I am researching Evan James Davies 1777- 1849, my GGGGF possibly of Harlech. For quite a
few years he was master of the endowed school at Harlech and prior to this, he was
schoolmaster at Duffryn. Following this research, I discovered that he was a member of the
Ivorites of Harlech, or in Welsh "Iforiaid Caer Collwyn". The Ivorites derived
their name from Ifor Hael a famous man of South Wales noted for his hospitality and
generosity. His name was adopted in the 19th. century by the sponsors of a large number of
Friendly Societies in the Industrial valleys of Monmouthshire and Glamorganshire. Similar
groups were set up in North Wales, one of which existed in Harlech around 1840. I have a
copy of an article from St.Fagan's which relates to the Harlech group - this was
copied from a Merionydd Historical and Research Society Journal VOL 6 1969 - 73. My GGGF,
Evan James Davies (Clockmaker & son of Evan James Davies) was secretary of the society
for many years and St. Fagan's have!
a watch made by him. His father, Evan James Davies was also a member of the society. In
the 1840's the society had many prominent members, too many to list, totalling around
130. They each paid a nominal sum into the society to cover illness etc.
I am naturally interested in progressing my research of Evan James Davies who it seems had
been a warehouseman in London prior to teaching, but if anyone is interested in
information on the Ivorites, please contact me.
regards
Geraint