John Owen Williams (Pedrog) facts for kids

John Owen Williams, also known as Pedrog, sitting on his special bardic chair around 1885.

John Owen Williams (born 1853, died 1932) was a famous Welsh minister and a talented poet. He was also known by his bardic name, Pedrog. He became a very important leader called the Archdruid of Wales.

Pedrog's Early Life

Pedrog was born in May 1853 in a place called Madryn, close to Pwllheli in Wales. He was the youngest child of Owen and Martha Williams. His parents worked in the local area.

A Difficult Childhood

Pedrog had a tough start to life. When he was only two years old, he went to live with his aunt, Jane Owen, in Llanbedrog. This happened because his older brother became sick with smallpox. A few years later, his mother passed away. His father then decided to work at sea as a ship's steward. Sadly, his father also died during his first trip. Because of these events, Pedrog had very few memories of his parents.

Becoming a Minister and Poet

As he grew up, Pedrog moved to Liverpool. There, he joined a Welsh Wesleyan church. Later, he moved to a Congregationalist church in Liverpool. He eventually became the minister of that church and was officially ordained in May 1884.

A Gifted Writer

Pedrog was a very active writer and loved to compete in Eisteddfod events. An Eisteddfod is a special Welsh festival of music, literature, and performance. He won his first Eisteddfod chair in 1887. This was a big achievement for a poet.

Winning National Eisteddfod Chairs

He continued to show his great talent by winning the Chair at the National Eisteddfod multiple times. He won this important award in 1891, 1895, and again in 1900. Winning the Eisteddfod chair is a huge honor for Welsh poets.

Becoming the Archdruid

In 1928, Pedrog took on a very important role. He became the Archdruid, replacing another famous figure named Elfed. The Archdruid is the leader of the Gorsedd of Bards, a group that promotes Welsh culture and language.

Leading the National Eisteddfod

As Archdruid, Pedrog led the National Eisteddfod ceremonies from 1928 until 1932. He also helped to start the Gorsedd of Cornwall in 1928. This shows his dedication to Welsh culture and its spread.