaf and
flour, from each tenement in the parish, and ** offrwm rhaw," or
spade money, made at the grave on the extended spade to the clerk
for his services.
We look forward to ihe issue of Part II, which is promised before
the close of the year.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
437
9[rc|)aeological JlBotesE anH (Bntvits.
Pembrokeshire Association for the Preservation of Ancient
Monuments : Annual Report, 1906. — A committee meetings of the
Association for the Preservation of Ancient Monaments in the
County of Pembroke was held on Taesday at the Temperance Ball,
Haverfordwest. The Dowager Ladj Kensington presided; and
amongst those present were Dr. Henry Owen, Mr. E. Laws, Mr. T.
L. James, the Rev. J. Llewellii^ Mr. A. J. Wright, etc.
The following report was read by the hon. secretary, Mr. J. W.
Phillips :—
" Llawhaden Castle. — Some farther repairs have been found neces-
sary to the square tower, in consequence of a fresh crack above a
window opening on the west side. The abutments, of which very
little remained, and the arch above, have been rebuilt, and cement
g^ont ran into all cracks. The ivy and growth on the walls require
catting again, and your committee recommends that a sufficient sum
be spent upon it next spring. The place still continues to be visited
by a considerable number of people, and it would be of advantage if
some safe means of ascending the octagonal tower could be devised,
as the view it commands is well worth the climb.
" Gilgerran Castle, — Your committee wishes again to call attention
to this castle. Nothing has as yet been done, and its condition is a
disgrace to the neighbourhood.
** Castell Cock Castle. — Nothing has been done with this building.
A small sum spent in removing the trees growing on the walls
would preserve this interesting building from farther destruction.
" Carew Castle, — Mr. and Mrs. Trollope, the owners of this his-
toric castle, have most carefully and successfully preserved the
eastern window in Sir John Perrot's banquettidg-hall from further
decay. Railway iron was introduced at the top of the window,
which relieved the pressure caused by the battlements, and prevented
outwArd movement. The decayed places were built up with
masonry, or strengthened with cement grouting. Substantially the
suggestions made by Mr. Caroe were carried out. This window is
safe, but many others require immediate attention if they are to be
preserved. N.B. — The cause of this premature collapse was the
jerry-builder who put deal lintels into the windows, while Sir John
Perrot was confined in the Tower of London.
" St. David's Cathedral : St, Nicholas' Ghapel.^ThiB chapel has
been carefully restored and roofed over. The ceiling of carved oak
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
438 ARCH^OLoaiCAL notbs and queries.
IB of good design, and the work has been skilfnllj execnted, but it
does not harmonise with its sarronndings.
^^ Herhranston Church. — This charch has been carefally restored.
The early Norman font has been repaired and cleaned, a new bowl
of Nolton stone, copied from the Rndbaxton font, having been
added. This was necessary, as the original had been broken, and a
wooden bowl, lined with lead, snbstitnted.
'* St. Mary's, Haverfordwest, — The naye of this church has been
reseated and reopened for divine service. The beautiful arcade on
the north side, which had loug been disfigured by many coats of pahit,
has been carefully and skilfully cleaned and repaired. The pillars
were found to be loosely built, and new ashlar work had to be worked
round the bases ; cement grout was run into each pillar, until it
would hold no more, some of them taking as much as twenty-five
pailf uls. The south wall of the tower had to be carefully shored-
up, and the remains of the arch underneath taken down and
rebuilt. Every stone of the old arch that could be used was in-
corporated in the reconstructed arch. The walls of the tower on
the south and west sides showed some very bad cracks. These
have, where necessary^ been carefully cross-bonded and run full of
grout. The chancel-arch has been cleaned, but has not yet been
repaired. Much of the bases of the piers and some of tbe inner
mouldings are of Roman cement, but funds do not yet admit
of its restoration. The windows, except one, are all in a very bad
state, but the restoration committee are quite unable to attempt
anything more at present. The ancient carved bench-ends, with
two of the original oak stalls, have been fixed in the chancel. The
stone groining under the tower has been cleaned, but has not been
restored. Some of the intermediate ribs are of wood, the floor of
the clock-chamber above has been laid with wood blocks, and the
walls and buttresses of the tower thoroughly repaired.
" Ambleston Church, — This church is now under restoration, and it
is to be hoped that its original features, especially the ancient font,
will be carefully preserved.
** Tregidreg Cross. — This cross has been removed from Tregidreg
farm, and built into the wall of Mathry churchyard.
'^ Mesur-y-Dorth Cross. — This cross, being small and dose to the
roadside, is in some danger of being damaged by passing traffic, and
should be protected.
** Trekenny Maenhir, — This stone has been fixed upright again upon
a strong concrete foundation in its original position. Some difficulty
was experienced in getting the work done, as the stone weighed
more than five tons.
** Cilgerran Ogham Stone. — This stone will be protected where it
is, as there is no room for it inside the church or porch.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ARCH^OLOOICAL NOTES AND QUERIES. 439
**ir«wr» Ogham Stone. — This stone has been moyed nnder the
aaspioes of your oommittee> and Professor Rhys has been able to
read both the Ogham and the Latin inscriptions. It is to be desired
that this stone, and the scalptared stone near by, should be moved so
that they both can be seen.
^^ Tenby Church. — The old Perpendicular font has been moved
from the churchyard into St. Anne's Chapel by Mrs. Thomas Allen.
In the course of the investigations by Mr. Edward Laws, another
window in the church has been opened, making seven in all opened
bprhim.
^^ Caldy Island. — This Ogham stone has been moved by the Rev.
Done Bushell from its inconvenient position in the lower chapel to a
much better site in the Priory Church, close to the place where it
was first discovered.
^^Pembrokeshire ArcluBological Survey. — This survey, which has
occupied some members of the Association for many years, is now
approachiug completion. As a record of the ancient monuments of
the oounty, it will be of the greatest value. Pembrokeshire has in
this instance again led the way.
'* It is to be hoped that members will endeavour to find out what
antiquities exist in their neighbourhood, and will inform the hon.
secretary if any of thess require attention, or of any damage likely
to be done to them.*'
Banoor's ANTiQaiTiBS : Special Committee's Report. — Colonel
Piatt, C.B. (the Mayor), presided at a recent meeting of the Bangor
City Council, and proposed a vote of sympathy with the Dowager
Lady Penrhyn and the Penrhyn family on the death of the late Lord
Penrhyn, by whose death the Council, as representatives of the city,
and Wales generally, had sustained a great loss.
The motion, seconded by Alderman Thomas Lewis, was adopted.
Alderman Mathews read the report of the special committee as to
the sale of antique furniture recently reported.
Tour committee have the honour to report to the Council that
they think it extremely regrettable —
1. That the sale should have been carried out at all, without
sufficient inquiry as to the proper value of the articles sold.
2. That the negotiations should have been carried through with-
out the knowledge or sanction of the Council ; and
8. That the clerk of the Museum Committee should have omitted
to submit the important resolution of the committee for confirma-
tion by the Council, and should not have reported to the City
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
440 ARCHiBOLOGICAL NOTES AND QUERIES.
Treasarer the manner in whiob the Town Olerk adrised that the
parchase-monej shonld be devoted : though this latter fact maj be
accounted for by the fact that the Town Clerk's advice was g^ven
twelve months previously.
Tour committee, therefore, recommend : —
1. That no sale of any further effects belong^g to the Museum
shall take place, except after the fullest inquiry and investigation as
to the true valae of any articles proposed to be sold, and without
the fall knowledge and sanction of the Council.
2. That a proper schedule of all the effects of the Coancil should
be made without delay, and that the University authorities should
be asked to render such assistance as they can in the classiScation
of such effects ; and
3. That a letter be written to Mr. Duveen, in the name of the
Council, thanking him for his offer to re-sell the furniture to the
Council, but at the same time intimating that they are unable to
accept such offer.
Mr. Mathews moved the adoption, and Mr. Vincent seconded.
The report was adopted without dissent
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
441
^bitttarp.
JOHN ROMILLY ALLEN, F.S.A., and F.S.A. Scot.
John Romillt Allen was the eldest son of Mr. George Bangh Allen,
Barrister-at-Law of the Inner Temple, of Cilrhiw, Narberth, Justice
of the Peace and Depnty-Lientenant of the Coantj of Pembroke.
Born in London in June, 1847, he was educated first at King's
College School, then at Bngbj, and at King's College, London.
Having a strong mechanical bent, he was articled to Mr. G. F.
Lester, Engineer-in- Chief to the Mersey Dock Board; and later on
he was engaged in engineering work in Persia, and he has embodied
some of his ideas on that science in his *' Design and Constmction
of Dock Walls." Bat he had a still stronger inclination to
archaeology, to which he devoted the energies of his after life. It
was at the Carmarthen Meeting in 1875 that Mr. Romilly Allen
joined onr Cambrian Association, and became a contributor to our
Journal ; and in 1887 he took the place of Archdeacon Thomas
as joint editor with Canon Trevor Owen, F.S.A., and finally
became sole editor in 1892. He wrote much and ably on many
subjects, as will be seen by the appended list of his articles, but his
favourite subject was that of Celtic Art and Ornamentation, which
he illustrated with his facile pencil. He was a keen and scientific
archfldologist, and in 1889, on his appointment as Rhind Lecturer
in ArchflBology in Edinburgh University, he took for his subject
"The Early Elhnology of the British Isles, and more especially
Scotland, treated from the point of view of Languages," which he
published under the title of " Early Christian Symbolism in Great
Britain and Ireland." Another work which appeared the same
year (1889) was " The Monumental History of the Early British
Church," published by the S.P.C.K. He was also the author of
**The Early Christian Monuments of Scotland," and he edited The
Reliquary till his death. In 1898 he was appointed Yates Lecturer
in Archaeology at University College, London.
Indifferent health tended to develop in him a tone of moroseness
and an irritable temper, and a roughness of manner caused no little
friction at times between him and the officers of the Association and
the contributors to the Journal ; but all recognised his ability and his
devotion to his subject. Of late years he had become much
more mellowed, and his attendance at our Annual Meetings gave
pleasure and instruction. His ready and lucid addresses on his
tavonrite subjects on the excursions always commanded attention
and respect. As Editor he maintained the high standard of the
ArchcBologia Cambreiuis^ and was always jealous for the reputation
6th sbb. vol. vn. 29
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
442 OBITUARY.
of the AssociaiioD. At the last AnnDal Meeting at Llangefiii a
generons acknowledgment of his seryices was made, and a vote of
Hjmpathy with his brother and sisters was passed nnanimoiisly.
A List of Papers contributed to this Journal by
Mr, RomUly Allen.
1876 Notes on Forth Kerry Church, Qlamorganahire, with Special Refen;noe to
the Churchyard Cross.
1876 On an Inscribed Ogham Stone at Little Trefgame.
1877 Camrose Church.
1878 Pembrokeshire Churches, Johnston.
1883 Crouses at St. Edren's Churcli, Pembrokeshire. .
1884 The Past, Present, and Future of Archeology.
1888 Notes on a Roman Steelyard and other Objects found at Strettbn Qrandi-
*on, Herefordshire.
1889 The Inscribed and Sculptured Stones at Llantwit Major, Olamorganshire.
1889 Recent Discoveries of Inscribed Stones in Carmarthenshire and Pembroke-
shire.
1890 On the Organisation of Archieological Research.
1891 Notice of a Mediaeval Thurible found at Penmaen in Qower.
1893 Celtic Art in Wales and Ireland Compared.
1893 The Cross of Guidon, Gk>lden Qrove, Carmarthenshire.
1893 lolo Morgan wg's Readings of the Inscriptions on the Crosses at Llantwit
Major.
1895 Catalogue of the Elarly Christian Inscribed Monuments in ComwalL
1895 Note on the Carew Inscription.
1896 The Trawsfynydd Tankard.
1 896 Catalogue of the Early Christian Monuments in Pembrokeshire.
1896 Notes on Late-Celtic Art.
1899 Early Christian Art in Wales.
1900 Some Dolmens and their Contents.
1901 Two Kelto-Roman Finds in Wales.
1901 Some Carved Wooden Spoons made in Wales.
1902 Old Farm Houses with Round Chimneys near St DavidV
1902 The Chevron and its Derivatives.
1903 Pre-Norman Cross-Bade at Llangyfelach, Glamorganshire.
1903 Note on a Perforated Stone Axe- Hammer found in Pembrokeshire.
1904 The .Cross of Irbic at Llandough, Glamorganshire.
^905 The Discovery of an Early Christian Inscribed Stone at Treflys, Carnarvon-
shire.
1905 Find of Late-Celtic Bronze Objects at Seven Sisters, near Neath, Glamor-
ganshire.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
443
ALPHABETICAL INDEX OF CONTENTS.
VOL. Vn. SIXTH SERIES.
Aber Goran ^Laugharne), 364
**Advowry, Persons in = W., Ar-
ddelwyr ; L., Advocarii, 21
Aldeford, John de, 24 ; Aiken
(Hawlkyng) Church, 64
Allen, J. RomiUy (Obituary), 441
Aimer, Edward, 317 ; John, 23,26 ;
WUliam, 26
Alport, Richard, 401, 409
Allt Cunedda, Camp with Barrows
and Cist, 384
Altoir (Innishmurray), Similar
Stones at Eglwys Cymmyn,
271,276
Amobr in Bromfield, 6
Ancient Bridge, Carnarvon, Re-
mains, 368, 369
'^Annesse Gk)uch," Corruption of
"Yny8Goch,"418
Annual Meeting of Association,
Notice, 360
Anwyl, Professor— The Early Set-
tlers of Carmarthen, 361-388
Archaeological Notes and Queries,
368-360
Arundel, Earl of, Richard Fitzalan,
11 ; Thomas, 13
Beatrix of Portugal, Widow of
Thomas, 16
Baker, Jeffirey, 24
Banc Bemsel (Allt Cunedda), 384
Banc y Belli, 224-6
Band of Gentlemen Pensioners, 331
Bangor's Antiquities, 439
Barre, Joan de, 10
Barrett, Thomas, 323
Basingwerk Abbey, Old Glass, 364
Bastion, Traces at Carmarthen,
Unique Example, 238
Bates, Launoelot, 318
Batha, William, 389
Battle Abbey, Llandeulyddog given
to, 287
Beaufoit, Henry, Duke of, Visite
Carmarthen, 343
Bentinck, William, Earl of Port-
land, his Grant Opposed, 326
Bernard, Bishop of St. David's,
Endows Priory of St. John,
Carmarthen, 337
Bevan's Chair, Madam (Llanddow-
ror), 226
Bewley, Bernard and John, 318
Bird, Sir Thomas, Clerk, 316
BitheU, Richard, 410 ; Thomas, 410
Bledri ap Cydifor (Bledericus La-
timerus), 290
Bostocke of Holt, Pedigree, 330;
George, 389, 407-9 ; Launce-
lot, 318, 330, 409
Boundary of Carmi^henshire, 363 ;
Of Dyfed, 363
Brandon, Sir Charles, Duke of
Suffolk, 24
Brereton, Owen, 318, 407 ; William,
Chamberlain of Chester, 321
Bridgewater, John, Earl of. Ac-
quires Manor of Ridley, 325,
402
Brigstocke, T. E., St. Peter's
Church, Carmarthen, 336-
361
Bristol Channel once a Vast Fertile
Plain, 372, 373
Brogynin, 261
Bromfeud, 9
Bromfield in Two Commotes, 2 ;
Taken by Hugh Cy veilioc, 2 ;
A Part of Powys Fadog, 3 ;
Commote of Yale added to,
3 ; "Amobr" in, 6 ; Welsh
Names of Freemen, 6 ; Con-
nected with House of Lan-
caster, 10
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
444
ALPHABKTICAL INDBX OF CONTEKTS.
Bromfield and Yale Grant Aid to
£arl Warrenne, 4 ; Granted
to John de Warrenne, 8 ;
Sub-granted to William de
Warrenne, 9; Vested in
Crown, 17 ; Granted to Sir
William Stanley, 17 ; to
Henry Pitzroy, Duke of
Richmond, 320 ; to Prince
Henry, 325 ; Prince Charles,
325 ; Part of Commonwealth
EsUtes, 326 ; Grant to Wm.
Bentinck, Earl of Portland,
Opposed, 326 ; Thomas, Duke
of Norfolk, Justice of, 17 ;
Foresters of, 12 ; Tidderley's
Survey, 311 ; New Survey,
325 ; Sub-Commissioners for
Survey, 321
Bronze Age in Carmarthenshire,
384-387 ; Stone Circles, Re-
lics of, 368
Bronze Celts (Coelbren), 137 ; Pa-
tella and Strainer (Eyngadle),
227-230; Torque (gold-pla-
ted). 40, 52 ; Pin, 47
Bryan, Sir Guy de, 267
Buckley, George, 410
Burgeny(Burganey), Anthony, 392;
WUliam, 391, 410, 411
Carmarthen in Early Norman Times
—Professor J. E.Lloyd, 281-
292
Carmarthen and Llandeulyddog
Identified, 281, 282 : Old
and New, 286 ; Castle or
Caer at Rhyd y Gors, 284 ;
Castle Defended by Owain
ap Caradog, 285 ; Secures
Norman Supremacy in Car-
marthenshire, 284 ; First
Charter, 286 ; Homage to
Prince William, 286 ; Gerald
of Windsor at, 286 ; Chapel
of St. John the Evangeust
and St. Theuloc, 288 ; Alfred
Drue gives Llangain Church
to, 289 ; Maes y Prior, 289 ;
** An English Towne," 342 ;
Castle, 236, 237; Bastion
Traces, Unique, 238 ; Mayors,
340,341
Carmarthen, St. Peter's Church —
T. £. Brigstocke, 336-351 ;
First Mention in Annals
of Battle Abbey, 287, 337 ;
Chapelries, Newchurch and
Llangain, 337 ; Vicars of
(Richard ap John, 1278 ;
David Robyn, 1403 ; William
Sty ward, 1408 ; John David,
1486 ; John Harry, 1500 ;
David Webbe, 1501 ; Thomas
Prichatxi, 1539), 338, 339;
Body of Walter Devereux,
Eirl of Essex, Brought for
Burial, 342 ; Richard Davies,
Bishop of St. David^s, Prea
ches, 342 ; Bishop Laud, 343 ;
Bishop Lawrence Womack,
343 ; John Wesley, 344 ;
French Prisoners Detained
in the Church, 344 ; Sir
Richard Steele Buried, 344 ;
Chalice Cover, 1577, 345;
Stone Coffin Lid, 345 ; Effigy,
347, 349 ; Monuments— Bis-
hop Ferrar, General Sir W.
Nott, Sir Richard Steele,
349 ; Sir Rhys ap Thomas's
Tomb, 347; Earl of Rich-
mond's Tomb Removed to
St. David's Cathedral, 348
Carmarthen Meeting, 1906, Report,
103-128; Excursions, 2ia-
248 ; Mayor's Address of
Welcome, 105, 106; Preei-
sident's Address (Llanstep-
han Castle), 108-118 ; Sub-
scriptions to Local Fund,
249, 250 ; Accounts, 253
Cadwal = Irish Cathal, 363
Caer at Rhyd y Gors, 284
Caerlleon, Welsh Name for Holt
Castle, 10
Caerwent Roman Gateway, 184
Calcott, Thomas, 389, 411
Cdintref Bychan, 364 ; Gwarthaf,
362; Mawr, 364; Ystrad
Tywi, 364
Cantrill, T. C— Geological Notes
on Roman Remains, Cwm-
brwyn, 176
Capel Mair Stone — Professor J.
Rhys, 293-310
Cardiff Castle, North Gateway,
184
Digitized by VjOOQIC
ALPHABETICAL IKDBX OP CONTENTS.
445
Carmarthenshire, Early Settlers in
—Professor Anwyl, 361388 ;
Bronze Age, 384-387 ; Traces
of Groidelic Population, 365 ;
Prehistoric Hearths, 380-383;
Modem Boundary Artificial,
363
Carnarvon Ancient Bridge, 358,
359 ; Oatmeal Market, Pen-
tice Qrounds, Turf Square,
359
Cam Comal, 132
Camwyllon, 364
Castell y Gaer, 248
Castrum Leonum, Holt Castle, 9
Cath Pencred, 258
Cedweli (Kidwelly) Derivative of
Cadwal, 363
Chalicd, Elizabethan, 218, 246, 263 ;
Cover, 1577, 345
Charles of Bala, Thomas. 218
Chilston, Sir John K., 24. 25
Cholmondeley, John, 12 ; Sir Hugh,
317
Ciau of Nanhyfer, 310 ; Ciml) =
Ransom Money, 70
Clawdd Mawr, 247 ; Late Celtic ?
369
Clawdd y Fanweu, 132, 153
Clear's (St.) Church, Norman Arch,
224
Clive, George, 317
Coelbren, Report on Excavations
at — Col. W. U. Morgan,
R.E., 129-174 ; The Gaer,
136 ; Ramparts, 138 ; Layer
of Logs, 1:38-143 ; Their Pur-
pose, 149 ; Ditches, 149-153 ;
Entrances, 153- 15H ; The In-
terior, 156-159; Finds (chief-
ly Roman), 159-167 ; Con-
clusions—not a Walled Town
— houses, if any, not stone ;
traces of roads — remains
typical of second or third cen-
tury ; many memorial stones
on line of road, 172
Coffin Lid Stone, 345
Coiniu, 262
Coldewell, John, 323
** Communion Sunday Flag," 263
Corbet, Robert, 328
Corpse Litter (Elor feirch), 219, 220
Cotton, George, 320 ; Sir Robert,
of Combermere, 326
Coygan Cave, 373, 374
Craig Derwyddon Bone-caves —
Skeletons found. Mode of
Burial, Large Skulls, 377-
380
Crew (Cme;, Thomas, 391, 412;
Edward, 411
Cromlech, Ffynnon Newydd, 369 ;
Pare y Bigwrn, 370, 371
Curious Cmet English Glaze, 266
Cursing-stones, 271
Cwmbrwyn Roman Remains — John
Ward, 175-212, 227-230; Ex-
ploration of Interior, 186-
200 ; The Finds : Quern, Pot-
tery, Mortaria, Amphorse,
200 ; Tank, 194 ; Roofing-
slates, 188 ; Roman Glass,
Coins, Bronze Fragment,
204, 205 ; Flue-tiles, 189, 193 ;
a MansiOf or Outpost of a
Roman Fort, 208
Cyfekch = Cyfeiiiog, 364
Cynin, 261, 262
Cynog Ffynnon, 273
Cynwrig ap Codflawd, 4
Cyttiau Gwyddelod, Tre'r Ceiri, 35 ;
Compared with Primitive
Houses in Ireland, 36
Cyveilioc, Hugh, takes Bromfield, 2
Dalian, 271, 275
David, John, Vicar of St. Peter's,
Carmarthen, 1486, 338
Davies, Richard, Bishop of St.
David's, 342
Davies, Robert (of Gwysaney), 413
Davies, Rev. W.. Paper on **Llan-
fihangel Abercowin," 216,
217
**Dawke" (Llandawke), 273
Dawkins, Professor Boyd, Note on
Tre'r Ceiri, 35-37, 124, 125 ;
on Gower Caves, 373
Decca, John, Forester of Bromfield,
12 ; Roger, 413
Dee River and Holt Castle, 400
Derllys = Irish Durlas, 363
Devereux, Walter, E. of Essex,
brought to Carmarthen for
Burial, 342
Devon Bridge (Holt), 433
Dinas Bran Castle granted to John
de Warrenne, 8
Dochdwy, St., 279
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
446
ALPHABETICAL INDEX OF COKTftNTS.
Dolichocephalic Skulls, 376
Dove-house (Holt), 399
Drue, Alfred, gives Llan gain Church
to Carmarthen, 289
Dyfed, Persistence of Irish Lan-
gu^e in, 91 ; Boundary, 363
Dynulle (Cinhinlle), 4
Early Man, Distribution of, how
Conditioned, 366
Early Settlers in Carmarthenshire
—Professor Anwyl, 361-388
Eaton, Richatxi, 318
Edgworth, Roger, 389, 413
Edward II in Glamorgan— Rev. J.
Griffith— Reviewed, 265, 266
Effigy (Anne, Lady Vaughan) in St.
Peter's, Carmarthen, 347,
349
Llandawke, 277
Eglwys Cymmyn, Pare y Ceryg
Sanctaidd, and Llandawke,
Notes on— G. G. Trehem»*,
268-275
Eglwys and Llan distinguished,
268, 259 ; Ogam, 260 ; Fon%
266 ; Mural Paintings, 266 ;
Stones similar to Altoir in
Innishmurray, 271, 276
Ellis, Ralph, 318
Epigraphic Notes — Professor John
Rhys - Llansaint. Llan-
dawke, Nevein, Treflys, Lly-
st>n Gwyn, 66-76
Evans, Rev. Geo. Eyre, Llansaint,
63-66
Exchequer Tower, Holt, 390, 394
Eyton, David, 327 ; Richard, 330
Fagan, Robert, Built St. Asaph
Cathedral, 12
Ferrar, Robert, Bishop of St.
David's, Imprisonment and
Martyrdom, 342 ; Monu-
ment, 349
Fishboume, Rev. E. A. — Notes on
East Window, Gresford
Church, 362-357
Fitz-Baldwin, Richard, 284
Fitz-Gerald, Maurice, Lord of Llan-
stephan, 289
Fitzroy, Henry, Duke of Richmond,
320
Font, Eglwys Cymmyn, 266 ; Llan-
dawke, 278 ; Llanfihangel
Abercowin, 216, 217
Base (Ystrad House), 213
French Prisoners Detained in St.
Peter's, Carmarthen, 344
Funerals Halt for Lord's Prayer,
276
Gaer at Coelbren, 136
Gam Fawr (Craig Twrch), 386, 386
Gam Goch, Urns, 384
Gateways of Roman Cities and
Forts, 183-186
Gavelkind, Welsh, 6
Gavells (Gafaelion), Holdings, 6
Gelligaer (Walled Town), Aban-
doned, A.i). 90, 172; Gate-
way, 184
Gerard, Sir William, 416 ; Gilbert,
416
Goidelic Population, Carmarthen,
Traces, 366
Greene, Roger, 389
Gresford Church, Notes on East
Window, 362-357 ; Glass
given by Thomas Stanley,
Earl of Derby, 352, 365 ;
Money Bequeathed for Win-
dow, 353 ; Old Glass from
Basingwerk Abbey, 364 ;
Madocks Chapel, 354 ; " Te
Deum" Window, 366.
Sir Wm. Roden, Rector of,
324
Gruffith, Thomas ap David ap, 24
Gwelys (Gwelyau) = Holding of a
Kindred, 6
Gwestfa, 4
Gwyddel, Llwyn, 366 ; Pant y,
365 ; Traces of Goidelic
Population in Carmarthen-
shire, 366
Gwynne, John, Sub-Commissioner
to Survey Bromfield Lord-
ship, 321
Hanmer, Humphrey, 392
Harry, John, Vicar of St. Peter's,
Carmarthen, 338
Hawton, 239
Hearths, Prehistoric, 380-383
Henry VII at Holt Castle, 23
Hewlyngton, 7
Hirfaen Gwyddog, 368
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ALPHABETICAL INDEX OP CONTENTS.
447
History of the Diocese of St, Asaph
— Ven. Archdeacon D. R.
Thomas (Reviewed), 4x$5
Hodeslea (Hoseley), in Land of Earl
of Chester, 2
Hogmore, 322
Holt— Town, Castle, Church, Fran-
chise, and Demesne — A. N.
Palmer, 1-34, 311-334, 389-
434
Commote Welsh in Language,
Customs, Tenure, adopts En-
glish Customs, 1, 2, 5
Norden's Survey, 389-404
Holt Castle =Chastellion, Castrum
Leonum, 9
Welsh Name, Caerlleon, 10
Date of Building, 10
Annexed to Earldom of Ches-
ter, 13
Defended by Sir Richard Lloyd
of Esclus, 331
Richard II at, 13 ; Henry VII,
23
Officials (21 Hen. VII), 23;
Resident Constables, 327 ;
Dove-house, 399
Chaplains, 324 ; Free Chapel,
324 ; Lady Priest, 403
Holt, Charter granted, 13; Missing,
13 ; Importance of, 14
Charter, Thomas, Earl of Arun-
del's, 26-31
Bounds of Town and Liberties,
404-407
Courts Leet, 20, 391 ; Welsh
Customs, 4, 5 ; English v.
Welsh Burgesses, 15
Anglicising adjoining Parts of
Wales, 24 ; Cymricised by
Inflow of Welsh, 24 ; English
Procedure ousts Welsh Me-
thods, 21
Illicit Opinions, 26, 26 ; Privi-
leges of Burgesses, 15 ; Bai-
liffs, 24
Levelookers, 312 ; Names of
Tenants, 31-34 ; Tidderley's
Survey, 326, 327 ; Tenant's,
1562,333
"The Common Wood," 15;
*»The Chekers" (Exchequer
Tower), 16, 390, 394
** Le Quarrer," 17 ; Werrock
Lane( Weirhook, Warrhooke),
319
Holt, Devon Brook, 322, 433 ; " Over-
whart" Street, 322; Hog-
more, 322
" Parse" Lands, 323 ; Priest's
Field, 403 ; Llewelyn and
Grufl^dd Drowned under
Bridge, 8
Thomas Cholmondeley Custo-
dian of Bridge and Passage,
12
Howel, David ap, 23, 25
Howland, Isabel de, 10
Hoyle, Little, Remains Unearthed,
376
Hoyle's Mouth, 373
Hughes, Edward, High Sheriff of
Denbigh-hire, 331
Hughes, Harold, Report on Exca-
vations at Tre'r Ceiri, 38-62
Hutchins, Randolph, 389, 416
lolyn, Edward ap David ap, 24 ;
Morgan ap, 25
Irish Language in Dyfed, I^ersist-
ence o^ 91
Tsycoed, Five Townships of, 3
Ithel, David ap, 23, 25
Itinerary in Jrales, Leland's, Edited'
by L. T. Smith— Reviewed,
254, 255
John, Richard ap, Vicar of St.
Peter's, Carmarthen, 338
Kidwelly Castle, 240 ; Church, 241
Kitchen, William, 318
Knyght, Thomas, 24
Lake Dwelling, Tally, 387
Late-Celtic Objects, 387, 388
*'Latymer," 26
Laud, Bishop, Preaches at St.
Peter's, Carmarthen, 343
Laughame, General, 235
Church, 235 : Pre - Norman
Cross, 235
Castle, 234 ; Winchester Mea-
sure, TaUy Sticks, 235
Lawgam, Robert ^Courtemain), 290
Laws, E., on Prehistoric Man, 125,
126, 374
Leech, John, of Holt, 332
Legh, Geoffrey, 23
L'Estrange, Roger, 7
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
448
ALPHABETICAL INDEX OF CONTENTS.
Leland's Itinerary in Wales, Edited
L. T. Smith, Reviewed, 264,
255
Lewis, Anthony, of Burton, Bequest
to Gresford, 353
Llan and Eglwys, 258, 259
Llandaff, Oudocetis, Bishop of, 279
Llandawke Church, 233, 276;
Effigy Legends, 277 ; Font,
278 ; Origin of Name, 278,
279 ; Stone, 76
Llanddowror = Llanddyfrwyr, 365 ;
Church, 225 ; Pilgrim Stones,
226 ; Rev. Griffith Jones,
226 ; Madam Be van's Chair,
226
Llandtulyddog and Carmarthen
Identified, 281, 282 ; Given
by Henry I to Battle Abbey,
287
Llandyssilio Church, 243-246 -In-
scribed Stones, Chalice, Vi-
car's Diary, Communion
Plate, 1651, Circulating Li-
brary.
Llanfihangel Abercowin, Pilgrim's
1 hurch, 216, 217 ; Tombs,
217 ; Chalice, Font, 218 ;
Pilgrim Stones, 222 ; Road,
220
Llansaint, Rev. George Eyre Evanj>,
63-65, 66-76 ; Inscribed
Stones, 239, 240
Llanstephan Church, 213 ; Castle,
108-118, 214, 215 ; Maurice
Fitzgerald, Lord of, 289
** Lletfer," meaning, 309
Lletrach= Irish Leitrioch, 365
Lleweljm apGruffydd Breaks Truce,
Storms Aberystwith and Ha-
warden Castles, Attacks
Rhuddlan and Flint Castles,
7
Lloyd, Professor, J. E. — Carmar-
then in Early Norman Times,
281-292
Lloyd, Sir Richard of Esclus, De-
fends Holt Castle, 331
Llwyn Gwyddel, 365
Llystyn Gwyn Stone, 96-102
Lothar, Lancelot, 23, 24, 328, 329 ;
Thomas, 318, 328
Maddock, Edward, 416
Madoc, Einion ap, 4 ; Fychan, P
Maen Prenvol, 368
Maes y Prior, 289
Mainweyring, William, 24
Marford (Merford) and Hoseley
Annexed to Flintshire, ^
Henry VIH, 19
Marios, St Margaret^ 266, 267 ;
PhUip, 264
Mollington, John, Forester, of
Bromfield, 12
Morgan, Col. W. LI.— Report on
Excavations at Coelbren, 129-
174 ; On Llanstephan Castle,
214, 215; Bastion Traces, 238
Moulton, Robert, Auditor of Wales,
321
Mural Paintings, 266
M>ddleton, Edward, Mayor of Car-
marthen, 340, 341
Neolithic Man : Conditions of Life,
Weapons, Clothing, Pottery,
Food, 376, 377
Nevern Stone, 81 92
Norden, John, 323-325 ; Sur\'ey of,
1620, 389-407
Norfolk, Thomas Duke of, Justice
of Brooi field, 17
Norman Arch (St. Clear's), 224;
Font, 218
Norman Supi-emacy secured in Car-
marthenshire, 284
Norman Times, Carmarthen in
Early, 281-292
Notes on East Window, Gresford
Church— Rev. E. A. Fiah-
boume, 352-357
Nott, General Sir William : Monu-
ment, 349
Ogam (Barrivendi), 232, 233;
Gwarmacwydd, 243 ; Eglwys
Cymmyn, 260
Llandawke, 279, 280; Deccaibar
Vuglob, 297-306
Oudoceus, Bishop of Llandaff, 279
Owain ap Cadwgan, 285 ; Ap Cara-
dog Defends Carmarthen
Castle, 285
Palmer, A. Neobard — ^The Town of
Holt : Castle, Church, Fran-
chise, 1-34, 311-334, 389-434
Pant y Gwyddel, 365
Pare Owning, 316
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
ALPHABETICAL INDEX OP CONTENTS.
449
Pare y Ceryg Sanctaidd, 232, 233,
258, 267-276
Pare y Parsonage, 219
Pate, Thomas, 389, 416, 417
Pedigree— Bostocke of Holt, 330 ;
PoweU of Holt, 420, 421 ;
Powys Fadog, 8
Pelunyawc CPeulini<^, Pelumawc),
from Peulin, Paalinus, 362
Pembrokeshire Archaeological Sur-
vey, Treasurer's Statement,
252
Pembrokeshire Association for the
Preservation of Ancient
Monuments, 437
Pembrokeshire, Encroachments by
Carmarthenshire on, 362,
365; Attributed to Sir
Thomas Jones, M.P., 363
Perrott, Sir John, Tablet, 266
Pickering, John, 22, 25, 319, 418 ;
Francis, 389, 418 ; Sir Ed-
ward, 418 ; Sir Christopher,
418
Pilgrim Stones, 222, 226 ; Road, 220
Pont y Cim, 310
Porter, Hugh, 23, 26
Powell, Thomas (of Hoseley), 317,
318, 330 ; Pedigree, 420, 421
Powys Fadog, Pedigree of Later
Princes, 8
Prehistoric Hearths in Carmarthen-
shire, 380-383
Prestland, Thomas, 24, 419 ; John,
Lancelot, and Richard, 419
Priceof Yale, David, 330; Robert,
326
Prichard, Thomas, 348
Puleston, John, 23, 25 ; John, jun.,
23, 26, 321 ; Roger, 317
Sir Roger Opposes Grant to
William Bentinok, Earl of
Portland, 326
Pulford of Barton, Thomas, 423 ;
Of Holt, 389, 423; John,
Lancelot, William, 409, 423
Quaker's Yard (Holt), 430
Reviews and Notices of Books, 264-
266,435
Rhyd y Gors Castle, 237 ; Caer, 284
Rhys, Professor John — Epigraphio
Notes, 66-76 ; The Capel
Mair Stone, 293-310
6th 8BB., VOL. VII.
Richard 11 at Holt Castle, 13
Roberts, Clement, 323
Robyn, David, 338
Roden, Sir William, Rector of
Gresford, 324
Roydon, John, 23 ; Richard, 24,
317 ; R<ier, 424, 425
Salisbury, Ro^er, Bishop of, 291, 292
Salusbury, John, 318
Sam Helen wholly Roman, much
used till Norman Times, then
disused, 130
Sayce, Professor, on Scientific Ex-
cavation, 126
St. David's, Bishop of, Bernard,
Institutes House of Augus-
tinian Canons, 287, 288; En-
dows St. John's Priory, Car-
marthen, 337
Thomas Wallensis, 261 ; Wil-
frid, 292 ; Peter de Leia, 337
Scrope, William le. Earl of Wilt-
shire, Justice of Chester, 13
Seymour, Thomas, 320 ; Thomas,
Lord Admiral, 320
Speed, David, 389, 425 ; John (An-
tiquary), 425
Stanley, Thomas, Earl of Derby,
352, 356 ; Sir WiUiam, Chief
Justice of Wales, Chamber-
lain of Chester — Wealth,
Execution, 21, 22 ; Has Grant
of Bromfield Lordship, 17
Stansty Abbatis, 19
Steele, Sir Richard, Buried in St.
Peter's, Carmartlien, 344 ;
Monument, 349
Stone Circles, Relics of Bronze Age,
368
Stone Coffin Lid, 345 ; Implements,
367
Stones, Cursing, 271 ; Resting, 275
Stones, Inscribed, 65-68 ; Llan-
dawke, 76 ; Nevem, 81-92 ;
Llystin Gwyn, 96-102 ; Tref-
lys, 92-96 ; Penymynydd,
134; Llansaint, 239, 240;
Parcau, 243 ; Llandyssilio,
243-246 ; Traws Mawr, 248.
See also "Ogam."
Survey of Bromfield and Yale,
Tidderley's, 311 ; Norden's
(Holt), 389
Symkins, Richard, 318
30
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
450
ALPHABETICAL INDBX OP CONTENTS.
TachlowmonsTelich Clowmon, 364
Tafam Diflas, 268
Talacharn (Laugharne), 364, 365
Tally Sticks (Laugharae), 235
Tarleton, Thomas, 23
•* Taylor's Cushion," 362
**Te Deum" Window, 355
Teulyddoff, 282
Tidderley s Survey of Bromfield and
Yale, 311
"Tir y Grarreg," corrupted into
** Tithe Garret," 407
Toch Castle, 273
Tomb, Sir Rhys ap Thomas's, 347
Toye, Robert, Mayor of Carmar-
then, 340
Trahem, John, Warden of Grey
Friars, Carmarthen, 348
Tranmoll, John, Forester of Brom-
field, 12
Treasurer's Accounts, 1906, C. A. A„
251 ; Pembrokeshire Survey,
252
Trefenty — Passage, 219 ; Encamp-
ment, 220
Treflys, Note by Professor Rhys, 92
Treheme, G. G. T., Notes on
Eglwys Cymmyn, Parc-y-
Ceryg Sanctaidd, and Llan-
dawke, 257-280
Tre'r Coiri — Introductory Note by
Professor Boyd Dawkins, 36-
37, 124, 125
Relation to other Fortifica-
tions, 35 ; Cyttiau Gwyddel-
od, 35
Compared with Primitive
Houses in Lreland, 36
Report on Excavations at —
Harold Hughes, 38-62
Details of Finds, 40-57 ; Bronze
Torque, 40, 52 ; Pin, 47
Entrances, 57-60
Treth Dan (** Fyre Silver"), 21
Trevor, John, 321 ; Sir John, Kt.,
426; Sir Richard 426
Tumulus, Castle Hill, Kiffig, 386,
387 ; Banc Benisel, 384
Turbridge, Robert, 321
Turstin, Prior, 292
Twlc y Viliast, Cromlech, Ffynnon
Newydd, 369
Ty Cwrdd (Meeting House), 75
Ty Gwyn ar Daf, 241-243
Vernon, Richard, 389
Walter of Glo'ster, 285
Warburton, Sir Peter, Burgess of
Holt, 403
Ward, John — Roman Remains at
Cwmbrwyn, 175-209, 226
Warrenne, John de, Bromfield and
Castle of Dinas Bran granted
to, 8 ; Dies 1304, 9
Warrenne, William de, 9
Webbe, Sir David, Vicar of St.
Peter's, Carmarthen, 338
Welsh Court House, Holt, 391,
392,399
Wesley, John, at Carmarthen, 344
Whitland Abbey, 241-243
Wilde (Weld, Wells, Welles, Wild),
389, 426, 427, 428
Wilkinson, John and Thomas, 389,
428
Williams, Sir John, Bart., Presi-
dent's Address, 108-118
Sir W., Opposes Grant to Wm.
Bentinck, Karl of Portland,
326
Lancelot, 409
Peter, 264
Winchester Measure, Laugharne,
235
Wodehay, Richard de, 24
Womack, Lawrence, Bishop of St.
David's, 343
Wren, John, 25 ; Thomas, 25
Wrexham, Abbot, 19
Wrexham (Wrightesham, Wristles-
ham), 2, 11
Wrighte, John, 323, 389 ; George,
389,429
Wristlesham (Wrexham), Castellum
de, 2
Wysham , John de, 9
Yardley, John, 389, 429
Ystrad House, 313 ; Pillar Stones,
370
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
451
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
PAGE
Report on the ExcaTations carried out at Tre'r Ceiri in 1906 :
Plan (Plate) ...... 38
Fragments of Lance-head, Bronze Plates, Earthenware
Vessels, etc. ..... 41-51
Plan of South- West and North-West Entrance . . * 68
Inscribed. Stones at Llansaint, Carmarthenshire (Two Plates) 64
Epigraphic Notes :
Inscribed Stone at Llansaint, Carmarthenshire . .67
Inscribed Stone at Llandawke, Carmarthenshire . . 77
Lintel Stone with Interlaced Work at Nevern . . 82
Inscribed Stone No. 2 at Nevorn, Pembroke . . 84
Inscribed Stone at Trefljs, Carnarvonshire . . 92
Inscription on Stone at Treflys, Carnarvonshire . . 94
Inscribed Stone at Lljstyn Gwjn, Carnarvonshire . 98
Latin and Ogam Inscnption on the Llystyn Gwyn Stone 99
Excavations at Coelbren :
Map showing Position of Camp .... 131
Plan of Camp (Plate) . . . . .136
Sections of Camp .... 138-150
Pottery and Glass found at Coelbren . . 160-1 (>6
Roman Remains at Cwmbrwyn, Carmarthenshire :
Section of 6-in. Ordnance Map of Carmarthenshire
(Plate) 176
Plan before Excavation (Plate) . . . . 1 78
Plan after Excavation (Plate) . . . .180
Plan of Building and Sections of Rampart and Ditch
(Plate) . . . . . .182
View of the Gateway looking to the North (Plate) . 182
Various Articles found, etc. . . . 184-205
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
452 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
PAOB
Norman Font in Llanfihangel Abercowin Church . . 223
Inscribed Sbone at Eglwys Cymmjn, Carmarthenshire 232
Pre-Norman Cross at Langhame, Carmarthenshire . . 234
Inscribed Stone at Parcan ..... 242
Inscribed Stone from Castell Dwyran (Plate) . . 244
Inscribed Stones at Llandjssilio, Pembrokeshire . -. 244-245
Inscribed Stone at Traws Mawr, Carmarthenshire (Plate) . 246
Ende Pillar Stone at Traws Mawr . . . .248
Capel Mair Inscribed Stone :
Sketch of (Two Plates) .... 296, 297
Existing Fragments .... 299, 301
Ogam Inscriptions ..... 304
St. Peter's Church, Carmarthen :
Interior View, looking East .... 336
Coat-of-Arms from St. John's Priory . . . 338
Sepnlchral Slab of Richard .... 346
Tomb of Sir Rhys ap Thomas . . . .347
Remains of Ancient Bridge, Carnarvon : Plan and Elevation . 359
The Town of Holt, in County Denbigh :
Early Sketch of Holt Castle . . . .393
Early Ground Plan of Holt Castle . . .395
Elevation of Holt Castle in 1620 . . . , 397
Ground Plan of HoU Castle in 1620 . . .398
LONDON :
PHUmCD AT TQE BBDPOIU) PRESS, 20 AND 21, BBDFOROVURT, W.C,
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
1907.
♦ LIST OF MEMBERS.
9atron0. ,
^ HIS MAJESTY THE KING.
The Right Hon. the EiiBL of Powis
The Right Hon. the Earl of Cawdor
The Right Hon. Earl op Plymouth (President, 1898 and 1899)
The Right Hon. Viscount Trkdboar (President, 1885)
The Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of St. David's
The Right Rev, the Lord Bishop of Llandaff
The Right Hon. Lord Dynevor
The Right Hon. Lord Kenyon
The Right Hon. Lord Mostyn ( President y\H90)
The Right Hon. Lord Penrhyn (President, 1894)
The Right Hon. Lord Aberdare (President^ 1900)
The Right Hon. Lord Harlech
The Right Hon. Lord Llamoattock
The Right Hon. Lord Swansea
Sir John Williams, Bart.
]E)re»nrent«eU(i.
Sir Richard H. Williams Bulkelsy, Bart.
H. R. Hughes. Esq., Lord Lieutenant of Flintshire
Sir John Evans, D.C.L., F.R.S., V.P.S.A.
Sir C. E. G. Philipps, Bart. {President, 1880 and 1883), Lord Lieutenant
of the Town and County of HaverJPordwest
R. H. Wood, Esq., F.S.A., F.R.G.S. (President, 1903)
Sir John Talbot Dillwyn Llewelyn, Bart., M.A., F.L.S. (President,
1886)
Lient.-Col. C. S. Mainwaring (President, 1887)
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
2 LIST OF MEMBERS.
M. k Dr. DE Olosmadeuc (Pretidmt, 1889), Prudent de la Soci^t^
Polymathique da Morbihan
JohN Rhys, Esq., M.A., LL.D. (President, 1891), Professor of Celtic,
and Principal of Jesas College, Oxford
W. Boyd Dawkins, Esq., M.A., F.R.S., F.S.A., Professor of Geology,
Owens College, Manchester
The Rev. A. H. Sayce, M.A., LL.D., Professor of Assyriology, Oxford
The Rev. Hugh Pbiohabd, M.A.
The Yen. Archdeacon Thomas, M.A., F.S.A. (President, 1906)
Sir Jambr Williams Drummond, Bart, (/'reairfen^, 1892), Lord Lieutenant
of Carmarthenshire
Sir Owen H. P. Scourfiild, Bart. (President, 1897)
Edward Laws, Esq., F.S.A.
The Rev. Canon Rupert Morris, D.D., F.S.A.
J. W. WiLUs-BuND, Esq., F.S.A. (President, 1905)
Henry Owen, D.C.L., F.S.A.
The Rev. Prebendary Garnons- Williams, M.A.
Tlie Rev. 8. Baring-Gould, M.A.
W. R. M. Wynne, Esq. (Lord Lieutenant of Merionethshire).
Sir John Williams, Bart.
Committee.
The President, with all those who have held that office ; the Yioe-Presi-
dents ; the Treasurer ; the General and Local Secretaries ; and the
Editorial Sub-Committee, with the following :
Yen. Archdeacon Thomas, M.A., F.S.A., Chairman,
Thos. Mansel Franklen, Esq.
Rev. John Fisher.
Rev. E. J. Newell.
Professor Anwyl.
Professor Lloyd.
Professor Powel.
Iltyd NichoU, Esq., F.S.A.
H.Harold Hughes, Esq.. A.R.LB.A.
J. Romilly AUen, Esq., F.S.A.
J. Ward, Esq., F.S.A.
Mrs. Allen.
Edward Owen, Esq.
A. N. Palmer, Esq.
SHitot.
J. Romilly Allen, Esq., F.S.A., 28, Great Ormond Street, W.C.
^Iritotial J^ttb^Committre.
Professor Rhys, M.A., LL.D.
The Rev. Canon R. Trevor Owen, M.A., F.S.A.
!Dtaug(t0man.
Worthington G. Smith, Esq., F.L.S.
Creafutet.
Col. W. L. Morgan, R.E., Brynbriallu, Swansea.
Ctii0tee».
R. H. Wood, Esq., F.S.A.
W. R. M. Wynne, Esq.
Colonel W. Gwynne- Hughes
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
LIST OK MEMBEnS.
3
ffenetal 3^ttt$tsti$§.
Rev. Canon R Trevor Owen, M.A., F.S.A., Bodelwjddan Vicarage,
Rhaddlan (Flintshire), S.O.
Bey. Gharles Chidlow, M.X, Llawhadon Vicarage, Narberth
Corre»9onlriitg ^tttttavi$%,
France — Mons. Oharles Mettier, F.S.A., Oaen
Brittany — M. de Keranfleo'h Kernezne, Oh&tean de Qn^l^neo, Mar de
Bretagne, Cdtes du Nord, France
Scotland — Joseph Anderson, Esq., LL.D., Mosenm of Antiquities,
Edinburgh
Ireland— R. Cochrane, Esq., I.S.O., F.S.A., 17, Highfield Road, Rathgar,
Dublin
Cornwall — Edwyn Parkyn, Esq., Royal Institute, Truro
Rev. S. Baring-Gould, Lew Trenchard Rectory, N. Devon
Aonotars MtmUn.
M. Alexandre de Bertrand, Paris
Mons. Charles Hettier, F.S.A., Caen, France
floral ^tn$tati$%,
Anglesey .... J. E. Griffith, Esq., F.R.C.S., P.L.S., Bryn Dinas,
Upper Bangor
Professor J. Morris Jones, Tycoch, Llanfair, P.G.
CamarvoTishire . . Edw. Roberts, Esq., M.A., H.M.I.S., Carnarvon
T. E. Morris, Esq., LL.M., Lombard St., Portmadoo
Denbighshire . . A. Foulkes-Roberts, Esq., 34, Vale Street, Denbigh
Flintshire . . . Rev. W. LI. Nicholas, M.A., Rectory, Flint
L. J. Roberts, Esq., H.M.I.S., Rhyl
Merionethshire . . Rev. J. E. Davies, M.A., The Rectory, Llwyngwril
Montgomeryshire .
Brecknockshire . . Lieut. -Col. R. D. Garnona- Williams, Ty Mawr,
Brecon
Cardiganshire . . Professor Anwyl, M.A., Univ. College of Wales,
Aberystwyth
J. H. Davies, Esq., M.A., Cwrtmawr, Aberystwyth
H. M. Vaughan, Esq., Plas, Llangoedmore, Cardigan
Carmarthenshire . Alan Stepney-Gulston, Esq., Derwydd, Llandebie
Rev. D. D. Evans, B.D., Llangunnor Vicarage,
Carmarthen
Olamorganshire . Thos. Powel, Esq., M.A., University College, Cardiff
C.Wiikin8,Esq.,F.G.S., Springfield, Merthyr Tydfil
C. H. Glascodine, Esq., Cae Pare, Swansea
D. Lleufer Thomas, Esol, Hendre, Swansea
Pembrokeshire . . Herbert J. Allen, Esq., Norton, Tenby
Rev. James Phillips, Haverfordwest
Radnorshire . . . Rev. E. H. Day, D.D., Abbey Cwm Hir, Penybont
Monmouthshire . . A. E. Bowen, Esq. , Town Hall, Pontypool
Hie Marches . . JamesDavies, Esq., Gwynfa,Broomy Hill, Hereford
Rev. C. H. Drinkwater, M.A., St. George's Vicarage,
Shrewsbury
Henry Taylor, Esq. F.S.A., Curzon Park, Chester
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
LIST OF MEMBERS.
MEMBERS.''
ENGLISH AND FOREIGN. (94)
His Majesty the Kino .
Swansea, The Rt. Hon. Lord
Allen, Mrs. Thomas .
Allen, W. Bird, Esq., M.A.
Allen, J. Romilly, Esq., F.S.A.
Alien, Rev. W. Osborn, M.A. .
Asher, Messrs., and Co.
Baring-Gould, Rev. S., M.A. .
Baynes, E. Neil, Esq.
Biblioth^ue Nationale
Birmingham Free Library .
Blundell, Joseph Hight, Esq.
Bond, F. Bligh, Esq.
Boston Public Library, U.S.A. .
Bridger, E. K., Esq.
Brownrigg, The Very Rev. Dean
Bumard, R., Esq., F.S.A. .
Obambres, Rev. G. C, M.A. .
Chetham Library
Cochrane, REsq., F.S.A.,I.S.O.,
Hon. Sec. Royal Society of
Antiquaries, Ireland
Columbia University .
Cnnliffe, Major J. Williams
Cunnington, B. Howard, Esq.,
F.S.A.Scot
Cunnington, Mrs. B. Howard
Davies, Timothy, Esq., M.P. .
Dawkins, W. Boyd, Esq., M.A.,
F.R.S., F.S.A.
Dawson, Mrs.
D'Arbois de Jubainville, M.
De Keranflec'h Kemezne, M.
Detroit Public Library
Buckingham Palace, S.W.
24, Motcombe St., Belgrave Square, W.
42, Connanght Square, W.
158, Portsdown Road, Maida Vale, W.
28, Great Ormond Street, W.C.
83, St. George's Road, S.W.
13, Bedford St., Covent Garden, W.C.
Lew Trenchard Rectory, Lew Down,
N. Devon
120, Warwick St., Eccleston Sq., S.W.
Paris (c/o Continental Export Co.,
4, High Street, Bloomsbury, W.C.)
Birmingham (c/o A. Capel Shaw, Esq.)
157, Cheapside, E.G.
Star Buildings, Bristol
(c/o Messrs. Stechert & Co., Star Yard,
Carey Street, Chancery Lane, W.C.
Berkeley House, Hampton-on -Thames
Booking, Braintree
Huccaby House, Princetown, S. Devon
Grammar School, Wigan
Manchester (c/o W. T. Browne, Esq.)
17, Highfield Road, Rathgar, Dublin
New York, U.S.A. (c/o Messrs.
Stechert & Co., Star Yard, Carey
Street, Chancery Lane, W.C.)
17, Inverness Terrace, Hyde Park, W.
Devises
Devizes
Pant y Celyn, Putney
Fallowfield House, Fallowfield,
Manchester
Hartlington Hall, Skipton
84, Boulevard Mont Pamasse, Paris
Ch&teau de Qu^l^nec, Mur de Bre-
tagne, Cdtes du Nord, France
(c/o Mr. B. F. Stevens, 4, Trafalgar
Square, W.C.)
* Members admitted since the Annual Meeting. 1906, have an asterisk prefixed to
heir names.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
LIST OF MEMBERS.
Edwards, J. Watkin, Esq. .
Evans, Sir John, F.R.S., K.C.B.
Evans, E. Vincent, Esq. (Hon.
Sec, Honourable Society of
Cymmrodorion) * .
Fryer, Alfred, Esq., Ph.D.,
M.A., F.S.A.
Gabriel, J. R., Esq., M.A.
Gordon, Mrs
Griffiths, Joseph, Esq., M.D. .
Guildhall Library, E.G. .
Harford, Mi&s ....
Hartland, Ernest, Esq., M.A.,
F.S.A
Hartland, E. Sidney, Esq., F.S.A.
Harvard College Library .
Hereford Free Library
Ho worth. Sir Henry H.,
K.C.LE., F.R.S., F.S.A. .
Humberston, Mrs. —
Jackson, J., Esq.
James, 0. R., Esq., .
Jesus College Library
Jones, E. Alfred, Esq.
Jones, Rev. G. Hartwell, M.A. .
Jones, Lawrence, Esq.
Jones, Robert, M.D., F.R.C.S. .
Jones, W. E. T., Esq.
*Jones, J. Prichard, Esq. .
Joseph-Watkin, T. M., Esq. .
{PoricullU)
King's Inns' Library
Lewis, William F., Esq. .
Liverpool Free Public Library .
Lloyd, Alfred, E8q.,F.C.S.,F.E.S.
London Library
Manchester Free Library .
'"'Masterman, John Story, Esq. .
Melbourne Public Library .
Morris, The Rev. Canon Rupert
H., D.D., F.S.A. .
Morris, T. E., Esq., LL.M.
McClure, Rev. Edmund, M.A. .
New York Library . • •
46, Albert Terrace, Middlesbrough
Brittwall, Berkhampstead, Herts
64, Chancery Lane, W.C.
13, Eaton Crescent, Clifton, Bristol
Technical College, Swindon
9, St. German's Place, Blackheath,S.E.
1, St. Peter's Terrace, Cambridge
(c/o Edward M. Borrajo, Esq.)
Blaise Castle, Henbury, Bristol
Hardwick Court, Chepstow
Highgarth, Gloucester
Cambridge, Mass., U.S.A. (c/o Messrs.
Kegan Paul, Triibner A Co.,
43, Gerrard Street, Soho, W.C.)
Hereford
30, CoUingham Place, S.W.
ll,Pelham Crescent, Kensington, S.W.
25,Leazas Terrace, Newcastle-on-Tyne
5, Raymond's Bldgs., Gray's Inn, W.C.
Oxford
Hampden House, Phoenix Street, N.W.
Nutfield Rectory, Redhill
6, Water Street, Liverpool
Claybury, Woodford, Essex
6, Stone Buildings, Lincoln's Inn, W.C.
76, Canfield Gardens, Hampstead, N.
Herald's College, Queen Victoria Street,
E.C.
Dublin (J. Carter, Esq.)
2109, Walnut Street, Philadelphia,
U.S.A.
Liverpool (c/o Peter Cowell, Esq.)
The Dome, Upper Bognor, Sussex
St. James's Square, S.W.
Manchester
St. Margaret's, Dorking
c/o Agent-General for Victoria, 142,
Queen Victoria Street, E.C.
St. Gabriel's Vicarage, 4, Warwick
Square, S.W.
8, Fig-Tree Court, Temple, E.C.
80, Eccleston Square, S.W.
New York (c/o Mr. B. F. Stevens,
4, Trafalgar Square, W.C.)
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
6
U8T OP KEMBBKS.
Nonnan, George, Esq., M.D.
Owen, Edward, Esq. .
PenQsylvania Historical Society
Peter, Tharstan C, Esq. .
Preece, Sir W. Henry, K.C.B.,
F.R.S
Price, Hamlyn, Esq. .
Price. — , Esq
Pritchard, John Jones, Esq.
Pritchard, L. Jones, Esq. .
Prichard, Rev. R. W., M.A.
Prichard-Morgan, W., Esq.
Rennes, Biblioth^qae Universi-
taire
Rhys, John, Esq., M.A., LL.D.,
Professor of Celtic and Princi-
pal of Jesns CoUege
Roberts, Sir Owen
Rock, J. Dennis, Esq.
Sayce, Rev. A. H., LL.D., Prof.
of Assyriology
Smith, Worthington G., Esq.,
F.L.S
Sydney Free Public Library
Taylor, His Honor Judge, K.C. .
Thomas, Lieut. -Col. G. T.
Thomas, Rev. W. Mathew, M.A.
Toronto Public Library
Vaughan, H. F. J., Esq. .
Vaughan- Williams, F., Esq.
Willis-Bund, J. W., Esq., F.S.A.
Williams, Miss M. C. L. .
♦Wynne, 0. M. E., Esq. .
12, Brock Street, Bath
India Office, Whitehall, 8.W.
(c/o Messrs. B. F. Stevens & Brown,
4, Trafalgar Square, W.C.)
Redruth, Cornwall
Gothic Lodge, Wimbledon
lo. King Street, St. James's Square,
S.W.
43, Pall Mall, London, S.W.
6, Stanley Road, Waterloo, Liverpool
Menai Lodge, Chiswick, W.
Stoke Vicarage, Chester
1, Queen Victoria Street, E.G.
Rennes, Ille-et-VilaiDe, France
Jesus College, Oxford
Horley Park, Guildford
Oharlemont, Eliot Park, Blackheath,
S.E.
Queen's College, Oxford
121, High Street North, Dunstable
(c/o Messrs. Truslove, Hanson & Co.,
163, Oxford Street, W.)
4, Harcourt Buildings, Temple, E.C.
The Bush, Walton-on-Thames
Billingboro' Vicarage, Folkingham,
S.O., Lincolnshire
(c/o Messrs. C. D. Cazenove & Son, 26,
Henrietta St., Covent Garden, W.C.)
30, Edwardes Sq., Kensington, W.,
and Humphreston Hall, Salop.
HoUyhurst, Barton under Needwood,
Burton-on-Trent
15, Old Square, Lincoln's Inn, W.C.
6, Sloane Gardens, S.W.
67, Torrington Square, W.C.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
NORTH WALES.
ANGLESEY. (17)
Beade, Lady ....
Bulkeley, Sir Biohard H.
Williams, Bart., Lord Lieu-
tenaot of Anglesey.
Meyrick, Sir George, Bart.
Vemey, Sir Edmund, Bart.
Adeane, Miss ....
Evans, Rev. Evan
Griffith, Rev. Ellis Hughes
Hall, Rev. W. E. Scott .
Hampton-Lewis, Mrs.
Jones, Professor J. Morris
Lloyd Theakstone, Mrs. .
^Massey, Miss ....
^Massey, Miss Gwendolin .
Prichard, Rev. Hugh, M.A.
Prichard, Thomas, Esq.
''^ThomaB, Fleet - Surgeon J.
Lloyd, R.N
Williams, Rice R., Esq. .
Carreg-lwyd, The Valley, S.O.
Baron Hill, Beaumaris, S.O.
Bodorgan, Llangefni, S.O.
Claydon House, Winslow, Bucks ; and
Rhianva, Menai Bridge
Plas Llanfawr, Holyhead [S.0
Llansadwm Rectory, Menai Bridge,
Llangadwaladr Vicarage, Llangefni,
Plas, Llanfaelog [S.O.
Henllys, Beaumaris, S.O.
Tycoch, Llanfair P.G., S.O.
Fir Grove, Menai Bridge, S.O.
Comely, Beaumaris, S.O.
Comely, Beaumaris, S.O.
Dinam, Gaerwen, S.O. [S.O.
Llwydiarth Esgob, Llanerchymedd,
Denmor, Penmon Beaumaris ; and
Royal Naval Barracks, Chatham
Stanley House, Holyhead
CARNARVONSHIRE. (57)
Greaves, J. E., Esq., Lord
Lieutenant of Carnarvonshire
Mostyn, The Lady Augusta
Penrbyn, Rt. Hon. Lord .
Arnold, Professor E. V., M.A. .
Breese, Charles E., Esq. .
Davids, Miss Rose
Davies, John Issard, Esq., M.A.
Davies, J. R., Esq.
Dodson, William M., Esq. .
Evans, Colonel O. LI. G. .
Evans, Mrs. Lloyd
Foster, W. A., Esq.
Gardner, Willoughby, Esq.,
F.L.S., F.R.G.8. .
Griffith, J. E., Esq., F.R.A.S.,
F.L.8
Hughes, H. Harold, Esq.,
A.R.LB.A
Job, Rev. J. T
Jones, C. A., Esq.
Bron EijQon, Criccieth
Gloddaeth, Llandudno
Penrhyn Castle, Bangor
Bryn Seiriol, Bangor
4, Marine Terrace, Portmadoc
Greenhall, High Blantyre, N.B. ; and
Plas Llanwnda, Carnarvon
Llysmeirion, Carnarvon
Ceris, Bangor
Bettws-y-coed, S.O.
Broom Hall, Chwilog, S.O.
Broom Hall, Chwilog, S.O.
Glyn Menai, Bangor
Y Berlfa, Deganwy
Bryn Dinan, Upper Bangor
Aelwyd, Bangor
Bethesda, Bangor
Carnarvqn
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
8
List O^ MBMBfiRS.
Jones, L. D., Esq. .
Jones, Bey. Canon, M.A. .
■^Lewifl, ReT, J. P. .
Lloyd- Jones, Miss
Lloyd, Prof. John Edward, M.A.
Morrice, Rev. J. C, B.A.
North, Herbert L., Esq.
Owen, Cledwyn, Esq.
Parry, R. Ivor, Esq.
*Pany, W. H., Esq. .
Roberts, E.,Esq., H.M.I.S.,M.A.
Roberts, T. E., Esq.
Thomas, Owen Edward, Esq.
University College Library
Watts-Jones, Mrs. H.
^Williams, Mrs. Ignatius .
Williams, W. P., Esq.
Williams, J. A. A., Esq. .
Waiiams, Rev. J. E.
Wyatt, J. W., Esq. .
3, Edge Hill, Garth, Ban((or
The Vicarage, Llaudegai, Bangor
Llanystumdwy Rectory, Criocieth
Pennillt, Penmaenmawr, S.O.
Waen'Deg, Bangor
5, Brynteg Terrace, Bangor
Llanfairfechan, S.O.
PwllheH, S.O.
Pwllheli, 8.0.
Pabo Isaf, Conway
Plas Maesincla, Carnarvon
Plas-y-Bryn, Carnarvon
301, High Street, Bangor
Bangor
Glyn, Penmaenmawr
Hendregadredd, Pentrefelin, Port-
Cae'r Onnen, Bangor [madoc
Aberglaslyn, Beddgelert, Carnarvon
The Vicarage, Portmadoc
Bryn Gwynan, Beddgelert, Carnarvon.
DENBIGHSHIRE. (34)
^Dundonald, The Countess of, .
Williams- Wynn. Lady
Williams -Wynn, Sir Watkin,
Bart., C.B., Lord Lieut, of
Montgomeryshire
McLaren, Sir Chas. B. B., Bart.,
K.O., M.P
Barnes, Mrs
Behrens, George B., Esq. .
Berkeley, A. E. M., Esq.
Darlington, James, Esq. .
Davies, D. S.. Esq. .
Davies, John, Esq. .
Ellis, Rev. E. Lodwick .
Fisher, Rev. John, B.D. .
Foulkes-Roberts, A., Esq. .
Foulkes, E. A., Esq.
Halhed, Wm. B., Esq.
Harrison, 8. H.,Esq., F.R.G.S.,
F.R.S.A
Hughes, Edward, Esq.
Hughes, J. 0., Esq.
Hughes, Rev. Meredith J.
Jones, T. E., Esq., M.D. .
Jones, A. Seymour, Esq. .
Gwyrch Castle, Abergale, S.O.
Llangedwyn, Oswestry
Wynnstay, Rhnabon
Bddnant, Eglwysfach, S.O.
The Quinta, Chirk, Rhuabon
Caerfedwen, Trefnant, S.O.
Gredington, Whitchurch, Salop
Black Park, Rhnabon
Castle House, Denbigh
Bryn-y-Parc, Denbigh
Bettws Vicarage, Abergele
Cefn Rectory, St. Asaph
34, Vale Street, Denbigh
Eriviatt, Denbigh
Brynderwen, Llanrwst
Cartrefle, Abergele, S.O.
Glyndwr, Bersham Road, Wrexham
Estate Office, Llangedwyn, Oswestry
Brynymaen Vicarage, Colwyn Bay
Henar, Llanrwst
Pendwr, Wrexham
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
UST OF MEMBEBS.
9
Jones-Bateman, Bey. B., M.A.
Kyrke, B. V., Esq. .
Lloyd, Humphry, Esq.
Lynch, Francis, Esq.
Mainwaring, Lieot.-Gol.
Morris, £., Esq., M.A.
Morris, John, Esq.
Palmer, A. N., Esq. .
Boberts, Bev. C. F., M.A.
Sandbaoh, Colonel
Trevor- Parkins, The Wor.
Chancellor
Williams, Thomas, Esq.
Wynne, Mrs. F.
Pentre Mawr, Abergele
Nant-y-firidd, Wrexham
Morannedd, Llanddulas, Abergele, S.O.
Glasooed, Wrexham
Galltfaenan, Trefnant, S.O.
Walmer Villa, Wrexham
Lletty Llansannan, Abergele, ,3.0.
1 7, Bersham Boad, Wrexham
Llanddnlas Bee tory,. Abergele, S.O.
Hafodunos, Abergele, S.O.
Glasfryn, Gresford, Wrexham
Llywesog, Denbigh
Ystrad Cottage, Denbigh
FLINTSHIRE. (30)
Hughes, Hugh B., Esq., Lord Kinmel Park, Abergele, S.O. (Den-
Lieutenant of Flintshire
Kenyon, Bight Hon. Lord
Mostyn, Lady .
Mostyn, Bight Hon. Lord
St. Asaph, Very Bev. Dean of
Davies, Bev. W. J., B.A.
Felix, Bev. J. . . .
Godsal, Philip T., Esq. .
Hook, Bev. Paul
Jones, Bev. D., MA.
Lewis, W. A., Esq., M.A.
bigluhire).
Gredington, Whitchurch, Salop
Talacre, Bhyl ^
Mostyn Hall, Mostyn
Deanery, St. Asaph
Bryntirion, St. Asaph
Cilcain Vicarage, Mold
Isooed Park, Whitchurch, Salop
St. Mary's College, Holywell
The Vicarage, Gorsedd, Holywell
Glangwynedd, Bhyl
♦Meredith, W. F., Esq. . . St. Mary's College, Holywell Mi/e)
Mesham, Colonel
Morris, Dr. — • • .
Nicholas, Bev. W. LI., M.A. .
Owen, Bev. Canon B. Trevor,
M.A., F.S.A
Pennant, Philip P., Esq., M.A.
Powell, Bev. E. W., M.A.
♦Price, W. Fred., Esq. .
Bawlina, F. L., Esq.
Bichardson, Mrs.
Boberts, L. J., Esq., H.M.LS. .
St. Beuno*s College Library
St. DeinioUs Library,
Storey, W. J. P., Esq.
Tayleur, C. Bichard, Esq.
Vaughan-Jones, Bev. W., M.A.
Williams, Bev. B. 0., M.A.
Williams, P. Mostyn, Esq.
Pontruffydd, Trefnant, S.O. (Denbigh-
Bodowen, Holywell
The Bectory, Flint
Bodelwyddan Vicarage, Bhuddlan, S.O.
Nantllys, St. Asaph
St. Asaph
Fron Haul, Bodfari, Trefnant, S.O.
Bhyl {Denbigh$hire)
Bhyl
Tegf an, Bussell Boad, Bhyl
St. Asaph
Ha warden, Chester
Preswylfa, Bhyl
Brynllithrig, St. Asaph, S.O.
Mostyn Vicarage, Holywell
Bose Hill, St. Asaph, S.O.
Bhyl
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
10
LIST OF MEMBERS.
MERIONETHSHIRE. (14)
Wynne, W. R. M., Esq., Lord
Ideutenant of Merionethshire
Owen, Lady
Davies, Rev. J. E., M. A.
Davies, R. O., Esq. .
Dodd, F. R., Esq. .
Griffith, Edward, Esq.
Griffith, Miss Lucy .
Leigh-Taylor, John, Esq.
Morris, R. Jones, Esq.
Owen, Rev. William
Owen, Owen, Esq.
Vaughan, Rev. T. H., B.A., .
Wynne- Williams, Kor O., Ebq. .
Wood, R. H., Esq., F.S.A.,
F.R.G.S.
Peniarth, Towyn, S.O.
Cae'r Ffynnon, Talsamau, S.O.
The Rectory, Llwyngwril, S.O.
The Square, Blaenau Festiniog
Intermediate School, Blaenau Festi-
niog
Ooedcymmer, Dolgelly
Arianfryn, Dolgelly
Penmaen Uchaf , Dolgelly
Tycerrig, Talsamau, S.O.
Llanelltyd Vicar*ige, Dolgelly
Llys Dorvil, Blaenau Festiniog
Glyndyfrdwy Vicarage, Llangollen
Bronwylfa, Llanderfel, Corwen
Belmont, Sidmouth, S. Devon ; and
Pant-glas, Trawsfynydd
MONTGOMERYSHIRE. (18)
PowiB,TheRightHon.theEarlo^
Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire
Pryce-Jones, Lady .
Dugdale, J. Marshall, Esq., M. A.
Jones, Pryce Wilson, Esq.
Jones, R. E., Esq.
Leslie, Mrs.
Lewis, Hugh, Esq , M.A.
Lloyd Vemey, Mrs. .
Lomax, J., Esq.
^Macnair, Mrs.
Mytton, Captain
Phillimore, Egerton, Esq.
Pughe, Mrs. Arthur
Rees, Dr. .
Temple, Miss .
Thomas, Yen. Archdeacon, M.^.,
F.S.A
Turner, E. R. Horsfall, Esq .
Willans, J. Bancroft, Esq.
Powis Castle, Welshpool
Dolerw, Newtown, Mont.
Llwyn, Llanfyllin, Oswestry
Gwynfa, Newtown, Mont
Cefn Bryntalch, Abermule, S.O.
Bryntanat, Llansantfraid, Oswestry
Glan Hafren, Newtown, Mont.
Clochfaen, Llangurig, Llanidloes
Bodfach, Llanfyllin, Oswestry
Pennal ToWer, Machynlleth
Garth, Welshpool
Penrhos Arms, Cemmaes, S.O.
Gwyndy, Llanfyllin, Oswestry
Caersws, S.O., Mont.
Llandysilio, Oswestry
Llandrinio Rectory, Llanymynech, Os-
westry; and The Canonry, St. Asaph
Llys Efrog, Llanidloes, S.O.
Dolforgan, Kerry, Newtown, Mont.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC
SOUTH WALES.
BRECKNOCKSHIRE. (9)
Bradley, Mrs Cefn Pare, Brecon
Dawson, Mrs Scethrog, Bwlch, S.O
Evans, David, Esq.
Oamons- Williams, Lt.-Col. R.D.
Jebb, J. A., Esq.
Jones, Rev. M. H., B.A. .
Price, Rev. John, M.A. .
Williams, Rev. Preb. G., M.A.
Wood, Thomas, Esq.
Ffrwdgrech, Brecon
Tyraawr, Brecon
Watton Mount, Brecon
Trevecca OoUege, Talgarth, Brecon
Uanf eigan Rectory, Brecon
Abercamlais, Brecon
Gwemyf ed Park, Three Cocks Junc-
tion, S,0.
CARDIGANSHIRE. (25)
Davies-Evans, Lieut.-Col. H.,
Lord Lieut, of Cardiganshire
Lloyd, Right Rev. John, D.D.,
Bishop Suffragan of Swansea
Anwyl, Prof essor, M.A.
Bebb, R«v. J. M. LI., M.A. .
DavieB, J. H., Esq., M.A. .
Davies, John, Esq. .
Ellis, Thomas, Esq.
Evans, Captain E. W. W.
Evans, Rev. George Eyre .
Francis, J., Esq.
Hughes, Joshua, Esq.
Lewes, Miss Evelyn .
Lloyd, Charles, Esq., M.A.
Phillips, Rev. T.
Pritchard, Dr. ...
Pritchard, Mrs.
Rees, Rev. R. J., M.A. .
Roberts, T. F.,Esq., M.A., Prin-
cipal of Univ. ColL of Wales .
Rogers, J. E., Esq. .
St. David's Coll., ThoLibrarian of
Samuel, David, Esq., M.A.
Vaughan, Herbert M., Esq.
Waddingham, T. J., Esq. .
Williams, Ven. Archdeacon, M,A.
Yerward- James, W. E., Esq. .
Highmead, Llanybyther, S.O.
The Vicarage, Lampeter
Univ. Coll. of Wales, Aberystwyth
St. David's CoUege, Lampeter
Cwrtmawr, Aberystwyth
Bridge Street, Lampeter
Glascoed, Aberystwyth
Blenheim Club, 12, St. James* Square,
S.W. ; and Camnant, Llandyssul
Ty Tringad, Aberystwyth
Wallog, Borth, S.O.
Rhosygadair Newydd, Cardigan
Ty-Glyn Aeron, Ciliau Aeron, Cardigan
Waunifor, Maes y Crugiau, S.O.
Aberporth Rectory, Cardigan
The Priory, Cardigan
The Priory, Cardigan
Rhos, Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth
Abermeurig, Felinfach, Cardiganshire
Lampeter
Aberystwyth
Plas Llangoedmore, Cardigan
Havod, Devil's Bridge, S.O.
Abergeldie House, Aberystwyth
Cae Morgan, Cardigan
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12
LIST OF MEMBERS.
CARMARTHENSHIRE.
WilliamA-Drammond^Sir J.,Bart.,
Lord Lieat. of Carmarthenshire
St David's, The Lord Bishop of
Dyneyor, The Bight Hon. Lord
Williams, Sir John, Bart., M.D.
Barker, T. W., Esq. .
Bishop, His Honour Judge
Brigstocke, T. £., Esq.
Bnokley, Captain James
Camber- Williams, Rev. Canon
R., M.A
Collier, Ernest, Esq., M.S.A. .
Davies, A. Llewelyn, Esq.
Davies, Rev. D. H. .
Davies, Rev. Wm.
(36)
Edwinsford, Llandeilo, S.O.
The Palace, Abergwilly, Carmarthen
Dynevor Castle, Llandeilo, S.O.
Plas Llanstephan, Carmarthenshire
Diocesan Registry, Carmarthen
Dolygarreg, Llandovery
54, King Street, Carmarthen
Castell Gorfod, St. Clears, S.O.
Evans, Mr^. Colby
Evans, Rev. D. D., B.D. .
Gwynne-Hughes, Colonel W.
Hughes, John, Esq. .
James, Daniel, Esq. .
Jones, John D., Esq*
The Parade, Carmarthen
4, Quay Street, Carmarthen
Brynderw, Carmarthen
Ffinant, Newcastle Emlyn
Vicarage, Llanfihangel Abercowin,.
St. Clears
Guildhall Square, Carmarthen
Llangunnor Vicarage, Carmarthen
Glancothy, Nantgaredig, S.O.
Belle Vne, Llandeilo
Vrondeg, lilandeilo
Post Office* Carmarthen
Johnes, Mrs Oolancothy, Llanwrda, S.O.
Lloyd, H. Mearic, Esq.» M.A.
Morgan, J. B., Esq. .
Morris, Rev. J., M.A.
Poole-Hughes, Rev. W. W.,M.A.
Spurrell, Walter,Esq.
Stepney*Gulston, Alan J., Esq.
Thomas, Rev. Griffith
Thomas, Rev. John, M.A. .
Thomas, Rev. O. Jones
Thomas, Mrs. R. M.
Treheme, G. G. T., Esq. .
Wheldon, J. P., Esq.
Williams, Rev. J. A. .
WUliams, Rev. R. , M. A. .
Williams, W. Llewelyn, Esq.,
M.A., M.P
Williams, Mrs. W. J.
Delfryn, Llanwrda, S.O.
50, New Road, Llanelly
Vicarage, Llanybyther, S.O.
The College* Llandovery
Carmarthen
Derwydd, Llandebie, S.O.
Troedybryn, Carmarthen
Laugharne Vicarage, St. Clears, 8.0.
Llandyssilio Vicarage, Clynderwwn
Llanddowror, St. Clears, S.O.
7, Bloomsbury Square, London, W.O.
National Provincial Bank, Carmarthen
Llangathen Vicarage, Golden Grove,
Vicarage, Llandeilo [S.O.
Lamb Buildings, Temple, E.C. ; and
Glansawdde, Llanipeuiock
21, Picton Terrace, Oarmarthea
GLAMORGANSHIRE. (98)
. Plymouth, The Rt. Hon. Earl of.
Lord Lient. of Glamorganshire
«Bute, The Most Noble the
Marquis of ... .
Llandaff, The Lord Bishop of .
St. Pagan's Castle, Cardiff
The Castle, Cardiff
The Palace, Llandaff
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List Olr ItiEHBEttS.
13
Aberdare,The Right Hon. Lord .
Lewis, Sir W. T., Bart. .
Llewelyn, Sir John Talbot
Dillwyn, Bart., M.A. .
Llandaff, Very Rev. the Dean of
Benthall, Ernest, Esq.
Bloflse, E. F. Lynch, Esq.
Cardiff Free Library .
Cathedral Library
Clark, Godfrey L., Esq.
Corbett, E. W. M., Esq. .
Corbett, J. Stuart, Esq. .
David, W. W., Esq., M.D.
Da vies. Rev. David, M.A.
Davies, Dr. ....
Davies, C. Morgan, Esq. .
Davies, Rt-v. H. C, M.A.
Edward8,W.,E8q.,M.A.,H.M.I 8.
Edmondes, Yen. Arch., M.A. .
Edmondes, Mrs
Evans, Rev. A. F., M.A.
Evans, Pepyat W., Esq. .
Evans, Rev. W. F., M.A.
Evans, W. H., Esq. .
Evanson, Rev. Morgan, B.Sc. .
Franklen, Thos. Mansel, Esq. .
George, Isaac, Esq. .
Gibbins, Wm., Esq. .
Glascodine, C. H., Esq. .
Gordon, Mrs. R. W. .
Gray, Thomas, Esq. .
Griffith, Rev. John .
Griffiths, W., Esq. .
Halliday,G.E.,E8q.,F.R.LB.A.
Hybart, F. W., Esq. .
James, C. H., E^sq. .
James, Frank T., Escj.
Jenkins, Mrs
Jones, D. W., Esq. .
Jones, Edmund, Esq.
Jones, Evan, Esq.
Jones, Miss Ada
Jones, Oliver Henry, Esq., M.A.
Jones, Edgar, Esq., M.A. .
Jones, Rhys, Esq.
Jones, J. Amallt, Esq., M.D. .
Kirkhouse, Mrs. Herbert
Dyffryn, Aberdare
Mardy, Aberdare
Penllergare, Swansea
Deanery, Llandaff
Glantwrcb, Ystalyfera, S.O.
Coytrehen, Aberkenfig, S.O.
Cardiff
Llandaff
Talygarn, Llantrisant, Glam., S.O.
PwU-y-pant, Cardiff
Bute Estate Office, Cardiff
The Glog, Pontypridd
Canton Rectory, Cardiff
Bryn Golwg, Aberdare
112, High Street, Merthyr Tydfil
St. Hilary Rectory, Cow bridge
Courtland House, Merthyr Tydfil
Nolton Court, Bridgend
Old Hall, Cowbridge
Vicarage, Neath
33, Newport Road, Cardiff
The School, Cowbridge [Cardiff
Llanmaes House, Llantwit Major.
Merthyr Mawr Rectory, Bridgend
St. Hilary, Cowbridge
The Grove, Mountain Ash
Gktrthmor, Neath
Abingdon Gardens, Kensington, W.
Nottage Court, Bridgend, Glam.
Underbill, Port Talbot, Glam.
Llangynwyd, Glamorgan *
Pencaemawr, Merthyr Tydfil
19, Castle Street, Cardiff
Conway Road, Canton, Cardiff
64, Park Place, Cardiff
Penydarreu House, Merthyr Tydfil
Gellystone, Llandaff
Galon-uchaf, Merthyr Tydfil
The Forest, Glyn Neath, Glam.
Ty-mawr, Aberdare
Maindy, Ynyshir, Pontypridd
Fonmon Castle, Cardiff
County School, Barry
Godrecoed, Neath
Heathmont, Aberavon, Port Talbot
Hazelwood, Cathedral Road, Cardiff
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14
LIST OP MEMBERS.
Knight, R. L., Esq. .
Lawrence, Arthur, Esq.
Leigh, Dr.
Lewis, Rev. Canon
Lewis, Arthur, Esq. .
Lewis, Rev. Daniel
Lewis, Lieut.-Colonel D. R.
♦Lewis, Mrs.
Linton, H. P., Esq. .
Llewellyn, R. W., Esq.
Metford, Miss .
Moore, G. W., Esq.
Moore-Gwyn, J., Esq.
Morgan, Colonel W. L., R.
Morgan, J. Llewellyn, Esq
Morgan, Taliesin, Esq,
E.
NichoU, Iltyd, Esq., F.S.A.
Nicholl, J. L D., Esq.
Owen, J. Trevor, Esq., M..
Phillips, Rev. T. 0. .
Powel, Professor Thomas, M.A.
*Pughe- Jones, J. E., Esq.
Rees, Hoirell, Esq., M.D.
Reynolds, Llywarch, Esq., M.A.
Richards, J. E., Esq.
RUey, W., Esq.
Royal Institution of S. Wales .
Ryland, C. J., Esq. .
Salmon, Principal David .
Seaborne, George, Esq.
Stockwood, 8. H., Esq.
Swansea Free Library
Talbot, Miss . . . .
Thomas, A. C, Esq. .
Thomas, D. Lleufer, Esq., M.A.
Thomas, J. Lynn, Esf^., C.B. .
Thomas, Rev. J. L., M.A.
Thomas, Trevor F., Esq. .
♦Thomas, Lewis D., Esq. .
Thompson, Herbert M., Esq. .
Traherne, L. E., Esq.
Tyler, Mrs. Trevor .
University College Library
Vachell, C. T., Esq., M.D.
Tythegston Court, Bridgend, Glam.
6, Park Place, Cardiff
Glynbargoed, Treharris, Glam.
Ystrad - y - f odwg Vicarage, Pentre,
Glamorgan
Tynewydd, Llandaff
Rectory, Merthyr Tydfil
Phw Penydarren, Merthyr Tydfil
Greenmeadow, Tongwynlais, Cardift
Llandaff Place, Llandaff
Baglan, Briton Ferry
Glasfryn, Dinas-Fowys, Cardiff
Pen lUtyd, Palace Road, LUndaff
Dyffryn, Neath
Brynbriallu, Swansea
Bryn Teilo, LUndaff
12, Queen's Chambers, Queen Street,
Cardiff
The Ham, Cowbridge
Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend, Glam.
Grammar School, Swansea
Skewen Vicarage, Neath
University College, Cardiff
43, Trafalgar Terrace, Swansea
Glyndwr, 190, Newport Road, Cardiff
48, Glebeland Street, Merthyr Tydfil
Woodlands, Neath
Newcastle House, Bridgend
Swansea
Cardwell Chambers, Marsh Street,
Bristol; and Southemdown
Training College, Swansea
Brynheulog, Hengoed, Cardiff
Bridgend, Glam.
Swansea
Margam Park, Taibaoh
103, Cathedral Road, Cardiff
Hendre, Swansea
21, Windsor Place, Cardiff
Pont-neath-Vaughan, Neath
Ely Rise, Cardiff
27, Rope Walk, Neath
Whitley Batch, Llandaff
Coedriglan Park, Cardifl
Llantrythid, Cowbridge
Cardiff
11, Park Place, Cardiff
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LtSt Ot M1SMBSR6.
16
Ward, John, Esq., F.S.A. .
WheatJey, J. L., Eaq.
♦Wniiams, W., Esq., M.D.
WiUiamB, Mrs.
Wilking, Charles, Esq., F.G.S.
Public Maseum, Cardiff
174, Newport Road, Cardiff
Ponarth, Glam.
Cartrefle, Hirwain, Aberdare
Springfield, Merthyr Tydfil
PEMBROKESHIRE. (26)
Cawdor, The Right Hon. Earl,
Lord Lientenant of Pem-
brokeshire ....
Philipps, Sir C. E. G., Bart.,
Lord Lieutenant of the Town
and County of Haverfordwest .
Scourfield,SirOwenH. P.,Bart.
Alien, Miss Mary
AUen, Herbert, Esq.
Bancroft, J., Esq., H.M.I.S.
Bowen, Rev. Preb. .
Bushell, Rev. W. Done, M.A. .
Cathedral Library
Chidlow, Rev. C, M.A. .
Green, Francis, Esq. .
Hilbers, Yen. Archdeacon, M. A .
Jones, E. D., Esq. .
Laws, Edward, Esq., F.S.A.
Leach, A. L., Esq. .
Lewis, Rev. T
♦Lloyd, Richard, LI., Esq.
Owen,Henry,E8q.,D.C.L.,F.S.A.
Phillips, Rev. James
PhiUips, J. W., Esq.
Phillips, Rev. J. . . .
Samson, Louis, Esq., F.S.A.
Thomas, A. H., Esq., A.R.LB.A.
Thomas, Rev. O. Jones
Thomas, Mrs. James
Wade-Evans, Rev. A. W. .
Stackpole Court, Pembroke
Picton Castle, Haverfordwest
Williamston, Neyland
c/o C. F. Ecerton Allen, Esq., Hill
Cottage, Tenby
10, The Norton, Tenby, and Winton
House, Leamington
Somerset House, Tenby
Monkton Priory, Pembroke
The Hermitage, Harrow ; and Caldy,
Pembroke
St. David's, Pembroke
Llawhaden Vicarage, Nar berth
Glanymor, St. David's
St. Thomas Rectory, Haverfordwest
6, Addison Road, Kensington, W.,
and Fishguard
Brython Place, Tenby
Giltar, Shrewsbury Lane, Plumstead,
S.E. ; (Tenby and Co., News Office,
Tenby)
Lampeter Velfrey Rectory, Narberth
Pen ty park, Clarbeston Road, S.O.
44, Oxford Terrace, Hyde Park, W. ;
and Poyston, Pembroke
Haverfordwest
Haverfordwest
Uzmaston Vicarage, Haverfordwest
Scotch weU, Haverfordwest
County Surveyor's Office, Haverford-
west
Llandyssilio Vicarage, Clyndtrwen
Rook House, Haverfordwest
41, Goldsmith Avenue, Acton, W.,
and Fishguard, Pembroke
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16
LIBT OP MfiMBEES.
RADNORSHIRE. (8)
Day, Rev. E. Hermitage, D.D. . Bryn Moel, Abbey Cwm Hir, Peny-
Jones, John, Esq. . . . Ash Villa, Rhayader (bont, R.S.O.
Sladen, Mrs Rhydoldog, Rhayader
Thomas, Rev. J. J., B.A.
Thomas, R. Wellings, Esq.
Venables-Lle welyn, Charles, Esq.
Williams, Mrs.
Williams, Rev. Preb. T., M.A.
The Manse, Rhayader
County Surveyor's Office, Uandrindod
Llyadinam, Newbridge-on-Wye
Penralley, Rhayader
Llowes Vicarage, Hereford
MONMOUTHSHIRE, (ii)
Tredegar, Right Hon. Viscount,
Lord Lieut, of Monmouthshire
Llangattock, The Kt. Hon. Lord
Jackson, Sir U. M., Bart. .
Anthony, Miss ....
Bowen, A. E., Esq.
Bradney, Joseph A., Esq.
Hanbury, J. Capol, Esq.
Martin, E. P., Esq. . . The Hill, Abergavenny
Rickards, R., Esq. . . The Priory, Usk
Secretary, The .... Public Library, Newport, Mon.
Williains, Albert A., Esq. Penyparc, Llangibby, Newport^ Mon.
Tredegar Park, Newport
The Hendre, Monmouth
Llantilio Court, Abergavenny
The Grove, Caerphilly, Mon.
The Town Hall, Pontypool
Tal-y-Coed, Abergavenny
Pontypool Park, Mon.
THE MARCHES. (29)
Harlech, The Right Hon. Lord .
Banks, W. H., Esq., B.A. .
Bulkeley-Owen,Rev.T.M.,M.A.
Corrie, A. Wynne, Esq.
Davies, James, Esq. .
Drinkwater, Rev. C. H., M.A. .
Gleadowe, T. S., Esq., H.M.LS.
Lloyd, Edward, Esq.
Longley, Mrs
Newell, Rev. E. J., M.A.
Nicholson, A. C, Esq.
Owen, John, Esq.
Parry- Jones, J., Esq.
Pilley, Walter, Esq. .
Sitwell, F. Hurst, Esq.
Summers, H. H. C, Esq. .
Swainsun, Rev. J. G.
Taylor, Henry, Esq., F.S.A.
Woodall, Edward, Esq.
Brogyntyn, Oswestry
Hergest Croft, Kington, Herefordshire
Tedsmore Hall, West Felton, R.S.O.
Park Hall, Oswestry
Gwynva, Broomy Hill, Hereford
St. George's Vicarage, Shrewsbury
11, Stanley Place, Chester
Meillionen, Hoole, Chester
Dinhara House, Ludlow [timer, Salop
Neen Solars Vicarage, Cleobury Mor-
12, Salop Road, Oswestry
Tawelan, Newton Lane, Chester
Plas, Glyn, Rhuabon
The Barton, Hereford
Ferney Hall^ Craven ArmF, Shropshire
Picton Villa, Oswestry
Wistaiistow Rectory, Craven Arms,
S.O., Salop
12, Curion Park, Chester
Wingthorpe, Oswestry
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CORRESPONDING SOCIETIES. 17
CORRESPONDING SOCIETIES.
The Society of Antiqaaries, Burlington Hoase, London (c/o W. H.
St. John Hope, Esq.)
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Queen Street Museum, Edin-
burgh (c/o Joseph Anderson, Esq., LL.D.)
The Royal Society of Antiquaries, Ii-eland (c/o R. H. Cochrane, Esq.,
F.S.A., 6, St. Stephen's Green, Dublin)
The British Archseological Association, Brooklyn Lodge, Mill Hill,
Barnes, S.W. (c/o R. H. Forster, Esq.)
The ArchsBological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland, 20, Hanover
Square, W. (c/o The Secretary)
The Royal Society of Northern Antiquaries, Copenhagen
The Royal Institution of Cornwall, Truro (c/o Major T. Parkyn)
The Cambridge Antiquarian Society, Cambridge
The Bristol and Gloucestershire Archasological Society (The Society's
Library, Eastgate, Gloucester)
The Chester Archaeological and Historical Society (c/o I. E. Ewen, Epq.,
Grosvenor Museum, Chester)
The Shropshire Archaeological and Natural History Society (c/o F.
Goyne, Esq., Shrewsbury)
The Cumberland and Westmorland Antiquarian Society, Kendal
Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle-on-Tyne (R. Blair, Esq., F.S.A.)
La Soci^t^ d'Arch^ologie de Bruxelles, Rue Ravenstein 11, Bruxelles
The Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D. C, U.S.A.
The Library, Bureau of Ethnology, Washington, D.C., U.S.A.
Kongl. Vitterhets Historic och Antiquitets Akademien, Stockholm
(c/o Dr. Anton Blomberg, Librarian).
All Members residing in South Wales and Monmouthshire are
requested to forward their subscriptions to the Rev. Charles Chidlow,
M.A., Llawhaden Vicarage, Narberth. All other Members to the Rev.
Canon R. Trevor Owen, F.S.A., Bodelwyddan Vicarage, Rhuddlan,
Flintshire, S.O.
As it is not impossible that omissions or errors may exist in the above
list, corrections will be thankfully received by the General Secretaries.
The Annual Subscription is One Cruinea^ payable in advance on the first
day of the year.
Members wishing to retire must give six months* notice previous to the
first day of the following year, at the same time paying all arrears.
All communications with regard to the Archceologia Ca/mhrensis should
be addressed to the Editor, J. Romilly Allen, F.S. A., 28, Great Ormond
Street, London, W.C.
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18 lAWS.
LAWS
OF THB
Cambrian ^Ircbaeologtcal ^tssociation.
ESTABLISHBD 1846,
In order to Examiney Preserve, and Illustrate the Ancient Monuments and
Remains of the History, Language, Manners, Customs,
and Arts of Wales and the Marches.
CONSTITUTION.
1. The AsBOoiation shall consist of Subsoribing, Corresponding, and Hono-
rary Members, of whom the Honorary Members must not be British
subjeote.
ADMISSION.
2. New members may be enrolled by the Chairman of the Committee, or by
either of the General Secretaries ; but their election is not complete
nntil it shall have been confirmed by a General Meeting of the A^ocia-
tion,
GOVBBNMENT.
3. The Goyemment of the Association is vested in a Committee consisting
of a President, Vice-Presidents, a Treasurer, a Chairman of Committee,
the General and Local Secretaries, and not less than twelve, nor more
than fifteen, ordinary subscribing members, three of whom shall retire
annually according to seniority.
ELECTION.
4. The Vice-Presidents shall be chosen for life, or as long as they remain
members of the Association. The President and all oti^er officers shall
be chosen for one year, but shall be re-eligible. The officers and new
members of Committee shall be elected at the Annual General Meet-
ing. The Committee shall recommend candidates ; but it shall be
open to any subscribing member to propose other candidates, and to
demand a poll. All officers and members of the Committee shall be
chosen from the subscribing members.
THE CHAIB.
5. At all meetings of the Committee the chair shall be taken by the Presi-
dent, or, in his absence, by the Chairman of the Committee.
CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE.
6. The Chairman of the Committee shall superintend the business of the
Association daring the intervals between the Annual Meetings ; and
he shall have power, with the concurrence of one of the G^nerid Secre-
taries, to authorise proceedings not specially provided for by the laws.
A report of his proceedings sl^ll be laid before the Committee for their
approval at the Annual General Meeting.
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LAWS. 19
BDITORIAL SUB-COMMITTEB.
7. There shall be an Editorial Snb-Oommittee, oonsiBting of at least three
members, who sliall saperintend the publications of the Association, and
■hall report their proceedings annually to the Committee.
I
8UB8CBIPTI0N.
8. All Subsoribing Members shall pay one guinea in advance, on the 1st of
January in eaoh year, to the Treasurer or his banker (or to either of
the General Secretaries).
WITHDBAWAL.
9. Members wishing to withdraw from the Aissociation must g^ive six
months' notice to one of the General Secretaries, and must pay all
arrears of subscriptions.
PUBLICATIONS.
10. All Subscribing and Honorary Members shall be entitled to receive all
the publications of the Association issued after their election (except
any special publication issued under its auspices), together with a
ticket giving free admission to the Annual Meeting.
SEOBBTABIBB,
11. The Secretaries shall forward, once a month, all subscriptions received
by them to the Treasurer.
TBEASUBER.
12. The accounts of the Treasurer shall be made up annually, to December
Slst; and as soon afterwards as may be convenient, they shall be
audited by two subscribing members of the Association, to be appointed
at the Annual General Meeting. A balance-sheet of the said accounts,
certified by the Auditors, shall be printed and issued to the members.
BILLS.
1 3. The funds of the Association shall be deposited in a bank in the name
of the Treasurer of the Association for the time being ; and all bills
due from the Association shall be countersigned by one of the General
Secretaries, or by the Chairman of the Committee, before they are paid
by the Treasurer.
OOMMITTBE-MBBTIKO.
14. The Committee shall meet at least once a year for the purpose of nomi-
nating officers, framing rules for the government of the Association,
and transacting any other business that may be brought before it.
GBNBBAL MEETIKG.
15. A General Meeting shall be held annually for the transaction of the
business of the Ajssociation, of which due notice shall be given to the
members by one of the General Secretaries.
SPECIAL MEETING.
16. The Chairman of the Committee, with the concurrence of one of the
General Secretaries, shall have power to call a Special Meeting, of
which at least three weeks* notice shall be given to each member by
one of the G^eral Secretaries.
QUOBUM.
17. At all meetings of the Committee five shall form a quorum.
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20 LAWS.
CHAIRHA.N.
18. At the Annual Meeting the President, or, in his absence, one of the
Vioe-Presidents, or the Chairman of the Ck>mmittee, shall take the
chair ; or, in their absence, the Committee may appoint a chairman.
CASTINa VOTE.
19. At all meetings of the AjBsociation or its Committee, the Chairman shall
have an independent as well as a casting vote.
20. The Treasurer and other officers shall report their proceedings to the
General Committee for approval, and the General Committee shall
report to the Annual General Meeting of Subscribing Members.
TICKETS.
21. At the Annual Meeting, tickets admitting to excursions, exhibitions,
and evening meetings, shall be issued to Subscribing and Honorarj
Members g^tuitously, and to corresponding Members at such rates as
may be fixed by the officers.
ANNUAL MEBTINO.
22. The superintendence of the arrangements for the Ajinual Meeting shall
be under the direction of one of the General Secretaries in conjunction
with one of the Local Secretaries of the Association for the district,
and a Local Committee to be approved of by such General Secretary.
LOCAL EXPENSES.
2.S. All funds subscribed towards the local expenses of an Annual Meeting
shall be paid to the Joint account of the General Secretary acting for
that Meeting and a Local Secretary ; and the Association shall not be
liable for any expense incurred without the sanction of such General
Secretary.
AUDIT OF LOCAL EXPENSES.
24. The accounts of each Annual Meeting shall be audited by the Chairman
of the Local Committee, and the balance of receipts and expenses on
each occasion be received, or paid, by the Treasurer of the Ajssociation,
such audited accounts being sent to him as soon after the meeting as
poFsible.
ALTERATIONS IN THE RULES.
25. Any Subscribing Member may propose alterations in the Rules of the
Association ; but such alteration must be notified to one of the G^eral
Secretaries at least one month before the Annual Meeting, and he shall
lay it before the Committee ; and if approved by the Committee, it
shall be submitted for confirmation at the next Meeting.
(Signed) C. C. Babington,
Augfust 17tb, 1876. Chairman of the Committee,
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"32101 063966^1
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