JONES, JAMES RHYS, (KILSBY; 1813 - 1889), Congregational minister

Name: James Rhys Jones
Pseudonym: Kilsby
Date of birth: 1813
Date of death: 1889
Parent: Rhys Jones
Gender: Male
Occupation: Congregational minister
Area of activity: Religion
Author: John Dyfnallt Owen

Born 4 February 1813 at Pen-lan, Llandovery, son of the Rev. Rhys Jones, Ffaldybrenin. At the age of 15 he went to Neuadd-lwyd Academy (near Aberayron), where he remained for two or three years. After a short period in a college at Blackburn he kept school at Ffaldybrenin, 1833-4. He then went to Carmarthen Academy, 1835-8. Afterwards he ministered at Machynlleth (for about six months), Frampton-on-Severn, 1835-9, Kilsby, Northamptonshire, 1840-9, Birmingham, 1850, Bolton, 1851-5, Rhayader, 1857-60, Tonbridge Chapel (London), 1861-6, Rhayader (a second time), 1867, Cae-bach (Llandrindod), 1868-87, Christ Church, Llandrindod, 1878-89. He died 4 February 1889.

Kilsby Jones was regarded as one of the most notable men of his period - 'famous' in the eyes of his admirers but 'odd' in those of his critics. He was different from other people in his mode of life, his dress, his manner of expressing himself; his personality may also be described as most original. Rules, regulations, accepted modes, and customs - he was above all such things. In his personality bravery and gentleness were combined. He hated all deceit and hypocrisy. He wrote much to weekly and denominational journals; he also brought out (1867) an edition of the works of William Williams of Pantycelyn.

Author

Published date: 1959

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