David Davis

David Davis, Maesyffynnon, (1821–1884), son of David Davis, Blaengwawr was a prominent Welsh coal owner and public figure. He built upon the work of his father and expanded the family's industrial holdings in the Aberdare and Rhondda valleys. He had two daughters, Mary and Catherine. Mary married H.T. Edwards, vicar of Aberdare and later Dean of St Asaph and Catherine married Sir Francis Edwards.

Career in industry

The family business, built up by his father, was based on the Aberdare Valley, and a number of collieries were opened south of Aberdare, such as that at Abercwmboi. During his father's last years, the family became involved in the early exploitation of the coal reserves of the neighbouring Rhondda Valleys, with the Davis family's operations being concentrated on Ferndale in the Rhondda Fach. Despite the huge loss of life at Ferndale in 1867 he was regarded as a good employer.

The collieries of David Davis and Sons remained open throughout the lock-out of 1875. He later became vice-chairman of the South Wales Conciliation Board, chaired by H. H.Vivian.

Like his brother, Lewis, was invited to contest the second seat there when Richard Fothergill retired in 1880.

Religion

Unlike his father, who remained an active Wesleyan throughout his life, David Davis, Maesyffynnon, became involved in a schism which led to the short-lived 'Wesleyan Reform' movement. The 'Reform' chapel at Aberdare eventually, became Congregationalist.

Later life Davis died in 1884 at the residence of his brother, Lewis Davis, Ferndale.