Gilbertson Family Papers

The records include material concerning the marriage settlement of Isabel Frances Thomas and Francis William Gilbertson in 1896, together with related correspondence 1901-1919; title deeds for the Bishopston estates 1813-1921; title deeds and related papers for the Langland estates 1833-1953; title deeds and related papers of Penlan Farm, Pontardawe 1888-1916; financial papers of Francis William Gilbertson and the Gilbertson family 1904-1959.

Francis William Gilbertson was born in 1873 and became a highly influential local figure and a leading industrialist. His grandfather William Gilbertson had bought the iron and tinplate works at Pontardawe in 1860 from William Parsons. Under the management of his grandfather and his father Arthur Gilbertson the works increased in both size and prosperity. In 1912 Arthur Gilbertson died and his son Francis William Gilbertson became Chairman of the company and his brothers co-directors. In 1896 Francis William Gilbertson married Isabel Frances de Winton Thomas, the eldest daughter of Illtyd Thomas of Glanmor. The marriage brought with it various properties in Bishopston and Loughor. The couple's Gower estate was further strengthened by the purchase in 1917 of lands at Long Ash, Backingstone and Culverhouse Meadow from Isobel's brother. In 1921 Francis bought part of the estate at Langland. The couple had initially lived at Glynteg, Pontardawe, but in 1918 moved to Llwyn-y-mor near Langland. In 1928 they moved once more, to Paradise Meadow, Bishopston. Francis William Gilbertson was also a member of the Representative Body of the church in Wales and also a member of the Glamorgan County Council. He was Chairman of the Great Western Railway Company. He was also the first President of the University College of Swansea 1920-1925 and again 1926-1929. Francis William Gilbertson died at his house at Paradise Meadow, Bishopston in 1929. His widow, Isabel died in 1955.

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