Minute Book, 1861-1870, which throws light on the beginnings of the Welsh colony in Patagonia, in particular the financial aspects of the venture. The minutes also reveal that Michael D. Jones, Rev. D. Lloyd Jones and T. Cadivor Wood were the leaders.
Counterfoils Book, 1873-1874, recording payments.
In the 1860's, Michael D. Jones along with others who were dissatisfied with the social conditions in their home country, set out on a venture to establish a Welsh colony in Patagonia, South America.
Amongst the objectives of the Welsh Colonising and General Trading Company Limited which was based in Record Street, Rhuthun, Denbighshire were :
"(a)To charter, purchase, or build sailing or steam ships or boats.
"(b)To convey passengers or goods to and from the Welsh Colony or Colonies in the Argentine Territory of Patagonia, South America, and to and from all such other parts or places wheresoever [sic.] as the Directors may from time to time appoint, at such fares and freights
"(c) To obtain land by purchase or concession, in the Welsh Colony or Colonies or elsewhere, and to purchase, all agricultural stock and implements whatsoever, and to re-sell the same upon any conditions been eficial [sic.] to the Company."
Michael D. Jones was the Chairman of the company. He invested in the scheme financially and made a great loss which resulted in the sale of his home, Bodiwan in Bala, Merioneth.
Incorporated into the General Collection of Bangor Manuscripts
Open to all users.
Presented to the University of Wales Bangor by Rev. O. R. Owen, Llanfair Talhaearn in 1931.
Description compiled by Elen Wyn Hughes, June 2003.
A typescript catalogue is available at the Archives Department of the University of Wales Bangor. Reference numbers : General Collection of Bangor Manuscripts 819-820
Usual copyright conditions apply. Reprographics are made at the discretion of the Archivist.
