Thomas Gough (1848-1893)


The work of pioneer builder Thomas Gough can still be seen in the city, especially in the Roath area. This enterprising Victorian - he was born in 1848, the son of George Gough, a publican of 20 Bridge Street - was a man in tune with the times. He recognised the need for cheap housing, established his builders' business at 1 Oxford Street (off City Road) and in the 1870s built the dwellings leading off Clifton Street which were named after metals and precious stones. This successfully completed, he went on to build large houses in Glossop Terrace and Howard Gardens. Others followed in Lower Cathedral Road and Riverside. By the time of his premature death in 1893 at the age of 44, Thomas Gough had built a thriving business.

He was twice married. After the death of his first wife, Anne Asher, he married Ruth Thomas at Roath Road Wesleyan Methodist Church on 25 November 1876.

He was buried 8th February 1893 in plot M980.

Source: Cardiff Yesterday #35 - Stewart Williams