Bethania
Baptist Chapel

Mr Daniel Williams, born July 5th 1847. He married in 1867 and lived with his wife for a few years in Pontlottyn before moving to Abercwmboi, then onto Abercynon. While living in Pontlottyn he founded The Welsh Church at Troedrhiwfuwch. In 1927 they were members of Calfaria Welsh Baptist Chapel, Abercynon.

© Jervis R. Pearce

Early 60's

The International Order of Good Templers, Gwalia Lodge 1927

© Jervis R. Pearce

Whitsun Procession 1910

Cory with the Chapel sign. Cory's cousin, Anwen Morgan, was the organist at the chapel for more than 20 years. Cory's family attended the chapel for many generations.

© Jervis R. Pearce

Chapel Members 1958

Once established in their homes, interest in their being was the desire to gather to worship. A side room in Troedrhiwfuwch Farm was the early meeting place used by the Chapel & Church congregation.

They commenced building in 1867. It is rented by the school board for the purpose of day school at the rate of £5 per annum. There is room enough for 103 children allowing 8ft of space for each child. The Church congregation also met here regularly (prior to church being built). There were many reverends over the years at Bethania. In 1874 Rev. J Mathias was in attendance. Around 1875 the Rev. Evans of Dowlais ordained there for three years. In 1883 Rev. Morgans attended. Rev. D Rees – curate of St Tyfaelog, Pontlottyn came in 1889. In 1895, Rev. Levi John of Fochriw. By 1907 Rev. D Richards was in attendance. Rev J Harry Rees was in attendance 1910 according to directories. By 1911 Bethania was without a minister and was asked to join one of the local Churches.

Local Branch, Gwalia Lodge, founded as The Independent Order of Good Templars - Later known as The International Order of Good Templars (I.O.G.T). The members often occupied the Pulpit and gave services. In 1932 the pulpit was occupied by Mr J Morgan, in the evening Mr Harry Roberts of Bargoed officiated. September 1933 – Bro Evans, Senghenydd. In October 1933 Bro. Edward Samuel (IOGT Chaplin) conducted morning service with Bro. J Morgan and L Michael and in the evening Bro. Mobley. Bro. E Samuel was chosen to represent the chapel at the district meeting of the East Glamorgan Baptist Association. 1933. Bro W. T Davies preached both morning and evening services which there was a great attendance.

The Chapel was a social point for members. Annual teas with marching out parades were held in June & July and in 1897 it is written that the Sunday School formed a procession, numbering 150, and paraded the streets. Returning to the Chapel, young and old enjoyed themselves to their hearts content. After the tea the children would go into the neighbouring field to play games. Prizes were given by Mrs Phillips of the Troedrhiwfuwch Inn. In the evening entertainment was given at the Chapel, presided over by Rev. Levi John.

Fun days were always had by Church & Chapel with their annual trip to the seaside, mostly Barry.

The Chapel closed with Wendy Jones of 34 High Street & Keith Williams of Rhymney being the last to marry there on the 15th July 1978.

I.O.G.T - Prize for bringing the most members to the Juvenile Temple Gwalia. This is to certify that sister Violet Davies was this 3rd day of November 1916 initiated a member of the Juvenile Branch of the Good Templar Order. Signed Sis. B Morgan - Superintendent.