Gwilym Tilsley facts for kids

Gwilym Richard Tilsley (born 1911, died 1997) was a famous Welsh poet. People often knew him by his special poet name, "Tilsli". He was also a very important leader at the National Eisteddfod of Wales, serving as its Archdruid from 1969 to 1972.

Early Life and Education

Gwilym Richard Tilsley was born on May 26, 1911. His birthplace was Tŷ Llwyd, a place near Llanidloes in Wales. He went to Manledd primary school. Later, he attended Llanidloes County School. He continued his studies at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth. He also studied at Wesley House, Cambridge. After finishing school, he became a minister in the Methodist Church.

A Life as a Minister

As a Methodist minister, Gwilym Tilsley moved to many different places in Wales. He served in Commins Coch near Machynlleth from 1939 to 1942. Then he went to Pontrhydygroes in Cardiganshire from 1942 to 1945. He also served in Aberdare (1945-1950) and Colwyn Bay (1950-1955).

His journey continued to Llanrwst (1955-1960) and Caernarfon (1960-1965). He then moved to Rhyl (1965-1970) and Wrexham (1970-1975). After many years of service, he retired to Prestatyn. Living in different parts of Wales helped him understand the lives of many people. This experience greatly inspired his poetry.

Famous Poems and Awards

Gwilym Tilsley became very well known for his heroic poems. These poems often celebrated the lives of industrial workers. He won the main poetry prize, called the "chair," at the National Eisteddfod of Wales twice.

Winning the Eisteddfod Chair

• In 1950, he won the chair at the Eisteddfod in Caerphilly. His winning poem was called Moliant i'r Glöwr. This title means "Praise to the Coal Miner."
• He won the chair again in 1957 at the Eisteddfod in Llangefni. This time, his poem was Cwm Carnedd. It was about the daily life of a slate quarryman.

Hymns and Other Writings

Besides his famous long poems, Tilsley also wrote the words for several Welsh hymns. One well-known hymn is Am ffydd, nefol dad, y deisyfwn. This translates to "I beseech Thee for faith, O Heavenly Father."

Family Life

Gwilym Tilsley married Anne Eluned Jones in 1945. She was born in 1908 and passed away in 2003. They had a son named Gareth Maldwyn Tilsley, who was born in 1946.

Published Works

• Y glöwr a cherddi eraill (1957)