Powell's Coming of Age

Newspaper Transcriptions of celebrations of the Coming of Age of three of the Powells of Nanteos. 

William Thomas Rowalnd Powell (The Glamorgan & Brecon and Merthyr Guardian 20 August 1836)

Geroge Ernest John Powell (The Welshman 13th February 1863)

Edward Athelstan Lewis Powell (The Cambrian News and Welsh Farmer's Gazette 13 November 1891)

William Thomas Rowland Powell 

The Glamorgan and Brecon Gazette and Merthyr Guardian

20^th August 1836

Rejoicings at Aberystwith and Nanteos

Preparations have been long in progress for the celebrating with great splendour the coming of age of the heir of Nanteos, Cardiganshire. On Wednesday and Thursday night, the visitors (among whom were several members of the Hawkstone family in Shropshire, relatives of Colonel Powell) began to arrive at the mansion, where the hospitalities are still continuing upon a princely scale, On Thursday the tenantry at Nanteos and Aberystwith were sumptuously entertained, Mr Hughes, the agent of the estates, presiding.   Col. Powell ordered an ox to be given to the poor in the vicinity of Nanteos another at Tregaron, and another at Aberystwith; the tenantry on various parts of the estates have given sheep. A splendid collection of Fireworks was sent from London to Aberystwith by Col. Powell, and exhibited by the London Artist on Thursday evening, on the Mrine Terrace, near Belle Vue Hotel, where rocket, stars, wheels, and other devices were beheld by throngs of visitors and inhabitants; but the most novel and interesting spectacle was that of a large illuminated Ship, with her masts, rigging, and anchor, which drew forth pearl of approbation. The town was brilliantly illuminated; scenes of gaiety every where abounded; and at the different private and public companies, the health of the members of the Nanteos family was frequently add cordially drank. 

George Ernest John Powell 

The Welshman

13th February 1863

THE CELEBRATION OF THE COMING OF AGE OF GEORGE ERNEST JOHN POWELL, ESQ, OF NANT EOS. For the past few months an important item in the social intercourse of the town and neighbourhood has been the all-absorbing topic. “What are you going to do in honour of Mr. Powell's birth-day ?" The utmost secrecy prevailed as to the exact mode in which each in- tended the celebration to be made, and speculation was rife as to the quality and quantity of stars, mottoes, flags, banners, and the usual paraphernalia that would be re- quired for exhibition on the occasion. The great influence which the family possesses in this neighbourhood, and the generosity and liberality with which that influence has always been exercised, has made the subject of the celebration an all-engrossing topic, and we venture to say, that in the memory of the oldest inhabitants a better or a more general demonstration has not been made in the neighbourhood. It would be beside our purpose to call the attention of our readers to the deeds of the ancestors of the present family of Nanteos in war, and the less known, but not less ennobling, pursuits of peace. It is sufficient to say that the family of the Powells, in honour of whose promising scion, Mr. Geo. Powell, the demonstration of Tuesday was so worthily made, are not of that description, of whom like many an effete and sapless tree, it might be said that the best part was underground, but rather of that character, of which with propriety it might be said, that though springing from ancient stock, it still lives and flourishes, enriching the neighbourhood with its pleasant shade. The generosity with which Col. Powell has so interwoven his name, in acts of charity and education, in this part of the county, and to which we have occasionally called attention in these columns, have not been forgotten, and the spontaneous exhibition of good feeling & attachment which have been shown on this occasion by high and low, rich and poor, to his heir, must have been a pleasing proof to the gallant Colonel that his deeds have not been forgotten by the recipients and their fellow-townsmen. Ever foremost in promoting the social and intellectual advancement of the people of this district, Col. Powell has, we are happy to say, a heir in whom those qualities of liberality and tenderness of feeling are fondly cherished and proved thus early to exist, and if the acts of Mr. Powell prove an index to what may be expected it may, without presumption, be said this as one has, or may, in all probability possess such a wide-spread in- fluence, not merely in regard to territorial possessions, but also in those innate feelings of honour, probity, and goodness of heart which goes far towards attaining the grand old name, gentleman." On Tuesday morning the town presented a most gay and animated appearance. At dawn the inhabitants of the town and neighbouring villages were all agog, and busy with their preparations. Some might be seen with assiduous dexterity hanging flags and banners for the first, and from the various windows arches of evergreens spanned the streets, bearing appropriate mottoes. From the Pier and the various vessels in the harbour, which were gaily decorated, the boom of cannon were heard' without intermission during the day. About ten o'clock, about 330 of the members of the St. David's and Rheidol Lodges, (M.U.) met at the Lodge room, and having formed in procession marched to Nant Eos, headed by a small but excellently got up band from Machynlleth, which did good duty during the day. Arriving at the mansion house, they were received by Mr. Geo. Powell, and a party of friends, the gallant Colonel being too indisposed to take part in the proceedings. Mr. David Evans, secretary of the Rheidol Lodge, then read the following address :— Honoured Sir,—Allow us as members of a much-respected order, the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows, to address you on the present occasion. This day has been long looked for by many with anxiety, not more for the novelty of the occasion than for the wish felt by all classes to pay their respects to the ancient and honourable family of Nant Eos, a family well known in the annals of our country, and whose name can be traced through ago a past, a family that can boast of its learned and its brave-can boast of their men famous in war, at the bar, in the church, and in the Senate, and that now augurs well to preserve its good name in the fame of the author and poet" Miolnir." We are well acquainted with names of members of the family of Nant Eos, in connection with all institutions established for the benefit and welfare of the people, always assiduous in promoting trade amongst us, and in assisting the poor and needy, and glad are we to observe that your own praises have reached our ears. Nurtured in the bosom of a father who has always shown a pleasure in relieving the wants of the distressed, we now hope to see those principles of benevolence and charity taught in youth, carried out and worked upon in mature age, and that we shall see an epoch in the history of Nant Eos, when equals, shall have cause to praise, tradesmen to thank, and the poor to bless its noble proprietor. The Manchester Unity of Oddfellows, an order founded on the great principles of philanthropy and self-dependence, and whose principal supporting pillars are friendship, love, and mirth, though established for the immediate benefit of the provident working man, can count amongst its members noblemen, senators, clergy and gentry, and proud are we in being privileged to claim brotherhood with such gentlemen as your much respected father and Capt. Phelp, who are now members of the Rheidol Lodge. Their initiation into the order gave us much cause for rejoicing, and we hope we shall here long have the pleasure of adding to the list of our members the name of G. E. J. Powell, Esq. We now beg leave to congratulate you on your attaining your majority. May you enjoy a long life, full of peace and happiness" Mr. Powell replied as follows:—I can scarcely find words to express to you the gratification I feel by the honour you have done me in coming here this day. I believe your Society to be an excellent one, and deserving of encouragement, and I hope ere many months are over, I shall be able to give you the right hand of fellowship as member of the order. I now give you (loud cheers)—to be divided amongt the funds of the two lodges. (Protracted cheering.) The health of Colonel Powell and Captain Phelps was also drunk, after which the members reformed and marched back to town, previous to which they paid a neighbourly visit to Mr. Davies, of Antaron, who in a most humorous speech bade them welcome amidst loud cheering, and being an Odd-fellow himself had great pleasure in fraternising with them. At 3 o'clock the friends and well-wishers of the heir, to the number of 180 were entertained to a sumptuous dinner at the Talbot Hotel, to which ample justice was done. The bill of fare contained all the delicacies of the season, and the wines were of the most recherche description, and supplied in abundant profusion. Mr Job Jones, butcher, was the purveyor of the meat, which had been selected expressly for the occasion from the herds of Mr. J. A. Naylor, of Leighton Hall, near Welshpool, and Mrs. Lewes, Llanayron. Thomas Owen Morgan, Esq., Mayor of Aberystwyth, occupied the chair, and F. R. Roberts, Esq., Penywern, the vice chair. Amongst those present were—Messrs. Thomas Jones, Mount Pleasant, Jacob Leon, W. H. Thomas, E. D. Jonas, Rev. John Edwards, rector of Newton, Messrs. Hugh Hughes, Evan Rowland, surgeon, Goginan, J. J. Attwood, Octavius Rowe, Richard Hughes, C. M. Thomson, J. Roberts, sen., Pier-street, Edward Davies, Lion Hotel, Capt. Davies, harbour- master, Messrs. John Davies, Pier-street, Lewis Ellis, James Miller, John Roberts, jun., Thomas James, surgeon, Evan Jones, Edward L. Cole, Capt. Trevethan, Capt. D. Boundy, R J. Jones, G. H. Thomas, Isaac Morgan, Capt. Roberts, Capt. Northey, John Vaughan, Charles Hackney, William Morgan, John Jones, Terrace, George Morice, H. Morgan, Pentrallt, E. S. R. Locke, Theodore Paul, Job Jones, Henry Thomas, Laura Place, Capt. Lester, John Boundy, Capt. Kendal, Capt. John Paul, Messrs. W. Paul, Capt. John Williams, Capt. Kneebone, Capt. Henry Trenwith, Messrs. J. Cole, Charles McArthur, H. J. Lloyd, John Morgan, Pier- street, Capt. John Gorland, Capt. Paul, Goginan, Capt. N. Bragg, Llwynmalus, John Rowlands, surgeon, D. Jenkins, printer, Roderick Williams, Geo. T. Smith, Edward Williams, Tanfynwent, John Cox, Hugh Pugh, Capt. Tregoning, John Evans, shipbuilder, John Jones, Great Dark Gate-street, Thomas Griffiths, J. F. Evans, Thomas Hugh Jones, William Jones, draper, S Tregoning, Henry Culliford, T. E. Ellis, William Eynon, Benjamin Jenkins, Theodore C. Hughes, John Roberts, surgeon, T R. Jones, surgeon, Thomas Griffiths, &c. The large room was most tastefully and elegantly decorated with holly and evergreens, and other emblems and flags suitable for the occasion. The cloth having been removed, the Chairman proposed in succession, Her Majesty the Queen," the Prince of Wales, and the rest of the Royal Family," the Army and Navy," and the Lord Lieutenant of the County." The Chairman said, — Gentlemen, in proposing the health of the Member for the County, I need only observe, that the urbanity, courtesy, and generosity of Colonel Powell, are so well known that it needs no eulogium from me in proposing the toast. It must be a proud day for Colonel Powell to see his only son and heir attain his majority, and I am quite sure that every one of us, whatever feelings of respect we entertain towards the son, it does not lessen the regard and esteem in which we hold his father, the gallant Colonel. I will now propose, and I am quite sure you will all cordially join with me in drinking, health and prosperity to Colonel Powell, of Nant Eos. (The toast was drank with musical honours and tremendous cheering.) At this stage of the proceedings Mr. G. E. J. Powell, Capt. Phelps, Capt. Hotchkin, and a party of ladies entered the room, and were received with vociferous cheers. The Chairman here rose and said, "In pro posing the toast of the evening—the health of George Ernest John Powell I need only state that I should but occupy your time needlessly by any lengthened remarks of mine. I will, therefore, propose his health, which I am confident you will drink with the applause and expression of good will which he deserves (Loud cheers). The toast was most enthusiastically received, and the cheering lasted for a lengthened interval, at the close of which Mr. George E. J. Powell said, Ladies and Gentlemen, I cannot sufficiently supply words to express the real pleasure I feel at the manner in which you have drank my health, and shewn your kind feeling towards me. I see around me many faces from whom I have received personal acts of kindness which I never can forget, and other faces there are, too, whom I do not know, but whom I also include amongst those whom I hope I shall not forget (Loud cheers). The near approach of the railway will, I trust, inaugurate a new era in the prosperity of the town and trade of Aberystwith, and I trust you will all, more or less, profit by it and feel its benefit in your circumstances in life (Cheers)' Allow me also most cordially, on the part of the ladies to return thanks for the reception you have awarded them on this occasion, and I have to wish you most sincerely every happiness that a kind Providence can bestow. I wish you all, your wives, your children and all connected with you, good health and lasting prosperity (Tremendous cheering). The health of Mrs. Phelp, and the rest of the ladies, was next proposed, and drank with applause. Mr. F. R. Roberts said, in rising I hope I do not infringe upon the order of your proceedings by acknowledging the health of the ladies. Mr. Powell has told us something about the fair sex, but I am sure of this that no one appreciates the ladies more than I do, and I hope he appreciates them too, for the longer he lives the greater cause will he have to appreciate them. (Cheers.) The Chairman proposed the health of Capt. Phelp, and the rest of the members of the Nant Eos family. (Drunk with enthusiasm.) In the absence of Capt. Phelp, the toast was most feelingly and eloquently responded to by Major Amfort, who said—In the absence of Capt. Phelp, who has just left, I have great pleasure in responding to the toast last proposed by your worthy Mayor, for I belong distantly, as it were, to the Nant Eos family, Colonel Powell being my brother-in-law. I hope that of the many happy days I have spent this present tenth of February will occupy a prominent position, and that it will not be wholly forgotten by me. It is at all times an interesting thing to watch the rise and progress, and in this case, I trust, the success of youth. (Cheers.) This day is a most important day for the young gentleman whose health you have so cordially responded to, for now he has to leave the mirth and thoughtless- ness of boyhood, and to emerge through the portal that separates youth from manhood. May God grant that the joys of manhood may far exceed its cares and trouble, and that his future life may be happier than we can anticipate. I have known my nephew from his childhood, for a period of 18 years, and I can safely say that his life hitherto has been well spent. He has had, as was alluded to by the gentleman who proposed his health at the Assembly Rooms, the advantage of a liberal education. I also hope he has had the good sense to profit by it. (Cheers.) I believe I can guarantee to you that there is planted in him that degree of high principle which will never leave him for life, and that will guide him to the right goal at last. (Hear, hear.) I can say with perfect confidence that you will find Mr. Powell everything you can wish, and that you will find him possessed of the feelings of a true, correct, and honourable gentleman. And I dare say that when in the course of nature he succeeds his father (a day which I trust may be far removed) he will feel and realise the fact that his large estates—almost a principality in themselves—have been given to him not to administer to his own pleasure and caprices, but to do good to his fellow-men. (Enthusiastic cheering.) I fully hope and trust that as one of the landed gentry, he may be an ornament to his order. (Applause.) I am myself a landed proprietor, and I hope that my nephew will see the force of my remarks when I say that we-the landed gentry- unless possessed of high moral rectitude and sense of honour, and do to others whatever good we may be enabled to do, we cannot hope worthily to retain our high station, or preserve the esteem of our fellow-men, whatever be the extent of our estates or the magnitude of our rentals. (Loud cheering.) I hope my nephew will be an honourable example to the landed gentry, and endeavour as much as in him lies to promote the welfare of all around him. (Loud cheers.) The gallant Mayor concluded a most able speech by a graceful tribute to the ladies. The mayor, then said that a gentleman present had been courting the Muses, and he believed that the verses that would be road would be worthy of attention. Mr. Hackney then recited a poetical address, but which was unfortunately not audible to the reporters. The next toast was the tenantry of Nant Eos which was well received. A considerable period having elapsed without a response, Mr. R. Roberts rose and responded. He stated that he was quite surprised that none of the tenants had stood up on the occasion, and that he though not now a tenant, had been so until the preceding 12 months, and that his family had been tenants for about a hundred years. Mr Roberts concluded a most telling speech by expressing a hope that the house of Nant Eos long might live and flourish, and that the tenants of Nant Eos might long live and flourish as the bone and sinew of the house. (Loud cheers.) Mr W. H. Thomas said that the reason for the backwardness of the Nant Eos tenantry in responding might be attributed to the fact that they dined at another place and being there," Mr. Thomas argued, They could not be here." (Laughter.) Mr. F. R. Roberts proposed the health of the Chair- man in highly eulogistic terms. The toast was received with musical honours. The Chairman briefly responded and proposed the town and trade of Aberystwyth. Thomas Jones, Esq responded, and said he felt flattered at being the humble instrument of returning thanks for the toast of the town and trade of Aberystwyth. He was sorry he could not make a long speech on the occasion, as he generally adapted old speeches and made them pass muster, but on this occasion he had overlooked the matter owing to business, and they must consequently put up with a few plain words, which were none the worst as they conveyed his real sentiments. Mr Jones concluded by proposing the mining interest, coupled with the name of Mr. Geo. Fossett (Cheers.) Henry Thomas, Esq.. responded on behalf of Air. Fossett, all the mining agents in the room standing, as an acknowledgment of the toast. Mr. Thomas said I have but little to say, but as Mr. Fossett is absent it devolves upon me to acknowledge the compliment on his behalf. The high character which Mr. Fossett has won during his residence among you is so well know that I need not allude to it any further. I have great pleasure in being present to-day, as I believe that the owners of the Nant Eos property have at all times stimulated mining industry by charging only moderate royalties. (Hear, hear.) In mining it may be truly said that what one man gains is no man's loss if fairly and legitimately carried out, but all ventures cannot be successfully prosecuted without liberality on the part of the adventurers and a corresponding liberality on the part of the owners of the soil. Liberality on the part of the Lords develops the value of mining ventures, whilst stinginess on their part often causes total failure. (Hear, hoar.) It is because of the liberality shown by the Nant Eos family to- wards the miner that gives me especial pleasure in responding to the toast on the present occasion. (Cheers.) Captain Phelp proposed, in an appropriate speech, the health of Mr. F. R. Roberts, the vice-chairman, and concluded by stating that he (Capt. Phelp) had not been long in the county, but Mr. Roberts was the only one of whom he never heard any one speaking against. The toast was drank with much cheering, and being responded to by Mr. Roberts, brought the proceedings to a close. The tenantry dinner took place at the Assembly Rooms, when about 250 sat down to an excellent dinner, provided by Mr. and Mrs Careswell, in a style of excellence that has been but rarely surpassed, and which gave universal satisfaction. The chair was taken by Mr. David Edwards, of Nant Eos, Mr. Evan Killin, Llanbadarn, acting as vice. After the preliminary loyal and patriotic toasts, Mr. J. Wickman Jenkins rose and said: It is with much plea- sure that I propose the health of Mr. G. E. J. Powell, the attainment of whose majority we are now assembled to celebrate. It would be superfluous on me to attempt to recite to you the many good qualities of this young gentleman, but it may not be out of place in stating that he has received a liberal education, and in him you will find the well-known liberal qualities of the Powells. May he prove a worthy success to the family of Nant Eos, who have eminently distinguished them- selves in the Senate, in Law, Divinity, and Medicine. The health of Mr. Powell was drank with vociferous cheering, to which Mr. Powell feelingly replied in an appropriate speech. The health of Col. Powell was also proposed and honoured with the greatest enthusiasm. The illumination was one of the most effective and complete that has ever been witnessed in this town. Not a single dwelling could there be found in any of the streets, that boasted any pretension, but had its windows brilliantly illuminated for the nonce. The sur- rounding hills were all one blaze of flame, stretching from Pendinas, on the south, around a wide expanse of country, and terminating in Craiglais, on the north. The village of Llanbadarn Fawr was early engaged in demonstrations of respect. At an early hour the fine peal of bells of which the village justly boasts, were set in commotion, and their melodious tones permeated for and wide with their cheerful tidings of the day. Several triumphal arches had been erected across the road near the village, one by Mr John Paul, of Llanbadarn Villa, and the other by Mr John Thomas, of Quebec Villa, each bearing appropriate mottoes. In the evening the houses were brilliantly illuminated, the inhabitants apparently vying with one another in the efforts to outshine their neighbours. Conspicuous amongst the rest we noticed the old Thatched Tavern, of worthy host Killin, Six Bells, of host Beckingham, Gogerddan Arms, of host Edwards, and Tymawr, Tanfynwent, the residence of Mr Edward Williams. Another prominent feature was the schoolroom, which had been most beautifully and tastefully illuminated by the schoolmaster, Mr David Davies. In the course of the day the Rev. John Pugh, the worthy and esteemed vicar, distributed among the poor of the parish the sum of money which had been left in his hands for that purpose by the young heir, and which formed one of the most noticeable features of the day. The village of Penyparke was also not behind-hand in its demonstrations. Four magnificent arches spanned the road with various mottoes, and engravings attached which had been made for the occasion by Master George Thomas, of Penyparke School. At the south gate an arch crossed the road, having on one side the crest of the family, and on the adverse side the words Long Life and Happiness to G. E. J. Powell, Esq., and to his noble father, Col. Powell, M.P." Mr. Davies, Antaron, had also been fully alive to scenic effect, and had decorated his abode in a most artistic and pleasing style. It would be an endless task to notice the whole of the arches and mottoes observable on our cursory inspection, and where all strove so well it would be invidious to notice any but those that were worthy of especial notice, either from the artistic style in which they had been designed, or the elaborate manner in which the design had been carried out. Flags were as plentiful as autumn leaves, and not the least noticeable feature was the adroitness with which many a thrifty housewife in the purlieus of Trefechan metamorphosed a cotton handkerchief into a presentable and unique flag. The Fountain Inn had been brilliantly illuminated by hostess Pearce, and the Black Horse Inn, and the residence of David Roberts, Esq., might also be mentioned. In Bridge-street, the house of Mr David Davies, joiner, attracted general attention for the graceful character of the festoons as also were the Militia Stores, which, under the magic touch of Sergeant-Major Scott, had been transformed from a dull dingy warehouse to a brilliant and glittering cynosure of watchful eyes. Mr Philip Williams, printer, had a very pretty arch connecting his house with that of Mr. Griffiths, grocer, bearing an appropriate motto. Mr. Henry Davies's house was connected with the pinnacle of the Town Clock by a series of flags, representing most of the modern nations. Another spanned the road from Mr John Rees, draper, to Mrs Jones, draper, with the word Nant Eos worked in leaves & orange blossoms. Another noticeable feature in Mr Rees' house was a spruce fir attached to the wall bearing variegated lamps. Mr Benjamin Hughes, ironmonger, exhibited a design which had a very picturesque effect at night. It consisted of a transparency, with the words Long Life to the Heir of" followed by a finely executed view of Nant Eos house, drawn by Mr. David Jones, of Portland-street. Underneath were mottoes selected from the poems of Edward Richards, the pastoral poet of Ystradmeurig. Mrs. Hughes's design attracted general and deserved attention. One of the most neat and unique exhibitions, however, which we noticed, consisted of a design on the turret, formed from the oars, grapnell hooks, &c., of the National Life-boat, and which embraced all the paraphernalia of the boat, with the sole exception of the boat itself. This elegant design, to which Mr. Geo. Hughes, the coxswain, devoted much of his time and attention, was surmounted by the words Long Life to our new Patron," Pier-street was literally one mass of ever- greens and arches, a few of which we may notice, as follows Mr. Truscott and Mrs. J. E. Jones's arch presented some very noticeable features, the words Long Life" worked in flowers along it being a marvel of skill, and showed great taste on the part of the fair designers. Mr. Jenkins, Printer, had also a similar arch, which had the words Nant Eos" similarly worked in evergreens and flowers. Mr. Jacob Lewis's house was a perfect marvel of decorative art. The whole facade had been elegantly kept out of view, and letters in evergreens and flowers occupied the whole front. A brilliant display, in jet gas, of the initials G. E. J. P." completed Mr. Lewis's preparations. Mr. Hugh Davies and Mr. John Cox, also spanned the street with an arch, bearing the name Powell," and suitable mottoes; a crest of the family, Hir Oes i Aer Nant Eos, 21, 1863," a view of Nant Eos mansion, and complimentary lines in the Welsh language. There was also a very pretty arch from Mr. Griffith Evans' to Mr John'Morgan's, with the following words-" The young bless him, and the old pray for him;" and on the other side" Parhad i'r Teilung." At Mr. Evan Jones, Painter, we noticed an illuminated fanlight, with the Talbot's head, and the following words— 

“Hir Oes i Powell yn y tir,

A gwraig eyn hir ddymunaf.

Sef boneddiges o'r iawn ryw,

A'r oreu'n fyw a'r lanaf."

The Lion Hotel, as usual, was not backward in its demonstrations, and over the door we observed some illuminated mottoes and letters that had a most imposing effect. In Great Dark Gate-street arches were suspended from Mr. John Jones, shoemaker, to Mr. Thomas Beyston, and from Mr. Collins to Mr. J. R. Jones, the latter of whom also exhibited a splendid flag bearing the arms of Nant Eos. Mr. David Lloyd, draper, exhibited one of the best flags in town, with the following words inscribed Ascend to-day that you may ascend for ever." Mr. Elias Davies, draper, exhibited a flag with the words Long life and prosperity to the heir of Nant Eos;" Mr. Morgan Peter Davies, grocer, also made a very good display of festoons and arches, with appropriate mottoes. Mr. Thos. Thomas, painter, shewed a splendid specimen of the Coat of Arms of the family of Nant Eos, which was very much admired. Mr. J. Jones, butcher, of Great Dark Gate- street, had a most excellent display, festoons and arches in immense variety spanned the walls both in and out, and magnificent antlers and bison's heads garnished the premises within, and the whole tout ensemble greatly attracted the notice of Mr. Powell during his progress through the town. Mr. Richard Morgan and Mr. John Ellis also displayed a splendid wreath, which reflected great credit on Miss Morgan Mr. Geo. T. Smith was also deserving of honourable mention in the illumination and outward decoration of his house. The whole front of the Talbot Hotel was, as might be expected, most brilliantly illuminated, and presented portraits of the Colonel and his son, the youthful heir. Very pretty arches also spanned the street at Mr. John Watkins, wine merchant, and Mr. William Morgan. The decorations of the North and South Wales Bank were very well carried out, but owing to a rather high wind the effect was not so successful as had been anticipated. In Church-street, the residence of Robert Edward, Esquire, was most brilliantly and tastefully adorned with festoons, arches and Wreaths, the whole surmounted with appropriate mottoes. Dr. James exhibited a novelty. This was a representation in gas of the Talbot, made by Mr. Edward Williams, tin plate worker, of Church-street, which attracted general and deserved attention as the only attempt of the kind made. The Assembly Rooms had also some very appropriate mottoes and inscriptions ranged above the door. Mr. Edward Williams and Mr. Thomas Morris, of Church- street, had a pretty wreath, surmounting an arch in Church-street, on which a flag was placed, a Talbot in leaves being worked in the centre, and for which Mr. Edward Williams received great credit. In Penmaesglas the windows were very nearly all decorated with models of vessels, and conspicuous amongst them we noticed the house of Mr. Thomas Watkins, shipbuilder. The display on the whole was highly creditable to the genius of the inhabitants, and if from inadvertence we may have omitted to notice localities and buildings which might reasonably be expected to be noticed it has been through the immense amount of careful attention that we failed to command on the occasion to the general illumination. In the course of the evening Mr. Powell visited the town, and the sailors immediately set to, and drew him through the principal thoroughfares to witness the preparations made, and, we believe, we may state that they were, on the whole, of such a high character as to draw from him frequent expressions of approval and astonishment.

Edward Athelstan Lewis Powell

The Cambrian News and Welsh Farmer’s Gazette

13 November 1891

COMING OF AGE OF MR POWELL, NANTEOS. Considerable interest was yesterday manifested in Aberystwyth and the neighbourhood in the coming of age of Mr Edward Athelstan Lewis Powell, heir to the Nanteos estate. During a day of boisterous wind and heavy rain Thursday opened with a bright sky and warm and blight sunshine which illuminated the autumn tints of the woods about Nanteos and made a spectacle of great beauty. The tenantry and others were bent on making the best of the occasion. At the pretty entrance lodge was an arch of evergreens bearing the motto, Hir oes a llwyddiant i etifedd Nanteos." At the mansion the pillars of the portico were wound round with wreaths of evergreens, and along the literature was the word Welcome." Included among the birthday presents were the following Handsome gold hunter's watch (bearing crest of the Nanteos family as well as Mr Powell's initials), Mr W. B. Powell, Nanteos silver cigarette case (bearing crest and initials) Mrs Powell a silver flask (bearing crest and initials), Mrs Jordan, Mr Powell's aunt; gold letter rack and gold locket, Miss Hetty Lewis, Carmarthen; silver saddle flask. Mr Sylvanus Lewis, Mr Powell's uncle large silver cigar case, Mr and Mrs Miller, Clyde House, Carmarthen travelling clock, Mr R. J. R. Loxdale, Castle Hill a set of The Badminton Library." Mr Joseph plush velvet screen, Miss Yale, Plasynyale, North Wales silver button hook and shoe horn, Mrs and the Misses Davies, Cwmgoedwig; silver and ivory paper knife, Lady Pryse, Gogerddan cigarette case, Mrs Francis, Wallog silver sovereign purse, the Rev Henry Brown, Eastham, Tenbury silver match box, Miss Edith Lewis, Eastham, Tenbury silver mounted purse, General Carey, Tymawr, Ruthin; silver hunting flask, Mr Shreiber silver match box, Mrs Morris Davies, Ffosrhydgaled carved hat brush, Master Harry C. Holmes; silver match box, Col. Lewes, Llysnewydd hunting crop mounted in silver, Mrs Williams, Ffynoncaradog gold watch and chain, Nanteos house servants and workmen silver pencil case, Mr and Mrs Lloyd, Nanteos cottage pair of knitted stockings, Mrs Patterson, the Lodge, Nanteos; pair of stockings, Miss Griffiths, Alfred-place, Aberystwyth; handsome prayer book, Mrs Evans, Moriah; terrier, Master Scott, Penglanowen; couple of chickens, Miss Jessie Scott, Penglanowen; cash box, Master Patterson, Lodge, Nanteos; silver pencil case, Mr W H Truscott, Terrace-road, Aberystwyth; pipe rack, Miss Elizabeth Thomas, Carmarthen.

The programme of the day included a dinner to the tenantry. Plates were laid for eighty guests in the dining room, and sixty in the library. The rooms were tastefully decorated with festoons and adorned with portraits of the Nanteos family. Over the head table was the Welsh word “Croesaw." Mr Edward A. Powell presided and there were present Mr and Mrs Powell, Miss Annie Davies, Cwmcoedwig, Mr H P Cobb, M.P., and Mr Yale, trustees of the estate, Mrs Jordan (Mr Powell's sister), Miss Hetty Lewis, Carmarthen, and others. There were also present among others Mr Silvanus Lewis, agent to the estate, Mr Lloyd, sub-agent, Alderman David Roberts, ex-mayor of Aberystwyth, Mr E P Wynne, Mr Hugh Hughes, solicitor, Mr John Morgan, J.P., Mr J. R Rees, Nand S Wales Bank, Mr Supt. Lloyd, Mr N. Bray, Goginan, Mr Thomas Gnlhths. grocer, Mr William. Rowlands, butcher, Mr D Owen, saddler, Mr T Ellis, Terrace-road, Mr Cocks, Penparke School, Mr Richards, Penuwch, Mr John Rowlands, Goginan, Mr Parry, Glanpaith, Mr Richards, Gwarfelin, Mr Roderick Williams, builder, Mr Edwin Morris, Mr T. Richards, Market-street, Messrs John Morgan, Cefnmelgoed, R. Edwards, Glanrhos, D Jones, Trefedlyn, Thomas Griffiths, Bryncrwyn, Griffith Humphreys, Cwrtycwm, Gavin Scott, Aberbwynen, Morgan Arthur, Rhosfawr, John Morgan, Pentre, Stephen Jouep, Penygraig, Morgan Morris, Pierce field, D Jones, Troedrhiwfronfraith, Lewis Benjamin, Tygwyn, Morgan Griffiths, Bwlch mawr, James Jones, Rhoslowdden, R Morgan, Penquarrel, Jenkin Jenkins, Nanteos Home Farm, John Morgan, Nanteos Arms, D Benjamin, Rhoserchan, James James, Wernddu, J Richards, Troedrhiwlasgrug, Wm. Hughes, Glanyrafon, D Jenkins, Glasgrug, Edward Howells, Trering, James Scott, Penglanowen, Rowland Morgan, Cefullech, Joel Evans, Pantycernau, Jenkin Jones, Ceunant, Stephen Evans, Caecwtta, and many others.

After the removal of the cloth, Alderman ROBERTS proposed the health of the Queen, the Prince and the Princess of Wales, which was loyally received. Mr CHARLES DAVIES then Bang the following song composed for the occasion which was well received

Powell Nanteos wyt o uchel wa'd

Ymladd yn wrol dros dy wlad,

Heddyw y cyrhaeddi'th un-ar-hugain oed,

Llwyddiant a chysir i ti boed;

Bydd wladgarwr, bydd yn blaid i'r gwan,

Bydd yn glod i'r Powells yn mhob man.

     Bendith arnat yw'n dymuniad ni,

     Cofia am y wlad lie y magwyd di.

Na foed it wadu anwyl iaith dy fam,

Cofia ei hamdiffyn rhag cael cam,

Cofiwch wrth fyned maea i chwilio gwraig

Chwliwch am Lady fon shiarad Cymraeg,

Felly yr enillwch gydymdeimlad gwlad

A chydymdeimlad mam a thad.

Ninnau y deiliaid gofiwn am yr hedd

Gawd yn Nanteos ddydd y wledd,

Diolch yn gynes i chwi oil ynghyd

Am ein gwahodd i wledd mor ddrud

Nant-yr-eos enwog byth fo'ch ty,

Cadwed enw'r Powells byth mewn bri.

       Bendith arnoch yw'n dymuniad ni,

       Cofiwch am y wlad lle y magwyd chwi.

Mr Richards, sen., Gwarfelin, next rose to propose the health to Mr Powell, whom he was so pleased to see looking so happy among his family, friends and tenants. He felt sure that the family had been to great trouble and cost— (Mrs Powell “Amid pleasure") in entertaining so large a company. He hoped that things as they appeared that day would continue. He remembered many previous dinners at Nanteos but things were improving. Years ago, everything at Nanteos was English, but now when he wanted anything done he could express his wants in his own language and be understood by Mr and Mrs Powell and his young master. (The health was received with musical honours.)

Mr EDWARD POWELL, who was received with loud cheering, replying, said, —Fy anwyl frinds a chymydogion, y mae yn dda genyf eich gwelel yma i chymydogion, y mae yn deb. genyf eich gwelei yma i gyd heddyw, ac yr ydwyf yn ddiolchgar iawn i chwi am ddyfod, ac am y modd cynes yr yfoch fy iechyd da. a dymtinaf i chwi oil yr nn peth. Diolch yn fawr i chwi am y rhodd adderchog ydych yn ei roddi i mi. Gan nad ydwyf cystal siaradwr Cymraeg yn awr ac y gobeithiaf fod, gwnaf ddweyd ychydig yn mhellach yn Saesneg. (Cymeradwyaeth). Continuing in English, Mr Powell said, - My dear friends, —By these few words of Welsh I have endeavoured to show you that I am not totally ignorant of your language and mine, but as I have so much to say to you and to thank you for I must continue in English. First of all, let me tell you how glad I am to see you all here to-day. It is a very great pleasure I can assure you to pee before me so many whom I know to be both good friends and good tenants. (Applause). As for the very handsome present you have made ne to-day, I know that any words of thanks I can Had will only fall far too short of expressing my real gratitude to you all. (Cheers). Some time ago when a deputation called upon me and informed me that I was to receive a presentation and a gift on my coming- of-age," they then gave me a very liberal selection, and when I chose a horse I trust that by the choice I gave satisfaction to you as the givers. Consulting my own feelings alone I had little difficulty in selecting, and I can assure you that there is nothing I shall so much value and appreciate and I thank you all from my heart for it and for the very liberal way in which you have all contributed towards it. (Applause). I know that there are several who contributed not here to-day and in thanking those present, I wish also to include those absent. (Cheers). It was once suggested that some- thing more lasting than a horse should be given owing to the risk of the horse dying, but should so very unfortunate an event occur you may rely I will never forget the fact of your having given it or the motives that prompted you to give it, and I hope that I may have the pleasure for many years to come of riding the horse and feeling proud of it as your gift. Let me thank you again for this very handsome present, for the readiness and liberality which you have all shown and for the trouble you are taking to secure a good one. (Applause.) Secondly, I must tell you how pleased I am to receive the testimony of good feeling accorded to me on the presentation. I can only feel unworthy of it all, but it is very pleasing to feel and know that you mean it, and I hope this feeling will always continue and that I may do nothing to forfeit the affections of my father's tenants. It is a fact to be proud of that Nanteos own such good tenants, tenants that any property might envy, and I hope the house will never lose this feudal feeling of its tenants. (Applause,) It makes me very happy to know that I have and always have had since I came here, such trusty supporters connected with the estate. I know that to them I owe the deepest debt of gratitude for the long and careful interest they have all taken in the estate and in you all. I refer to several, notably my trustees, but principally my father and mother, my uncle, Mr Lewis, and last but not least Mr Lloyd, who has taken. all through the greatest interest in this occasion, and to whom no trouble ever seems too great. I think you will all agree with me in paying that whilst having the best interests of the property at heart, Mr Lewis has always been a fair and pleasant person to deal with and ready to help you in any way he could. It has been an onerous post for him, I know, but he has filled it in a way that no one could have improved upon and I can never feel grateful enough to him for all that he has done. You all know the interest my father and mother take in all connected with the tenants and I can only trust the day is very long distant before I shall be called upon to inherit absolutely. In my father and mother I have all that a son need have and now with all the kind words and wishes, to say nothing of the many handsome presents made me to-day, both by you and other friends, this day has been stamped upon my memory as one of the happiest in my life. As this is my first attempt at anything like a speech I hope everyone will pardon the numerous omissions and attribute the inaccuracies to inexperience and not lack of gratitude. (Applause.) Were I to talk more now I fear I should begin to repeat myself, so in conclusion let me assure you once more what pleasure it has given me to see you all and to hear all your kind words and let me thank you all again very very much for the horse. I consider that both you and I are much indebted to Mr Parry, of Glanpaith, aud Mr Richards, of Penuwch, who so kindly accepted the responsible post of making the selection. I know you could not have chosen any one more capable of noting a good one, but till the task is not an easy one, so let me couple your thanks with my own to them for undertaking it. Before you go I hope you, if you have not already done so, will go and see all the splendid presents I have received today, but I hope you will consider me more worthy of them than 1 do myself. It would be impossible to thank everyone individually now who has given me a present, but there is one I must mention here, and that is the gold watch chain that I have received. For this I must now address myself separately to the servants and workmen, who arc the givers of it. Let me thank them with all my heart for it. It will be a lasting joy to wear it as the gift of such good friends. It has always been a pleasure to see their welcoming faces on my return home at any time. To them nothing ever seems a trouble, and I can only say that I and all of us value them fully, and I can never thank them enough for this very handsome gift and testimony of good feeling. And now, my friends, that I have had an opportunity of meeting you all together, I trust that our friendship may continue and improve, and very soon I hope to know enough of the national language to address you in your own proper tongue which I hope may never die out, and finally I can only wish others on their coming-of age such a completely happy day as, I have enjoyed. (Applause). Mr Benjamin, Rhoserchan, having sung a song, Mr MORGAN. Bwlchmawr, proposed the health of Mr and Mrs Powell, and the toast was received with musical honours. Mr W POWELL, responding, expies3ed the deep plea- sure he felt at seeing them all present on the occasion of the coming of age of his only son. He also thanked then. for the kind present they were going to give him. He was very fond of riding and nothing would give him greater pleasure than a hunter. When it died a tablet should be placed over its burial place saying that it had been presented on the occasion of his son's coming of age. (Applause). He also thanked all present on behalf of himself and Mrs Powell and hoped the good feeling shown that day between the Nanteos family and the tenants would be united in his son for many years to come. (Applause). Mrs POWELL briefly thanked the company in Welsh, saying she was much obliged to all of them for their kindly feeling. Mr JOHN MORGAN, Cefnmelcoed, proposed the health of Mr Sylvanus Lewis and this toast also was received with musical honours.

Mr LEWIS, responding, thanked all present for the way they had received the toast and referring to the estate, said he could conscientiously say that he had never done anything he thought unfair to any of the tenants. (Cheers.) He was not a good one to promise, as they knew, but what he promised he generally fulfilled. (Cheers.) It was his great wish to improve the dwellings on the estate. As they knew, when he first became agent some of the houses were in a very bad condition. An improvement had been affected, and he hoped before long to be able to do still more in that direction. (Applause)

Mr GAVIN SCOTT proposed the health of Mr Lloyd who suitably acknowledged it, and the company separated.

The “teacher and the plant bach" of Capel Seion School subsequently presented Mr Powell with a silver. mounted hunting crop. A committee of the tenants has been formed to select a hunter and a formal presentation of it with suitable saddle and bridle will be made in a short time.

At four o'clock, Mr and Mrs Powell entertained at tea the tenants, wives and daughters, and buns sweetmeats were given to all the children of Moriah.

After nightfall there was a display of fireworks the event was celebrated by the lighting of huge on all the neighbouring eminences.