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Chapels - Aberdare
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This project is fully described on Glamorgan Chapels Database
This Aberdare database compiled by Gareth Hicks with contributions from
- John Eaton
- Pam Thornbury
- Gaynor Harris
- Delyth Wilson
If a chapel is already mentioned on the main parish page then its name will act as a link to that section for any data recorded there - such as extant records and OS Grid references
Some chapels may have more than one entry if it is not possible to correctly identify each from a particular source
(For an explanation of the various non-conformist denominations see Wales - Genealogy Help Pages )
Sources referred to (indicated by number shown in brackets after the data entry) where there may be more data available
Sources
- 1. My Ancestors were Congregationalists in England and Wales, by D J H Clifford, SOG, 1992.
- 2. Independent Chapels of Wales: History Books and Pamphlets by Huw Walters.
- 3. Glamorgan Bibliography on Genuki
- 4. Congregational marriage registers at GLA Archives
- 5. Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc
- 6. Slaters Directory for 1858-1859
- 7. Dissent in the Counties of Glamorgan and Monmouth by Hywel D Emanuel, National Library of Wales journal, Vol VIII/4, Winter 1954.
- 8. Kelly's Directory, South Wales 1895 - the Archive CD Books Cd
- 9. Kelly's Directory, South Wales 1910 - the Archive CD Books Cd
- 10. The Chapels Recording Project in Wales (RCAHMW)
- 11. The Cambrian Index - The index data is obviously limited , there may be more available via the online contact address
- 12. D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975 [This is an essential read for anyone wanting to understand the history of non-conconformism in the Aberdare valley]
- 13. Jones, I.G. & Williams, D. The Religious census of 1851 : A Calendar of the returns relating to Wales, Vol 1, South Wales. UWP, Cardiff, 1976 [a name of an official quoted below is the person shown as 'the informant']
- 14. Personal Knowledge/Research
Additional
- Chapels of the Cynon Valley by Alan Vernon Jones. Cynon Valley History Society 2004
- People's Collection Wales site (use on-site search box)
- Glamorgan Record Office in Cardiff hold most extant parish church and non-conformist chapel records, these are listed on their site (click ' history of your family' on main page and scroll down to the end of the next page).
- West Glamorgan Archive Service
- The Presbyterian Church of Wales site - the source of many of the CM chapel 'still open in 2006' notes below
NB
- Below is an extract from Old Aberdare, vol 1, the details of which haven't been apportioned to the individual chapel entries below
- The Rhondda Cynon Taff Photographic Archive has pictures of many of the chapels mentioned below (then follow link 'Search the Images')
Baptist
Beulah Baptist chapel, Llanddewi St/Regent St, Aberaman
- Beulah Baptist chapel, Aberaman 300 sittings Rev William Edward Harries 1910 (9)
- Beulah English Baptist chapel, Llanddewi St/Regent St, Aberaman SO01430112 Built in 1890, still in use in 1998 (10)
Gwawr Baptist chapel, Regent St, Aberaman
- Gwawr Baptist chapel, Aberaman Rev Thomas Davies 1895 (8) 900 sittings and Rev William Thomas Francis in 1910 (9)
- Gwawr Baptist chapel, Regent St, Aberaman SO01230136 Built in 1848/9, rebuilt/modified 1871, rebuilt/modified again in 1893 (10)
- Gwawr Welsh Baptist, Jubilee Rd, Godreaman has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- "The Welsh Baptist Church at Aberaman had 189 members in 1925, in 1955 only 66 members, in 1963 42 ."
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) [right place ?] - Gwawr Baptist, Abergwawr Erected in 1849 Dewi Bevan Jones, minister, Aberamman 1851 (13)
Ynysllwyd Welsh Baptist chapel, Cardiff Rd/Sunnybank St, Aberaman
- Ynysllwyd Welsh Baptist chapel, Cardiff Rd 800 sittings Rev R Ellis Williams 1895 (8) and 1910 (9)
- Ynyslwyd Welsh Baptist chapel, Sunnybank St, Aberaman SO00830197 Built in 1862 and rebuilt/modified in 1867, still in use in 1994 (10) (same place ?)
Bethesda Welsh Baptist chapel, John St, Abercwmboi
- Bethesda Baptist chapel, Abercwmboi 400 sittings Rev M Jenkins 1910 (9) and Rev Mathias Jenkins in 1910 (9)
- Bethesda Welsh Baptist chapel, John St, Abercwmboi ST02639986 Built in 1864 with modifications in 1906, still in use in 2002 (10)
Carmel Baptist chapel, Monk St, Aberdare
- Baptist chapel, Aberdare Rev. T. B. Price Slaters Directory for 1858-1859 (6)
- 1810, November 9; Baptist; a house called Carmel; Rees Jones, Minister, Lewis Richard, Howel Evan, David Lewis, Richard Thomas, Morgan Morgan, William Lewis (7)
- Undated (endorsed: 1807, November 28); Particular Baptist; a house called Carmel; William Rees, Lewis Richard, Thomas Morgan (7)
- Carmel Baptist, Monk St, Aberdare 600 sittings Rev Thomas Jones 1895 (8)
- Carmel Baptist, Monk St, Aberdare 700 sittings Rev Arthur B Kinsey 1910 (9)
- See extended text history of this chapel below - this is based on a reading of Chapels of the Cynon Valley by Alan Vernon Jones. Cynon Valley History Society 2004
- Banner of Carmel English Baptist Sunday school on People's Collection Wales site (use on -site search box)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- See Bap/Mar/Bur data on FreeReg
- Carmel Particular Baptist, Pen-y-pound "First erected in 1812, enlarged in 1832 on present site ..... our chapel now much too small.... erecting a new chapel and large school room .... we will occupy new chapel on 30 Sept 1851 ..... cost of erection will be £1200" Thomas Price, minister, Rose Cottage, Aberdare. 1851 (13)
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
Nazareth English Baptist Sunday Schools, Aberdare
- Banner on People's Collection Wales site (use on -site search box)
Calvaria /Calfaria Welsh Baptist, Monk St, Aberdare
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc MIs (5)
- Calfaria Welsh Baptist, Monk St, Aberdare 1000 (850) sittings Rev James Griffiths 1895 (8) and (9)
- Banner of Calvaria Sunday school on the People's Collection Wales site (use on -site search box)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
- "Calfaria Baptist Church, Aberdare, where the Rev. Dr. Thomas Price ministered, had a thousand members in 1862; by 1871 471, 1925 slightly down to 395, and thirty years afterwards the membership was 200 (1955). In 1961 the church had 183 members and 168 in 1963."
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - " What would have happened to the Welsh Baptists in the Aberdare Valley without the charismatic figure of Dr. Thomas Price? When he was first ordained as minister of Calfaria Baptist Church, Aberdare, in 1846, there were only 91 members, including a number at Mountain Ash. In 1847 he arranged special missions to Abernant, Heolyfelin and Aberaman with 121 members; 1852 Carmel (English cause) with 58, and, in 1855, Mountain Ash with 89 members.After Jubilee meetings held in 1862, Calfaria allowed 163 members to form a Church at Bethel, Abernant, and at Ynyslwyd with 31 members; also at Gadlys in 1869 with 49 members. Dr. Price was responsible for building seven chapels, three schools, and forming eight churches."
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Soar/Orab Welsh Baptist, Aberdare ?
- 1842, December 19; Welsh Baptist; a building called, Orab Chapel; Jonathan Jones of the parish of Aberdare, coal weigher (7)
- 1842, December 19: Welsh Baptist; a building called Soar Chapel; Jonathan Jones of the parish of Aberdare, coal weigher (7)
Bethel Welsh Baptist chapel, Abernant Rd, Abernant y Groes (Abernant)
- 1841, April 6; Baptist; a building called Abernant y Groes; William Lewis, William Howells, John Eynon, Solomon Lewis (7)
- Abernant Baptist chapel, Abernant Rev John Mills 1895 (8)
- Bethel Welsh Baptist chapel, Abernant 700 sittings 1910 (9)
- Bethel Welsh Baptist chapel, Abernant Rd, Abernant SO01330351 Built in 1856 and rebuilt/modified in 1862 and in 1895, still in use in 1994 (10)
- Particular Baptist, Abernant y Groes Erected in 1840 "The parcel of ground on which the chapel is built has been bequeathed to the church by William Thomas Davies." John David Williams, minister, Cwmbach 1851 (13)
- "The Baptist Church at Abernant has seen a catastrophic drop in members in the last forty years; a rapid decline from 398 in 1925 to 165 in 1955, 161 in 1961, and 137 in 1963."
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Bethesda Welsh Baptist chapel, Cap Coch
- Bethesda Welsh Baptist chapel, Cap Coch
Sion/Seion Welsh Baptist chapel, Cwmneol Place, Cwmaman
- Sion Welsh Baptist chapel, Cwmneol Place, Cwmaman Rev Thomas H Humphreys 1895 (8) and 1910 with 750 sittings Rev Thomas H Humphreys (9)
- Seion Welsh Baptist chapel, Cwmneol, Cwmaman ST00379955 Built in 1861, still in use in 1994 (10)
- "Seion, Cwmaman, built in 1861, ten years afterwards had 76 members, by 1925 398, in 1955 declined to 214, by 1961 to 188, 169 in 1963."
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Anon. Eglwys y Bedyddwyr, Seion Cwmaman : Canmlwyddiant yr achos 1859-1959 [Seion Baptist church, Cwmaman: the centenary of the cause 1859-1959]. Aberdâr, 1959.
Trinity English Baptist chapel, Prospect Place/Milton St, Cwmaman
- Trinity English Baptist, Cwmaman 50 sittings Rev A T Phillips 1910 (9)
- Trinity English Baptist chapel, Prospect Place, Milton St, Cwmaman ST00289957 Built in 1902, not still in use pre 1998 (10)
Bethania Welsh Baptist chapel, Bethania Place, Cwmbach
- Bethania Baptist chapel, Cwmbach Rev David Thomas 1895 (8) and Rev Joseph James 800 sittings in 1910 (9)
- Bethania Welsh Baptist chapel, Bethania Place, Cwmbach SO02310165 Built in 1858 and rebuilt/modified in 1875 and in 1893, repaired in 1950, still in use in 1994 (10)
- "Baptist Church at Cwmbach, in 1925 there were 314 members, in 1955 140, in 1960 100
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Nebo Baptist chapel, Dare Rd, Cwmdare
- Nebo Baptist chapel, Dare Rd, Cwmdare Rev William Thomas 1895 (8) and Rev W A Jones 750 sittings 1910 (9)
- Nebo Welsh Baptist chapel, Cwmdare Rd, Cwmdare SN98190337 Built in 1867, demolished pre 1998 (10)
Baptist chapel, Hirwaun
- Baptist, Hirwaun Rev. Benjn. Evans Slaters Directory for 1858-1859 (6)
- Baptist chapel, Foundry Rd, Hirwaun SN95590548 (10) (same place ?)
Siloam (Siloah) Welsh Baptist chapel, Pontbren Llwyd, Penderyn, (near Hirwaun)
- Siloam (Siloah) Welsh Baptist chapel, Pontbren Llwyd, Penderyn, (near Hirwaun) SN95060809 Built in 1823/4 with extension & rebuilding in 1857-8, still in use in 2001 (10)
- Siloam Particular Baptist, Penderin Erected c 1823 Daniel Evans, minister, Penderin 1851 (13)
Ramoth Particular Baptist chapel, Trevenock Place, Hirwaun
- Undated (endorsed; received 1826, June 15); Particular Baptist; a meeting house called Ramoth; William JONES, Thomas HOPKINS, Thomas JONES, John RICHARD, Isaac FRANCIS (7)
- There is a book by Evans, Alexander S. Hanes Eglwys Ramoth Hirwaun o'i chychwyniad hyd ddiwedd 1911. Blaenau Ffestiniog : Argraffwyd dros y cyhoeddwyr gan J.D. Davies & Co., 1913. (3)
- Ramoth Welsh Baptist chapel, Trevenock Place, Hirwaun SN95870556 Built in 1825/6, rebuilt/modified in 1837, rebuilt/modified again 1867, further modified 1894. Closed 1986 but reopened 1994, still in use in 2002 (10)
- Ramoth Baptist, Hirwain Erected in 1825 Benjamin Evans, minister, Hirwain 1851 (13)
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
Details of extant records on Archives Network Wales for the following;
- The Ramoth Particular Baptist chapel at Hirwaun, Glamorgan, was registered as a place of worship on the 15 June 1826. It closed in 1986
Zoar Welsh Baptist chapel, Llwydcoed
- Welsh Baptist chapel, Llwydcoed Rev Daniel Jones 1895 (8)
- Zoar Welsh Baptist chapel, Llwydcoed 400 sittings 1910 (9)
- Soar Welsh Baptist chapel, Kingsbury Place, Llwydcoed SN99280484 Built in 1859 and rebuilt/modified in 1873, closed early 1980s. (10)
Bethel Baptist chapel, Penderin
- Bethel Baptist chapel, Penderin "Erected before 1800; building not used exclusively as a place of worship" David Davies, Abernant 1851 (13)
Heol-y-felin Welsh Baptist chapel, Bell St, Trecynon
- Welsh Baptist chapel, Bell St, Trecynon 900 sittings Rev William Harris 1895 (8) and Rev W Cynog Williams 1000 sittings 1910 (9)
- Heol-y-felin Welsh Baptist chapel, Bell St, Trecynon SN99480361 Built in 1852, rebuilt/modified in 1883 and extensively remodelled in 1893, further alterations in 1904/5, still in use in 1994 (10)
Gadlys Welsh Baptist chapel, Chapel St/Railway St, Trecynon
- Gadly's Welsh Baptist chapel, Chapel St 700 sittings Rev Benj Evans 1895 (8)
- Gadlys Welsh Baptist chapel, Chapel St 700 sittings Rev Robert Gwenffrwd Hughes 1910 (9)
- Gadlys Welsh Baptist chapel, Railway St, Trecynon SN99790315 Built in 1864 and rebuilt/modified in 1898 and 1903, closed 1970s. (10)
- Gadlys Welsh Baptist chapel, Aberdare has records at Glamorgan Record Office
Noddfa Welsh Baptist chapel, Mount Pleasant St, Trecynon
- Noddfa Welsh Baptist chapel, Mount Pleasant St, Trecynon SN99510354 Built in 1905, still in use in 1994 (10)
- Banner of Noddfa Baptists Sunday school, Trecynon on the People's Collection Wales site (use on -site search box)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
Congregationalist
Independents in Aberdare parish;-
- " The career of the Independents commenced, it will be remembered, simultaneously with the Calvinistic Methodists, in 1799. They worshipped for a considerable time in a small cottage fitted up with a pulpit and benches. In 1811, however, the chapel at Trecynon, Ebenezer, was built. In 1826 the number of members at that place was only 26. But it rapidly increased, and became the "mother church" to almost the whole of the other chapels of that denomination throughout the valley. Ebenezer was enlarged in 1852 and a capacious hall erected close at hand, for the use of the Sunday School, in 1860. The Rev. D. Rees of Swansea spent a few of the earlier years of his ministry here; being followed by the Rev. William Edwards who laboured here for 41 years - from 1843 to 1884. In 1823, Nebo, Hirwaun, was erected, and has been twice enlarged since then. In 1841, Salem, Roberts' Town was built; Siloa near the Town Hall following in 1844." From the Aberdare Illustrated Almanack, 1901 [14 Delyth Wilson]
Bethany Congregational chapel, Victoria Terrace, Aberaman
- Bethany Congregational chapel, Victoria Terrace, Aberaman - Details of extant records at Glamorgan Archives (4)
- Bethany Ind chapel, Aberaman Rev John Thomas Rhys 1910 (9)
- Bethany Ind chapel, Aberaman SO0101 Chapel built in 1855 and rebuilt/modified in ca. 1860 and 1898 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Records Office
Tabernacle Ind chapel, Duke St, Aberaman
- Has records at Glamorgan Records Office
- Should this be Aberdare ? See below
Saron Welsh Independent chapel, Davis St, Aberaman
- Saron Welsh Independent chapel, Aberdare Built in 1848, still open in 1992 (1)
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc MIs (5)
- Saron Welsh Ind chapel, Aberaman Rev Henry P Jenkins 1895 (8) and with 900 sittings in 1910 (9)
- Saron Welsh Ind chapel, Davis St, Aberaman SO01260150 Cause began in 1846 and chapel built in 1848 with modifications in 1850, 1856 & 1890 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Records Office
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
- Shown as still open on the Union of Welsh Independents site (Dec 2006)
Ysgoldy Saron Ind (Siloa) chapel, Cardiff St, Aberaman
- Ysgoldy Saron Ind (Siloa) chapel, Cardiff St, Aberaman SO01620113 Still in use in 1997 (10)
Bethlehem Welsh Ind chapel, John St, Abercwmboi
- Bethlehem Welsh Ind chapel, John St, Abercwmboi 750 sittings Rev Joshua Bowen Davies 1910 (9)
- Bethlehem Ind chapel, Abercwmboi ST0299 Built in 1860, rebuilt/modified in 1876 and 1900, still in use in 1995 (10)
- Bethlehem, Abercwmboi declined from 336 members in 1904 to 143 in 1954
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Bethel Welsh Ind chapel, Chapel St, Aberdare
- Bethel Welsh Ind chapel, Chapel St, Aberdare 500 sittings Rev Hy Thomas Jacob 1895 (8)
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Ebenezer Independent chapel, Aberdare
- Ebenezer Welsh Independent chapel, Aberdare Built in 1804 (1)
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc PRs (5)
- Ebenezer, Robertstown has records at Glamorgan Records Office
- "Between 1819 and 1813, the Welsh Independents had three meeting houses licensed, namely, the New Chapel in 1810, Ebenezer in 1811 and a 'building situate near Hirwaun Common in 1813 ' " ( Morgannwg 1874 quoted in D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Eleri Rowlands (April 2009)
Nebo Independent chapel, Aberdare
- Nebo Welsh Independent chapel, Aberdare (1)
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc PRs (5)
- 1823, November 20; Independent; a house called Nebo; Joseph Harrison, David Jenkins, John Harrison, Thomas Harrison (7)
New Chapel Independent, Aberdare
- 1810, October 13; Independent; a house called New Chapel; David William, Minister, William Pugh, Thomas Pugh, Mosses Hugs, Mark Gray, David Jones (7)
- Between 1819 and 1813, the Welsh Independents had three meeting houses licensed, namely, the New Chapel in 1810, Ebenezer in 1811 and a 'building situate near Hirwaun Common in 1813 ' " ( Morgannwg 1874 quoted in D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Salem Independent chapel, Aberdare
- Salem Welsh Independent chapel, Aberdare (1)
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc PRs (5)
- 1837, April 20; Independent; a house called Salem; Evan Thomas, Lewis Thomas, David Richards and William Edward, elders, Jonah Walters, Benjamin Lewis, Joseph Harrison, John Pugh, 'diacon', David Jenkins, John Harrison, Eustace Richards (it is uncertain exactly to whom the description 'elders' is intended to apply) (7)
- Salem Independent Erected in 1842 John Harrison, Elder, Gadlys 1851 (13)
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Eleri Rowlands (April 2009)
- Salem Ind chapel, Tresalem, Aberdare - Shown as still open on the Union of Welsh Independents site (Dec 2006) [right place?]
Siloah Welsh Independent chapel, Green St, Aberdare
- Siloah Welsh Independent chapel, Aberdare Built in 1845, still open in 1992 (1)
- Siloa Welsh Ind chapel, Green St, Aberdare 1000 sittings Rev D Silyn Evans 1895 (8) and 300 (?) sittings in 1910 (9)
- Siloa Welsh Ind chapel (Capel-yr-Annibynwyr), Green St, SN99990259 Built in 1844/5 and rebuilt/modified in 1855, 1875 & 1903, still in use in 1998 (10)
- "........... Siloa Congregational Church, Aberdare had 661 members in 1899, by 1907 it had gone up to 761, but by 1923 decline had started, and membership was 645. When the Rev. R. I. Parry was ordained in 1933, Siloa numbered 501, but by 1954 there were 363 members, and by 1964 had decreased to 191. "
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Siloa Congregationalist Erected in 1844 David Price, minister 1851 (13)
- Siloa Ind, Aberdare - Shown as still open on the Union of Welsh Independents site (Dec 2006)
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
- "We find in the Aberdare Valley that the location of the mines has been associated to a great extent with the location of the Nonconformist chapels. A Congregationalist minister, Rev. D. Silyn Evans, in his biography (Evans, 1896, p. 37) of Rev. David Price (1811 - 1878), has shown how the growth of their denomination in the Aberdare Valley developed hand in hand with the opening of the mines " ;-
" At the beginning of the public ministry of Mr. Price in Siloa, a number of large works were opened - the colliery of the Aberdare Coal Company, the colliery of Messrs. Williams and Lewis, the colliery of Llety Shenkyn, the colliery at Blaengwawr, the iron works at Aberaman, the colliery at Werfa, the colliery at Ysguborwen, and a number of other large and small collieries"
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Zoar (Soar) Welsh Independent chapel, Wind St, Aberdare
- 1843, March 22; Welsh Independent; a building called Zoar Chapel; David Price of the parish of Aberdare, collier (7)
- Soar Welsh Ind chapel, Wind St, Aberdare 600 sittings Rev John Davies 1895 (8) and 480 sittings with no minister mentioned in 1910 (9)
- Soar Ind chapel, Wind St, Aberdare SO00460223 First built in 1858, rebuilt/modified in 1891 and in 1905 (10)
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Tabernacle English Congregational chapel, Duke St/Station St, Aberdare
- There is a book by D.M. Richards: History of the Tabernacle English Congregational church, Aberdare, (Aberdare, 1893), 63pp. (2)
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc (5)
- Tabernacle Ind chapel, Station St, Aberdare 600 (650) sittings Rev Wm Edward Thomas 1895 (8) and 1910 with no minister mentioned (9)
- Tabernacle Ind chapel, Duke St, Station St, Aberdare SO00470251 Built in 1839 and rebuilt/modified in 1857/9 and 1875, demolished in 1973 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Details of extant records on Archives Network Wales for the following;
- Tabernacle English Congregational Church, Aberdare, records "Tabernacle English Congregational Church, Aberdare, minutes books of deaconate and church meetings, 1913-1922; minutes book of Sunday School meetings, 1917-1967; annual statements of account of Tabernacle Sunday School, 1932-1939; minute book of monthly church meetings, 1953-1968; and centenary booklet, 1957."
Bethesda Welsh Ind chapel, Windsor Terrace, Abernant Rd, Abernant
- Bethesda Welsh Ind chapel, Abernant Rev Isaac J Evans 1895 (8) and with 300 sittings in 1910 (9)
- Bethesda Welsh Ind chapel, Windsor Terrace, Abernant Rd, Abernant SO01320349 Built in 1860, rebuilt/modified in 1878 and 1906, still in use in 1992 (10)
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Bethlehem Welsh Ind chapel, John St, Cap Coch
- Bethlehem Welsh Ind chapel, John St, Cap Coch Rev Jonah Davies 1895 (8)
Bryn Moriah Ind chapel, Cwmaman
- Bryn Moriah Ind chapel, Cwmaman ST0099 (10)
- See also Capeli (2004 list of chapels under threat)
Moriah Aman Welsh Ind chapel, Forchaman St/Rd, Cwmaman
- Moriahaman Welsh Ind chapel, Forchaman St, Cwmaman Rev Henry Aaron Davies 1895 (8)
- Moriah Aman Welsh Ind chapel, Fforchaman Rd, Cwmaman 780 sittings 1910 (9)
- Moriah Aman Pentecostal (Independent Pentecostal), Fforchaman Rd, Cwmaman ST00489968 Built in 1855 and rebuilt/modified in1861 and 1893, still in use in 1994 (10)
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Bryn Sion (Seion) Welsh Independent chapel, Sion Terrace/ Tirfounder Rd, Cwm-bach
- Welsh Independent chapel, Cwm-bach Built in 1846 (1)
- There is a book by D.E. Williams: " Y can mlynedd hyn", 1845-1945: cipdrem ar hanes eglwys Bryn Seion, Cwmbach, (Aberdâr, 1945), 32tt.
- Bryn Sion Welsh Ind chapel, Sion Terrace, Cwmbach Rev David Morgan Davies 1895 (8)
- Bryn Sion Welsh Ind chapel, Sion Terrace, Cwmbach 750 sittings Rev D Ffrwdwen Davies 1910 (9)
- Bryn Seion Ind chapel, Tirfounder Rd, Cwmbach SO02370155 Built in 1846-7, rebuilt in 1852-3, 1857-8, rebuilt 1889, still in use in 1998 (10)
- Bryn Sion Independent, Cwmbach Erected in 1846 John Lloyd, minister 1851 (13)
- There's an article on Bryn Seion Chapel Cwmbach, including a photograph, in Alan Vernon Jones's 'Chapels of the Cynon Valley', published by the Cynon Valley History Society in 2004. ISBN 0-9531076-1-2 [Deric John]
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Elim Welsh Ind chapel, Bwllfa Rd, Cwmdare
- Elim Welsh Ind chapel, Cwmdare Rev David Griffiths 1895 (8) and Rev James Jones 600 sittings 1910 (9)
- Elim Welsh Ind chapel, Bwllfa Rd, Cwmdare SN97970324 Built in 1859 and enlarged in 1867, rebuilt/modified in 1902, still in use in 1994 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Mary Jane Stephenson (April 2008)
Details of extant records on Archives Network Wales for the following;
- Glamorgan Welsh Congregational Church marriage registers Including " ........Elim Congregational Church, Bwllfa Road, Cwmdare, 1923-1996...."
Bethany Welsh Ind chapel, Godreaman
- Bethany Welsh Ind chapel, Godreaman 600 sittings 1910 (9)
Noddfa Welsh Ind chapel (United Reformed Church), Cwmaman Rd, Godreaman
- Noddfa Ind chapel, Godreaman 476 sittings Rev Thomas Thomas 1910 (9)
- Noddfa Welsh Ind chapel (United Reformed Church), Cwmaman Rd, Godreaman SO01270053 Built in 1900, not still in use pre 1994 (10)
Nebo Welsh Independent chapel, Merthyr Rd, Hirwaun
- Nebo Welsh Independent chapel, Hirwaun Built in 1823, still open in 1992 (1)
- Independent, Hirwaun Rev William Williams Slaters Directory for 1858-1859 (6) (same place ?)
- Nebo Welsh Ind chapel, Merthyr Rd, Hirwaun SN95890551 Built in 1823 and enlarged in 1830, rebuilt/modified in 1836, 1851 and in ca.1890, still in use in 1996 (10)
- Records for Nebo, High St, Hirwaun at at Glamorgan Record Office
- Nebo Hirwaun Ironworks Independent - has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- Nebo Independent, Hirwaun Erected in 1821 David Evan Williams. Deacon. Bristol House, Hirwaun. 1851 (13)
- See Bap/Mar/Bur data on FreeReg
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Eleri Rowlands (April 2009)
- "Huge efforts are being made to restore Nebo, one of the oldest chapels in the valley. Members are appealing for support in raising the money needed to upgrade the building. It is more than 180 years old and is now in a poor state of repair.Despite its poor condition, it is still used every week for Sunday services.Steeped in history, Merthyr Tydfil ironmaster William Crawshay had his twin daughters christened there. Nebo is a Grade II listed building and is a perfect example of the architecture and design of its era" [Feb 2006] (GH 14)
- Shown as still open on the Union of Welsh Independents site (Dec 2006)
Mount Pleasant English Congregational chapel, Harris St, Hirwaun
- There is a book; Mount Pleasant English Congregational Church, Hirwaun: centenary celebrations 1866-1966, (Aberdare, 1966), 8pp. (2)
- Mount Pleasant English Ind chapel, Harris St, Hirwaun SN95820543 Built in 1868 (1865?), still in use in 2001 (10)
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
Tabernacle Ind chapel, Harris St, Hirwaun
- Tabernacle Ind chapel, Harris St, Hirwaun SN95840544 Built in 1857 and rebuilt/enlarged in 1859, rebuilt/modified again in 1875, demolished by 1990s (10)
Zoar/Soar Ind chapel, Chapel Rd, Penderyn (near Hirwaun)
- Zoar/Soar Ind chapel, Chapel Rd, Penderyn (near Hirwaun) SN94820888 Cause began in 1859, chapel built that year, extended in 1874, not still in use by 1994 (10)
Horeb Welsh Independent chapel, Horeb Terrace, Llwydcoed
- Horeb Welsh Ind chapel, Llwydcoed Rev Wm Samlet Davies 1895 (8) and with 480 sittings in 1910 (9)
- There is a book by Thomas Williams: Eglwysi Annibynol plwyf Aberdâr: atgofion hanner can mlynedd. Anerchiad a draddodwyd o'r gadair mewn cyfarfod chwarterol a gynhaliwyd yn Horeb, Llwydcoed, Ionawr 23ain, 1883, ac a gyhoeddir ar gais y cyfarfod, (Aberdâr, c.1883), 12tt. (2)
- Horeb Welsh Ind chapel, Horeb Terrace, Llwydcoed SN99230517 Built in 1859 and rebuilt/modified in 1911, still in use in 1994 (10)
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
- Rees, Thomas & John Thomas. Hanes Eglwysi Annibynnol Cymru (History of the Welsh Independent Churches), 4 volumes (published 1871+). Here is the entry for this chapel (in Welsh) - with translation by Gareth Hicks (April 2009)
- Shown as still open on the Union of Welsh Independents site (Dec 2006) but shown as 'for sale' on agent's site (Rowland Jones, Swansea) in Dec 2010
"The property comprises the main two storey chapel building and a single storey vestry building attached to the rear which also has a side extension providing the rear access and WC. Internally, the chapel premises comprise an entrance lobby leading to the main congregation room and two side staircases leading to the first floor gallery seating area. The main congregational room has the original fitted pews and pulpit. Externally, there is a small forecourt surrounded by a stone wall and gate."
Mountain of Zion Independent chapel
- Mountain of Zion Independent chapel "Part of dwelling house, erected in 1851 " Daniel Rowland, Deacon, Mountain Ash 1851 (13)
Cana Ind chapel, Gwladys St, Penywaun
- Cana Ind chapel, Gwladys St, Penywaun SN97710454 Built in 1892, modified, altered or rebuilt in 1907, closed 1994. (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- Shown as still open on the Union of Welsh Independents site (Dec 2006)
Salem Congregational chapel, Bridge St, Robertstown
- Salem Welsh Ind, Bridge St, Robertstown 700 sittings Rev JJD Rees 1895 (8) and 600 sittings in 1910 with no minister mentioned (9)
- Salem Ind chapel, Bridge St, Robertstown, Tresalem SO00160342 Timber chapel first built in 1836/7 and enlarged? in 1846, rebuilt/modified in 1853? and 1890/1 and remodelled again in 1899. Sunday Scool added 1900. Still in use in 1994 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- See Bap/Mar/Bur data on FreeReg
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
Bethel Welsh Ind chapel, Railway St, Gadlys, Tudor Terrace, Heol-y-felin, Trecynon
- Bethel Welsh Ind chapel, Railway St, Gadlys, Tudor Terrace, Heol-y-felin, Trecynon SN99770317 Built in 1860 and rebuilt/modified in ca.1900 and in 1910, not still in use pre 1994 (10)
Ebenezer Welsh Congregational Chapel, Heol-y-Felin/Ebenezer St/Mount Pleasant, Trecynon
- There is a book; Ebenezer Welsh Congregational Church, Trecynon, Aberdare: re-opening services after complete renovation and enlargement, (Aberdare, 1902), 15pp. (2)
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc MIs (5)
- Ebenezer Welsh Ind chapel, Ebenezer St, Trecynon Rev John Grawys Jones 1895 (8) and with 650 sittings 1910 (9)
- Ebenezer Welsh Ind chapel, Ebenezer St, Mount Pleasant/Heolyfelin,Trecynon SN99430357 First built in 1811, rebuilt/modified in 1830, enlarged in 1853 and rebuilt/modified ca.1891 and ca.1901. Sunday School opened 1880 and closed in 1919, still in use in 1998 (10)
- 1904; CONVERSIONS AT EBENEZER & BRYN SEION CHAPELS, TRECYNON.................. (11)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
- See Bap/Mar/Bur data on FreeReg
- "Ebenezer, Trecynon had 564 members in 1907, at the end of the Second World War 365 members, by 1954 330" (D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
- Shown as still open on the Union of Welsh Independents site (Dec 2006)
Siloh Welsh Ind chapel, Mount Pleasant St, Trecynon
- Siloh Welsh Ind chapel, Mount Pleasant St, Trecynon SN99580332 Built in 1889 and rebuilt/modified in 1902, not still in use in 1998 (10)
- Siloh Welsh Ind chapel Rev J Sulgwyn Davies 1910 (9) (Same place ??)
Methodist
The introduction to the Calvinistic Methodists given in the source book :
- "In 1799, one William Jenkins, a shopkeeper in the village asked the Monthly Meeting of the Calvinistic Methodists to depute some ministers of that denomination to visit Aberdare for the purpose of delivering sermons. This was acceded to, three ministers holding an open air meeting. As a result of their efforts, prayer meetings were held at William Jenkins' house; and at the first "society" there were 5 persons present. The little band grew larger in number, the ranks being increased by Christians of other denominations, more especially the Independents. They gradually, however, separated, the Methodists in 1806 building a chapel at Pentwynbach, Trecynon. This was eventually disposed of to the Wesleyan body for £30 and Carmel chapel built in 1829. The next chapel erected was Bethel, Hirwain (sic) in 1833; previous to this, a double cottage had been jointly used by the Methodists, Independents, Baptists and Wesleyans. In 1843, Moriah, Llwydcoed, was erected, being followed by Libanus, Aberaman in 1847. Ebenezer, Cwmbach, was also built near the same time. Bethania in the centre of Aberdare, was built in 1853. Ebenezer, Mountain Ash, was erected in 1857; Zoar, Cwmaman in 1859; Nazareth, Aberdare in 1860; Brynseion, Trecynon in 1862; Bethlehem, Mountain Ash, and Cwmdare chapel a little later. Trinity Chapel, near the Temperance Hall was erected for English Services in 1866. " From the Aberdare Illustrated Almanack, 1902 [14 Delyth Wilson]
Welsh Wesleyan Chapel
- Welsh Wesleyan Chapel Opened in 1850 Evan Evans. Trustee. Weigher, Aberaman 1851 (13)
Hebron Welsh CM chapel, Jubilee Rd, Aberaman / Godreaman
- Hebron Welsh CM chapel, Jubilee Rd, Aberaman 500 sittings Rev Jn Lewis 1910 (9)
- Hebron chapel, Aberaman SO0101 Built in 1867 and rebuilt/modified in 1893 ( and 1901?) (10)
- "...some of the chapels built around the beginning of the century, like Hebron Welsh CM chapel, Godreaman. closed in 1962." (D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
- Hebron, Aberaman had 86 Sunday school members in 1903
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Libanus Welsh CM chapel, Regent St/Lewis St, Aberaman
- Libanus CM chapel, Regent St, Aberaman 1895 (8) and 1910 (9)
- Libanus Welsh CM chapel, Lewis St, Aberaman SO01190153 Built in 1848, modified, altered or rebuilt in 1850 and 1876, disused by 1990 (10)
- Libanus CM chapel, Aberaman had 152 members in 1900, but also 355 adherents (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Libanus, Aberaman had 156 Sunday School members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - 1904; REPORTS FROM REVIVAL SERVICES AT.......................LIBANUS CHAPEL, ABERAMAN (11)
- Libanus Welsh CM, Aberaman Erected in 1847 " ... we have been Keeping the Sunday School in dwelling houses for some months previous to erecting chapel." William Morgan, Secretary, Aberaman Colliery 1851 (13)
Shiloh (Siloh) English Wesleyan Methodist, Regent St, Aberaman
- English Wesleyan Methodist, Aberaman 1895 (8) and in 1910 Rev Llewellyn Alfred Jones supt - also covering Mill St Trecynon 1910 (9)
- Siloh Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Regent St, Aberaman SO01330121 Built in 1847, rebuilt/modified 1896 (10)
Tabernacle Primitive Methodist chapel, Llanddewi St/Commercial Place, Aberaman
- Tabernacle Primitive Methodist chapel, Commercial Place, Aberaman (Also at Cwmbach) 1895 (8)
- See under Bethesda, Monk St in 1910
- Tabernacle Primitive Methodist chapel, Aberaman SO0101 Built in 1855 and rebuilt/modified in 1897 (10)
- Tabernacle (English), Llanddewi St, Commerce Place, Aberaman SO01460114 (10) (same place ?)
Mason St Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Commercial Place, Aberaman
- Mason St Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Commercial Place, Aberaman SO01390129 Built in 1938, still in use in 1999 (10)
Cap Coch Wesleyan Methodist, Abercwmboi
- Cap Coch chapel, Abercwmboi SO0201 Built in 1861 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Records Office
Graig Methodist chapel, School St, Abercwmboi
- Graig Methodist chapel, School St, Abercwmboi SO02250008 demolished by 1997 (10)
Bethania Welsh CM chapel, Wind St, Aberdare
- 1831, February 23; Welsh Calvinistic Methodist; a meeting house; Evan Griffiths of the parish of Aberdare, shopkeeper (7) (right place ?)
- Bethania Welsh CM chapel, Wind St, Aberdare 700 sittings Rev William James 1895 (8) and 1910 (9)
- Bethania Presbyterian (CM) chapel, Wind St, Aberdare SO00220249 Built in 1853/4, rebuilt/modified in 1884-5 New vestry added in 1866. Closed early 1990s (10)
- Bethania CM chapel, Aberdare in 1900 had 243 members, plus 500 gwrandawyr (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Bethania, Aberdare had 452 Sunday school members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - "Bethania Chapel, Aberdare. This church was formed in 1853 as a branch of Carmel by an energetic band of young men and women. There was scarcely a grey-headed person among them, and no death occurred in the church for 5 years. The first pastor was the late Rev. D. Saunders, D.D. who was chosen in 1856. They all set to work with the enthusiasm of youth, and by the blessing of God, the chapel was overcrowded in a few years and Nazareth chapel was built to receive another church and congregation. In a short time afterwards, another company went out to establish the Trinity English church. In 1863, Dr Saunders left for Liverpool and, in 1870, his successor, the present pastor, Rev. W. James was installed. The General Assembly of the Connection was held twice at this chapel in 1872 and 1885. Before the second meeting of the Assembly, the chapel had been thoroughly renewed and a commodious schoolroom erected. Accommodation: chapel: 700; schoolroom: 300; Services: Sunday: Young Men's Prayer Meeting and children's Bible Class at 10am; Sunday School at 2pm; Preaching Services at 11am and 6pm; Monday evening: Prayer meeting; Tuesday evening: Temperance and Literary Meeting; Wednesday evening: Band of Hope; Thursday evening: Church meeting; Friday evening: Bible class. [In the 1893 version of the Almanack there is a photograph of the Rev. David Saunders - here is a biography of him .]" From the Aberdare Illustrated Almanack, 1902 [14 Delyth Wilson]
Nazareth CM chapel, Trap Rd/Abernant Rd, Aberdare
- Nazareth CM chapel, Trap Rd, Aberdare 600 sittings 1895 (8) and 1910 (9)
- Nazareth CM chapel, Abernant Rd, Aberdare SO00530272 Built in 1860 and rebuilt/modified in 1905/6. Closed in 1960's. (10) (same place ?)
Bethesda Primitive Methodist chapel, Monk St, Aberdare
- Bethesda Primitive Methodist chapel, Monk St, Aberdare 400 sittings Rev Benjamin Walton 1895 (8)
- Bethesda Primitive Methodist chapel, Monk St, Aberdare 400 sittings Rev Thomas Henry Bryant supt & Rev Jacob W Richardson (looking after Aberaman, Cwmaman and Cwmbach too) 1910 (9)
- Aberdare Primitive Methodist Circuit records at Glamorgan Record Office
St Davids Presbyterian (CM) church, Aberdare
- St Davids Presbyterian (CM) church, Aberdare SO00150253 Built in 1875, rebuilt? in 1899, not still in use in 1994 (10)
- "Presbyterians were unknown in 'the valley' in the iron period but by 1897 they occupied a church called St David's under the ministry of the Rev J Robertson " ( D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Trinity CM chapel, Weatheral St/Canon St/Foundry Town, Aberdare
- Trinity CM chapel, Weatheral St, Aberdare 500 sittings 1895 (8) and Rev Richard Roberts in 1910 (9)
- Trinity CM chapel, Weatheral St/Canon St/Foundry Town, Aberdare SO00120264 Built in 1867, rebuilt/modified in 1877 and in 1893, remodelled post- 1894, enlarged again in 1908/9, modified internally in 1951, still in use in 1998 (10)
- Trinity Aberdare English CM chapel Weatharal Street, Aberdare, Morgannwg CF44 7AY - still open in 2006
- See John Ball's site Welsh Churches and Chapels Collection for a photograph/data
Sion Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Wind St, Aberdare
- Zion Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Wind St, Aberdare 600 sittings 1895 (8) and in 1910 Rev William Calvert supt & Rev Joseph Milligan supernumerary - also covering Green St 1910 (9)
- Aberdare Wesleyan Methodist chapel has records at Glamorgan Record Office
English Wesleyn Methodist, Green St, Aberdare
- Wesleyn Methodist, Green St, Aberdare 500 sittings Rev John Milligan 1895 (8)
- See Wind St above in 1910 (9)
- Green St English Wesleyan Methodist chapel, SO00030262 Built in 1859, still in use in 1997 (10)
- English Wesleyan Methodist Erected in 1841 George Walls, Chapel Steward 1851 (13)
- See John Ball's site Welsh Churches and Chapels Collection for a photograph/data re Green St English Wesleyan Chapel, Aberdare
Soar Welsh CM chapel, Fforchaman Rd, Cwmaman
- Soar Welsh CM chapel, Forchaman Rd, Cwmaman Rev William D Morris 1895 (8) and 500 sittings 1910 (9)
- Soar CM chapel, Fforchaman Rd, Cwmaman ST00449959 Built in 1858 and rebuilt in 1891, not still in use pre 1999 (10)
- Soar CM chapel, Cwmaman in 1900 had 264 members, plus 830 adherents (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Soar, Cwmaman had 113 Sunday School members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Cwmaman Methodist church has records at Glamorgan Records Office
Bethel Primitive Methodist, Cwmneol St, Cwmaman
- 1824, November 4; Protestant (endorsed: Methodist); a meeting house or chapel called Bethel; Benjamin Evans of the parish of St. Fagans, Preacher of the Gospel (7)
- Primitive Methodist chapel, Cwmaman 1895 (8)
- See under Bethesda, Monk St 1910
- Bethel Primitive Methodist chapel, Cwmneol St, Cwmaman ST00449965 Built in 1858, not still in use pre 1998 (10)
- Bethel Wesleyan Methodist, Cwmaman has records at Glamorgan Records Office
Primitive Methodist, Cwmbach
See under Tabernacle, Aberaman 1895, and Bethesda, Monk St 1910
Zoar Methodist chapel, Cwm-bach
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
Ebenezer CM chapel, Sion Terrace/Tirfounder Rd, Cwmbach
- Ebenezer CM chapel, Sion Terrace, Cwmbach Rev Henry Jones 1895 (8) and Rev Richard Roberts 1910 (9)
- 1812, April 13; Presbyterian; a meeting house called Ebenezer; Rev. Methusalem Jones, Lewis Laurance, deacon, William Williams and Evan Treharn, elders (7)
- Ebenezer CM chapel, Tirfounder Rd, Cwmbach SO02390149 Built in 1851 and rebuilt/modified in 1864 and 1908, still in use in 1994 (10)
- Ebenezer CM chapel, Cwmbach in 1900 had 155 members, plus 410 gwrandawyr (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Ebenezer, Cwmbach had 203 Sunday School members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - "It was in 1837 that a pit was sunk and Opened on the Abernanty-Groes estate by Thomas Wayne & Company. When the Calvinistic Methodists decided to start a Sunday School cause at Cwmbach, it began in the house of Dafydd Sims, chief overseer in the Hen-Lety-Siencyn pit. His home became too small for the Sunday School and it was decided to build a chapel; this was done in 1851." (D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Gobarth/Gobaith CM chapel, Cwmdare
- Gobarth/Gobaith CM chapel, Cwmdare 1895 (8) and 500 sittings 1910 (9)
- Cwmdare Presbyterian Church had 305 members in 1931, by 1966 only 71
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Gobaith, Cwmdar had 69 Sunday School members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Bethel Calvinistic Methodist chapel, Wind St, Hirwaun
- There is a book by Roderick, Dilwyn. Hanes Eglwys Bethel (M.C.) Hirwaun, 1923-1973. [Hirwaun] : [Eglwys Bethel], [1975].p20 (3)
- Bethel Welsh CM chapel, Wind St, Hirwaun SN95990555 Built in 1824 and rebuilt/modified ca.1840. Rebuilt/enlarged 1857, rebuilt/modified again in 1867 with further alterations/additions in 1871, 1893 and 1903. Demolished in the 1960s and new chapel built in 1975, later abandoned and the congregation merged in 1996 with Nebo. Demolished pre 2002 (10)
- Bethel CM chapel, Hirwaun had 500 members in 1931, only 143 by 1965
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Bethel, Hirwaun had 410 Sunday School members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Bethel CM, Hirwaun Erected in 1823 Morgan Davies. Elder. Grocer 1851 (13)
- Bethel Nebo Welsh CM chapel High Street, Hirwaun, Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf CF44 1AA - still open in 2006
Presbyterian, near Hirwaun Common
- 1813, March 27; Presbyterian; a building situated near Hirwaun Common; Richard Rees and Samuel Rees, gentlemen, of Wyrfa, parish of Aberdare, Thomas Evans, Minister, Thomas Rees, David Llewelyn, David Prichard (7)
- Between 1819 and 1813, the Welsh Independents had three meeting houses licensed, namely, the New Chapel in 1810, Ebenezer in 1811 and a ' building situate near Hirwaun Common in 1813 ' " ( Morgannwg 1874 quoted in D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) [right place / wrong denomination ?]
Soar Wesleyan Methodist (Blaen-gwawr), Station Rd, Hirwaun
- Soar Wesleyan Methodist chapel (Cofeb Blaen-gwawr), Station Rd, Hirwaun SN95810567 Built in 1824, enlarged in 1838 and rebuilt/modified in 1887 (1896). Closed in 1977, demolished in 1981 (10)
- Capel Soar, Hirwaun: trust papers, 1886-1966 Held at West Glamorgan Archive Service
- Soar Wesleyan, Hirwain Erected before 1825 Lewis Davies, Chapel Steward. Hirwain 1851 (13)
Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Penyard Rd, Hirwaun
- Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Penyard Rd, Hirwaun SN95910576 "Date of Chapel 1876. Built in the simple-round headed style, gable entry type. Single storey chapel, with pulpit to rear of chapel. Small hall/Sunday school room to rear of chapel with separate side entrance and internal entrance.
Closed 1990.... " (10) - See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph (Referred to as English Wesleyan)
- Hirwaun English Wesleyan has records at Glamorgan Record Office
Jerusalem Welsh CM chapel, Chapel Rd, Penderyn (near Hirwaun)
- Jerusalem Welsh CM chapel, Chapel Rd, Penderyn (near Hirwaun) SN94610894 Built in 1857/8; modified in 1908; by late 1980s closed and in 1986 for sale. (10)
- Jerusalem CM chapel, Penderyn at one time had 26 members, plus 48 adherents (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Moriah CM chapel, Bryn Moriah, Llwydcoed
- Moriah CM chapel, Llwydcoed 1895 (8) and 1910 (9)
- Moriah Welsh CM chapel, Bryn Moriah, Llwydcoed SN99440468 Built in 1843 and rebuilt/modified in 1852 and 1891, disused by 1984 (10)
- Moriah CM chapel, Llwydcoed had at one time 104 members, plus 235 adherents (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Moriah, Llwydcoed had 260 Sunday School members in 1879
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Moriah CM, Llwydcoed Erected in 1839 Edward Pugh (His mark), Deacon, Farmer, Llwydcoed 1851 (13)
English Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Mill St/Llewellyn St, Trecynon
- English Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Mill St, Trecynon 1895 (8)
- See Aberaman in 1910 (9)
- Trecynon English Wesleyan Methodist chapel, Llewellyn St, Trecynon SN99290363 Built in 1889, still in use in 1994 (10)
- Trecynon English Wesleyan records at Glamorgan Record Office
Bryn Sion Welsh CM chapel, Mill St, Aberdare (Trecynon)
- Bryn Sion Welsh CM chapel, Mill St, Aberdare 500 sittings 1895 (8) and 1910 (9)
- Banner of Brynseion CM, Trecynon on People's Collection Wales site (use on -site search box)
- Seion CM chapel, Trecynon in 1900 had 209 members, plus 540 gwrandawyr (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Bryn Seion, Trecynon had 278 Sunday School members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
Carmel Welsh CM chapel, Hirwain Rd, Trecynon
- Carmel CM chapel, Hirwain Rd, Aberdare 600 sittings Rev D M Jones 1895 (8)
- Carmel CM chapel, Hirwain Rd, Aberdare 750 sittings Rev Henry Thos Stephans 1910 (9)
- Carmel CM chapel, Hirwaun Rd, Trecynon SN99700321 Built in 1806, rebuilt/modified in 1829, 1906 and vestry of 1873 rebuilt in 1933, demolished pre 1994 (10)
- Carmel CM chapel, Trecynon in 1900 had 125 members, plus 460 adherents (listeners)
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Carmel, Trecynon had 260 Sunday School members in 1870
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12) - Carmel Welsh CM Erected in 1829 Evan Griffith. Deacon. Grocer, Hirwain 1851 (13)
- See Welsh Chapels and Churches for a photograph
- "Carmel Chapel, Trecynon. This cause originated at Pentwynbach in the year 1799. It was the 1st Calvinistic Methodist chapel in Aberdare, and its members used to walk from Cefn Pennar, Aberaman, Cwmbach and other distant places to this little chapel. The members having been greatly augmented, it was found necessary to build a new chapel in the year 1829 on its present site. This again was rebuilt and opened in 1896 and it is now one of the most handsome chapels in Glamorganshire. Its internal construction and workmanship reflect the greatest credit upon the builders viz., Messrs. J. Morgan and Son. Its cost including the organ was £2,500. Several other causes have from time to time gone out of Carmel, so that really it stands as a mother church - Bethania, Brynseion, Cwmdare, Llwydcoed, and other chapels in the valley. Many prominent children have been brought up in this church, some of whom have held and now hold the most important offices in the country. Its accommodation is 750 and its average congregation is from 400 to 500." From the Aberdare Illustrated Almanack, 1902 [14 Delyth Wilson]
Other (inc un-identified)
St Joseph's Catholic Church, Monk St, Aberdare
- Catholic Church, Monk St, Aberdare 300 sittings Rev James O'Reilly and Rev Michael O'Donoghue, priests 1895 (8) and Rev James O'Reilly in 1910 (9)
- "There were no places of worship for the Catholics in 1835 but three churches had grown up by 1897" ( D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
- At St Joseph's Catholic Church, Aberdare in 1905 were 429 members over age 15, and 310 under 15
(D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
St Dyfrig's Church has its own web site which includes information about St Joseph's registers (SDRA-01)
Catholic Church, Hirwaun
- The Catholic Church, Hirwaun in 1962/3 had 232 Easter Communicants and 320 Mass attendances out of a Catholic population of 594. (D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
- Aberdare Quakers chapel, Aberdare SO0001 (10)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Aberdare
- 1848, October 4; Latter Day Saints; a house called Welsh Harp Public House, residence of Phillip Rees, situated in Commercial Street; William Howells of Aberdare (7)
- "Mormon missionaries began to arrive in Wales from the USA in the early 1840s ........ two meeting places were established in Aberdare, one in 1848 and the other two years later" ( D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
- Latter Day Saints " This is a spacious room adjoining another building but not used exclusively as a place of worship............" William Sims. Elder 1851 (13)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Hirwaun
- 1850, January 15; Latter Day Saints; a room adjoining the Patriot Public House; Daniel EVANS from the parish of Abedare (7)
Tabernacle, Latter Day Saints, Penderin
- Tabernacle Latter Day Saints, Penderin "Erected in 1838, building not used exclusively as a place of worship" Meetings alternate between Welsh and English. Morgan Evans. George Rogers, English. John Davis, Welsh. Hirwaun 1851 (13)
Abernant-y-groes Welsh Unitarian, Bridge Rd / Chapel Row, Cwmbach
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc MIs (5)
The MIs fiche has the following note;
"The first burial in this graveyard was that of Jane Jenkins in 1797. The burial ground was closed for new graves by an order in council dated 17 April 1858, by Sir George Grey, Lord President of the Council...................The Rev John JONES was reminded of the penalties of disobeying these orders in a letter dated February 1910. The last burial was that of Jane GETHIN in 1909 in an existing family plot." (14 PT) - Unitarian Welsh chapel, Bridge Rd, Abernant-y-groes, Cwmbach Rev Fisher Jones (8) and in 1910 with no minister mentioned 200 sittings (9)
- Abernant-y-groes uchaf Unitarian chapel (Apostolic church), Chapel Row, Cwmbach SO02480187 Built pre-1905, demolished pre 1994 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office
Unitarian chapel, Highland Place, Monk St/Unity St, Gadlys, Aberdare
- Unitarian chapel, Highland Place, Monk St, Aberdare 300 sittings Rev Thomas Jenkin 1895 (8) and Rev Melchisedec Evans 350 sittings 1910 (9)
- Highland Place Unitarian chapel, Monk St/ Unity St, Gadlys, Aberdare SN99960227 Built in 1860, still in use in 1997 (10)
Hen-Dy-Cwrdd Unitarian, Trecynon
Old Meeting House (Hen-dy-cwrdd) Welsh Unitarian, Alma St, Trecynon
- Glamorgan FHS - the publications lists etc PRs/MIs (5)
- Old Meeting House (Unitarian), Alma St, Trecynon 300 sittings Rev Rees Jenkin Jones 1895 (8) and 1910 (9)
- Hen Dy Cwrdd (Old Meeting House) Unitarian chapel, Alma St, Trecynon SN99530351 Founded & built in 1751, rebuilt/modified in 1862, not in use by 1997 (10)
- Has records at Glamorgan Record Office where it is described as Presbyterian/Calvinistic Methodist as well as Unitarian
- See Bap/Mar/Bur data on FreeReg
- "When Howel Harris visited the village of Aberdare in 1759, there were only two places of worship in the locality - the parish church and the Unitarian Church of Hen-dy-cwrdd, Trecynon which had been established 8 years earlier" (D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
- Book;
Dafis, D. J. (ed.). Crefydd a gweriniaeth yn hanes yr Hen Dy Cwrdd, Aberdâr, 1751-1951 [Religion and democracy in the history of Hen Dy Cwrdd, Aberdare]. Llandysul, 1951.
Elim Pentecostal chapel, Monk St, Foundry Town, Aberdare
- Elim Pentecostal chapel, Monk St, Foundry Town, Aberdare SO00090245 Still in use in 1997 (10)
Protestant house called Capel-drindod
- 1804, October 15; Protestant; a house called Capel-drindod; Griffith Hughes, Minister, James Jacob, Timothy Davies, Morgan Rees (7)
Shiloh chapel, Aberaman
- Shiloh chapel, Aberaman SO0101 Denomination not given Chapel built in 1899 (10)
Christadelphian chapel, Aberaman
- Christadelphian chapel, Aberaman SO0101 Built 1902 (10)
Pentecostal church, 281 Cardiff Rd, Aberaman
- Pentecostal church, 281 Cardiff Rd, Aberaman SO01300137 Still in use in 1997 (10)
Forge View, Cwmaman
- Forge View, Cwmaman ST0099 Denomination not given (10)
Mission Room Hirwaun
- Mission Room Hirwaun SN95650576 (10)
Bethesda Apostolic, Hirwaun Rd, Penywaun
- Bethesda Apostolic, Hirwaun Rd, Penywaun SN96840474 (10)
Bethel Pentecostal chapel, Heol Bryn Gwyn, Penywaun
- Bethel Pentecostal chapel, Heol Bryn Gwyn, Penywaun SN97470489 (10)
Babell Apostolic, Hirwaun Rd, Trecynon
- Babell Apostolic, Hirwaun Rd, Trecynon SN99420346 (10)
Cemetery chapel, Trecynon
- Cemetery chapel, Trecynon SN98890389 (10)
Salem, Chapel St, Gadlys
- Has records at Glamorgan Records Office Denomination not given
Ebenezer, Robertstown
- Has records at Glamorgan Records Office Denomination not given
Jewish faith
- "Jews also wandered into valley and met regularly for worship every Saturday in Dean St, Aberdare" ( D Ben Rees. Chapels in the Valley Ffynnon Press, 1975) (12)
Supplementary material
Carmel Baptist chapel, Monk St, Aberdare
Contributed by John Eaton and based on a reading of Chapels of the Cynon Valley by Alan Vernon Jones. Cynon Valley History Society 2004
ADDRESS / LOCALITY: DATE BUILT: CURRENT USE:
- MONK STREET, ABERDARE 1863. CLOSED CIRCA 1960. DESTROYED BY FIRE IN 1970.A SCHOOLROOM (ABERDARE PARISH HALL) BUILT ON PART OF THE SITE IN THE 1970'S; REMAINDER OF SITE OCCUPIED BY POST OFFICE DEPOT UNTIL 2002, NOW CONVERTED TO WEATHERSPOON'S RESTAURANT
BRIEF HISTORY:
In 1799 both the Welsh Independents (Ebenezer and Carmel) started their 'cause' together in the same place in a small cottage.
Formerly a branch and sister chapel of Calvaria W.B., seating for 380.
Other meetings were held from house to house in 1850, with Rev. Dr. Thomas Price assisting.
The following year meetings were held in a large room belonging to the Horse & Groom Inn, (then located at 11 High Street, Aberdare - built in 1835, closed in 1871).
The later meetings were held at the Black Lion Hotel (opened 1811).
Also referred to as 'Particular Baptist' and previously called 'Penpound' of the Welsh Baptists (opened 1812), and later removed into Calvaria W.B.
Carmel was consequently left for the English Baptists.
The Religious Census of 1851 states that Carmel was founded in 1812, enlarged in 1832 and rebuilt in 1851 at a cost of £1,200. These details were supplied to the census returns by Rev. Dr. Thomas Price of Rose Cottage, Aberdare.
Formerly a graveyard was attached to the side of the chapel.
Foundation Memorial Stone was laid in 1863 by Mrs. Willdnson of Cwmpennar.
The first minister was Rev. James Cooper, 1852 - 1854, followed by Rev. James Owen; Rev. T.A. Price; Rev. D. Rees Jenkins; Rev. Thomas Jones, 1873- 1905, who baptised 1200 people during his 32 years ministry at this chapel.
Professor Tom Jones was organist and conductor for 50 years, 1891 - 1941.
The chapel had 101 members in 1873; 436 in 1906; 298 in 1925; 217 in 1932 and 205 in 1947.
Sunday School membership between 1925 and 1947 varied from 109 to 284.
In 1917 controversies and differences arose over a matter related to the Trust Deeds; followers left Carmel and formed Christchurch E.B. in July 1918.
The chapel was located almost exactly opposite Calvaria , and opposite and facing Griffith Street.
A copy of the Centenary History 1852-1952, is in Aberdare Central Library.
The 1840 Sunday School banner is in Cynon Valley Museum, Aberdare
Old Aberdare
Based on a posting to the Glamorgan mailing list in 2001 (Deric John) ;
In Old Aberdare Vol 1, an article titled ' Aberdare in 1837' lists the following places of worship:-
The Established Church-
- St. John's Parish church
- Penderyn Parish church
Baptists-
- Siloam, Penderyn
- Ramoth, Hirwain
- Salem, Penpound (bottom of Monk St.), now Calfaria
Calvinistic Methodists-
- Bethel Hirwain
- Carmel, Trecynon (Heol-y-felin)
Congregationalists-
- Nebo Hirwain
- Ebenezer Trecynon (Heol-y-felin)
Unitarians-
- Hen-Dy-cwrdd (Heol-y-felin)
Wesleyans--
- Hirwain
- Pentwyn Bach (Trecynon)
Burial places in the Aberdare area
The municipal cemetery opened c1870, before that date burials would have taken place in the following places - from Old Aberdare Vol. 1 :-
- 1. B.G. attached to the old parish church. [St. John's. c 2 acres].
- 2. B.G. attached to the old Baptist chapel near the centre of the old town. [first used in 1812].
- 3. B.G. attached to the new Baptist chapel. [ near Monk street].
- 4. B.G. attached to the baptist chapel at Hirwain.
- 5. B.G. attached to the Baptist chapel in Mill Street. [Trecynon].
- 6. B.G. attached to the Baptist chapel at Aberaman.
- 7. B.G. attached to the Baptist chapel at Cwmbach.
- 8. B.G. attached to the Independent chapel at Hirwain.
- 9. B.G. attached to the Independent chapel in Mill Street.
- 10. B.G. attached to the Independent chapel at Robert's Town. [Salem].
- 11. B.G. attached to the Independent chapel at Greenbach. [Siloah?]
- 12. B.G. attached to the Independent chapel at Aberaman.
- 13. B.G. attached to the Wesleyan chapel at Hirwain.
- 14. B.G. attached to the Unitarian chapel at Mill-street. [Hen dy cwrdd]
The Rev D. Saunders, DD (linked from Bethania CM chapel, Aberdare)
- "The Rev D Saunders D.D., was born May 20th 1831 at Newcastle Emlyn. From this place his parents removed to Lampeter, thence to Morriston when their only son was about 8 years of age. He soon distinguished himself as a scholar, and it was said of him that he could learn anything; and at the age of eighteen he began to preach. He was educated, after leaving the elementary school, at Mr G. P. Evans's Grammar School and afterwards at the Normal College, Swansea, under Dr Evan Davies, where many of the most talented young men in south Wales received their education. Having had this preparatory training he entered the denominational college at Trefecca in the year 1851, and Glasgow University in due course.
His first pastoral charge was in Penclawdd, whence he was soon invited to Aberdare and in 1857 he was installed as the pastor of Bethania. He at once devoted himself, with all the energy and enthusiasm of his youthful nature, to his work, and took an active part in all the movements of the town. He was one of the prime movers in building the Temperance Hall, and in establishing a Reading-room and Library in connection therewith. At the invitation of a syndicate, of which the late Alaw Goch was chief, he undertook the editorship of the Gwladgarwr newspaper, which he conducted with conspicuous ability and success. In conjunction with the late Rev. J Roberts (Ieuan Gwyllt), who succeeded him in editing the Gwladgarwr, he started the musical Festival of the Denomination in the Aberdare District, an institution, which after a short period of suspended animation was restored, and is in a most flourishing condition at the present day, and has been adopted, by this time, by all denominations in almost every district in the Principality.
Under his ministry, the congregation at Bethania increased so as to require the building of Nazareth Chapel, and he became pastor of both churches. In obedience to a second and very pressing invitation he left Aberdare for Liverpool in 1862. The congregation under his charge there grew too large for the place of worship, and the spacious Prince's Road chapel was built at the cost of about £20,000, irrespective of land.
In 1868, Mrs Saunders' health made it imperative for her to leave the town for the country, and he accepted the invitation to Lady Llanover's chapel at Abercarn. The church there, under his care, prospered greatly, and he succeeded also in having the building and the endowment transferred to the Calvinistic Methodist Body, and to render the service more acceptable to Nonconformists.
Having received a call from Trinity Church, Swansea, he removed thither in 1873, where he was highly appreciated and honoured by his flock and fellow-townsmen until death severed the connection between them.
In addition to the studies immediately associated with the work of the ministry, he read most extensively on therapeutics and music. He was an accomplished musician, and had studied very thoroughly all the works and grammars of the great masters - Richler, Spencer, Hullah, Hiles, Stainer, Ouseley, Albrechtsperger, Cherubini, Drs. Marx and Webber and a host of others. He has left voluminous notes on about 50 different congregational tune books, and, as chairman of the New Tune Book Committee of his own denomination, he was busily engaged in compiling the proposed book, when his fatal illness prevented him. I
t need not be stated that he filled all the posts of honour which the denomination could provide, including that of Moderator of the General Assembly, an honour which was conferred on him earlier in life than any other minister, not excepting even the Rev. Principal T. C. Edwards, D. D. He was in much request both in North and South Wales as a preacher on special occasions, and was certainly one of the ablest, and one of the most charming and beautiful preachers Wales ever produced.
After protracted illness, which he bore with resignation and calmness, on October 19th 1892, he passed away peacefully at the residence of his son, the Rev. J. M. Saunders, M. A., Penarth and was buried in the family vault at Aberdare Cemetery; whither three of his children and his parents had preceded him. His funeral was the largest of any Calvinistic Methodist Minister on record; representatives thronged from every county in south Wales and some from North Wales, Liverpool, Manchester and London. The cortege numbered from five to six thousand, and it was estimated that not less than ten thousand persons took part in the burial demonstration." From the Aberdare Illustrated Almanack, 1893 [14 Delyth Wilson]
[Last Updated : 9 Dec 2011 - Gareth Hicks]