Griffiths, James

Aberystwyth, Cardigan, Wales; joiner and clock case maker (b. 1806-d.1848)

James Griffiths was born on a farm at Tal-y-Bont, Cardiganshire, and served an apprenticeship at Liverpool Docks before setting up in Bow Street, near Aberystwyth. Here he made furniture, clock cases and coffins and also did building work. A notebook or account book survives covering the period 1833-1848 in which are recorded details of furniture made and prices charged. Among the surviving pieces known to be by Griffiths are a cwpwrdd deuddarn, a standing corner cupboard, a salt box and a clock case (illus. Bebb (2007), figs 1091, 1121, 1123 & 1124). He had two sons, both furniture makers: Griffith, the elder, moved to Warrington, Cheshire, and David remained in or near Aberystwyth.

Source: Bebb, Welsh Furniture (2007), II, pp. 240, 253-6.