Salem Chapel, Pen-y-Cae
Edward Jones, abt.1856-1896
“In loving memory of Edward Jones, Penycae, who met his death through an accident at Wynnstay Colliery Aug 1 1896, aged 40 years”
Edward Jones was born in the Ruabon Parish in about 1856 and subsequently married Annie.
On Saturday 1st August 1896 Edward was working at the Wynnstay colliery repairing the railway used to move the tubs of coal. Within the mine were stop blocks that prevented the heavily laden coal tubs from running away uncontrolled along the tracks. Edward was working at the bottom of a brow and this had a stop block engaged to prevent the tubs careering down the brow. Unfortunately one of the colliers who had previously used the rail forgot to replace the stop block after they had passed it. The next collier travelling along the tracks with a full tub expected the stop block to be in place and when it was not the collier tried to bring the tub to a halt but it overpowered him. The coal tub ran-down the brow crushing and killing Edward.
On Tuesday 4th August 1896, Edward was buried at the Salem Chapel. It was reported that Edward’s funeral was very large; that he was highly respected by all; and that much sympathy was expressed to his wife and his little children.
Sources: Photographs – Graham Lloyd.
Written and researched by Wayne Cronin-Wojdat, B.A (Hons.), MSc – Historical Gems.
Full Gravestone Inscription: “In loving memory of Edward Jones, Penycae, who met his death through a accident at Wynnstay Colliery Aug 1 1896, aged 40. Also of Annie Jones, beloved wife of the above, who died Feb 25 1932, aged 73 years.”
Casualty Database, The Coalmining History Resource Centre [website], accessed 26th June 2015.
Wrexham Advertiser, 8th August 1896, P.8.
