Chapter VI: Part 6

The following list of Charitable Donations, left for the benefit of the poor of Oswestry, shows that in days gone by, the weak were not overlooked by the strong, and that many, imbued with practical Christian benevolence, deemed it their duty to aid, not only the poor of their own days, but those also of succeeding generations. The only Aims-Houses in the town are those situated near the turnpike-gate in Willow-Street. They are six in number, and were left by Dame Ellen, widow of Sir Francis Eure. Mrs. Jane Owen, in 1732, bequeathed to the twelve poor persons (six men and six women), inmates of the alms-houses, the sum of 18s. to be paid to them yearly, for ever, and also ordered her executor to charge her real and personal estate with the payment thereof. Mrs. M. Ormsby, by her will in 1805, requested her daughter (the present Mrs. Ormsby Gore), and those who should succeed her in the Porkington Estate, would pay “as she had done,” the poor people in the alms-houses for ever. Mrs. Ormsby Gore regularly distributes £3 among the inmates on Christmas-Day, that being the sum her mother had previously given. The alms-houses are kept in good repair by Mrs. Ormsby Gore, and she selects the inmates.

Names of By what Nature of When payable. By whom. By whom Time of
Donors. Instrument Property, or directed to be distribution.
created, and Amount. distributed,
Date. and in what
manner.
Owen Morgan Will, 31 March £20 per Annum. 25 March Haberdashers’ Parson and
1604 Co., London. Churchwardens
of the Parish
of Oswestry,
for the relief
of the poor
Hugh Yale Will, 2nd Jan. Several Rts. payable at Tenants Bailiffs and 1st January.
1605 messuages and different times Overseers,
lands in amongst the
Oswestry, poor of the
producing at town and 6s.
present £13, of 8d. for a Welsh
thereabouts Sermon
John Morris, & Deed, 24th Ju. £1 10s. per On Feast day of J. W. Eyton. Trustees to be
Wife 1629 annum, on lands Philip & James appointed by
in Crickheath & All-Souls the Burgesses,
to be
distributed in
bread, and for
other purposes
Richard Deed, 23rd Dr. A field in 25 March R. Brayne, Bailiff 52s.
Wycherley 1624 Beatrice St. tenant per annum. for
let for £7 pr. bread and the
annum remainder to
set out an
Apprentice
Dorothy Santley Deed, 18th Ch. £2 12s. per 25 March Roberts, Church-wardens, Every Sunday.
I., 1643 annum issuing Ruthin, Rt. Bailiffs’ and
out of a field Roberts tenant Vicar, in
called Cae bread, to the
Bychan poor of the
town
William Gough Will, 1669 £5 6d. 8d. 25 Decbr. Rd. Hunt, Esq. £2 10s. by the
issuing out of Overseers of
lands in the Parish, and
Treflach the like sum by
the Overseers
of the town,
for the Poor,
and 6s. 8d. to
the Ministers
for a Sermon on
St. Stephen’s
Day
A butt of land Church-wardens
in Beatrice and Overseers
St., for which {124}
5s. pr. anm.
was pd.
Muckleston 5s. per annum 25 March Reps. of David In bread, but
Allen issuing out of Oliver not stated by
houses in whom to be
Cross-Street distributed
Winifred Will, 20th Ju. £2 10s. issuing 25 March Sir W. W. Wynn Vicar and
Matthews 1709 out of a field, Churchwardens
in Trefonen, to put out an
called Maes y apprentice,
Benglog from Oswestry,
and the
townships of
Trefonen,
Treflach,
Sweeney, and
Treferclawdd,
alternately
Mary Lloyd Will. June 5th £100 secured on Dec. 30th Trustees Vicar, Christmas.
1727 Willow-Street Church-wardens,
Gate & Road and Overseers,
in putting out
an apprentice,
and in woollen
clothing for
the poor of the
town each
alternate year
— Peacock — 1732. £5 secured with Dec. 30th Ditto To be Christmas.
the above distributed
amongst poor
house-keepers
of the town
Thomas Turner Will, 1777 £20 secured on March 25 Trustees The Christmas.
Llangedwin Church-wardens
Turnpike Road
Richard Will, 20th Jan. £2 per annum March 25 Rev. Jn. Lloyd The Bailiff, Good Friday.
Muckleston 1638 issuing out of Brunant Vicar, &
estates in Church-wardens,
Carmarthenshire in bread, to
the poor of the
Township of
Oswestry
Francis Shore Will, 13 Aug. £1 per annum This has Feast of St.
1691 issuing out of hitherto been Thomas.
houses in Ch. distributed by
Street, Mr. D. Jones,
belonging to who claims to
Mr. David Jones do so, as the
lineal
descendant of
the surviving
Trustee of the
Testator
Margaret Lloyd Will, 2nd May £1 issuing out Jany. 1st Thomas Allen Mayor and New Year’s Day.
1794 of her house, Church-wardens,
forge, yard, & amongst 20 poor
dwelling-house labourers or
in Oswestry decayed
aforesaid, with tradesmen
one croft of
land thereunto
belonging,
devised to
Richd. Pryce,
Mercer
Elizabeth Will, 1703. £2 per annum Plm Mon Reps. of James Church-wardens, Palm Monday
Williams. issuing out of Vaughan to the poor, in
Mixon Hall, and 6d. or 1s. to
croft each
Rebecca Lloyd Will, 10th Jan. £1 per annum 25 Decbr. Rv. J. Thomas Vicar, amongst Christmas
1733 issuing out of the poor
house in
Cross-Street
Sir William Will, Sep. 7th, £200 21 Decbr. Sir W. W. Wynn Vicar, At such time as
Williams 1734 Church-wardens, they shall
and Trustees, please
amongst such
poor persons of
the Parish as
they shall
think fit
Elizabeth Will Croft at Croxon & Co. The tenant of
Williams Croes-Wylan, Penylan has
occupied with hitherto
Penylan, for distributed
which £1 10s. this sum yearly
has hitherto in clothing for
been paid the poor
— Pierce Will A field called Marg. Oliver She distributes
Cae Mark, in 10s. upon
the Parish of All-Saints’
Llanyblodwel, Day, at Sweeney
occupied by Mountain, to
Margt. Oliver; poor persons of
consists now of Sweeney and
a house and Weston, in
buildings, and money; and also
several small another 10s. in
closes bread
James Phillips Will, 24th Ap. In 1833, £522 Mayor & Church-wardens, Feast of St.
1661 7s. 10d., Corporation of in flannel Simon and St.
which, after Shrewsbury Jude
certain
deductions,
left £186 8s.
8d. to be
distributed
between the
Parishes of St.
Chad,
Shrewsbury,
Oswestry,
Ellesmere, and
Whitchurch
Lady Eure Will Porkington Alms Reps. of Mrs. Money to be
houses, and Jane Owen distribtd. at
18s. per annum Christmas
to poor people
occupying them,
since incrsd.
to £3
Margaret Deed, 2nd Mar Messuage in If not occupied
Godolphin 1748 Cross St. by the Vicar,
exchanged in then to be let
1823 for one in and the rents
Brook St. for distributed by
the use of the the _Country_
Vicar, if Wardens in
actually placing out
resident in the children in the
same _Parish_ whose
Parents’ names
are not in the
Poor’s Books
Sir Nathaniel Will, 1740 Interest of Christmas & Trustees, or Nomination in Christmas and
Lloyd Stock, at Midsummer person the Reps. of Midsummer 12
present authorized by Sir N. Lloyd, & poor persons of
producing £97 them the Bishop of Oswestry, & 8
19s. 8d. per St. Asaph, of Whittington
annum alternately
— Thomas Will £2 12s. Every Su. in Owner of the Ditto St. Thos. Day
annually, out bread Aston property
of lands in —
— Jeffreys ⅓ of an estate Church-wardens St. Thos. Day,
at Osbaston, of lower 4s. out of
which 3rd now division of every 10, to
produces £4 0s. parish the poor in
8d. per annum Morton; 3s. in
Maesbury and
3s. in
Crickheath.
*** Swinnerton’s Charity is lost.

LIST OF CHARITIES FOR THE USE OF THE CHURCHWARDENS, CONSISTING OF SUCH ONLY AS ARE PAID TO AND DISTRIBUTED BY THEM.

CHARITIES RELATING TO THE TOWN ONLY.

Yale’s; Morris’s; Witcherley’s; Sontley’s; Donor unknown, (Owen?) Land in Beatrice Street; Muckleston Allen’s; Lloyd and Peacock’s; Muckleston’s (Poor of Oswestry); Margaret Lloyd’s; Elizabeth Williams’s (Mixon Hall); Rebecca Lloyd’s (Freeman).

CHARITIES RELATING JOINTLY TO THE TOWN AND PARISH.

Morgan’s; Gough’s; Winifred Matthews’s; Turner’s; Sir William Williams’s.

CHARITIES RELATING TO THE PARISH ONLY.

Elizabeth Williams’s (Croft at Croes-Wylan); Jeffreys’s.

THE SOCIETY FOR BETTERING THE CONDITION OF THE POOR,

Within the Hundred of Oswestry, was established in or about the year 1812, by the late Rev. C. A. A. Lloyd, Rector of Whittington, and the late Rev. G. N. K. Lloyd, Rector of Selattyn. The objects of the Society at its original institution were—the encouragement of schools for the education of the lower classes; the increase of the comforts of the poor in their dwellings, by the improvement of cottages; the distribution of moral and religious books and tracts; the encouragement and promotion of friendly societies; the establishment of a bank for the poor, paying interest for small sums; and, finally, the distribution of rewards among the poor for extraordinary acts of industry.

During the progress of the Society very much has been done in the neighbourhood, through its instrumentality, with regard to the above objects. Several schools were established soon after its commencement, and a vast number of moral and religious publications have been given as prizes, from time to time, to the best-informed children, and also as rewards for proficiency in writing, drawing, sewing, &c. With respect to the improvement of cottages, the Society issued several small publications some years ago, directing the attention of owners of property to this very important social amelioration; some plans were also engraved, and rules printed, relative to the building of habitations for the poor. Through the influence of this institution some Friendly Societies were established, and also (which is well worthy of notice) a Savings’ Bank for the poor, about four years _before_ the present excellent institution commenced operations in conformity with an Act of Parliament passed on the subject. As soon as the Government Savings’ Bank was opened, the funds of the former were transferred to it.

Subjoined are specimens of some of the prizes which were offered by the Society during the year 1854:—

No. 2.—To the Labouring Cottager who shall be found to occupy the
best-furnished, neatest, and cleanest Cottage, together with the
best-cultivated Garden, the same being not less than a quarter of an
acre in extent:

£. s. d. First Prize 1 10 0 Second ditto 1 0 0 Third ditto 0 10 0

No. 5.—To the most deserving Widow, who under the greatest difficulties
has supported herself by her own unassisted exertions:

£. s. d. First Prize 1 0 0 Second ditto 0 15 0 Third ditto 0 10 0

No. 8.—To the Cottager, or Farming Servant, who shall have accumulated
most money in the Savings’ Bank, the same to have arisen entirely from
his or her own earnings:

£. s. d. First Prize 2 0 0 Second ditto 1 0 0

No recipients of parish relief are allowed to become candidates for any of the prizes.

It is to be regretted that the Society, since the loss of its benevolent founders, has been in a declining state; but it is to be hoped that an institution which has effected so much social and domestic comfort, and advanced the cause of morality and vital religion, will not, in this wealthy district, be allowed to expire for want of support. Franklin has well observed, that “more will be done for the happiness of the poor by inuring them to provide for themselves, than could be done by dividing all your estates among them.” To establish principles of self-reliance among a people is to secure to them respectability and a manly independence of character.

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.

There are several Friendly Societies in Oswestry, all of which are conducted with prudence and judgment, and are at present in a state of prosperity. The following is a list of these institutions:—

Sun Friendly Society, established 1765, consisting of 107 Members. The Feathers Friendly Society, established 1830, consisting of 150 Members. King Oswald Lodge of Odd Fellows, No. 603 Manchester Unity; established 1833, consisting of 153 Members. Held at Osburn’s Hotel. Philanthropic Lodge of ditto, No. 1637, established 1838, having 50 Members. Held at the George Inn. Duke of Cornwall Court of Foresters, No. 86, established 1840, consisting of 86 Members. Held at the Unicorn Inn.

Ecclesiastical History.

THE PARISH CHURCH.

THIS ancient fabric, though having no pretensions to beauty of architecture, externally or internally, yet, from its size and the massiveness of its ivy-mantled tower, has a venerable and somewhat imposing aspect. Girded on the west side by noble elm trees, and on the north by an avenue of limes, its tower presents on every side an object of much interest in the surrounding country. The eye even of the casual observer cannot fail to remark how much the fabric has suffered in former times, little probably of the original structure remaining. The different styles of architecture in the present building might enable the antiquary to decide with some probability when each particular part was restored. The only windows possessing any architectural beauty are those in St. Mary’s chancel, and it is to be lamented that, when the south side of the chancel was restored some years ago, the new windows were not made uniform with these. At present nothing can be more incongruous than the different styles which present themselves on every side.

[Picture: The Parish Church]

There are perhaps few churches, in a parish so large and important as Oswestry, which contain so meagre a collection of records relating to it. Doubtless many of the books belonging to it were lost during the disturbed times which ended in the establishment of the Commonwealth. The old Vicarage House is supposed to have been burnt down, either at this time or in some former incursions of the Welsh. It stood on the north side of the church-yard, and when this site was exchanged with the late Mr. Lloyd, of Swan Hill, by the then Vicar, for what is now the New Church-Yard, and which then became the Vicar’s Croft, the row of trees forming the north side of the avenue, though separated by a wall from the church-yard, was expressly reserved as belonging to the church; and the present owner of that property has no right to cut down, or even to lop, the trees; whilst the Vicar has at all times power to enter upon the premises to plant new trees, if any of the present ones should be blown down or injured. The croft which became the Vicar’s, by the above exchange with Mr. Lloyd, was again exchanged by the late Lord Powis for what is now the Vicar’s land in Salop Road, and Lord Powis then gave the croft thus obtained as a free gift to the parish for a new Burial-ground. This, however, is already nearly filled, and as the Old Church-yard ought unquestionably to be shut up and disused for burials, another and a larger Burial-ground is much needed.

In the year 1748 Mrs. Margaret Godolphin endeavoured to remedy the loss of the old Vicarage House, by leaving to the Vicar and his successors for the time being a small tenement at the back of Cross-Street, as a residence, but coupled with this proviso, that if the Vicar should not occupy it himself, then it was to be let by the Churchwardens, and the rent appropriated in putting out apprentices from amongst the poor. It does not appear that the house so given by Mrs. Godolphin was ever occupied by any Vicar, and it consequently fell at once under the second provision of the will, and became a sort of Poor-house for the town. This continued till the year 1823, when the house was exchanged for more desirable premises in Brook-Street, which were for many years occupied by the present Vicar; but in consequence of his non-residence, through ill health, the property has been given up by him, and has once more reverted to the second purpose of the charity.

The antiquity of the church, as we have already intimated, is not clearly defined in any of the books relating to the history of the county. In the records of the Augmentation Office the following minutes are made in reference to the Rectory and Vicarage of Oswestry:—

“The Church of Oswestry is doubtless of great antiquity. There was
certainly a vicarage here antecedent to the formation of the Valor by
Pope Nicholas IV., A.D. 1291; for in the record, the original of
which is preserved in the Exchequer, Oswestry is thus recorded:—

“ST. ASAPH. SPIRITUALITIES.

DEANERY OF MARCHIA.

_Church of Oswalstræ_:

£. s. d. Rectory 26 13 4 Vicarage 8 13 4

“From this it is evident that the vicarial endowment of Oswestry must
be of a date prior to 1291; and in all probability, therefore, so
ancient as to preclude the expectation of its being extant,

“The Church of Oswestry was, in early times, given to the Monastery
of Shrewsbury, and afterwards appropriated thereto, and the rectory
and tithes converted to the uses of the said monastery. They
continued to belong to the monastery until, as one of the great
religious houses, Shrewsbury was, by force of the statute of 31 Henry
VIII., dissolved, when its tithes and other possessions came into the
hands of the crown.”

The tithes of Oswestry afterwards became the property of the Earl of Arundel, Lord of Oswestry, and then of the Earl of Powis, who sold them in 1819 (excepting the liberties of Oswestry town and Middleton township) to Mr. W. Lloyd, of Aston, Mr. T. N. Parker, of Sweeney, the Hon. T. Kenyon, of Pradoe, and others.

Within the tower of the church are eight silver-toned bells, whose joyous peals on occasions of festivity give hilarity to all who hear them. A new clock was substituted for an old one in 1836, the cost of which was paid by public subscription.

The church is dedicated to St. Mary. A new organ was erected by subscription in 1812; and the organist, by the adoption of effective sacred music, and the choir, by its able execution of the beautiful psalmody selected, contribute much to the solemnity and effect of public worship in this venerable church. The present Organist is Mr. Edward Eyeley. It is stated that the old organ, a fine-toned instrument, is fixed in one of the metropolitan churches.

The interior of the church, especially on a Sabbath morning, when a numerous congregation generally assembles, presents a most delightful spectacle. The place where, for ages past, divine worship has been held, and the footsteps of grandsires and great-grandsires have led them to bow before the “throne of the heavenly grace,” cannot fail to exhibit an affecting scene to all who understand the frailty and brevity of human life.

The church was enlarged and beautified in 1807: and in 1831 a new entrance door was completed at the east or chancel end. A great improvement in the interior, both as to comfort and effect, would still be added, were a new set of pews erected. Many of the present pews are most unsightly and inconvenient. A new set, formed on the most approved principle of church seat-accommodation, would be acceptable to all pew-holders, giving neatness and adding comfort within the fabric which every member of the congregation would heartily approve. The inhabitants of the parish have accomplished much, in the way of public improvement, within the last few years; and the alterations we have now suggested would be a crowning point to their spirited exertions for the benefit and honour of the town.. The altar-piece might be removed, and a more suitable one introduced, at a trifling expense.

The Communion Plate belonging to the church consists of the following articles:—A silver cup, bearing the inscription, “Ex Dono Dauidi Edwards”; another cup, dated 1575, the gift of “Richard Stanni,” “Elder Mercer”; a silver flagon, the letters “I. H. S.” engraved thereon, with the inscription, “Given for the use of the Holy Communion, in the Parish Church of Oswestry, 1707”; and two silver salvers, the gift of Mrs. Elizabeth Roderick.

The CHURCH-YARD is no ordinary resting-spot for the dead. As we have already said, it would be well now to close it as a place of sepulture. Sanitary motives would urge this change; and the feelings of those whose departed relatives or friends are about to be consigned to the grave should be religiously deferred to. The Church-yard may soon be surrounded by human dwellings, and then the newly-laid dead will lie amidst the busy living.

[Picture: The Church Gate and Avenue]

Its beautiful avenue, rendered still more pleasant in spring, summer, and autumn, by the lofty row of lime-trees which separates it from the space appropriated to the tenements of the dead, might be made still more impressive in character, were a neat lattice-work constructed, extending from tree to tree, to mark the line of demarcation between the avenue and church-yard more distinctly. A sketch of the Avenue, with the Alcove at the west end, is here given, as well as the florid, chastely-designed Gate leading to it from Church-Street. This gate was put up in 1738, at the expence of the parish. Country churchyards are always deeply interesting to the contemplative and thoughtful; and Gray’s truthful and pathetic Elegy, which appeals so powerfully to the best feelings of our nature, has invested them, however rude and humble, with an affecting character that touches the hearts even of the most indifferent. Oswestry Church-Yard, with its aged elms of more than a century’s growth; its sombre yews; its stately tombs and humble graves for patrician and plebeian dust, “the rich and the poor meeting together,” is a scene conveying monitory lessons to all who will seriously read them. Among the tombs are several, bearing appropriate inscriptions, containing the ashes of French prisoners of war, who died in Oswestry on their parole, between the years 1811 and 1814. The ancient entrance to the Church-yard from Upper Brook-Street, through the GRIDDLE GATE, is a curious relic of byegone times. Formerly, on occasions of burial from the south side of the town, the coffin of a deceased party was placed temporarily on a bier within the porch of the Griddle Gate, and thence conveyed to the church. It will be seen from the engraving we give of this Gate that it was erected in 1631.

[Picture: The Griddle Gate]

We may here state that the elm-trees in the church-yard were planted at the expense of the Rev. Thomas Owen, when Vicar of the Parish, between the years 1707 and 1713.

Monuments and Tablets within the Church.

How valuable are Monumental Inscriptions, when they are the records of truth, and affectionate tributes to departed worth! The tablets on our church walls are silent, but often effective monitors, reviving drooping spirits, recalling scenes of sublunary enjoyments, transient as the stay of the dew-drop in the sun, and suggesting the brevity and uncertainty of human existence. Within Oswestry Church, as well as in its grave-yard, most of the Monuments and Inscriptions are simple, chaste, and impressive. They either plainly mark the spot where lies the departed body, or touchingly express the natural grief of surviving relatives or friends. Whilst wandering among the habitations of the dead, and viewing, with “slow and solemn steps,” the houses, for rich and poor, “appointed for all men living,” we can sympathize with Salopia’s own sweet poet, in his beautiful apostrophe:

“Thou, sainted Memory, art mine,
And smiling Hope, of birth divine,
Ev’n now I feel your mingled pow’r,
Ev’n in this solitary hour.”

On the north wall, within the church, is an ancient monument exhibiting a male and female kneeling.

“In memory of Mr. HUGH YALE, alderman of this town, and DOROTHY his
wife, daughter of Roger Roden, Esq., of Burton, in the county of
Denbigh, whose bodies are interred within ye chancel of this church,
commonly called St. Mary’s, before its demolition in the late wars,
anno 1616. They gave to ye poor of this town the yearly interest and
benefice of one hundred pounds, to continue for ever; besides other
good acts of charity.”

Beneath this inscription:

“Underneath are interred the remains of MARGARET, the wife of David
Yale, Esq., daughter and heiress of Edward Morris, of Cae-mor, Gent.
She departed this life, the 20th day of December, 1754, aged 66.
Also lye the remains of DAVID YALE, Esq., who dy’d January the 29th,
1763, aged 81. This was erected by her son, John Yale, of Plas yn
Yale, Clerk.”

In 1721 died Edward Yale. There is a monument to him in Wrexham Church, with the following inscription:—

“Born in America, and in Europe bred,
In Africa travell’d, and in Asia wed,—
Where long he liv’d and thriv’d—in London died.”

On marble tablets on the same side:

“Near this small monument lie the remains of Mrs. MARY GRIFFITHS, the
wife of William Griffiths, Gent., one of the aldermen of this
corporation: she died on the 9th day of August, 1774, in the 70th
year of her age. Likewise the remains of the said WILLIAM GRIFFITHS,
who died the 14th day of November, 1791, in the 81st year of his
age.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of ELIZABETH, the beloved wife of John Jones,
Esq., of Brook Street, who departed this life the 2nd of February,
1835, aged 68. Also to the memory of the above-named JOHN JONES, who
departed this life the 8th of June, 1846, aged 86.”

* * * * *

“VAUGHAN BARRETT, Esq., died 17th October, 1772, aged — years; MARY,
relict of Vaughan Barrett, Esq., daughter of Thomas Kynaston, Esq.,
of Maesbury Hall, in the county of Salop, died 28th of May, 1779,
aged — years; ELIZABETH, daughter of Vaughan and Mary Barrett, died
6th March, 1792, aged 58 years; LETITIA, daughter of Vaughan and Mary
Barrett, died 25th of March, 1803, aged 71 years. This testimony of
affection and regard is erected to their memory by Edward Disbrowe,
Esq., of Walton-upon-Trent, in the county of Derby.”

* * * * *

“In memory of ELIZABETH VENABLES, who died July, 1772, aged 39; SARAH
VENABLES, who died June, 1807, aged 70; MARGARET VENABLES, who died
June, 1814, aged 80. Their remains are interred in an adjacent
vault. They lived virtuously, and ‘all died in faith,’ in stedfast
hope of a blessed resurrection.”

“Likewise in memory of MARY ASHBURN, sister of the above-named, who
died October 14th, 1817, aged 81, beloved and lamented.”

On mural monuments on the north side of the chancel:

“M. S. RICHARDUS MAURICE, Arm. Ad pedem Columnæ huic Marm. oppositæ
Exuvias Mortales Uxoris ALICIÆ, Filiæ Thomæ Carpenter, De Home, Com.
Herefordiæ, Arm., cum unica ex eadem Filia Anna, tumulavit, September
4, A.D. 1700, Ætat. 22. Et MARGARETÆ itidem, Secundis illi Nuptiis
conjunctæ, Filiæ Johannis Price, A.M., ex qua Unum suscepit Filium,
Johannem, cum Matre placide dormientem. Denat. September 4, A.D.
1716, Ætat. 32. In Uxorum et Liberorum Memoriam, H. M. R. MAURICE,
P.C., in eodem Tumulo et suos aliquando Cineres depositurus, Æterna
Requie fruiturus, si erga Deum Pietas, erga Pauperes Benignitas, erga
Omnes summa Benevolentia illam Requiem afferre valeant. Obiit Primo
die Junii, An. Salutis 1749, et suæ Ætatis 84.”

* * * * *

“MDCCCXII. In memory of LEWIS JONES, Esq., for fourteen years
town-clerk of Oswestry: he died June 5th, in the 56th year of his
age. This tablet was erected by the corporation of this town, in
token of their affectionate remembrance of a man, who was remarkable
for his knowledge of the laws of his country, and for his readiness
in imparting that knowledge, with a view to prevent litigation among
his neighbours.”

* * * * *

“To the memory of ELIZABETH, the wife of Mr. Lewis Jones, who died
26th of September, 1801, in the 38th year of her age. This small
tribute of affectionate regard, as a testimony of her worth, and an
expression of his own deep regret, is placed by her surviving
husband.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of Captain ROBERT WATKIN LLOYD, of
major-general Gwynne’s regiment of cavalry, only son of Robert Lloyd,
Esq., of Swan Hill, aged 17. He fell a victim to the yellow fever,
on the 26th of June, 1794, at Port au Prince, in Saint Domingo,
having survived the capture of that place. In him were united a mind
firm and vigorous; a disposition kind and benevolent; manners
engaging and mild, giving promise of a character which might one day
have added lustre to his profession; have adorned the circle of
polished society, and have sweetened the enjoyments of domestic
life.” “Sacred also to the memory of ROBERT LLOYD, Esq., of Swan
Hill, father of the above-named Robert Watkin Lloyd, who departed
this life on the 3rd day of October, 1803, aged 58. By that event,
his family lost an affectionate husband and father; the county an
upright magistrate; and the public an amiable man.”

A monument at the north end of the chancel:

“ROBERT POWELL LLOYD, son of Robert Lloyd, of Swan Hill, Esq., by
Sarah, his second wife, died 11th March, Anno 1769, and was interred
in the vault beneath, aged 5 years. SARAH, mother of the above R. P.
Lloyd, died 19th of August, 1790, aged 59 years; also ROBERT LLOYD,
Esq., the father, died 5th of April, 1793, aged 72 years.”

A neat tablet at the same end:

“Sacred to the memory of THOMAS TREVOR, clerk, M.A., son of Roger
Trevor, of Bodynfol, in the county of Montgomery, Esq., Vicar of this
parish 50, and of Ruabon, 15 years; chaplain to Sir W. Williams
Wynne, baronet; and one of his Majesty’s justices of the peace for
the counties of Salop and Denbigh, who died the 29th of February,
1784, aged 76. Of manners unaffected, he performed the service of
the church with a peculiar grace; and by a propriety of elocution,
attracted the attention, and raised the devotion of his hearers. He
was an active and upright magistrate, tender husband, kind relation,
and steady friend. He married twice—first, Elizabeth, daughter of
Edward Maurice, of Trefedrhyd, in the county of Montgomery, Esq.,
11th June, 1762; afterwards, Anne, daughter of Gabriel Wynne, of
Dolarddyn, Esq., and relict of George Robinson, of Brithdir, Esq.,
both in the county of Montgomery, who survived.”

On tablets near the communion table:

“Sacred to the memory of the Rev. TURNER EDWARDS, L.L.B., Vicar of
this parish, and of Llansilin, in the county of Denbigh; rural dean
of Marchia, in the diocese of St. Asaph; and one of his Majesty’s
justices of the peace for the county of Salop: he departed this life
on the 10th of January, 1803, aged 44, leaving an afflicted widow,
with five children, to deplore his untimely loss. Also underneath
lie the remains of SARAH, relict of the above Rev. Turner Edwards,
and second daughter of the late William Birch Basnett, Esq.; she
departed this life on the 16th December, 1814, aged 52. This
monument, a slender token of duty and affection, was erected by their
surviving children, Turner, John, William, James, and Mary Anne.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of the Reverend JOSEPH VENABLES, L.L.B., who
was born 31st August, 1726, and died 14th August 1810. As a minister
of the Gospel, he illustrated his precepts by his example, by his
piety, benevolence, and general character as a man. To his
relations, his affection and kindness were unbounded; for society,
his friendship was ardent and sincere; and when his Creator called
him to another and a better world, he closed a long and well-spent
life, respected and lamented.”

A tablet near the communion table:

“To the memory of THOMAS KYNASTON, of Maesbury, Esq., who died in
1710, aged 33; also of three of his children, and five
grand-children.”

On a plain slab near the town door:

“Sweeney Vault.—Underneath lie the remains of EDWARD BROWNE, Esq.,
who departed this life 22nd of February, 1704, aged 80.”

On a neat marble tablet near the above:

“EDVARDO BROWNE, de Oswestry, in comitatu Salopiensi, armigero, qui
vixit ann. 80. Decessit 8 Calend. Mart., Anno sacro 1794. Sara,
conjux Thomæ Netherton Parker, haeres ejus, ex asse, pio gratoque
animo in avunculum optime de se meritum, hoc monumentum faciendum
curavit.”

Mural monuments near the above:

“M. S. Jacobi Donne, S.T.P., Ecclesiæ Blddwell, in agro Salopiensi,
Vicarii, qui, dum Scholæ Oswestriensi per annos 36 præfuit, quid sit
verus ingenuarum artium finis, quid erga Deum patriamque pietas, quid
strenua illa honestas, nominis Britannici prisca propugnatrix,
præceptis, exemplo, tota vitæ ratione, pro virili edocuit. Quanta
denique Religionis Christianæ vis, ipse jam tandem placida senectute
degens otium, et ad extremam vitæ horam sacris literis officiisque
deditus sanctioribus, sibi suisque feliciter demonstravit. Hoc
monumentum poni curaverunt, qui, disciplina pueri tam honesta
instituti, provectioribus jam annis venerandi illius capitis testari
volunt desiderium.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of CHARLES PENSON, a friend and instructor of
the poor, and a lover of all who loved the Lord Jesus Christ. He
died November 26th, 1836, aged 40 years. Although nearly blind, he
was an honoured instrument in God’s hand in turning many from
darkness to light. His life was spent in an active course of
self-denying Christian benevolence, yet ever counting himself an
unprofitable servant. In life and in death he had but one ground of
hope, the mercy of God in Christ Jesus. Near this place he long sat
as a Teacher in the Sunday School, labouring to make known to others
that Saviour whom he had found so precious to his own soul. ‘His
faith follow, considering the end of his conversation; Jesus Christ,
the same yesterday, to-day, and for ever.’ Heb. xiii, 7, 8. This
tablet is erected to his memory by many who esteemed him very highly
in love, for his work’s sake.”

Tablet on a pillar in the chancel:

“Sacred to the memory of RICHARD PRICE, surgeon, one of the senior
aldermen of this town, obt. 26th September, 1790, æt. 68. Also to
the memory of SUSANNA, wife of Nathaniel Price, Esq., who departed
this life February 23rd, 1844, aged 67 years. Also of NATHANIEL
PRICE, Esq., who departed this life May 22nd, 1847, aged 67 years.
This tablet was erected as a tribute of affection by Harriet,
daughter of Susanna and Nathaniel Price.”

A brass plate near the organ gallery steps:

“MARY, wife of Humphrey Mostyn, Esq., died September 3rd, 1781, aged
60. Also of HUMPHREY, youngest son of William Mostyn, Esq., of
Brongwyn, Montgomeryshire, died 12th of January, 1786, aged 60.”

Scroll, surmounted by military insignia, on south-east wall:

“Sacred to the memory of Captain OWEN ARTHUR ORMSBY GORE, of the 43rd
Light Infantry, third son of William Ormsby Gore, Esq., M.P., of
Porkington, who fell in action with the Caffres, at the head of his
Company, on the 6th of April, 1852, at ‘Antas Cave,’ British
Caffraria. This monument was erected by his brother officers, as a
mark of their affectionate regard.”

Arms—Motto, “In hoc signo vinces.”

Tablet, surmounted by an urn:

“Sacred to the memory of HENRY PINSON TOZER AUBREY, Esq., of Broom
Hall, in this Parish, who died deeply and deservedly lamented,
September 30th, 1848, aged 69.”

“The memory of the just is blessed.”

Monuments in the Church-yard.

We select the following from various parts of the Churchyard:—

“Sacred to the memory of SAMUEL LEACH, Esq., Llanforda Issa, and an
alderman of the corporation of this town, who departed this life
November 4th, 1833, aged 67 years.”

“Sacred to the memory of MARY, relict of the late Samuel Leach, who
departed this life February 25th, 1838, aged 60 years.”

* * * * *

“To the memory of the Rev. JOHN SHEIL, Incumbent of Cannock,
Staffordshire, who died at Oswestry, September 24th, 1841, aged 61.
This tribute of esteem and regard, is erected by his former
pupils—Arthur Viscount Dungannon, of Brynkinalt, and the Rev. John
Parker, Vicar of Blodwel.”

* * * * *

“THOMAS HUNT, died February 17th, 1831, aged 69 years. SUSANNA,
widow of the said Thomas Hunt, died August 21st, 1844, aged 82
years.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of FRANCIS CAMPBELL, Esq., an alderman of the
corporation of this borough, who died September 26th, 1841, aged 73.
Also, MARY CAMPBELL, relict of the above, who died April 30th, 1845,
aged 78.”

“Sacred to the memory of ELIZABETH, daughter of the late Thomas
Peate, Esq., of Preeshenlle, who died November 6th, 1841, aged 67
years.”

“Sacred to the memory of JOHN TOMLEY, Gent., late of Middleton, in
this parish, who died August 25th, 1808, aged 74 years.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of ELIZABETH, the beloved wife of John Jones,
Esq., who departed this life, the 2nd February, 1835, aged 68. Also
to the memory of the above-named John Jones, who departed this life
the 8th June, 1846, aged 86.”

“Sacred to the memory of RANDLE JONES, son of John and Elizabeth
Jones, who departed this life April 10th, 1821, aged 23 years.”

“Sacred to the memory of MARY, youngest daughter of John and
Elizabeth Jones, who departed this life January 27th, 1833, aged 31
years.”

“Sacred to the memory of EMMA, the beloved wife of John Jones, jun.
Esq., who died June 19th, 1834, aged 37.”

“Sacred to the memory of ELIZA, eldest daughter of John and Elizabeth
Jones, who departed this life the 24th May, 1854, aged 61 years.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of SKINNER HANCOX, Esq., late colonel of the
7th Dragoon Guards, who departed this life January 27th, 1843, aged
55.” “If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall
stand? But there is forgiveness with Thee, that thou mayest be
feared.” Psalm cxxx: 3, 4.

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of General JOHN DESPARD, late colonel of the
5th West India regiment, who died at Swanhill, September 3rd, 1829,
in the 85th year of his age, after having honorably served his
country for 70 years. Also of HARRIET ANNE, sister of the late Sir
Thomas Dalrymple Hesketh, Bart., of Rufford Hall, Lancashire, and
relict of the above General John Despard. She died at Brighton, May
14th, 1848, aged 76 years.”

* * * * *

“CONWAY LONGUEVILLE, eldest daughter of Thomas Longueville
Longueville and Anne, his wife, died 17th March, 1854, aged 14
years.”

“CHARLES HENRY LONGUEVILLE, their youngest son, died 30th June, 1854,
aged 6 years.”

* * * * *

“In memory of JOHN CROXON, alderman of this town, who died March
21st, 1803, aged 66; and of ALICE, his wife, daughter of Richard and
Alice Jones. She died July the 19th, 1824, aged 87. ELIZABETH, wife
of Samuel Tudor, of Shrewsbury, and daughter of the above-named John
and Alice Croxon, died January the 24th, 1811, aged 36.”

“Sacred also to the memory of RICHARD CROXON, of this town, eldest
son of the said John and Alice Croxon, who died the 31st July, 1838,
aged 70.”

* * * * *

“Here lie the remains of ALEXANDER KYFFIN, who died August 10th,
1766, aged 51. Also of MARGARET, his wife, who died December 20th,
1815, aged 73,”

“In memory of SARAH, wife of Charles Osburn, who died February 11th,
1851, aged 66. Also of the above-named CHARLES OSBURN, who died
February 16th, 1851, aged 66.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of WILLIAM PRICE, who died November 4th, 1847,
aged 70 years. Also of JANE, widow of the said William Price, who
died April 10th, 1848, aged 68 years.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of CHARLES THOMAS JONES, late of this Town,
Banker, who died 16th October, 1847, aged 70 years.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of ROBERT EDWARDS, late of the Queen’s Head
Inn, in this Town, who died February 2nd, 1843, aged 62. And of
SARAH, his beloved wife, who died April 7th, 1843, aged 59. Also of
THOMAS, third son of the above Robert and Sarah Edwards, who died
June 20th, 1843, aged 27 years. Life, how short, how uncertain!
Look, O! look on this monument, ye gay and careless; attend to these
dates, and boast no more of to-morrow.

‘Father, thy chastening hand we own,
And bow submission to Thy rod;
That must be wise which Thou hast done,
It must be kind, for Thou art God.’”

“In memory of ROBERT, second son of Robert and Sarah Edwards, who
died December 1st, 1808, aged one year. Also of ROBERT, their fourth
son, who died January 20th, 1818, aged 6 months. Also of MARTHA,
their fourth daughter, who died March 8th, 1823, aged 11 months.
Also of SOPHIA, their fifth daughter, who died May 15th, 1824, aged 4
months. Also of ROBERT EDWARDS, grandfather of the above infants,
who died May 10th, 1837, aged 84.”

“Sacred to the memory of JOSEPH, fifth son of Robert and Sarah
Edwards, who died May 2nd, 1851, aged 32.”

* * * * *

“In a vault beneath are deposited the remains of WILLIAM JONES, late
Ironmonger, of this town, who died December 28th, 1827, in the 71st
year of his age. Also the remains of ELIZABETH JONES, relict of the
above, who died April 12th, 1843, aged 81.”

“THOMAS, youngest son of William and Elizabeth Jones, died June 28th,
1828, in the 27th year of his age. Also of ALICE, eldest daughter of
William and Elizabeth Jones, who died March 7th, 1844, aged 50.”

“Sacred to the memory of JOHN JONES, late of Plas-fynnon, who
departed this life December 10th, 1853, aged 61 years.”

* * * * *

“In memory of EDWARD BENNION, Surgeon, Cyrn-y-Bwch, who died July
31st, 1844, aged 87. Also ALICE BENNION, wife of the above Edward
Bennion, who died July 16th, 1838, aged 70.”

“In memory of EDWARD BENNION (senior), Surgeon, who died February
27th, 1788, aged 69. Also ELIZABETH BATTEN and ELIZABETH ROBERTS,
who died in their infancy.”

* * * * *

“MARGARET CARTWRIGHT, wife of Robert Cartwright, Surgeon, died June
28th, 1807, aged 29 years. ROBERT CARTWRIGHT, died July 17th, 1822,
aged 51 years.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of GEORGE DORSET OWEN, late of this Town, who
departed this life November the 3rd, 1839, aged 52.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of EDWARD POWELL, late of Preesgwyn, in this
County, and of the Excise Office in the City of London, second son of
Edward Powell, by Sarah his wife, who departed this life January 6th,
1825, and was interred the 12th of the same month, at St. Dunstan’s
Church, Mile End, Old Town, Middlesex, aged 68 years. Underneath
rest the mortal remains of JOHN POWELL, late of Preesgwyn, youngest
son of the above Edward and Sarah Powell, who departed this life
November 24th, 1825, aged 63 years.”

* * * * *

“In a vault beneath this stone are deposited the mortal remains of
MARY, the beloved and affectionate wife of Mr. William Faulder, late
of this town, and mother of Margaret, wife of John Richard Powell, of
Preesgwyn, who died February 17th, 1847, in the 73rd year of her
age.”

* * * * *

“Underneath lie the remains of MARGARET JENNINGS, eldest daughter of
Thomas and Margaret Jennings, of Penylan. She died May 12th, 1826,
aged 59. Also the remains of MARY, youngest daughter of Thomas and
Margaret Jennings, who died 31st of March, 1834, aged 61. Also the
remains of EDWARD, the youngest son of Thomas and Margaret Jennings,
who died November 27th, 1835, aged 61. Also the remains of THOMAS,
eldest son of Thomas and Margaret Jennings, who died July 26th, 1844,
aged 74. Underneath are deposited the remains of THOMAS JENNINGS, of
Penylan. He died l7th of December, 1805, aged 79. Also the remains
of MARGARET JENNINGS, relict of Thomas Jennings, of Penylan. She
died the 31st of March, 1811, aged 79. JANE, the wife of John Wolfe,
of Penylan, departed this life July 19th, 1695. SINAH, the second
wife of John Wolfe, of Penylan, departed this life October 25th,
1736, aged 77. MARY JENNINGS, of Penylan, (widow), departed this
life November 11th, 1756, aged 51. JOHN WOLFE, of Penylan, departed
this life July 3rd, 1739, aged 80.”

* * * * *

“EDWARD GOUGH, departed this life March 14th, 1803.”

“Also to the memory of CATHERINE WILLIAMS, who departed this life
April 28th, 1840, aged 97.”

“Also to the memory of MARIA, relict of the above-named Edward Gough,
who departed this life February 25th, 1853, aged 82.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of THOMAS POTTER MACQUEEN, late of Ridgemount,
Bedfordshire, Lieutenant-Colonel of the Beds. Yeomanry Cavalry, and
M.P. for that County, born May 28th, 1792, died March 31st, 1854.”

In the New Church-Yard.

“In memory of CHARLOTTE ELIZABETH URWICK, eldest daughter of Thomas
and Frances Penson, and wife of William Urwick, of Ludlow. She died
of consumption, at Torquay, on the 26th of November, 1846, aged 30
years. In this dispensation of the Divine will, her parents have to
sorrow for a most dear and dutiful daughter, and her husband to
bemoan the loss of an affectionate wife. Her remains, with those of
her only child, THOMAS PENSON URWICK, who died on the 27th of May,
1847, aged 13 months, are deposited beneath.”

* * * * *

Near this place are deposited the remains of HANNAH PENSON, who died an infant, on the 28th of September, 1823. And underneath lie the remains of SARAH MARIA PENSON, who died on the 25th of April, 1829, aged 8 years. Also the remains of HENRY PENSON, who died on the 1st of May, 1832, aged 12 years; children of Thomas and Frances Penson.

‘Happy children, early blest,
Rest, in peaceful slumbers rest.’”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of JANE, daughter of Edmund Faunce, Esq., late
Lieutenant-Colonel of the 4th or King’s own regiment, and Bridget his
wife, who died April the 12th, 1826, aged 16. Also sacred to the
memory of the above-named EDWARD FAUNCE, Esq., of St. Mary’s Hall,
county of Kent, late Lieutenant-Colonel in the 4th or King’s own
regiment. He died September 29th, 1838, aged 72.”

* * * * *

“Sacred to the memory of JOHN WILLIAM BOURKE, obiit August 21st,
1823, ætat. suæ 47. Sacred to the memory of ANNE, relict of the Rev.
John William Bourke, who died October 22nd, 1833, aged 73.”

TRINITY CHURCH.

[Picture: Trinity Church]

The great want of accommodation for the poor in the Parish Church led to the building of another church, in the outskirts of the town, in the year 1835. This church, dedicated to the HOLY TRINITY, was consecrated by the Bishop of St. Asaph (Dr. Carey) in 1837, and a district, consisting of the wards of Leg-Street and Beatrice Street, in the town, and of the townships of Middleton, Hisland, Wootton, Aston., and Maesbury, has since been formed for it by the Church Commissioners. The population of the district so assigned was estimated at the time at about 2,300. The church contains accommodation for 700 persons, for about 400 of whom there are free sittings. The ornamental parts of the interior were executed at the expense of the Rev. John Parker, of Sweeney Hall, Vicar of Llanyblodwel. The Viscount Dungannon presented a handsome bible and prayer book, and the communion services, for the use of the church. The communion plate was given by the late Earl of Powis. T. L. Longueville, Esq., has also been a most liberal contributor to the church, both in presenting an organ, and in subscribing largely to the original structure, and to the subsequent improvements. A school-room at Maesbury, with a house for the master, was built some years since in this district, and subsequently licensed for the performance of worship by the Bishop of St. Asaph, and which is served gratuitously by the Incumbent of Trinity Church. It is much to be desired that a chapel-of-ease were erected in this part of the parish. Trinity Church is now altogether separated from the living of Oswestry, the Vicar of Oswestry for the time being appointing the Incumbent. The present Incumbent is the Rev. Frederick Cashel, M.A.

TREFONEN CHURCH.

To meet the wants of the Welsh population of the parish, a church was built in the township of Trefonen, and consecrated in the year 1821; and in 1842 a district was assigned to it, by an Order in Council bearing date August 27th, consisting of the three townships of Trefonen, Treflach, and Treferclawdd. In 1851 this district contained 319 houses, and 1233 inhabitants—viz., 589 males and 644 females.

Trefonen Church, which is capable of containing about 500 persons, was built on a piece of land given for that purpose by the late Sir W. W. Wynn, father of the present Baronet. It was originally intended that the service of this church should be wholly in Welsh; but, owing to the increase and prevalence of the English language, that intention was not persevered in, and the service has for some years past been performed in Welsh and English alternately. A substantial school-room, with a house for the Master, was erected in the year 1825, upon a portion of the glebe given for that purpose, with the sanction of the Bishop, by the late Incumbent, the Rev. Edward Jones, and which has been of great advantage to the district. The living is a perpetual curacy, in the patronage of the Earl of Powis. The present Incumbent is the Rev. D. Lloyd.

Trefonen abounds in mineral wealth. Coal was raised in considerable abundance some years since in the adjoining township of Treferclawdd, but the pits there are now exhausted. It is still worked, however, in the township of Treflach, where there are also valuable and extensive quarries of lime. A mine was opened some years since in the Moelydd, which produces lead and calamine.

RHYDYCROESAU CHURCH.

In addition to the above means of providing church accommodation to the inhabitants of the parish, an additional advantage has been gained by annexing the two Welsh townships of Pentregaer and Cynynion to the new church at Rhydycroesau. This church is situated on the high road to Llansilin, about three and a half miles from the town of Oswestry. It owes its foundation to the Rev. G. N. K. Lloyd, late Rector of Selattyn, who contributed liberally himself, and, with the co-operation of the first and present Incumbent, the Rev. Robert Williams, M.A., raised a sufficient fund, by voluntary contributions, to complete the church and erect a glebe-house. The church was consecrated August 2nd, 1838, by the Bishop of St. Asaph, and the glebe-house was built in 1840. It is a Consolidated District Church, licensed for all parochial purposes; and has a legally-assigned district, consisting of the townships of Cynynion and Pentregaer, in the parish of Oswestry; a detached portion of the parish of Llanyblodwel, called Cefnymaes; with portions of the parishes of Llansilin and Selattyn. A very neat Gothic building has also been erected by the present Incumbent, aided by voluntary contributions, and opened as a National School in January, 1850. The sites for the school and playground, as well as for the church and church-yard, are the munificent gifts of Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart. The portion of the population of the parish of Oswestry thus transferred to the district of Rhydycroesau is about 200.

Nothing is now needed to make the ecclesiastical arrangements of the parish of Oswestry complete but the building of a chapel-of-ease at Maesbury, and the annexing a district to Morton Chapel; the latter of which objects will no doubt be effected whenever a new Incumbent shall be appointed to it.

Oswestry is a discharged Vicarage, in the gift of the Earl of Powis. The present Incumbent is the Rev. Thomas Salwey, B.D.

LIST OF VICARS.

David Owain instituted 1534

Rector of Whittington 1532, and Prebendary of
Myfod 1534
Peter Brereton 1537
John Price, L.L.B. 1552

He became Prebendary of Myfod 1558, and Chancellor 1559. William Owen 1583 William Horton 1587 Thomas Somerfield 1588 John Bagshaw 1591

Rector of Whittington 1588.
William Morgan 1599

Vicar of Pool 1575. Richard Pagot 1602 Nathaniel Tattersall (deprived) 1603 Richard Muckleston 1612 John Kyffin, B.D. 1625 Humphrey Wynne 1639 Rowland Nevet, A.M. —

Ejected by the Act of Uniformity. Richard Edwards 1664 Richard Jones 1680 Samuel Wilson, A.M. 1690 Archibald Guild 1694 Thomas Jones 1697 Thomas Owen 1707 Edward Parry 1713 Thomas Trevor, A.M., Bodynfol 1736 Turner Edwards, L.L.B., Talgarth 1784

Vicar of Llansilin. Daniel Griffiths 1803 J. W. Bourke, A.M. 1807

Vicar of St. Martins 1803.
Thomas Salwey, B.D. December, 1823

The present esteemed Vicar of Oswestry, suffering much from illness, has long been unable to attend personally to the duties of his office. When however occasion has offered to promote, by his counsel and aid, any measure of benevolence in the Parish, he has been active in the good work. There are two Curates at present attached to the Parish Church—the Rev. Llewelyn Wynne Jones, and the Rev. George Cuthbert, both of whom are zealous and faithful in their ministerial labours, and have acquired the regard and affection of the numerous congregations to whom they dispense the Bread of Life.

Dissenting Places of Worship.

THE OLD CHAPEL.