JONES, JAMES RHYS (KILSBY) , (1813-1889), Congregational minister;
b. 4 Feb. 1813 at Pen-lan, Llandovery, son of the Rev. Rhys Jones, Ffaldybrenin. At the age of 15 he went to Neuadd-lwyd (near Aberayron) Academy, 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, Northants., 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 d. 4 Feb. 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.
Bibliography:
- J. Vyrnwy Morgan, Kilsby Jones;
- Gen., July 1889;
- N.L.W. MS. 10 (328);
- H.E.A.C., ii, 524, in, 557.
Author:
Rev. John Dyfnallt Owen, M.A., (1873-1956), Aberystwyth
