Although the local Baptists were meeting in 1685 it was not in this chapel, most likely in the house of the local Blacksmith shop of Henry Butterworth. The followers increased so it was eventually decided (after several places were tried) to build this chapel which opened in 1780. The followers carried all the furniture from an earlier place of worship a couple of miles away across Swinshaw Moor. As the chapel continued to grow over the next 70 years again it was decided to build a bigger church just down the road and this chapel fell into disrepair. Lying unused for over 100 years it was handed over to English Heritage and in 1976 restoration was begun, opening in 1985. Now just used for an anniversary meeting once a year.
As I am also interested in Family History, I was looking through some old records in the Library and came across a collection of old baptismal records from this Chapel. An attached note stating that they had been gathered up off the floor of the chapel. I then undertook to transcribe these records and I deposited them on a CD in the library for the general public to research.
Wow, such a wonderful place and knowing so much of the history is such a bonus to us onlookers. You could be a travel guide for your area! :-) Maggie - Eury
ReplyDeleteI, too, am enjoying the descriptive information you're providing. Thank you. I like the side framing by the tree and handrail, but I wish the tree branches weren't hanging so low. Or that you somehow could have minimized them by moving a few steps.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately Buff, due to vandalism the gates to this chapel were locked I could have climbed over the wall but then that defeats the object of locking the gates. I had to shoot through some iron gates, which is not ideal but I did my best.
DeleteI love the way the walkway makes a V like that in the front of the frame.
ReplyDeleteAhh, I figured there would have been some reason for not getting a closer shot of this. It's a pity more and more things are off limits now because of disrespect and vandalism.
ReplyDeleteI love the vibrant greens - works really well with the old building. Gives it a real countryside feel.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shot, nicely framed by the trees, it creates a secluded atmosphere. Well done Leo
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