Great Orme grave Thomas Evans

Grave of Thomas EvansThomas Evans (d.1897)

The shape of a sailing ship’s hull was carved from a large slab of stone to cap this unusual tomb. Notice also the course of bricks shaped to resemble a ship’s rope.

The faded inscription along one side records that it is the grave of Thomas Evans, of Sailors’ Home, Gogarth, Llandudno, who died 22 January 1897, aged 60 (or possibly 69). It is also sacred to the memory of Griffith Evans, of the same address, who died 6 February 1875, aged 75, and to Jane, “wife of the above”, who died in February 1886, aged 83.

Photo of Marine Drive under constructionThe “Sailors’ Home” got its name because four brothers lived there and all had been mariners. It is probably one of the houses visible in the photo (right) of the Marine Drive under construction.

When his seafaring days were over, Thomas Evans became a night watchman at Llandudno Pier. The Llandudno Advertiser’s obituary said he was about 69 years of age and was “well known in the town and greatly respected for his kindly ways and genial disposition”. His funeral was attended by many friends and relations.

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