David Davis, Maesyffynnon (coal owner)
David Davis of Maesyffynnon | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1821 Wales |
| Died | 1884 Ferndale, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales |
| Occupation(s) | Industrialist, public figure |
| Years active | 1847–1884 |
| Known for | Expansion of coal enterprises in Aberdare and Rhondda valleys; vice-chairman of South Wales Conciliation Board; high sheriff of Merionethshire |
David Davis of Maesyffynnon (1821–1884), the son of David Davis, Blaengwawr, was a prominent Welsh industrialist and public figure who significantly grew the family's coal enterprises in the Aberdare and Rhondda valleys. He fathered two daughters: Mary, who wed H.T. Edwards, vicar of Aberdare and subsequently Dean of St Asaph, and Catherine, who became the wife of Sir Francis Edwards.
Career in industry
Expanding upon his father’s legacy, Davis advanced the family’s coal operations primarily located in the Aberdare Valley by establishing new pits south of Aberdare, notably at Abercwmboi. The business also extended its reach into the Rhondda Valleys, concentrating activities in Ferndale within the Rhondda Fach. Although a significant accident occurred at Ferndale in 1867, Davis maintained a reputation as an equitable employer.
Throughout the labor unrest of the 1870s, he was recognized as one of the most conciliatory mine owners, striving to mediate conflicts. His collieries notably remained operational during the 1875 lock-out. Subsequently, he assumed the role of vice-chairman on the South Wales Conciliation Board, overseen by H. H. Vivian.
Davis was a prosperous businessman with additional quarry interests in Merioneth and held the position of high sheriff for that county in 1869. He constructed a residence at Arthog, where his wife passed away in 1880.
Politics and public life
More publicly active than his father, Davis engaged from 1847 in gatherings addressing the 1847 Education Reports. He played an influential role in Aberdare’s local governance as a member of both the Aberdare Local Board of Health and Aberdare School Board, while also advocating for university institutions in Aberystwyth and Cardiff.
In the 1860s, although considered as a Liberal candidate for Merthyr Boroughs, he declined to stand and instead supported Henry Richard’s successful parliamentary bid. Davis chaired several meetings on Richard’s behalf and was instrumental in his campaign efforts. Following Richard Fothergill’s retirement in 1880, Davis—like his brother Lewis—was invited to pursue a parliamentary seat.
Religion
Contrasting with his father’s active involvement in Wesleyan Methodism, David Davis of Maesyffynnon aligned himself with a faction that formed the brief 'Wesleyan Reform' movement. The associated 'Reform' chapel at Aberdare eventually transitioned into Congregationalism.
Later life
Davis passed away in 1884 at his brother Lewis Davis’s residence in Ferndale, Rhondda Cynon Taf.