JAMES, JOHN (1815-1869), poet and hymnwriter;
b. at Colwinston, Glam. When only a child of 3 he was blinded for life. Though deprived of the advantages of early education, he became the author of numerous hymns and poems. Many of his compositions were published — Seren Bethlehem (Bridgend, 1849; 2nd ed. Aberdare, 1865); Casgliad o Emynau Gwreiddiol (Aberdare, n.d.; the translation was by Isaac Jenkins); Twyni Tregolwyn (Aberdare, 1864). He was a member of the Wesleyan church at Colwinston. He d. in March 1869, and was buried on the 19th of the same month at Colwinston.
Bibliography:
- Foreword to Seren Bethlehem (Bridgend, 1859);
- Twyni Tregolwyn (Aberdare, 1864).
Author:
Dr Moelwyn Idwal Williams, M.A., Aberystwyth
