Capel y Groes
The first service by Independents in the village was held around 1852, in a house known as Holborn House. Leading the worship were Mr Rees, Bethel, Cynghordy and Mr Hughes who lived in Holborn House. Immediately after this, the congregation moved to a house with a thatched roof behind the chapel, and probably on the site of the present chapel house.
When the number of members increased to 60 following the 1859 revival, they decided to build a chapel. The land was given by Edward Pryce Lloyd, Glansefin, on a 99-year lease, and in 1872 the property was bought by W.H. Campbell Davys.
As you can see, this chapel is unique in that everything is exactly the same now as when the chapel was built in 1859. The pews are narrow and maybe uncomfortable, but this does have the advantage of keeping congregations awake.
Look carefully at the emblem of the Cross on the wall. I think this is a very special work, and the artist – whoever he was – obviously put a lot of thought into his work. You will notice the Cross and all its relevant symbols surrounding it: the vine symbolising the Communion wine, the rose representing thorns, and the lily, which is symbolic of purity.
Apparently, one of America’s most famous preachers, the Reverend Doctor I.D.E. Thomas, preached from this pulpit when he was a student. Born at Nantgwyn farm, Rhandir-mwyn, he became minister of one of the largest chapels in California, and a frequent contributor to BBC Wales news programmes.