John Jones Griffiths

John Jones Griffiths (1839–1901) was an educationalist, Liberal politician and prominent figure in the public life of the Rhondda, Wales.

Early life and career Griffiths was born in Aberystwyth and received his early education at Penparcau National School. Although apprenticed as a bookbinder and ironmonger in his native town, he soon moved to Blaina. Monmouthshire, where he became a pupil teacher. After five years he earned a scholarship to Bangor Normal College where he was one of the first students and a contemporary of John Rhys. He was, however, unsuccessful in his attempt to secure election to the Ystradyfodwg School Board in 1890.

Religion In 1884 he was made a deacon at Pisgah Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, Penygraig. He may also be founder of many of the English Presbyterian churches in the Rhondda and often filled their pulpits on Sundays and was said to have a particular talent for adapting the gospel to attract the listeners. He was president o the Rhondda. Valley Free Church Council and instrumental in establishing the new cause at Trinity, Tonypandy.