GRUFFYDD, IFAN (1896-1971), author

Born 1 February 1896 at Rhos-y-ffordd, Llangristiolus, Anglesey, the son of Mary Gruffydd. From 1909 onwards he worked on various farms in the neighbourhood, including Fferam, Paradwys. He enlisted in 1914 and remained in the army until 1920, serving with the Royal Welch Fusiliers in France and Egypt. On his return he worked as a gardener on the Trescawen estate for 12 years, and then as a road worker and caretaker of the Anglesey County Council Offices in Llangefni.

He was a member of local dramatic societies from the 1930s and he also lectured on his life story, but in the 1950s he became well known outside his immediate community as a popular lecturer and actor. His play, 'Ednyfed Fychan' was produced at Llangefni Little Theatre in 1957. His autobiography, Gwr o Baradwys, was published in 1963 and became a classic volume of reminiscences. It was followed by Tân yn y siambar (1966) and Crybinion (1971).

He died 4 March 1971 at Caernarfon and Anglesey Hospital, Bangor and was buried in Cerrigceinwen cemetery, Llangristiolus, 6 March. His wife Catherine had predeceased him.

Author

• Bedwyr Lewis Jones, (1933 - 1992)

Sources

• Personal knowledge

Sound and Film

• National Museum Wales: Folk Tales: Ifan Gruffydd (1896-1971)

Additional Links

• Wikidata: Q18535657

Published date: 2008-07-30

Article Copyright: http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/