FRANCIS, JOHN (1789-1843), miller and musician;
b. 20 March 1789, son of William and Margaret Francis, Melin Rhyd-hir, Pwllheli. He learnt the rudiments of music (including harmony) and began to compose when still quite young. In Seren Gomer for Nov. 1821 there appeared two hymn-tunes by him called ‘Mwyneidd-dra’ and ‘Gomer’ and in the same journal for March 1823 a hymn-tune called ‘Pwllheli’ (but originally called ‘Morwydden’). He composed an anthem on the words of Psalm xxxix which became popular in parts of Caernarvonshire. It is said that he used to keep his music books in a chest in his mill and that these were stolen by a thief one night. He was precentor at Pen-lan Congregational chapel, Pwllheli, for many years. He d. 19 Aug. 1843 and was buried in Pen-lan burial ground, Pwllheli.
Bibliography:
- Y Cerddor Cymreig, Oct. 1871, May 1872;
- M. O. Jones, Byw. Cerdd. Cymr.;
- Ceitho;
- Y Cerddor, May 1893;
- Blackwell.
Author:
Robert David Griffith, M.A., (1877-1958), Old Colwyn
