Explore the Collection - The Museum of Methodism & John Wesley's House

Explore the Collection - The Museum of Methodism & John Wesley's House
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Our collections comprise over 15,000 objects and include ceramics, paintings, books and works on paper, silverware, furniture and costume, and many others. The museum was established in 1898 but a number of key items in our collection pre-date this and have been on display inside John Wesley’s House ever since Wesley’s death in 1791.
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John Wesley Pulpit and Clock Statue
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Ornament / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
Staffordshire, Mid 1800s
Ornaments depicting John Wesley were very popular in the Victorian age as mantelpiece decorations. Many depicted a clock probably to emphasise the passing of time and as a reminder to lead a worthy life.
Wesleyan Chapel Money Box
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Ornament / Sculpture
Ceramic
Staffordshire, Early-mid 1800s
The design of this money box reflects the Methodist tradition of building preaching houses and small chapels rather than traditional churches with spires. Methodists were often reminded to be thrifty, and to give to good causes.
Portrait of John Wesley
1993/1478
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / Wesley's Chapel
Oil on canvas
after Thomas Horsley, Probably late 1780s
In the background is the chapel Wesley built on City Road as it appeared when first built, with its original windows and smaller entrance portico.
The Chapel Complex, 1821
1992/414
1800-1850 / Drawing / John Wesley's House / Painting / Paper / Watercolour / Wesley's Chapel
Watercolour
R.T. Battery, 1821
In the late 1700s and early 1800s, the chapel was flanked by two near identical houses; in fact, five were planned originally with a central archway leading to the Chapel behind, but only two were built. Today only one, John Wesley’s House, survives.
Portrait of Christ
1994/1735
1900-1950 / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
by Herbert Beecroft (1864-1951), 1927
And the Lord turned and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the Lord’s words; “Tonight before the cock crows you will disown me three times (Luke XXII.61)
This painting is among the most reproduced paintings of Christ of all time. Beecroft lived in Reading and attended Methodist Church there, before emigrating to Australia in 1905.
The work was painted in 1927 and the illustration of Jesus with light colour hair and blue eyes is historic.
The Foundery
1800-1850 / Drawing / Painting / Paper / The Foundery / Watercolour
Watercolour
Early 1800s (on loan)
The ‘Foundery’, originally a government cannon foundry, was Wesley’s first Chapel in London and in use between 1739 and 1778. It was a multi-purpose building which housed a Chapel, living quarters, a band-room, a school and a book room (where Methodist publications were stored and sold). There were also stables for the preachers’ horses. By 1776 the lease was running out and the Foundery was in a state of disrepair, so Wesley decided to raise funds to build the present ‘New Chapel’ which was inaugurated in 1778.
Thomas Coke’s Travelling Desk and Writing Tools
1992/18
1800-1850 / Cardboard / Furniture / Wood / Woodwork / World Parish
Mahogany
Early 1800s
Thomas Coke (1747-1814) was a friend and close associate of John Wesley. Controversially, he was ‘ordained’ by Wesley as superintendent of the Methodist cause in America, which eventually helped cause the split between the Church of England and the Methodists. Coke dreamt of setting up a Methodist Mission in India but died at sea on his way to Ceylon (Sri Lanka) in 1814.
John Wesley walking between two of his preachers, Dr James Hamilton and Joseph Cole, in Edinburgh
1997/6735
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on board
by Joseph Kay, c.1790
The picture depicts the three preachers, the best known Methodist preachers of their day in Scotland, walking together in Edinburgh in 1790. Wesley was small of statue, about 5ft 4 inches.
Samuel Wesley
1993/1638
1800-1850 / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / The Wesley Family
Oil on canvas
by John Jackson R.A. (1778-1831)
Samuel Wesley (1766-1837) was the son of John Wesley’s brother Charles. He was a child prodigy and, like his father, became a well-known composer and organist.
Pulpit
2015/14592
1700-1750 / Furniture / God & Faith / The Foundery / Wood / Woodwork
Oak and pine, partially painted
Early 1700s
This pulpit was used by John Wesley at his original London headquarters, the ’Foundery’, originally a government cannon factory which stood close to today’s Wesley’s Chapel. Made from pine and oak it is much simpler than the elegant mahogany pulpit which was given to the ‘New Chapel’ shortly after opening in 1778.
Busts of John Wesley
1750-1800 / 1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
Staffordshire, Late 1700s and early 1800s
The model on which all three busts are based was modelled in 1784 when Wesley sat for sculptor Enoch Wood, a member of a famous family of Staffordshire potters. The original was made from basaltware, an unglazed ceramic which enabled Wood to portray Wesley with much realism. The museum owns many Wesley busts; these are some of the most realistic.
John Wesley preaching from the Steps of a Market Cross
1999/7445
1900-1950 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
by J.W. Hatherell, Mid 1900s
John Wesley is shown preaching from the steps of the market cross, possibly in his home town, Epworth, in Lincolnshire. He is said to have preached around 40,000 sermons and travelled some 250,000 miles in his lifetime.
Teapots
1750-1800 / Ceramic / Crockery / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
Staffordshire, Late 1700s
Commemorative ware featuring John Wesley was popular during Wesley’s later years and increasingly so in memory of Wesley after his death in 1791. Like these teapots which are made of creamware (a type of ceramic associated with Josiah Wedgwood), they usually featured an image of Wesley and a prayer or moral text.
New Chapel, City Road
1996/4749
1750-1800 / Engraving / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving
Published by John Hindmarsh, 1779
This view shows the New Chapel (today’s Wesley’s Chapel) shortly after it was built. Wesley described the Chapel as ‘neat but not fine’. Although changes have been made over the years Wesley would still recognise ‘his’ City Road Chapel today.
A Collection of Hymns, for the use of the People called Methodists
2013/13940
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Frontispiece
1780
The ‘Collection of Hymns’ was the first comprehensive Methodist hymn collection published during John Wesley’s lifetime and the ancestor of all Methodist hymnals.
Clothing and other items worn by John Wesley
1750-1800
Textile, leather and metal
Late 1700s
A few items of clothing belonging to John Wesley are preserved and on display in John Wesley’s House, including this gown, a pair of shoes, shoe buckles and spurs.
The gown is especially interesting. Long thought to have been a preaching gown, this garment was in fact a library gown, similar to today's dressing gown.
It is also an early example of recycling. The way this garment was put together, with a sometimes upside-down pattern which does not match up across the arms, back and front, indicates that only a limited amount of material was available.
Did the fabric originally make up another garment or was it a leftover? John Wesley was known to be economical and thrifty, so a garment made from reused or leftover material would be entirely in keeping with his character.
Portrait of Mrs Mary (‘Molly’) Vazeille (1710-1781)
1997/6646
1750-1800 / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / The Wesley Family
Oil on wooden panel
Mid to late 1700s
Mary Vazeille, usually known as ‘Molly’, was the widow of a Huguenot City banker and merchant. She and John Wesley were married in 1751 after an exceptionally short courtship. Molly and John were not suited well for each other and the marriage suffered from misunderstandings and jealousy from the start. The marriage remained childless and resulted in separation.
John Westley (1636-1670)
1993/1635
1800-1850 / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / The Wesley Family
Oil on canvas
Probably early 1800s
The Reverend John Wes(t)ley was the paternal grandfather of John and Charles Wesley. A Puritan and Non-Conformist, he was imprisoned for preaching 'illegally' after the restoration of Charles II.
See also the engraving of John Wes(t)ley based on this portrait in the Online Collection.
John Wesley, by John Jackson R.A.
1997/6655
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on board
Early 1800s
A Methodist himself, Jackson was commissioned to paint portraits of several Methodist ministers, including this one painted after Wesley's death.
Francis Asbury, by unknown artist
1993/1643
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / World Parish
Oil on canvas
Early to mid 1800s
Francis Asbury (1745-1816) was one of the first two bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church in north America, today's United Methodist Church. John Wesley had chosen - practically ordained - him and Thomas Coke for overseeing and directing Methodism in the Americas, which caused great controversy back home and contributed to a separation of Methodists from the Anglican Church.
Mrs Charles Wesley, by unknown artist
1997/6629
1800-1850 / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / The Wesley Family
Oil on board
Early 1800s
Sarah ('Sally') Gwynne (1726-1822) married Charles Wesley in 1749. The marriage was happy and produced two sons, both well-known musicians. The portrait shows Mrs Wesley in old age.
‘Deborah’, Judges, Verse 3
1997/6660
1800-1850 / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Henry le Jeune A.R.A. (1819-1904), Early to mid 1800s
Deborah is the most celebrated female prophet of the Old Testament.
Henry le Jeune was an English painter who produced landscape, literary, genre and religious paintings. He was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy (A.R.A.) in 1863.
Rev. Charles Atmore
1997/6632
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Early 1800s
Charles Atmore (1759 - 1826) was born in Heacham in Norfolk. He was an itinerant preacher and was ordained in 1781, opening the first Methodist preaching house in Glasgow. Atmore became a close friend of John Wesley and was included in the 'Legal Hundred'. This was a group of one hundred of Wesley's most able leaders, chosen by Wesley and appointed by him as the policy making body of the Methodist Church following his death.
Revd. Robert Newton
1997/6631
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By John Jackson R.A. (1778 - 1831), Early 1800s
The Revd. Robert Newton (1780 - 1854) was the son of a farmer and became a Wesleyan Methodist minister in 1799. He was an enthusiastic advocate of overseas missionary activity, raised enormous sums for this purpose. and rose high within Wesleyan Methodism.
For further biographical details, see also the portrait of Robert Newton by William Gush in the Collection, 1993/1610.
Rev. Frederick James Jobson D.D.
1993/1479
1850-1900 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Mid to late 1800s
The Rev. Frederick James Jobson D.D. (1812 - 1882) became a Wesleyan minister in 1834. His Promotion of the Gothic architectural style was a major influence on Methodist and Nonconformist buildings, especially after his publication 'Chapel and School Architecture' (1850).
Rev. William Clowes
1993/1491
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Early 1800s
William Clowes (1780 - 1851) was converted to Methodism in 1805. In 1807, he attended the first Primitive Methodist meeting, together with Hugh and James Bourne and others. This was an all day prayer meeting at Mow Cop.
Portrait of Hugh Bourne
1993/1476
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Early 1800s
Hugh Bourne (1772 - 1852) and William Clowes (1780 - 1851) were joint founders of the Primitive Methodist movement, the largest offshoot of Wesleyan Methodism. Primitive Methodism, the Wesleyan Methodists and the United Methodists re-united in 1932, establishing Methodist Union.
John Pawson
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on board
By unknown artist, Late 1700s
John Pawson (1737 - 1806) was superintendent of the Chapel in City Road after John Wesley. He became known for burning Wesley's annotated secular books after his death, including Shakespeare, in an effort to control Wesley's posthumous image.
Frank O. Salisbury, self portrait
1992/419
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
1937
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer in the early 20th century. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
See also 1997/6654 in the Collection and the series 'The Prophets of Israel' on loan from the Bible Society.
John Wesley standing in a Graveyard
1993/1608
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
c.1783
An unusual portrait, possible painted by the Rev. Thomas Olave, vicar of Mucking Church, Essex, which is seen in the background.
John Wesley preaching in Ireland
1997/6628
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Maria Sppilsbury Taylor, 1815
John Wesley visited Ireland twenty-one times between 1747 and 1789. On his last visit, in 1789, he preached under the Spanish chestnut tree depicted in the painting. Spilsbury Taylor painted the scene after Wesley's death, in 1815, which accounts for the early 19th century garments and hair fashions.
The Rev. Dr. Leslie D. Weatherhead
2015/14591
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962), Early to mid 1900s
Leslie Weatherhead was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice.
Portrait of John Wesley
1992/421
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Late 1700s
This portrait of Wesley is a copy after George Romney (1734 -1802). Wesley sat for Romney on 29 December 1788 and three times in January 1789. Wesley wrote in his journal: "Mr Romney is a painter indeed. He struck off an exact likeness at once, and did more in an hour than Sir Joshua [Reynolds] did in ten."
Portrait of Mrs Atmore
1992/423
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Early 1800s
Mrs Atmore was the wife of Charles Atmore (1759 - 1826). He was an associate of John Wesley and after Wesley's death, Atmore took a leading part and contributed to the consolidation of the Wesleyan Methodist church. Atmore became President of Conference in 1811-12.
Portrait of Adam Clarke
1992/497
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / World Parish
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Early 1800s
Adam Clarke (1762 – 1832) was a British Methodist theologian and biblical scholar. He came to the attention of Wesley in 1778, who invited Clarke to become a pupil in the Methodist school established recently at Kingswood near Bristol. In 1779, Clarke converted to Methodism and became a preacher and theologian of great ability. Unusually, Clarke became President of the Methodist Conference three times, in 1806, 1814 and 1822.
Portrait of Rev. David McNicoll
1993/1477
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
After J. Jackson R.A. (1778-1831), Early 1800s
As a young man, David McNicoll (c. 1782-1836) showed much promise as a poet and preacher. He was held in high regard by Adam Clarke, in whose family he lived for a while. Later, McNicoll became an assistant in the London (Southwark) circuit (1828-29).
Portrait of the Rev. Richard Watson (1781-1833)
1993/1480
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Early 1800s
Watson was one of the first outstanding Wesleyan Methodist theologians and had a keen interest in promoting foreign missions. He became President of Conference in 1826. Watson is perhaps best remembered for his 'Theological Institutes' (1831), in which he tried to bring John Wesley's theology into a coherent system.
Adam Clarke and two former Buddhists
1992/496
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / World Parish
Oil on canvas
Painted by Alexander Mosses, 1820
Adam Clarke (1760 - 1832) is depicted in his library with two former Buddhist monks.
Arriving in England in May 1818, the two monks were met by Rev. Dr. Adam Clarke (1762-1832), an Irish Methodist and well known scholar on the New Testament. Clarke looked after the monks. In 1820, he wrote: ‘did so; and in doing it encountered many difficulties, which, because the good hand of my God was upon me, I surmounted; and, after twenty months instruction under my own roof, I was fully convinced that they were sincere converts to the Christian religion, and that their minds were under a very gracious influence. At their own earnest desire I admitted them into the church of Christ by baptism’.
Later in life, Adam Clarke would become a notable collector of Arabic, Persian and Syriac Manuscripts and he was the composer of the epitaph on John Wesley's tomb.
The Holy Triumph of John Wesley in His Dying
1997/6733
1800-1850 / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by Marshall Claxton (1811 -1881), c. 1842
On 2nd March 1791, Methodist founder, Rev John Wesley died at his house in London following a final five day illness. He was 88 years old. It is reported that he sang a final hymn “I ‘II Praise My Maker While I’ve Breath”, his final words being: “Best of all is, God is with us.” Wesley’s ministry re-energized and transformed the expression of Christian faith in Britain and his pastoral and preaching activity generated great enthusiasm. This in turn helped shape and direct Methodism.
The portrait shows Wesley on his deathbed, surrounded by friends, family and preachers. The work was painted around fifty years after Wesley's death and the artist has employed considerable license, including the dimensions of the room in which Wesley passed away. There is also a tradition which suggests Wesley died in a chair in his Study.
Marshall Claxton (1811 - 1881) was the son of a Wesleyan Methodist minister from Lancashire and painted landscape, portrait and genre paintings. He was known for his depictions of Wesleyan and Methodist subjects and exhibited around 30 paintings at the Royal Academy, including this work.
Portrait of Thomas Coke
1992/12
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / World Parish
Gouache on ivory
By unknown artist, Early 1800s
Thomas Coke (1747-1814) was the first Methodist bishop of the Episcopal Church in the Americas and is sometimes referred to as the Father of Methodist Missions.
Born in Brecon, South Wales, Coke met John Wesley in 1776, becoming one of his closest assistants. Wesley called Coke "the flea" because he seemed always to be hopping around from one place to another.
Controversially, John Wesley consecrated Coke for the work in the Americas which, theoretically, only bishops were able to do. Then, in December 1784, a conference of Methodist preachers was held at Baltimore. At this Coke, together with Francis Asbury, was elected superintendent and the Church was constituted as an independent body under the name of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1787 the American Methodist Conference formally endorsed the title of 'bishop' instead of superintendent.
Coke later returned to England and hoped to open Methodist missions in the East Indies. He set sail for Ceylon (Sri Lanka) on 30 December 1813 but died after four months at sea.
Portrait of Rev. John Atlay
1993/1511
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / Wesley's Chapel
Oil on canvas
By unknown artist, Late 1700s
John Atlay (born 1736) was John Wesley's book steward at the City Road Chapel. The book steward was responsible for the day-to-day management of the so-called 'Book Room', Methodism's (and Wesley's) first publishing house. The Book Room used to be on City Road also, virtually next door to the Chapel. Atlay managed to reduce the debts of the Book Room in the 1770s and turned the business around in the 1780s - although Wesley tended to spend any surplus monies freely and as he saw fit.
Reverend Charles Wesley, MA
1997/6656
1750-1800 / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / The Wesley Family
Oil on Canvas
Painted by John Russell R.A. (1745-1806), 1771
The Reverend Charles Wesley, MA (1707-1788) was John Wesley's younger brother. He was one of the youngest children of Susanna and Samuel Wesley, their eighteenth child. Like his brother, Charles was ordained into the Anglican Church and later became active in the Methodist movement, However, despite their closeness, the brothers did not always agree on questions relating to their beliefs, in particular whether a breach with the Church of England was permissible or justified. This led to open conflict.
Charles Wesley is best known for writing about 6,500 hymns and he has sometimes been called the 'sweet singer of Methodism'.
A Correct View of the Old Methodist Church in John Street Church, N York
1992/415
1800-1850 / Other / Paper / Print / World Parish
Aquatint
John I. Hill (1770-1850) (after); aquatint by Joseph B. Smith (1798–1876) & Peter C. Smith (act. 19th century), c. 1823/24
View of the original John Street Methodist Church in Lower Manhatten, New York City. This was torn down in 1817 and rebuilt in 1818, hence the title of this print, "Old Methodist Church", published subsequent to the demolition. The house on the right was already on the site when the church was built and was used as the parsonage and library.
John Wesley
1994/2784
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by Robert Hunter (c.1715/1720–c.1803), 1765
John Wesley (1703-1791) was an Anglican clergyman who became one of the founders of Methodism. When this portrait was painted in 1765, Wesley was sixty-two years old, older than the painting would suggest.
Robert Hunter (fl. 1748–1780) was a portrait-painter and a native of Ulster. He had a painting studio of considerable size in Dublin in the middle of the eighteenth century. The tonality of his works was influenced by the colouring of old master paintings and he is said to have produced excellent likenesses.
Reverend Samuel Bradburn
1993/1628
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Early 1800s
Samuel Bradburn (1751–1816), was a Methodist preacher, an associate of John Wesley, and a follower of John Fletcher of Madeley. According to those who heard him preach, he was an extraordinary orator, perhaps one of the greatest preachers of his day. He became President of the Methodist Conference in 1799.
See also the engraving 1995/3066 of Bradburn and the roundel 1994/2793 associated with Bradburn in the Online Collection.
Portrait of Mrs Bradburn
1993/1636
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Early 1800s
Mrs Bradburn was the wife of the Rev. Samuel Bradburn (1751–1816), who was a Methodist preacher, an associate of John Wesley, and a follower of John Fletcher of Madeley. Little is known of Mrs Bradburn; she may have been the first or second wife of Samuel, his first wife passing away in 1786 of consumption (tuberculosis).
Portrait of Rodney ‘Gypsy’ Smith
1997/6659
1900-1950 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by A.T. Nowell, Early 1900s
Rodney, or 'Gipsy', Smith MBE (1860 – 1947) was a British evangelist who conducted evangelistic campaigns in the United States and Great Britain for over 70 years. He was an early member of The Salvation Army.
Gypsy was born in a Romany tent in Epping Forest, close to London. He received no formal education, and his family made a living selling home made wares, such as baskets. At the age of 16, Gypsy was converted and noticed by William Booth of the Salvation Army. Gypsy became an evangelist with and for the Mission and served for a number of years. Later, he travelled around the world extensively on evangelistic missions or 'crusades', drawing huge crowds.
It is believed that Gipsy never wrote out a sermon for preaching purposes, although he wrote several books. He could sing well, and sometimes he would interrupt his sermons and burst into song. Several of these hymns were recorded by Columbia Records.
Portrait of Anna Kull
1997/6642
1800-1850 / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by James Smetham (1821-1889), 1857
Born in Austria, Anna Kull (1841-1923) was probably the best known mid 19th century female Cellist and a child prodigy. She spent much of her youth travelling through Europe on concert tours. Aged 12 she first performed in London (1853), and then visited again in 1857, when this portrait was painted. Her final performance in the English capital took place in 1859. Kull withdrew from public performances in 1860 aged only 19, although she lived to the age of 82.
James Smetham (1821 – 1889) was an English Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood painter and engraver. He was a follower of Dante Gabriel Rossetti.
Portrait of a young man in gown and bands
1993/1637
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, c.1750-1800
The identity of the young man in this picture, like that of the artist, is unknown. It is likely he was a young Methodist preacher, possibly within John Wesley's circle. There is a tantalizing similarity to John Cennick, see 1993/1481 in the Collection. It is interesting that the sitter chose to have himself painted in front of a background of gothic church architecture when the fashion would have been for all things classical. This may indicate that he wanted to associate himself with the values of the traditional Church and emphasise the respectability of his faith. Alternatively, the work may have been commissioned as a commemorative portrait.
We know nothing of the painter but the portrait is of good quality. The colouring suggests the painter was influenced by Old Master paintings; or the client asked for this traditional rendering to emphasise the message he wanted to convey.
Portrait of Roger Crane
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on wood panel
Unidentified artist, ca. 1820
Roger Crane (1758-1836) joined the Wesleyan Methodist society in Preston after a controversy in the Presbyterian church in which he had grown up. He became a local preacher and became known as one of the 'Apostles of the Fylde', together with William Bramwell and Michael Emmett. Crane was known for eloquent and powerful preaching and became one of the leaders of Lancashire Methodism. He met John Wesley on a number of visits to Lancashire in the 1780s.
The portrait requires conservation.
Portrait of John Cennick
1993/1481
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Late 1700s
Cennick was an Evangelist and hymnwriter. Born in 1718, he was raised in a strict Anglican home but was only converted to religion in 1737, after a youthful bout of rebellion. Concerned with his spiritual life and having heard of Wesley's 'Holy Club' at Oxford, he travelled to Oxford and met both John Wesley and George Whitefield. For a while, he assisted with the Kingswood School Whitefield and Wesley had set up in Bristol, but soon found himself drawn to open air preaching with Wesley's encouragement.
Unfortunately, he and Wesley fell out over the role of Christian Perfection and Wesley's doctrine of Arminianism within the new movement. Cennick was suspended from the Kingswood Society in 1741. This brought Cennick closer to Whitefield, and soon after he became his assistant and had pastoral charge of the 'Tabernacle', Whitefield's new church in London, whenever Whitefield was away. Cennick also conducted a campaign of evangelisation in north Wiltshire, and built up a network of societies there.
By the mid 1740s, increasingly displeased with the Calvinist strand within Whitefield's Methodist movement, Cennick decided join the Moravian Church instead. He spent some time travelling in Europe and visited the Moravian headquarters at Herrnhut, after which he went to Ireland. There, he started dozens of societies and was ordained a Moravian deacon in 1749.
Cennick died early, in 1755, in London.
A number of similar portraits of Cennick exist; none is of high quality. It is likely they were all copied from a better portrait, possibly now lost.
Portrait of Robert Newton
1993/1610
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by William Gush (1813–1888), Early to mid 1800s
Newton was born at Roxby, near Whitby, in 1780. He was the son of a farmer, and was converted to Methodism in 1798. After becoming a minister, he served primarily in northern circuits and raised large sums for overseas missionary work. He was handsome, and a persuasive preacher with a powerful voice, described by Benjamin Gregory in 1841 as 'the grandest figure and the best-loved preacher in the whole Connexion'. Over the years Newton opened numerous chapels and became repeatedly secretary of the Methodist Conference. Unusually, he served as President of the Conference four times (in 1824, 1832, 1840 and 1848).
The following description by a contemporary provides an interesting perspective:
'He was not a statesman like Dr. Bunting, nor a man of high culture like W.M. Bunting, nor a theologian like Hannah, Farrar and Jackson, nor a teacher of wisdom and a cyclopaedia of knowledge like Osborn. Newton had the advantage of them all in this way, that he was nobly handsome and an orator by nature. Tall, with good features, grizzled hair, fine eyes, and very dark arched eyebrows, he was impressive even before he spoke, and when he rolled out his rich organ notes, he was irresistible. I have listened to orators at the bar and in the pulpit for half a century, and have never met with such a magnificent voice as that of Robert Newton. He was not great in conversation, nor did his sermons and speeches, when examined, show original power. He had simply the great gift of being able to present commonplaces in the most attractive and forcible way.'
R. Denny Urlin, Father Reece, the Old Methodist Minister (1901), pp.61-2
See also the other portrait of Robert Newton in the Collection, painted by John Jackson, R.A., 1997/6631.
Portrait of John Fletcher
1993/1643
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by John Jackson, R.A. (1778–1831), Early 1800s
Born Jean Guillaume de la Fléchère into an aristocratic French family in 1729, Fletcher's early life was spent soldiering and tutoring in England. There, he experienced a religious conversion in 1755, was ordained in 1757 and made the acquaintance of the Wesley brothers and Selina, Countess of Huntingdon. Fletcher became the Countess's chaplain but was also involved closely with the parish of Madeley and Colebrookdale. Fletcher proved a good preacher and got involved in Methodism more widely.
Close to Wesley and the Countess, Fletcher ultimately found himself at the centre of the controversy between Calvinist and Arminian Methodism, in which he chose (and fiercely defended) Wesley's Arminian side. His final contributions to the controversy, 'The Doctrines of Grace and Justice' and 'The Reconciliation', suggest that Calvinism and Arminianism should co-exist.
Many contemporaries regarded Fletcher as an example of John Wesley's teachings of Christian Perfection and possible successor to Wesley.
Portrait John Alfred Sharp (1856-1932)
1993/1640
1900-1950 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by Agnes Clara Tatham (1893–1972), c.1920
Sharp was born in Dorset in 1856. After working as a carpenter, he was converted by Alexander M'Aulay, after which he trained at Didsbury and Handsworth Colleges. He became particularly interested in social issues and educational affairs. In 1906 he became Connexional Temperance Secretary. Later, between 1911 and 1932, he served as Book Steward in the Methodist Book Room on City Road, the Methodist publishing house.
Sharp strengthened the Book Room's links with the book trade and also with Churches overseas, and he oversaw many well-known publications whilst in charge. In 1921 he was elected President of Conference.
Portrait of Rev. William Atherton (1775-1850)
2005/10372
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on board
Unidentified artist, Early 1800s
Atherton was born in Lancashire and his first ten years in the ministry were spent in Scotland, where he had been educated. He was an advocate for Chapel building, missions and Methodist day schools. Elected President of the Conference in 1846, he was a leading opponent of Jabez Bunting. Atherton became superintendent of the circuit in Wakefield in 1849 and also Chairman of the Leeds District, but died the following year.
Sadly, the portrait is in bad condition and requires conservation.
Reverend John Wesley (1703–1791), MA
1997/6653
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Late 1700s
Another contemporary or near-contemporary depiction of John Wesley. Nothing is known of the artist. The colouring is deliberately suggestive of Old Master paintings and is similar to many other portraits of John Wesley.
Interestingly, whilst the chin, mouth and nose compare to other portraits of Wesley and are probably good likenesses, the eyes are quite different.
View of Epworth Rectory
1993/1485
1900-1950 / Landscape / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / The Wesley Family
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, 1905
Epworth Rectory in Epworth, Lincolnshire, was John Wesley's childhood home. Originally a large thatched building dating to at least the 1600s, the building burnt down in a catastrophic fire in 1709. This almost cost John's life, but his near miraculous escape convinced his mother Susanna that her son was the biblical 'brand pluck'd from the burning' and destined for great things.
The new rectory was expensive, largely because it was built from brick, which was still unusual in this area at that time. In fact, the cost was almost ruinous for John's father, the Rev. Samuel Wesley (1662-1735), who had notorious money problems and once was thrown into debtors' prison for insolvency.
In December 1716 the house became the backdrop to one of the best-known 18th century poltergeist claims, the 'Wesley poltergeist'. The house is said to have been plagued by mysterious knockings and loud noises, heard and attested by all the Wesley family (bar the eldest sons, who were studying in London). The haunting was assumed to be a ghost the eldest Wesley daughter Hetty nicknamed "Old Jeffrey". The occurrences ceased as quickly and mysteriously as they started, at the end of January 1717.
John Wesley Preaching from His Father’s Tomb
1993/1607
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Alfred William Hunt (1830–1896), Mid to late 1800s
On Sunday June 6th 1742 John Wesley re-visited his home town, Epworth in Lincolnshire. His father Samuel Wesley had been the rector of St. Andrew’s Church there. Prior to the Sunday service Wesley had offered to assist the Curate with the service, who was dismissive. Instead, the Curate in his sermon that day discussed the dangers of religious enthusiasm, with scantily veiled references to John.
John knew many of the parishioner in the full church that day had come with an expectation to hear him preach. Forbidden to do so inside, he decided to do so in the graveyard instead and, so as not to be ejected, he preached from his father's grave, which was the property of the Wesley family.
Wesley later wrote he "... found such a congregation as I believe Epworth never saw before...I stood near the east end of the church, upon my father’s tomb stone and cried, ‘The kingdom of heaven is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.’
This portrait is a 19th century rendering of the scene, by the Pre-Raphaelite influenced painter A.W. Hunt.
John Wesley’s Cottage
1996/4818
1900-1950 / Landscape / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Wesleyana
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, 1905
This old thatched cottage in Oxwich, Gower, has gained fame for being the place in which John Wesley stayed and preached on five separate occasions between 1764 and 1771. Wesley was impressed with Oxwich and wrote of Gower as a whole in his Journal:
"Gower is a large tract of land, bounded by Brecknockshire on the north-east, the sea on the south-west, and rivers on the other side. Here all the people talk English, and are in general the most plain, loving people in Wales. It is, therefore, no wonder that they receive 'the word with all readiness of mind' ".
The cottage still exists and is now run as a holiday home.
John Wesley meets George Whitefield
2001/8263
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Edward Goodwyn Lewes (1827-1891), 1889
This fragment of a painting depicts the first meeting between John Wesley and George Whitefield, with Whitefield still in civilian clothing. Wesley and Whitefield first encountered one another in Oxford in 1732 when Whitefield, still a student, joined the 'Holy Club'. This was a prayer and assistance group which visited the poor and destitute, the imprisoned and others shunned by society. Both men were inspired by their Holy Club experience, which helped set them on their future course as leaders of the eighteenth-century revival and 'Methodism'.
However, the relationship between Whitefield and Wesley was complicated and their differences soon caused the infant Methodist movement to split. The Wesley brothers were “Arminians” who denied predestination, but Whitefield came to believe in a more Puritan, Calvinist doctrine which argued against Grace for all. Later years brought a degree of personal reconciliation but 18th century Methodism never (re)united as one movement.
Grace Murray (?) in Old Age
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Possibly by John Jackson (1778–1831), Early to mid 1800s
Grace Murray has been described by some as John Wesley's one true love; and he intended to marry her.
Born in Newcastle, Grace converted to Methodism in 1739. She became a member of the Foundery Society in London but returned to Newcastle after the death of her husband in 1742. There, she became a class leader and John Wesley appointed her housekeeper of the Methodist Orphan House.
Wesley was further acquainted with Grace during several visits to Newcastle and told her ‘If ever I marry, I think you will be the person!’. Shortly after during the summer of 1749, she accompanied Wesley on one of his preaching tours in Ireland, a move which was regarded as the prelude to marriage. However, Grace had another admirer who had proposed marriage and of whom she was fond also, a Mr Bennett, one of Wesley's preachers. Wesley procrastinated over the betrothal and asked his brother Charles for advice. Alarmed, Charles Wesley interfered and persuaded Grace to marry Bennett instead.
Wesley never fully forgave his brother or Bennett and wrote to the latter: ‘I left with you my dearest friend, one I loved above all on earth, and fully designed for my wife. To this woman you proposed marriage, without either my knowledge or consent...'
Grace went on to have five children by Bennett. John, possibly on the rebound, contracted an unsuitable and unsuccessful marriage to 'Molly' Vazeille in 1751.
John Wesley (1703-1791)
1992/1427
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Probably early 1800s
This painting of John Wesley compares closely to another in the Collection, 1992/421, and was also inspired by a well-known portrait by George Romney (1732-1804). However, the quality of this painting is not comparable to the other; this portrait is more naïve and less polished. It is one of thousands painted and copied after Wesley's death to celebrate Wesley's life and achievements.
Sadly, the painting is in need of conservation.
Portrait of John Wesley (1703-1791)
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unknown artist, Probably late 1800s
Previously attributed to miniature painter John Barry (active 1784–1827), this painting of John Wesley is by an unidentified artist. The execution of the portrait is quite crude, very likely copied in the 19th century from a more accomplished 18th century work.
Rev. John Rattenbury
1993/1615
1850-1900 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, c.1872
John Rattenbury (1806-1879) was a Wesleyan minister and the founder of a dynasty of Methodist ministers. He grew up in Manchester and was converted by Robert Newton. It is said that he was a near hypnotic preacher, and that he was responsible for many conversions. A family tradition asserts that the first railway excursion on the Stockton and Darlington line was to hear him preach. Rattenbury launched the Metropolitan Chapels Building Fund and was elected President of Conference in 1861.
The painting requires conservation.
Rev. John Wesley (1703-1791)
1993/1617
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Possibly by Thomas Horsley (b. 1754), Possibly late 1700s
A number of portraits of Wesley attributed to Thomas Horsley of Sunderland exist; Horsley is said to have been a pupil of George Romney. It is likely that some of them are copies, as the quality of most of the attributed pictures is not high.
Wesley may have been painted by Horsley on his visit to Sunderland in 1784; Wesley's journal entry for Saturday afternoon, 5 June includes: ‘3 on business, picture!'. But no further evidence has as yet come to light.
Portrait of Ann Griffiths (1776-1805)
1997/6630
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified painter, Probably early 1800s
Ann Griffiths (nee Thomas) was born in Montgomeryshire into a devout Welsh family. A sermon by Benjamin Jones of Pwllheli led to her conversion. In 1797 she joined the Methodist society at Pont Robert and started writing hymns with figurative language and rich scriptural allusions.
Ann Griffiths died in 1805 in childbirth, a year after her marriage to Thomas Griffiths (also a Methodist). She was remembered as 'a woman of extraordinary piety and prayer' and is still one of the best-known hymn writers in the Welsh language.
The painting was once thought to have been after a work by Gainsborough but the dates do not match; Gainsborough died in 1788, when Ann Griffiths would have been only twelve years old.
The Holy Man (Christ)
1950-2000 / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Ripolin enamel on board
Painted by John Reilly (1928-2010), c. 1960
Reilly attended Kingston-upon-Thames art college between 1949 and 1952. His Christian beliefs formed the basis and inspiration of his work, coupled with a conceptual, modern style.
Portrait of George Whitefield
2011/12897
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / World Parish
Oil on canvas
Painted by David Martin (1737-1797), c 1770
Born in 1714, the seventh child of Thomas and Elizabeth Whitefield, George Whitefield was left with a squint by a bout of childhood measles. This resulted in a nickname, 'Dr Squintum', among those who didn't like Whitefield in later life. Whitefield's squint is very pronounced in this painting.
At Oxford Whitefield met the Wesleys and became a member of the 'Holy Club', the fledgling evangelical group which preceded Methodism. Whitefield was an instant success as an evangelist and orator, and it was he who persuaded John Wesley to preach out of doors. Over the following thirty years, Whitefield's 'field preaching' attracted huge crowds in England, Scotland and the Americas, where he sailed seven times.
As time went by, Whitefield increasingly followed Calvinist doctrine, which brought him into collision course with the Wesleys, who argued against Calvinist views that grace and salvation were only for the few. Eventually, in the 1770s, Methodism divided into Wesleyan (Arminian) and Calvinistic branches.
See also 2001/8263 in the Collection for further information on the relationship between the Wesleys and Whitefield.
Reverend John Mason (? – 1864)
1993/1513
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by William Gush (1813–1888), Early-mid 1800s
John Mason served as Book Steward of the Book Room, the Methodist Publishing House in City Road, for thirty-seven years. With good financial acumen and business sense, he cleared many of the Book Room's debts and put the business onto a much sounder footing. Earlier in his career, he had served as Foreign Missions Secretary of the Church. Also compare this painting to 1999/6633, listed in the Collection register as a 'portrait of an unknown young man'. Painted around thirty years earlier, the similarity of the sitter is striking.
William Gush was a well-known Victorian artist. He exhibited 53 pictures at the Royal Academy and the National Portrait Gallery in London owns many of his works.
Portrait of an unknown young man
1997/6633
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, c. 1820
This portrait is listed in the Collection register as an 'unknown young man'. Likely, it is Reverend John Mason; the similarity between the sitter and Mason is striking (compare 1993/1513). Mason became Book Steward at the Book Room, the Methodist Publishing House in City Road, in 1827. For further information about him, refer to 1993/1513.
The Revd John Wesley as an Old Man
1997/6654
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by Frank O. Salisbury (1874–1962), 1932
The rather grand and austere portrait depicts John Wesley in old age. It was painted posthumously in 1932, to commemorate the coming together of the Wesleyan Methodist, the United Methodist and the Primitive Methodist denominations that year.
Having Methodist roots himself, Frank O. Salisbury arranged and paid for the restoration of John Wesley's House in City Road in 1934. Salisbury painted many easel pictures of historical events and religious and allegorical scenes, as well as mural scenes for buildings. He painted five British prime ministers, five US presidents, and many other notable personalities of the interwar years (c. 1918-1939).
For his self portrait, see 1992/419 in the Collection.
John Wesley
2006/10414
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Organic / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour
Gouache on ivory or bone
Unidentified artist, Probably early 1800s
This miniature shows John Wesley in old age, his features - in particular his nose - being very strong. Wesley is depicted in in front of books and with what is probably an open bible. It is possible that the pigment the artist used to paint Wesley's skin has faded somewhat, making the latter appear almost ghostly.
Portrait of a young woman in a lace bonnet
1997/6658
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Early 1800s
Artist and sitter are unidentified. It is possible the young lady was a preacher or a Sunday School leader. The portrait is sensitively and well painted, the dark background emphasising the whiteness of the bonnet and colour of the young woman's skin.
Reverend Thomas Allen
1993/1612
1900-1950 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by Arthur Trevethin Nowell (1862–1940), 1906
Thomas Allen (1837-1912) trained for the Wesleyan Methodist ministry at Didsbury College. He rose to become Chairman of the Sheffield Wesleyan Methodist District (1886-1897) and Chairman of the Birmingham and Shrewsbury District; he also became Governor of Handsworth College (1887-1905). Allen was elected President of the Methodist Conference in 1900.
Arthur Trevethin Nowell was a painter of classical subjects, portraits and landscapes. Between 1882 and 1939 he exhibited widely in the UK, Europe and America.
The portrait requires conservation.
John Wesley Preaching
1993/1583
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Early 1800s
A naïve rendering of John Wesley preaching. Naïve style paintings of Wesley are not uncommon. They were made as commemorative pieces by amateur artists following Wesley's passing and later. Often, they were hung in smaller Chapels and working class homes.
The painting requires conservation.
John Wesley (1703-1791)
1993/1621
1850-1900 / Glass / John Wesley / Other / Painting / Portrait
Oil on glass panel
Unidentified artist, Probably late 1800s
A profile view of Wesley painted in the naïve tradition and on glass. Compare also to Collection works 1999/1583 and 1999/1484 painted in a similar manner.
Portrait of John Wesley (1703-1791)
1993/1619
1900-1950 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on paper
Painted by Robert J. Westley, 1927
An unusual early-20th century portrait of John Wesley. Most John Wesley portraits show Wesley looking to the right; this close-up picture shows him looking left.
Nothing is known of the artist.
Portrait of John Cennick
1993/1624
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Probably late 1700s
This portrait of John Cennick is related closely to painting 1993/1481 in the Collection. One would appear to be a copy of the other or, more likely, both are copies of a third painting of Cennick. For further information about him, refer to 1993/1481.
Nothing is known of the painter.
The painting requires conservation.
John Wesley (1703-1791)
1994/1733
1950-2000 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on board
Painted by Richard Gilmore Douglas (b.c.1937), 1990
A portrait of Wesley painted at the end of the 20th century in an older tradition.
Richard Gilmore Douglas is a painter of John Wesley, the Wesley family, and Francis Asbury. He trained in Theology at Rhodes University and gained a B.Ed. degree from Durham University.
Letter
1700-1750 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Ink on paper
Written by John Wesley, June 1738
This first page of a letter John Wesley wrote to his mother Susanna from Amsterdam on June 19th, 1738.
The letter was written only shortly after Wesley's conversion experience in May 1738 and on his way to Herrnhut in Germany, where he went to study with some Moravian brethren. Wesley had become greatly impressed with the Moravians' deep piety while travelling with them on his voyage across the Atlantic a few years earlier.
In the letter, Wesley records his impression of Holland. He counters the 18th century English prejudice, that Dutch people were 'slovenly, unpolished people'. Instead, his first-hand experience showed him that the Dutch were 'neat' and everything was remarkably clean - possibly more so than he was used to at home!
The letter is dated 'OS', or 'old style'. England adopted the Gregorian calendar formally in 1752, much later than Catholic countries, by which time it was necessary to push the Julian or 'old style' calendar forward by 11 days. In practice, different parts of the UK began using the new style informally at different times. This may explain Wesley's insertion of 'OS' in 1738.
The Mischief of Methodism
2015/14596
1800-1850 / God & Faith / Lithograph / Paper / Print
Etching on paper, hand-coloured.
Drawn by George Moutard Woodward (1760–1809), published by Thomas Tegg, London, 1811
This satirical engraving was first published in Thomas Rowlandson’s popular Caricature Magazine, or 'Hudabristic Mirror'. The magazine observed and poked fun at the eccentricities of Georgian society.
The print satirizes two stereotypical preachers: a slender Methodist - somewhat reminiscent of a young John Wesley - whose popularity in the pulpit causes the listeners at his chapel to neglect their daily obligations. The other, a rotund Anglican parish priest whose sermons are uninspiring and attract no attention or following at all.
Wesley’s Chapel Interior
1800-1850 / Drawing / Other / Painting / Paper / Watercolour / Wesley's Chapel
Graphite and watercolour wash on paper
Unidentified artist, c.1800
An early interior view of John Wesley's 'New Chapel', today's Wesley's Chapel. It shows the Chapel much as it looked during Wesley's day, without stained glass.
Originally, the pulpit had three levels, which were intended to reflect the importance of the readings delivered there. The top tier was reserved for the delivery of the sermon. The Chapel's pulpit was cut down in the 1860s.
Wesley’s Tree, Winchelsea, Sussex
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Lithograph / Paper / Print / Wesleyana
Lithograph on paper
Worked by D.C. Delt, published by C. Moody, Holborn, London, Mid 1800s
John Wesley preached his last open air sermon in Winchelsea, East Sussex, on October 7th, 1790 under the tree depicted in this print.
John Wesley II Missionary Ship
2015/14649
1850-1900 / Engraving / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
Sketched and engraved by George Baxter, Northampton Square, London, c.1870
There were four Methodist Missionary ships in the 19th century; the Duff (1796 onwards), the Triton (1839-1846), the John Wesley (1846-1865) and the John Wesley II (1866-1881). Each one was tasked with taking missionaries and supplies from the UK to the Pacific.
The John Wesley II missionary ship replaced the John Wesley, which had been hit by a violent storm and broke up on a Tongan reef in 1865. The JW II had three masts, was 117 feet in length and cost £3,400 to build, then a great deal of money. She reached Australia in 1867 and served a growing number of mission stations . In 1881, the ship was sold for commercial use, as steam powered ships were proving more viable and suited to the work of the Mission.
John Wesley Pounce Shaker
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Glazed ceramic
Probably early 1800s
This salt or pepper shaker-like object likely was a pounce shaker or pounce pot.
Pounce was a fine powder, most often made from powdered cuttlefish bone, which was used both to dry ink and to sprinkle on a rough writing surface to make it sufficiently smooth for writing. In times when paper came "unsized", that is, lacking the thin gelatinous material used to fill the surface of the paper and make it smooth enough for writing with a quill or a steel nib, a fine powder was needed to prepare the paper. Similarly, pounce was used instead of blotting paper to dry ink.
The shaker is only one example of a wide variety of commemorative Wesley objects, or 'Wesleyana', produced in the 1800s.
Commemorative Plaque
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Plaque / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
Early 1800s
Commemorative plaques and other memorial items were produced in large quantities following John Wesley's death. This plaque is particularly interesting because the transfer-printed image is based on a miniature painting of Wesley on ivory which is also in the Collection of the Museum of Methodism.
Transfer printing is a technique of decorating porcelain or pottery using an engraved copper or steel plate from which a print on paper is taken. This is then transferred by pressing onto the ceramic object.
Two John Wesley Memorial Plaques
1750-1800 / Ceramic / Plaque / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, hand-painted
Probably late 1700s
Two examples of John Wesley memorial plaques issued after Wesley's death in 1791. Many were produced quite cheaply, so they were accessible to most of his followers. Note the letters 'I M' - 'In Memoriam' (In memory of) - on one of the plaques.
Compare also to the other commemorative plaques of John Wesley in the Collection.
Loving Cup
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Crockery / God & Faith / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Printed ceramic
c. 1839-42
The first loving cups were used amongst Methodists in the 18th century at "love feasts." They gathered for these feasts at private homes, small chapels or simply in small groups, praying, reading the Scriptures, and testifying to God's love in their lives. Unlike Holy Communion, the love feast, or 'agape' meal, recalls the meals other than the Last Supper which Jesus shared with the disciples and others.
Loving cups have two handles for passing water from one participant to the next. The tradition of the love feast still continues in Methodist churches in slightly amended form.
This black-printed cup was produced to commemorate the establishment of the first Wesleyan Methodist society in 1739 and the building of a new Centenary Mission Hall in Bishopsgate, London.
See also the other examples of 'love feast' or loving cups in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Mug
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Printed ceramic
c.1839
This commemorative Wesley mug celebrates the one-hundredth anniversary of the first Wesleyan Methodist society founded in 1739. The mug was decorated in 'lustreware', a type of pottery or porcelain with a metallic glaze.
Lustreware is produced by metallic oxides in an overglaze finish; the technique is an ancient one, much used in middle eastern pottery.
Compare also to the commemorative lusterware jug in the online Collection, which features the same decoration.
Memorial Plaque of John Wesley
1750-1800 / Ceramic / Plaque / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, decorated in underglaze blue
c.1795-1800
This early, oval commemorative plaque of John Wesley is unusually elaborate and inspired by classical decoration, fashionable at the time the plaque was produced.
Compare also to the other commemorative ceramic plaques of Wesley in the Collection.
Letter
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Ink on paper
From John Wesley to his wife, Mary (Molly) nee Vazeille, 21 May 1756
John Wesley's marriage was difficult almost from the start. John and Molly got married in 1751. Both were in their forties, headstrong and used to having their own way. Five years into their marriage, this letter hints at trouble. The opening lines are tense, followed by John's complaint that his wife is negligent in writing. He in turn writes of the overarching importance of the ministry and travel in his life, "But my journeys are first". This caused many arguments.
John and Molly split up in 1758. They got back together and split again over the following years until Molly left John for good in 1771.
See also John Wesley's letter of 10th July, 1756 to his wife in the Online Collection.
Thomas Coke Ditty
1750-1800 / Document / God & Faith / Other / Paper / World Parish
Ink on paper
Short song composed by Charles Wesley on Coke's consecration of Francis Asbury as superintendent or bishop, Mid 1780s
"On C. consecrating Asbury
A Roman Emperor, tis said
His favrite (sic) horse a consort made:
But C. brings stranger things to pass,
And makes a Bishop of his - Ass!"
This ditty hints at a major late 18th century crisis between Methodism and the Anglican Church in England.
When John Wesley sought the ordination of some of his followers whom he wished to send to the American colonies in 1784, the Bishop of London refused. Frustrated, Wesley decided to ordain the men for the work himself and sent Thomas Coke as superintendent of the colonies to America. John's brother Charles was furious that John had performed the ordinations without the Church of England's authority, arguing that such action was tantamount to breaking with the Church. The rift and Charles's scorn became greater when Thomas Coke proceeded to ordain Francis Asbury as fellow superintendent, or bishop, of the Americas at the 1784 Baltimore Christmas conference of Methodist preachers.
The ordination signalled the formal breakaway of the American Methodists from the Church of England.
“The late Revd John Wesley, M.A. and 446 of the preachers in his Connexion represented as assembled in City Road Chapel, London”
1800-1850 / Engraving / John Wesley / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
Engraved by T. Blood, published by M. Blanchard, London, May 1822
A posthumous engraving of John Wesley amongst his preachers in the City Road (today's Wesley's) Chapel. The depiction is fanciful, as both preachers of Wesley's day, such as Thomas Coke, and others who were alive in 1822 are illustrated. The work is one of the earliest detailed engravings of the interior of the Chapel and gives an idea of its appearance before Victorian alterations were carried out.
Frontispice, ‘Letter to a Friend, Concerning Tea.’
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Pamphlet printed on paper
Published by W. Strahan, London, 1748
John Wesley's 'Letter to a Friend, Concerning Tea' is an attack on fashionable and expensive 18th century tea drinking. It illustrates Wesley's interest in health and personal economy.
In the pamphlet, Wesley recounts how, nearly three decades earlier, he found himself suffering “Symptoms of a Paralytick Disorder.” Wesley decided it might be his tea intake that was the cause; only cutting out tea altogether provided relief. It also helped save money.
Wesley had a lifelong interest in health. The year before, in 1747, he had published the “Primitive Physick,” an overall preventive approach to health which included a long list of remedies for specific ailments.
Frontispice , ‘The Complete English Dictionary, Explaining most of those Hard Words used by the Best English Writers.’
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper, bound in leather
Printed by W. Strahan, 1753
Not everyone is aware that John Wesley published an English Dictionary, two years before Dr Samuel Johnson published the first edition of his dictionary in 1755. Wesley's dictionary was successful and was re-issued in a revised version in 1764.
Susanna Wesley’s Burial
1850-1900 / Other / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Mezzotint on paper
S. Gimber, Sculpt, after D. Woolstenhome, 1865
After Susanna Wesley died on July 23, 1742, she was buried in Bunhill Fields graveyard in City Road, opposite the site John Wesley would one day acquire for his New Chapel, today's Wesley's Chapel. John conducted the service, his brother Charles wrote the epitaph for her tombstone.
Although best known for her influence on her sons, Susanna Wesley was an accomplished writer, teacher and theologian in her own right. She has often been referred to as the 'Mother of Methodism'.
City Road Wesleyan Chapel
1850-1900 / Lithograph / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Lithograph on paper
A. La Riviere, London, c. 1870
A Victorian view of Wesley's Chapel, in which the artist has employed considerable license. The Chapel reminds somewhat of a Venetian Palace, in particular the detailing of the windows. Classical or 'Italianate' architectural style was the most admired at that time.
Wesley’s Chapel Interior
1850-1900 / Engraving / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
c. 1870
A Victorian view of the interior of Wesley's Chapel, prior to stained glass being installed and after the pulpit had been cut down. There is an interesting lighting arrangement of glass bowls mounted all around the gallery at first floor level; these were probably gas lights. Compare also to the other interior views in the Collection.
The Ordination of Francis Asbury
2005/9989
1950-2000 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
Mid 1900s
This facsimile print of an engraving dating to the late 1800s shows Francis Asbury (1745-1816). Asbury was born in Staffordshire, brought up a Methodist and ordained a travelling preacher by Wesley. He went to the Americas in 1771 to minister to the growing number of Methodists there.
In 1784 in a controversial move, John Wesley ordained Englishman Thomas Coke as Wesley's American superintendent. Coke, in turn, ordained Asbury at the Baltimore "Christmas Conference" of 1784 as Co-Superintendent, or Bishop. This gave birth to the American Methodist Episcopal Church. Ultimately, Wesley's move contributed to the split of American Methodism from the Anglican Church, and that of the Methodist Church in England from the Anglican Church.
See also Charles Wesley's ditty on the occasion of Coke's controversial ordination of Asbury in the Collection.
Credulity, Superstition and Fanaticism
1800-1850 / Engraving / God & Faith / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
By William Hogarth, Probably early 1800s; re-print of 1762 original
This satirical engraving ridicules secular and religious credulity, and illustrates the popular 18th century view of the exaggerated religious "enthusiasm" of the Methodist movement.
In the pulpit preaches a misguided clergyman who wears a harlequin gown under his clerical jacket and whose book is opened at a page which reads "I speak as a fool". There are various references to George Whitefield beneath the pulpit - is the preacher Whitefield? - and references to John Wesley beneath a giant emotional thermometer to the right. The congregation in turn is in throes of religious ecstasy, horror and disgust.
Only the turbaned Muslim looking in through the window and smoking his pipe appears sane.
Samuel Wesley
1800-1850 / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Engraving on paper, handcoloured
Early to mid 1800s
Samuel Wesley (1662-1735) was the father of John and Charles Wesley and another seventeen children, nine of whom died in infancy. He was a clergyman of the Church of England and also wrote prose and poetry.
Samuel Wesley spent most of his life as the Rector of Epworth in Lincolnshire. There, he faced many trials with his parishioners and much of his literary talent remained unrecognised.
The Epworth Rectory on Fire and the Rescue of John Wesley, Aged 6
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Lithograph / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Lithograph on paper
After the painting by Henry Perlee Parker (1840), Mid to late 1800s
John was born in 1703 at the rectory in Epworth. When he was six years old, on the night of 9 February 1709, the rectory caught fire. The family rushed to get out. Once outside they did a head count and realised that John was missing. The flames had become so fierce however that John's father Samuel was unable to get back into the house. Then, John appeared at an upstairs window. A human ladder was formed so he could be pulled to safety, apparently just in time before the roof fell in.
It was this seemingly miraculous escape from the fire which convinced his mother Susanna that her son was a 'brand plucked from the burning".
John Wesley’s Monument
1850-1900 / Engraving / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
Published in George J. Stephenson's 'City Road Chapel, London and its associations: historical, biographical and memorial', 1872, Mid to late 1800s
An early view of John Wesley's grave and monument in the grounds of Wesley's Chapel, City Road, where he was laid to rest on 9th March 1791.
Wesley was the 843rd person to be buried in the Chapel grounds and his epitaph was written by his fellow preacher and friend, Adam Clarke. Wesley's sister Martha, his biographer and six other preachers also share his crypt.
Pew Rent Receipt
1800-1850 / Cardboard / Other / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
1804 (1809?)
Pew rents were commonly charged to families or individuals in churches of most faiths until the mid 20th century. It was one of the principal ways of raising church income. The pew rent system often resulted in a kind of social status and hierarchy in church. The pews closest to the altar were usually occupied by the wealthiest of a parish.
This early receipt features an engraving of the Chapel soon after it was built, with its original round arch portico.
Susanna Wesley – Mother of the Revd John Wesley
1850-1900 / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Engraving on paper
Published by John Willey, Fleet Street, London, 1863
Susanna Wesley (née Annesley; 1669 – 1742) was the daughter of Dr Samuel Annesley, a prominent Puritan and nonconformist pastor. Susanna married Samuel Wesley in 1688 and ultimately became the mother of nineteen children, of whom ten survived infancy, including John and Charles Wesley.
As mother to John and Charles, particularly for the teachings and principles she instilled in her sons and all her children, she is often referred to as the 'Mother of Methodism'.
John Wesley’s Foundery
1800-1850 / Lithograph / Paper / Print / The Foundery
Lithograph on paper
Published by Gardener, Zinco, Giltspur Street, London, c.1840
The' Foundery', in Moorfields, was Wesley's first London base for worship and an early meeting place for Methodists.
Built as a cannon foundry for the British Board of Ordnance, the cannons for Marlborough's campaigns against France in the reign of Queen Anne (the 'War of the Spanish succession') were cast here. It was closed in 1716 after a serious accident and Wesley acquired the lease and repaired the building in 1739. Wesley created a Chapel space capable of accommodating 1,500, which cost him around £900, a very large sum at the time. Wesley raised this from personal funds, subscriptions and donations.
The Foundery became quickly a community centre, with a meeting room, a free medical dispensary with its own apothecary and surgeon, and a free school. Later, a lending society was added and an almshouse provided on an adjacent site. The building remained in use until Wesley built his 'New' or City Road Chapel, today's Wesley's Chapel.
Wesley’s Chapel Interior
2000- / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Black & white photograph on paper
c. 2000
This black and white photograph was taken from the Gallery. The monochromatic colour emphasises the architectural detail of the space, especially the ceiling and the Victorian and later stained glass windows.
Compare also to the earlier watercolours and engravings of the interior in the Collection.
John Wesley’s Teapot
1750-1800 / Ceramic / Crockery / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Sculpture
Transfer printed ceramic
Possibly made by Josiah Wedgwood, Late 1700s
It is said this teapot was made for John Wesley by Josiah Wedgwood, and there is a story that part of the decoration of the teapot was inspired by one of Mrs Wesley's gowns. The teapot is a large one gallon size and it is possible that it was used by the preachers in Wesley's house during meetings or when debating sermons.
Ironically, Wesley was no friend of tea, and he published a pamphlet in 1748 criticizing his contemporaries' craze for (unhealthy and expensive) tea drinking.
See also 'Letter to a Friend, Concerning Tea', in the Collection.
John Wesley Preaching inside a Pulpit
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Ornament / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Glazed ceramic
Statuette, Staffordshire, c. 1800
Ornaments depicting John Wesley were very popular in the 19th century, often as mantelpiece decorations. This particular one shows Wesley preaching inside a pulpit, a very poignant image which warns against temporal living and reminds of the need to prepare for the hereafter through spiritual devotion.
Many 'Wesleyana' ceramicware items were made in the potteries in and around Staffordshire, where Methodism was especially strong. Often, the modelling and decoration are quite rough.
Compare also to the John Wesley Pulpit and Clock statuette in the Collection.
Bust of John Wesley
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
Sculpted by Enoch Wood 1781, re-issued by Wood in 1831
John Wesley sat five times for the modelling of the original bust in Burslem, Staffordshire in 1781. The modeller Enoch Wood was just 22 years old at the time, Wesley was 78. Wesley was very well pleased with the likeness of the bust, and it was widely acclaimed as the most realistic resemblance of Wesley ever produced.
This particular bust was given as a presentation copy from Enoch Wood to Adam Clarke on the 50th anniversary of its first modelling, in 1831.
Busts of John Wesley
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
Inspired by the model by Enoch Wood (1759-1840), Staffordshire, 1820s
Two busts of John Wesley loosely based on the bust modelled by Enoch Wood in 1784 but produced by other artists and manufacturers. One bust is dated '1824', the other is undated. Both busts are crudely modelled and fancifully decorated. They are also smaller than Wood's model. As the years passed, Wesley busts became cruder and less realistic.
Compare also to the Wood-modelled busts of John Wesley in the Collection.
Busts of John Wesley and George Whitefield
1750-1800 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Glazed ceramic
Sculpted by Enoch Wood (1759-1840), c.1790-1800
Two busts by Enoch Wood of the two great evangelists of the 18th century, John Wesley and George Whitefield. Both busts are sensitively modelled and expertly-decorated. Note Whitefield's prominent mole and squint; Whitefield was famous for being cross-eyed.
Compare also to the other Enoch Wood busts of Wesley in the Collection.
Two Busts of John Wesley
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Glazed ceramic
Inspired by Enoch Wood's model of 1784, Staffordshire, early-mid 1800s
Examples of John Wesley busts produced around the second quarter of the 19th century (c. 1825-50).
Compare with earlier Wesley busts in the Collection.
Two Busts of John Wesley
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Glazed ceramic
Staffordshire Potteries, early to mid 1800s
Examples of John Wesley busts produced for the lower end of the market and available to many lower income earner households.
Compare with earlier Wesley busts and Enoch Wood's models in the Collection.
John Wesley Statuette
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Ornament / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Glazed ceramic
Probably Staffordshire potteries, early/mid 1800s
A statuette dating to the early 1800s of John Wesley preaching. Small and cheap to produce, it would have been widely available.
Two Love Feast Cups
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Crockery / God & Faith / Sculpture
Glazed, painted and printed ceramic
Probably Staffordshire potteries, c.1800-1830
Most love feast or 'loving' cups are plain, but some feature patterns; most were inexpensively produced. These two early love feast cups decorated in transfer print blue 'Willow' pattern and with other exotic decoration were inspired by Chinese patterns. The underglaze blue willow pattern was universally popular in the early 19th century and cheap to mass produce.
For more information about love feast cups refer to the other 'loving' cups in the Online Collection.
John Wesley Pulpit and Clock Statuette
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Ornament / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
Staffordshire, early to mid 1800s
Another John Wesley pulpit and clock statuette made in the Staffordshire potteries in the 19th century. It is very similar to the gothic-style pulpit statuette featuring in the Online Collection and depicts a clock, probably to emphasise the passing of time and as a reminder to lead a worthy life. Like most pieces of 'Wesleyana', they were decorative items which had a strong moral message.
John Wesley Jug
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Methodism / Sculpture
Ceramic
c.1839
This commemorative Wesley jug celebrates the one-hundredth anniversary of the first Wesleyan Methodist society founded in 1739. The jug was decorated in 'lustreware', a type of pottery or porcelain with a metallic glaze.
Lustreware is produced by metallic oxides in an overglaze finish; the technique is an ancient one, much used in middle eastern pottery.
Compare also to the commemorative lusterware mug in the online Collection, which features the same decoration.
Prayer Meeting Plan
1800-1850 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
1802
A characteristic feature of Methodism is its methodical structure and the provision of preaching and prayer meeting plans. The plans are essentially a diary of prayer and preaching appointments for preachers and other prayer and worship leaders working within a Methodist 'circuit', or defined groupings of chapels.
This particular prayer meeting plan is an early printed example showing the arrangements for the City Road and Spitalfields Circuit (today's Wesley's Chapel, City Road Circuit), in 1802. It is interesting - and characteristic of Methodism - that women were accepted and welcome to lead prayer meetings.
Wesley’s Chapel Exterior 1778
1850-1900 / Lithograph / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Lithograph
Worked by J. Knight and published in George J. Stephenson's 'City Road Chapel, London and its associations: historical, biographical and memorial', 1872, 1800s
A view of how the New or City Road Chapel (today's Wesley's Chapel) would have appeared shortly after completion in 1778. Although some of the brick detailing is different today and the entrance portico was replaced around 1820, the Chapel is essentially still recognisable.
Original Hymn Tunes Adapted To Every Metre
1800-1850 / Book / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
1828
Samuel Wesley (1766-1837) was the son of Charles and nephew of John Wesley. Samuel was a child prodigy - called by some the 'English Mozart' - who began an oratorio aged 6 and became a composer, organist, conductor and lecturer. A man of wide culture, his personal life was unconventional, which contributed to obstacles in his professional life.
This late work was published in 1828, by which time Samuel had become music adviser to the Wesleyan Methodists. It is inscribed in his hand 'S Wesley'.
Charles Wesley Stamps
2000- / Commemorative / Other / Paper / Print / Printing & Publishing / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper
2007
Issued in Ireland in 2007 to mark the 300th birth of Charles Wesley.
Over the years, hundreds of stamps have been issued worldwide to celebrate Methodism and the Wesleys. A Methodist Philatelic Society also exists.
Hymns For Times Of Trouble And Persecution
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper
By John and Charles Wesley, 3rd edition, 1756
The first edition of 'Hymns for Times of Trouble and Persecution' was released in 1744, in the context of a feared Stuart invasion of Britain from France. Shortly after, with the threat of invasion continuing, the Wesleys issued a second edition, with fifteen new hymns in a section titled “Hymns for Times of Trouble for the Year 1745.” The third edition was printed in 1756, shortly after a major earthquake in Lisbon, which claimed many lives.
There is good reason to believe that Charles was author of all the hymns in this volume. John's name may have been added to indicate an editorial role and his shared political views.
This 1756 edition is bound with other pamphlets, a dated list (1776) of these is to the left in Charles Wesley's hand.
The Revd. Charles Wesley, M.A.
1850-1900 / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Engraving
Engraved by J, Cochran, after the painting by William Gush, mid 1800s
A posthumous depiction of Charles Wesley (1707-1788), John Wesley's younger brother.
For further information on Charles Wesley refer to online Collection object 1997/6656, 'Reverend Charles Wesley MA', by John Russell.
Hymns And Sacred Poems
1992/389
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper
Fifth edition, 1756
In March 1739 the Wesley brothers issued the first in a new series of collected verse. This was titled 'Hymns and Sacred Poems'. It was published under the names of both Wesleys, but the evidence suggests that John was the primary collector of the content and the editor of the work. The work included many contributions from early religious revivalists, such as George Herbert, John Gambold, and also a German Moravian hymnal.
'Hymns and Sacred Poems' went through five editions by 1756 and was central to early Methodist devotion and worship. This copy, the fifth edition (1756), belonged to John Wesley. The line 'And Hernhuth is the fav'rite name! Wesley annotated: "It was! But how is yr fine Gold become dim?'. By this time, Wesley had left behind his early fascination with the Moravian movement.
Portrait Bust of John Wesley
1993/1423
1850-1900 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Parianware (ceramic)
Probably by John Adams & Co, c.1870-1900, after L.F. Roubiliac
This bust of Wesley is based on a marble bust modelled by Louis-François Roubiliac (1702-1762), a talented French sculptor who worked in London in the mid -18th century. The original is thought to have been worked around 1750-60, and Wesley is notably younger in this portrayal than in Enoch Wood's bust of 1781.
Wesley was an admirer of Roubiliac's work, referring to the artist's monument of Lady Elizabeth and Joseph Nightingale in Westminster Abbey as the finest in the Abbey, 'as if the marble could speak'.
See also Enoch Wood's bust of John Wesley in the online Collection.
Quill Pen
1992/145
1750-1800 / Abolition of Slavery / John Wesley / Object / Organic / Other
Goose feather quill
c.1791
Reportedly the last pen John Wesley wrote with on his death bed. It is possible that this quill was used by Wesley when, six days before his death, on Feb. 24th, 1791, he wrote his last letter, addressed to William Wilberforce. In it, Wesley spoke out forcibly against slavery, referring to the slave trade as the “execrable sum of all villainies".
Cast of John Wesley’s Death Mask
2015/14586
1950-2000 / John Wesley / Other / Other / Sculpture
Plaster
1900s
This is a cast taken from the original death mask of John Wesley. A death mask is a likeness of a person's face after their death, usually produced by taking an impression from the deceased person's body.
Death masks are often highly realistic. Before the days of photography, death masks served sculptors as models for creating busts and statues of the deceased individual. By the time John Wesley died, such masks were beginning to be valued and collected in their own right, especially if the person was of high social standing or well known.
An engraving of John Wesley on his death bed is displayed behind the mask.
Roderick MacDonald’s Typewriter
1992/11
1900-1950 / Metal / Other / Wood / Woodwork / World Parish
Metal, celluloid, wood
Made by Blickensderfer, c. 1900
This typewriter belonged to the Rev Roderick John Johnston MacDonald (1859-1906) from Edinburgh, medical missionary in China.
The Wesleyan Missionary Society had sent out missionaries to China from 1852 and established itself in Hankow and the province of Hupeh. Missionary work was often hard but could also be very dangerous. Roderick MacDonald was travelling on China's West River on SS Sainam when the boat was seized by pirates on 13th July 1906. MacDonald was shot while attending the wounded captain of the ship. His mangled typewriter and umbrella were the only items recovered.
Commemorative Ring
1994/2747
1750-1800 / Jewellery / John Wesley / Metal / Metalwork / Organic / Wesleyana
Yellow metal, glass and hair
late 1700s
This commemorative ring contains woven braids of hair, reputedly the hair of John Wesley and John Fletcher. Jewellery pieces featuring hair, either of living or deceased persons, were not unusual in the 18th and 19th centuries. Often, they were used in 'mourning' jewellery, worn after a person passed away.
The ring is in its original cardboard box.
John Wesley Attending a Deathbed
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, c. 1840
This fragment of a painting depicts a somewhat romanticised John Wesley attending a dying patient. The painting was executed around the 100th anniversary of Wesley's conversion and the opening of the Foundery Chapel, a time when Methodism was growing sharply.
At some point in the painting's past it was overlaid with tissue paper, which has fused with paint.
John Wesley
1993/1613
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Probably 1800s
A portrait of John Wesley which may have been inspired by Nathaniel Hone's portrait of Wesley, now in the National Gallery. Wesley's pose with a bible (or possibly a hymn book) in his hand and his hand outstretched, as well as the sky in the background, are very similar. However, in Hone's portrait Wesley is depicted walking to the left, in this portrait he is walking to the right.
The style of the painting is somewhat naïve.
Portrait of a Gentleman
1750-1800 / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait / The Wesley Family
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, Possibly 1700s
It is likely that this fragment of a painting depicts Charles Wesley. Compare also to John Russell's painting of Charles Wesley in the online Collection.
Sometime in the past, the work was overlaid with tissue paper, which has fused with the paint.
Portable Pulpit or Preaching Stand
2015/14590
1950-2000 / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Wood
Metal and wood
Mid 1900s
This portable, folding preaching stand was used regularly by Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903 –1998) at London's Speaker's Corner, Hyde Park.
Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit. From 1936 until his retirement in 1978, he was the minister of Kingsway Hall, the home of the West London Methodist Mission. The mission exercised a ministry of practical care for marginalised groups. Soper served as President of Conference in 1953-54 and was awarded a life peerage in 1965.
Commemorative Teapot
1996/5523/1-2
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Methodism / Sculpture
Printed ceramic
c.1867
A 19th century Wesleyan Methodist commemorative teapot celebrating the opening of Ossett Wesleyan Chapel. The teapot is typical of the kind of commemorative ware produced at the time.
The Wesleyan Chapel on Wesley Street in Ossett was built between 1866-68. It was unusually elaborate for a local chapel and said to be the third largest Methodist chapel in England. It was demolished in 1961.
Model of a Traditional Fijian Boat or ‘Drua’
2016/14792
1850-1900 / Fabric / Other / Sculpture / Wood / World Parish
Wood
c.1900
Wesleyan Methodist missionaries started work in Tonga, Fiji, in 1835 and by the late 19th century had converted most Fijians to Christianity.
This artefacts marries old traditions with new. Drua boats, also known as Waqa Tabu ("sacred canoe"), were large, traditional, double-hull sailing boats in use in Fiji at the time Christianity arrived. At that time, their main role was as war ships. This model boat has its sail painted with a cross, as a symbol of the peaceful conversion and nature of the Fijians.
Membership or Class Ticket
Document / Methodism / Other / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on card
Early 1800s
Methodism has a strong organisational structure. This includes the issue of membership or 'class' tickets to members of the society or church. This ticket dates to June 1822 and was issued to Mary Tooth, a relation of Samuel Tooth, Methodist local preacher and builder of Wesley's Chapel.
A strand of Mary Tooth's hair is attached to the ticket with sealing wax. This would have been added later, when the membership ticket became a memento.
Portable Organ
2015/14607
1900-1950 / God & Faith / Methodism / Other / Woodwork
Wood, ivory, metal
c.1900-1930
From the late 1800s, organs became an important part of Methodist musical worship. This travelling organ is a four octave example made in the early 1900s and was carried around the streets for evangelistic campaigns or carol singing at Christmas.
Australasian Conference Chair
2015/14605
1900-1950 / Furniture / Woodwork / World Parish
Wood, leather
Early 1900s
In Methodism, the Conference is the governing body of the Church, which is headed by a President. It meets annually to discuss matters affecting the life of the Church, the nation and the world.
The first conference of the Australasian Wesleyan Methodist Church was held in Sydney in 1855. This chair would have been used by the Presidents of the Australasian Wesleyan Methodist Conference during proceedings.
Epworth Bible
1992/141
1650-1700 / Book / Publication / The Wesley Family
Leather, paper
1600s
This bible was found under some outside stairs and in rubble at Epworth Rectory in the mid 1800s. The bible dates to the 1600s and is partially singed. It is likely that it survived the fire of 1709, which burned the old rectory to the ground.
Inside the bible are a number of children's doodles in ink, especially of animals and birds. It is possible these were drawn by the Wesley children.
Electricity Machine
1750-1800 / Glass / John Wesley / Metal / Metalwork / Other / Wood
Metal, glass, wood,
Mid to late 1700s
Like many educated men and women of the 18th century Enlightenment, John Wesley was an enthusiastic believer in the healing properties of electricity. Portable machines such as this one were invented to harness and channel electricity in the treatment of ailments.
In 1747 Wesley wrote a tract, the 'Primitive Physic', a compendium of treatments for many common problems and diseases. In this, he mentions use of 'electrifying' as treatment for a wide range of conditions. Unusually for 18th century London, Wesley offered free electrification for his followers, and it is known that Wesley had four electricity machines in different locations in London available for treatment. This is believed to be one of of them.
See also the black and white photograph of the electricity machine, 2012/13627, in the Online Collection.
Bookcase
1750-1800 / Furniture / Glass / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Mahogany veneered on oak and pine
c. 1780
This simple mahogany bookcase belonged to John Wesley. It was made for his sitting room or study. Amongst other books, it used to contain proofing copies of Wesley's own publications.
The door arrangement is unusual; the upper doors slide, while concealed push buttons release two large folding doors below.
Breast Pin
1750-1800 / Glass / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / Organic / The Wesley Family / Wesleyana
Metal
Possibly mid to late 1700s
A breast pin containing a lock of hair. The accompanying label identifies the hair as Susanna Wesley's, mother of John Wesley. The pin and label were originally exhibited in March 1891 at a 'Centenary Exhibition Of Wesley Relics, etc'
Necessaire Set
2019/15933/1-9
1750-1800 / Cardboard / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Metal, cardboard
Likely late 1700s
A 'necessaire' is a small ornamental case or etui for pencils, scissors, tweezers, and other small and useful items. They were often used by people on their travels. This case belonged to ‘M.Emett, Methodist Preacher’. He entered the Church in 1791 and was stationed in the Yarmouth Circuit in Norfolk.
Sunday School Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal
1880
This medal commemorates the 100th anniversary of the founding of Sunday Schools by Robert Raikes in 1780.
Raikes (1736 - 1811) was a pioneer of the Sunday School movement, which started with a school for boys in the slums. Raikes saw schooling as the best early intervention in a possible life of crime, a preventive measure which was better than a cure. Sunday schooling was chosen as this was usually the only day boys were not working (usually in factories), and teaching materials were based on the Bible. Although not a Methodist, Raikes' efforts and achievements were discussed in Wesley's Methodist or 'Arminian' Magazine. Methodism organised its own Sunday Schools, open to boys and girls, from the early 19th century.
The medals would have been distributed among children attending Sunday School in 1880. See also the other Sunday School commemorative medals in the Online Collection.
Wesley’s Chapel Land Title Deed
2015/14583
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Vellum / Wesley's Chapel
Ink on vellum
1776
The title deed of Wesley's Chapel was issued to the trustees of what was called the 'New' or City Road Chapel (today's Wesley's Chapel).
It includes a site plan and a drawing of the proposed view of the site from City Road by George Dance the Younger (1741-1825), the Architect and Surveyor to the Corporation of London. He was responsible for the design of public buildings in the City.
The title deed shows that Dance proposed a terrace of five houses facing City Road, at the front of the site. The Chapel, of which there is no design in this deed, was to be hidden completely, accessed by a central columned archway. This suggests that Wesley's Chapel, as a Nonconformist or dissenters meeting house, may not have been regarded as entirely respectable, or on a par with the established Church.
In the end, only two houses at either end of the proposed terrace were built, apparently both in a simplified version of Dance's design. The central space, today's courtyard, was kept free and the Chapel became visible from City Road.
View of Savannah, Georgia
1900-1950 / Other / Paper / Print / World Parish
Paper
Early to mid 1900s
This map of Savannah is based on Fourdrinier's and Peter Gordon's map of Savannah of 1734, the earliest engraved map of the settlement.
John and Charles Wesley arrived in Savannah in February 1736, but for both it became a disappointing and extremely trying experience. John Wesley returned to England in December 1736, his brother Charles had already sailed home earlier.
Epworth Old Rectory Timber
1994/2532
1650-1700 / John Wesley / Other / The Wesley Family / Woodwork
Probably oak,
Possibly 1600s
A piece of wood from the "burnt Rectory House at Epworth, when little John Wesley was rescued from death", according to the late-19h century label attached. The fire took place on the night of February 9th, 1709 and John was the last person to be rescued from the house.
See also the engraving of the rectory fire after Henry Perlee Parker in the online Collection, "The Epworth Rectory on Fire and the Rescue of John Wesley, Aged 6".
Two Pieces of Fabric
2015/14587
1750-1800 / Fabric / John Wesley's House / Other / Textile / Wesleyana
Printed cotton
1700s
According to a 19th century tradition, these pieces of fabric were taken from John Wesley's bed hangings. They probably date to the mid 18th century, when Indian chintz designs were very popular. They were used for clothing and as furnishing fabrics. Unfortunately, John Wesley's bed does not survive.
John Wesley’s Study
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c. 1898-1900
The first floor rooms of John Wesley's House were opened as a museum in 1898, one of the earliest museums in a historic house in the country. This photograph shows John Wesley's study or living room as it looked shortly after the opening, around the turn of the 20th century. The rooms were presented very much like a shrine to John Wesley, not like a historic house in the way they are today.
John Wesley’s Study
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard on paper
c. 1935-50
A postcard view of John Wesley's study or living room as it looked after major refurbishment in the 1930s. By this time, the house was increasingly presented as a historic house, and as it might have looked while Wesley was alive. It is possible that this picture was taken just after the outbreak of WWII, around 1940, to record the interior of the house in case of bomb damage.
Compare also to the Online Collection postcards of Wesley's Study dating earlier and later.
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1978
By the early 1970s, Wesley's Chapel had become structurally unsafe and a major building programme was required to ensure the building's survival. This took over four years to complete. The Chapel was re-opened on its 200th anniversary, on 1st November 1978, by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
Coffin Shaving
1994/2785
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Other / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood
Late 1700s
Wesley was revered greatly by his followers. It is perhaps not surprising, therefore, that Wesley commemorative ware - or Wesleyana - was very popular, even before Wesley passed away. According to the Victorian envelope in which it was kept, this small wooden fragment was taken from Wesley's coffin.
Lunchtime Preparations
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1950
It is a long-standing tradition at Wesley's Chapel to have a Thursday lunchtime service, followed by lunch for the attendees. This image shows members of the congregation in the 1950s preparing lunch prior to the service advertised on the board in the background.
Building Work
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1955-60
The area around Wesley's Chapel was bombed heavily during WWII, 1939-45. It took years to clear and repair the damaged buildings. This photograph shows the site next to the Chapel and John Wesley's House (visible from the side in the image) being redeveloped.
Creamware Plate
1997/6548
1950-2000 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Sculpture
Ceramic
Made by Wedgwood, c. 2000
This commemorative Wedgwood plate features an image of Mary Bosanquet Fletcher (1739-1815). Mary was one of the first female Methodist preachers, and it was she who persuaded John Wesley to allow women to preach in public. Mary Bosanquet became one of the most popular female preachers of her day and was greatly revered by Methodists for her work. She was married to John Fletcher (1729-1785), the potential one-time Wesley successor who died six years before John Wesley.
'Creamware' is a cream-coloured, fine earthenware with a lead glaze over a pale body. It was invented about 1750 by Staffordshire potters and was very fashionable c.1760-1790.
Explanatory Notes Upon The Old Testament
1750-1800 / Book / God & Faith / John Wesley / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, leather
1765
John Wesley's commentary on the Old and New Testaments was produced between 1754 and 1765, in a number of volumes. Wesley was keen to give his readers essential information about the Bible and the doctrines of Christian life in plain and simple language. His verse by verse notes are concise and focus mainly on providing a historical context for the Gospel, alongside interpretation and critical commentary.
This volume is the second of the 'Explanatory Notes Upon The Old Testament'.
Window Fragment
1996/5256
1750-1800 / Glass / Other / Wesley's Chapel / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, glass
Late 1700s
On 6th December 1879 a large fire burnt down the Morning Chapel and part of the main sanctuary at Wesley's Chapel. All windows on one side of the building were destroyed, as was the ornate Chapel ceiling and parts of the gallery. Later, the remaining Chapel windows were re-glazed with stained and patterned glass.
This window fragment removed after the fire is all that remains of the original Chapel windows.
Roof on Fire III
1995/2951/1
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1952
Over the years, there have been a number of fires at Wesley's Chapel. The 1879 fire was particularly bad and caused much damage. However, a fire in 1952 also had the potential to become devastating, had it not been for the fire crew extinguishing the blaze in time. The photograph shows smoke rising from the Chapel roof and the firemen working hard to put out the blaze.
See also the other images of this fire in the Online Collection.
Refurbishment of Wesley’s Chapel
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
By the 1970s, the Chapel was in a very bad state of repair. The foundations were giving way, there was wood rot in many places and the Chapel needed extensive roof repairs. The situation was critical and there were some who wanted to demolish the historic structure and replace it with a new building. Luckily, with help from Methodists around the world, the Chapel was saved. The photograph shows the roof works under way, some months before the re-opening of the Chapel in November 1978.
John Wesley on his way to America
1993/1401
1800-1850 / Engraving / John Wesley / Methodism / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
c.1840
A Victorian illustration of John Wesley in 1735, on shipboard to Georgia in America. The ship was thrown about in storms and Wesley admired the collective calm of a Moravian group of fellow travellers, who were praying and singing without fear. For some years after, Wesley was influenced by Moravian thought and doctrine.
Hallway, John Wesley’s House
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c. 1935-50
After the first floor rooms of John Wesley's House were opened as a museum in 1898, the house was refurbished a number of times with the aim to re-create faithfully the surroundings in which Wesley lived.
This mid 20th century photograph of the hallway in Wesley's House shows the half height pine panelling and stairs stripped bare. The walls were painted a shade of white or light cream. This decorative arrangement was in keeping with then prevalent ideas of Georgian design and decoration. Later research showed that pine was always painted and never left bare in Georgian times.
Bomb Damage
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1945
WWII, particularly the Blitz of 1940-41, caused much damage in the City and the surrounding boroughs. In this photograph of Wesley's Chapel and its neighbourhood, the heavy bomb damage is obvious. By good fortune the Chapel survived virtually undamaged.
Wesley Memorabilia Display
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1910-30
An early 20th century photograph showing a John Wesley House display case with Wesley memorabilia. These include Wesley's glasses, his night cap and his mother's needle case.
Collection Box
2006/10506
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Collection Box / God & Faith / Object / World Parish
Papier mache
c. 1930-50
'Mission', in particular the conversion to Christianity of indigenous people, became an important aspect of Methodist work as the 19th century progressed. There were many small Methodist missionary societies which eventually, in 1932, merged to become the Methodist Missionary Society. This operated in Africa, the Caribbean, the Indian sub-continent, Europe, the Americas and Australasia.
This novelty collection box in the shape of a post box was used to collect money in Churches and further afield for the work of the Society.
Portable Lantern
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Metal / Metalwork / Other
Metal, glass
Late 1700s
This little lamp is believed to have been John Wesley's. In the 18th century, streets were unlit at night and pedestrians difficult to see. Portable lamps like this helped light the way and gave protection from oncoming horse and carriage traffic.
Chamber Horse
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Leather / Metal / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, leather, metal
c.1770-80
This unusual type of chair is an 18th century 'Chamber Horse'. Essentially, chamber horses were exercise chairs. The leather covered part contained a set of metal springs, which, when sat on and pushed, bounced up and down. It was very similar to the motion made as one sat on a trotting horse, so this exercise chair was soon known as a 'chamber' horse. It allowed the user to take exercise when the weather did not permit riding on horseback, or when a horse wasn't available.
Although this is not John Wesley's, John had a chamber horse just like it. He wrote to his niece Sarah in a letter on August 18, 1790, (when Wesley was 87 years old):
" You should be sure to take as much exercise every day as you can bear. I wish you would desire ... to send you the chamber-horse out of my dining-room, which you should use half an hour at least daily."
Map of Moorfields and the Foundery
1850-1900 / Commemorative / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Foundery
Paper
Drawn by R.R. McCullagh, then engraved, 1861
This commemorative map is based on one issued by Mr Roquet in 1746. It shows the Moorfields area around the time John Wesley was living and preaching at the Foundery Chapel. The Foundery is located to the right of the map, just above Upper Moor Fields, in Windmill Hill.
Sacred Harmony – A Set of Tunes Collected by the Late Revd. John Wesley M.A.
1992/384
1800-1850 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper, bound in leather
Edited and revised by Charles Wesley (jnr), 1822
John Wesley's first 'Sacred Harmony' hymnal was published in 1780, a second edition following in 1791. 'Sacred Harmony' was the largest collection of Methodist hymn tunes issued during John Wesley's lifetime. It was published shorty after another milestone Methodist hymn book, in 1780, 'A Collection of Hymns, for the Use of the People called Methodists'.
This revised and corrected edition with tunes was published by John Wesley's composer nephew, Charles Wesley (jnr), in 1822.
Primitive Physick, Or, An Easy And Natural Method Of Curing Most Diseases
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper, bound in leather
1761, 9th edition
John Wesley published the first edition of his 'Primitive Physick' in 1747. Wesley had a life-long interest in health, in that only physical and spiritual health in combination could make for healthy people. This was unusual at that time.
The book was both an overall preventive approach to health and a compendium of remedies for specific ailments - in total more than 800 prescriptions for more than 300 different disorders. It was very popular throughout the 18th century and by the time Wesley died in 1791, the book had gone through twenty-three editions.
A Collection Of Hymns, For The Use Of The People Called Methodists
1800-1850 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper, bound in leather
1846
The 'Collection of Hymns' was first published by John Wesley in 1780 and contained over 1000 hymns, written mostly by his brother Charles. The hymnal drew on the many other hymn books John and Charles Wesley had published over the previous decades and became the most influential hymn book in the history and development of Methodism.
The 'Collection' went through many editions, and it was the ancestor and basis of all subsequent official Connexional hymn books, including today's 'Singing the Faith'.
Compare also to the first edition of the hymn book in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Monument and Graveyard
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
Photograph, c. 1930-50
An early 20th century photograph of John Wesley's tomb and the graveyard behind Wesley's Chapel. In the early 1980s, a mirrored office building was built at the back of the site, approximately where the trees are located in the photograph. The layout of the paths was changed at the same time.
Wesley’s Chapel Opening Service
1992/412
1800-1850 / Engraving / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
1800s
A Victorian engraving of the inaugural service at Wesley's Chapel on 1st November, 1778. The architectural detail is rendered well, although it is likely the Chapel was more crowded than is apparent in the image. We know John Wesley remarked on the elaborate headdresses of the women - the artist in this instance chose to render these as more subdued, Victorian-style bonnets.
Baby Rattle
1700-1750 / Metal / Metalwork / Organic / Other / The Wesley Family
silver, coral
mid 1700s
This sterling silver baby rattle, with silver bells and a teething bit made from coral, is believed to have belonged to the children of Charles Wesley. It would have been an expensive item to purchase and is likely to have been a gift, possibly from a patron or family.
John Wesley’s Study
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1935-50
An unusual mid twentieth century postcard view of John Wesley's Study, featuring his bookcase, electrical machine and study chair.
Loving Cup
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Crockery / God & Faith / Sculpture
Ceramic, hand-painted
Mid to late 1800s
Another example of a 'love feast' or loving cup, the two handled cup used during Methodist love feast services. This example is more elaborate than most, with hand-painted decoration and gilding. Many loving cups were very simply decorated, many with transfer prints instead of painted decoration.
See also the other loving cups in the Online Collection.
Loving Cup
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Crockery / God & Faith / Sculpture
Ceramic
c.1830-50
A typical example of a two-handled 'love feast' or loving cup, the cup used during Methodist love feast services. It is very simple, decorated in a one-colour transfer print and featuring the words 'Wesley Chapel'. The wording (although grammatically not quite correct) would have made it relevant and usable in any Methodist Chapel.
See also the other 'love feast' or loving cups in the Online Collection.
Highboy
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Mahogany veneer on oak and pine carcase
c. 1770-80
This mahogany 'highboy', or chest-on-chest, was used for storing linens, including shirts, stockings and under garments. It has a brushing slide, a shallow board which pulls out from the centre of the piece. This was used for brushing out linens or clothes before they were used or worn.
By tradition, this piece of furniture was John Wesley's. It has been in the Collection since Wesley's House was opened as a museum in 1898 and is marked 'John Wesley's Highboy' on an early, attached label.
Mary Bosanquet’s Hair
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Organic / Other / Paper
Hair
1814
A strand of Mary Bosanquet's hair, cut in 1814. The original card on which it is mounted features the wording:
"A small part of the Hair of the blessed Woman of God now in Heaven Mrs Fletcher of Madeley - cut in 1814".
Statuette of John Wesley
2015/14606
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Metal / Other / Sculpture / Wesley's Chapel
Metal
Modelled by John Adams-Acton (1830-1910), c.1890-91
This statuette of John Wesley was a maquette or model sculpted by John Adams-Acton (1830-1910). The maquette served as the model for the statue of John Wesley in the courtyard of Wesley's Chapel, which was sculpted in 1891.
Adams-Acton exhibited at the Royal Academy and sculpted the Wesley memorial in Westminster Abbey, the Cruikshank memorial in St Paul's Cathedral and a memorial of Cardinal Manning in Westminster Cathedral. He was well-known as a modeller and sculptor of public figures in Victorian Britain.
Communion Cup in Travelling Case
1750-1800 / God & Faith / John Wesley / Leather / Metal / Other / Sculpture
Copper alloy, leather
early to mid 1700s
This communion cup with its leather travelling case is reputed to have been John Wesley's. Originally it would have been plated, but the plating has worn off. The travelling case would have kept the cup safe from damage and unnecessary wear. The decorative shape of the cup and the elaborate tooling of the leather case indicate quality, but not luxury.
John Wesley’s Bureau Bookcase
1700-1750 / Furniture / Glass / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Walnut veneer on oak and pine carcase
c.1715-30
This bureau, with a mirrored bookcase above, was John Wesley's. It was made early in the 18th century, unlike most of the furniture in John Wesley's House. Wesley probably already owned this piece when he moved into this house in 1779. It is possible the bureau was a family piece, a gift, or purchased second hand sometime in the mid 18th century.
The bureau is of excellent quality, veneered in walnut, with an elaborate interior and a number of secret compartments. These compartments proved very useful one night in the 1780s, when Wesley's House was broken into but the thieves did not discover numerous gold coins hidden in one of them!
The elaborately-bevelled mirrors in the upper doors and the three vase finials are Victorian replacements.
Charles Wesley’s Bureau Bookcase
1750-1800 / Furniture / Glass / John Wesley's House / The Wesley Family / Wood / Woodwork
Walnut veneer on oak and pine carcase
c. 1740-50
This bureau bookcase belonged to Charles Wesley and dates to the middle of the 18th century. Although first resident in Bristol, Charles and his family moved to Marylebone in London in the early 1770s. It is likely, therefore, that the bureau was made or acquired for the Bristol house and was later moved to London. This might also explain why the bureau, which is of good quality, is still veneered in walnut, rather than the expensive mahogany imported from the West Indies and then newly-fashionable in London.
The bureau was one of the early exhibits at John Wesley's House and its original label is still attached.
Dresser
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Pine, painted
c.1779
This pine dresser was made for John Wesley's House and has always been in the kitchen in the basement. Although technically a free-standing piece of furniture, wall panelling behind it has been built in such a way that the back of the dresser fits neatly and flush into the panelling.
Like today, the dresser would have held crockery, pots and kitchen utensils. It was probably painted a shade of grey-green originally, like most of the woodwork in the house.
Clock
1700-1750 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Metal / Wood / Woodwork
Walnut veneer on oak and pine carcase
c.1715-30
By tradition, this clock was given to John Wesley by a member of his Society. It was made by the well-known French Huguenot clockmaker, Claude Duchesne, who had a workshop in Long Acre, in central London. It is one of his less elaborate clocks but is of excellent quality and has an early moon phase, as well as an eight day movement.
Set of Trenchers
1550-1600 / John Wesley / Other / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, painted
ca. 1550-1600
This set of 16th century roundels or trenchers (from Old French, 'tranchier' - to cut) in the original box was a wedding present. In 1788, the roundels were given by John Wesley to Adam Clarke, the British Methodist theologian and biblical scholar, on the occasion of Clarke's wedding.
Trenchers were used during Elizabethan times as a kind of plate or place-mat during meals, usually to serve sticky desserts such as cheeses, fruit, or sweets. This set is decorated richly, including entertaining verses relating to marriage. It is possible they were meant for after-dinner entertainment, the verses to be recited or sung by the eaters.
The trenchers are still in as-new condition; likely, they were never used.
Preachers Room
1950-2000 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1950
A mid-20th century postcard view of one of the second floor bedrooms in John Wesley's House. This would have been a guest room during John Wesley's lifetime, usually used by travelling or itinerant preachers. Today, it is known as one of the two 'Preachers Rooms'.
Dining Room
1950-2000 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1950
This mid-20th century postcard shows the ground floor dining room in John Wesley's House. We know from John Wesley's correspondence to his niece that he kept his 'chamber horse' or exercise chair in this room, which he used regularly to stay fit when not travelling.
See also the chamber horse on the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Bureau Bookcase
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Photograph
Photograph
c.1898
This late Victorian image of John Wesley's bureau and a small table also in his possession was taken in Wesley's bedroom. Likely, this is one of the first photographs of the newly-opened museum rooms, taken around 1898.
John Wesley’s Bedroom
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1900
An early postcard view of John Wesley's bedroom, with his bureau bookcase to the right.
Compare also to the other views of Wesley's bedroom in the Online Collection to see how the displays changed over the years.
John Wesley’s Bedroom
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1930-50
A mid-20th century postcard view of John Wesley's bedroom. Note the stripped woodwork which was then fashionable, and the arrangement of Wesley ceramics inside the lit display cases. The pewter plates on the mantelshelf were once used for collections in church.
John Wesley’s Prayer Room
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1900
An early postcard view of John Wesley's Prayer Room, looking into his bedroom. As it is a small room in an extension to the original house, it is also known as John Wesley's Prayer Closet.
John Wesley’s Private Rooms
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1935-50
A photograph from around the time of World War II showing John Wesley's bedroom and prayer room.
John Wesley’s Study
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard on paper
c.1935
A mid-century postcard view of John Wesley's Study, probably just before World War II. Compare with the other images of Wesley's Study in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Monument
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1870
This early photograph shows John Wesley's monument in the garden of Wesley's Chapel, still with its original metal railings. The gentleman in front, probably a minister or preacher, leans on a chair which is still in John Wesley's House today. Likely, it was already in the house when Wesley was living there.
The house in the background of the picture has since been demolished and all houses in this area have been rebuilt.
Compare also to the other views of the monument and graveyard in the Online Collection.
Cockfighting’ or Library Chair
1700-1750 / Fabric / Furniture / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Walnut and imitation leather (replaced)
c.1720-30
This chair, with broad armrests that form a yoke with the back rail and to which a collapsible reading desk is attached, was a library or reading chair. It became known later as a 'cockfighting' chair, because this type of chair was often illustrated in paintings and engravings of cockfights. Cockfights were a very popular - if cruel and bloody - pastime in the 18th century and often took place in the backyards of inns and pubs.
The seat of the chair is shaped so that the sitter can either sit normally or astride, facing the collapsible desk at the back of the chair. The large armrests made the latter position comfortable. Beneath one armrest is a hidden pen tray; underneath the other there would have been a fold-out brass candlestick, now missing. The desk flap has a compartment for storing paper, and beneath the seat is a drawer for storing documents.
The chair is an early example of this type. By tradition, it was given to John Wesley by a penitent, former cock-fight-loving man Wesley converted to Methodism. More likely, perhaps, it was a gift from a well-to-do patron.
Reading Glasses
1750-1800 / Glass / John Wesley / Object / Organic / Other
Horn, glass, metal, wood
c. 1770-80
The smaller pair of glasses in its original case was owned by John Wesley.
The first eyeglasses were developed in Northern Italy in the second half of the 1200s; by the 1700s, spectacles were common. Wesley's type of glasses, with arms passing over the ears, and similar to modern spectacles, was developed sometime in the 1720s.
Collection of Photographs of Wesley’s Chapel
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photographs
c. 1920
An early collection of photographs of Wesley's Chapel and the site, which would have been available to visitors and tourists in the early 20th century.
Lowboy
1700-1750 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Walnut veneer on pine
c.1740-60
This small side or dressing table is known as a 'lowboy', in contrast to a 'highboy', which is essentially a chest of drawers raised on a small table. It dates to around the middle of the 18th century. The table has long been associated with John Wesley's House and may have been part of the furnishings when Wesley lived in it.
Vertebra Preacher
1800-1850 / Bust / God & Faith / Methodism / Organic / Sculpture
Bone, painted
Ca.1800
This curious object is made from the bone vertebra of a cow, oxen, or horse. It depicts a preaching clergymen, possibly John Wesley, and is a piece of folk art.
Although unusual, this piece is not unique. There are three similar vertebra preacher statuettes in the Collection at Wesley's Chapel, and occasionally one comes across them in museums and private collections. The material, colouring and the bone 'wings' at the back make these small statues appear rather sombre.
The original purpose of these preacher vertebrae is unclear. They may have been purely decorative, but it is possible that the material and pose of the preacher may have been intended as a reminder to lead a virtuous life.
Lease of Wesley’s Chapel
2015/14584
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / John Wesley / Vellum / Wesley's Chapel
Ink on vellum
1779
This is the original Chapel lease signed by John Wesley and the trustees of the Chapel on 9th June, 1779. By its terms, Wesley leased the Chapel and grounds for "59 years from Ladyday 1779 at the cost of £76 and 14 shillings for the first year and... £96 and 14 shillings for the residue of the term".
'Lady Day' was an old fashioned term even in 1779. It was the traditional day on which year-long contracts between landowners and tenant farmers would begin and end in England and the old start of the Julian legal year, technically phased out in 1752. In 1779, in the new Gregorian calendar and with various date adjustments, it would have referred to the 5th April. A remnant of this arrangement remains in the start and end of the tax year in Britain (i.e. 6th April).
Interior of Wesley’s Chapel
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1910-20
An interior view of the Chapel taken early in the 20th century. On the first floor gallery to the left and right of the image can be seen two organs. These were installed in the late 19th century; one was a real organ, the other a dummy, installed for symmetry.
Pulpit
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1900
A view of the pulpit in Wesley's Chapel dating to about 1900.
Chapel Forecourt
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1900-1920
A view of the Chapel forecourt and the statue of John Wesley by the sculptor John Adams-Acton (1830-1910). This was installed in 1891. The pavement around the statue was later removed, to allow for better vehicle access, and the trees were pollarded.
Sampler
2006/10555
1750-1800 / Fabric / Sampler / Textile / Wesley's Chapel
Wool, cotton
1798
This early embroidered sampler shows Wesley's Chapel. The view, taken from the south west, was copied from the first exterior engraving of the Chapel published by John Hindmarsh in 1779. This is also in the Online Collection.
The sampler was worked by Elizabeth R(B)yalls, aged 12. The education of most girls in the 18th and 19th centuries included the stitching of a sampler. Like many, this one includes a religious verse. However, this unusually large and elaborate sampler has a very clear Wesley connection, which is very rare.
William Wilberforce
1800-1850 / Abolition of Slavery / Engraving / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Drawn by W.M. Craig, plate engraved by Thomson, c.1810-20
William Wilberforce (1759-1833) was an evangelical Christian and leader of the parliamentary campaign against the British slave trade in the late 1700s. As Member of Parliament (MP) for Yorkshire, he campaigned for twenty years until the Slave Trade Act of 1807 was finally passed.
John Wesley's last letter, written on February 24th 1791, six days before his death, was addressed to Wilberforce. In it, Wesley urged Wilberforce to continue the fight against the slave trade, the “execrable sum of all villainies”.
See also the goose quill believed to have been the pen Wesley used to write his letter to Wilberforce in the Online Collection.
Note from William Wilberforce
1800-1850 / Abolition of Slavery / Document / Letter / Paper
Ink on paper
'21st May' (no year)
A scribbled note or letter in connection with slavery from William Wilberforce (1759-1833) to the Rev. Marsden (1765-1838).
Marsden had been recommended by Wilberforce in 1793 as assistant to the chaplain of New South Wales, Australia. There, Marsden became very active in the local superintendence and financial management of the London Missionary Society, as well as the affairs of the British and Foreign Bible Society.
Unfortunately, the note isn't dated, and not all of the content is legible. Wilberforce apologised he had written 'in haste'.
John Wesley’s Monument
1850-1900 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1870-80
An early photographic view of John Wesley's monument. The plain, raised grave marker in front of the monument is Adam Clarke's (1762-1832) memorial.
Bust of John Wesley
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, painted
Staffordshire, c.1800
Based on Enoch Wood's 1781 model of John Wesley, this bust is well modelled and well painted. Soon after 1800, the quality of Wesley busts started to deteriorate. By the mid 1800s, as Wesley busts were produced in ever larger numbers and got cheaper, they were no longer naturalistic. Some featured Wesley with pink hair, eyeliner and rouged cheeks!
See also the other ceramic busts of John Wesley in the Online Collection.
Bust of John Wesley
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, painted
c. 1830
A bust of John Wesley produced at a time when Wesley mementoes became ever more popular and cheaper. Gone is the naturalism and artistry which was a hallmark of early production, especially in busts produced by and after Enoch Wood (1759-1840). Note the pink tint of the hair and uninspired facial painting.
Pocket Watch
1992/23/1
1750-1800 / Glass / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates
Metal, enamel, glass
c.1740-80
This splendid pocket watch belonged to Thomas Coke (1747-1814). Coke was close to John Wesley and became one of the first Bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church in America, in a controversial move. Coke later took an increasing interest in overseas mission. He died at sea on his way to fulfil his dream of a mission to India in 1814.
The watch is very elaborately moulded and chased, in the manner of the mid 1700s. Probably, it was made from then fashionable 'Pinchbeck'. This metal alloy looks very much like gold, but is lighter and cheaper. The watch may have been an inherited piece, or possibly a wedding present.
Chapel Interior
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1975
A view of the Chapel during restoration works in the 1970s. A large portion of the gallery rail had become unsafe. The extent of the wood rot can be seen in the centre foreground and to the centre right of the photograph. There were other serious problems, such as sinking foundations and a leaking roof.
The photograph shows the pulpit boxed in for protection.
Photograph of Television Recording
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1983
This image shows the recording of Songs of Praise in the Chapel on 10th March 1983. The camera equipment was mounted on a chassis next to the pews and on the balcony. Its bulk made it hard to manoeuvre.
Writing Case
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Other / Wood / Woodwork
Oak, with mahogany stain
c. 1770-80
This small writing case or writing slope belonged to John Wesley and would have been used for writing letters and storing paper and documents when travelling. It is fitted with a roll-top, or 'tambour'. The roll-top slides open to reveal a writing surface and storage compartments for two glass inkwells and another for blotting sand, as well as a pen tray and two small drawers. The roll-top action is connected to a larger drawer beneath the writing surface, which slides open as the roll-top is opened, and closes when the roll-top is shut.
This writing case would have been a luxury item, and a very useful travel companion for John Wesley. It may well have been a present.
Bust of John Wesley
1750-1800 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic
c.1781-90
This 'basaltware' bust of John Wesley is a black, unglazed ceramic version of Enoch Wood's original bust of Wesley modelled in 1781.
See also the other ceramic busts of John Wesley in the Online Collection.
Organ Installation
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1930s
The image shows the organ at Wesley's Chapel whilst in the process of 'voicing'. The voicing of an organ is a very important part of the work, turning the pipes and the keyboard into the musical instrument.
The picture was probably taken in the mid 1930s, when the present organ was installed in the Chapel.
Apse Windows
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1978
Two of the three stained glass apse windows in a close-up photograph during restoration works in 1978. The windows were installed in the 1890s, and this was the first time they were cleaned and conserved. The image also shows the architectural mosaic and plaster detail in the apse.
In Christian churches, the apse is often a semi-circular recess, usually where the altar is placed. Normally, it faces east.
Money Jar
1700-1750 / Ceramic / Crockery / John Wesley / Methodism / Sculpture
Ceramic, glazed
1700s
This stoneware money pot has an interesting history. It originates in Wednesbury, a town in the West Midlands, where John Wesley visited and preached a number of times.
In 1743 Wesley ran into trouble here, facing riots from local people. However, the local innkeeper, William Griffiths, owner of the Lamp Tavern, hid Wesley by covering him with hay in his hay loft. Griffiths and Wesley struck up a friendly relationship, and Wesley apparently borrowed and used this money pot to collect money whilst in the town.
The pot continued in use in the Lamp Tavern for many decades, and later was passed through the Griffiths family as a reminder of the encounter with John Wesley.
Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Temperance
Metal, glass, silk
late 1800s
This elaborate silver lodge medal was awarded by the Temperance Movement United Order of Total Abstinence, Sons of the Phoenix. This originated in Clapham, London.
Temperance, i.e. the limitation of or total abstinence from alcohol, was a popular movement in the 1800s amongst Methodist but also most other religious denominations. Alcohol was regarded to be the root cause of many evils and social problems.
Many chose to give up alcohol altogether, especially among the middle classes. Some joined organisations such as the Sons of the Phoenix, which was professionally organised, although not specifically Methodist.
Cream Jug
1950-2000 / Ceramic / Crockery / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, printed
c.1955-70
A cream jug featuring an illustration of the staircase at Epworth Rectory, John Wesley's childhood home. The Rectory was acquired by the British Methodist Church with assistance from the World Methodist Council in 1954 and opened as a museum and guest house in 1957. The jug was probably produced shortly after, as a commemorative piece or memento.
Bust of John Wesley
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, glazed
c.1840-50
A typical John Wesley bust of the mid 1800s. Mass production made all ceramics more affordable and popular but led to a decline in quality. Many Wesley busts ended up looking like caricatures.
Membership Tickets
1800-1850 / 1850-1900 / 1900-1950 / 1950-2000 / Document / Methodism / Other / Paper
Paper, printed
c.1800-1960
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This selection dates between 1812 and 1963. The museum's earliest ticket was issued in 1771.
Teapot
1750-1800 / Ceramic / Crockery / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, printed
c. 1770-90
A commemorative creamware teapot of John Wesley dating to the late 1700s. Like many commemorative Wesley ceramics of this period, it isn't hand-painted but features a black transfer printed image. These could literally be stuck onto ceramics and then fired on. Transfer prints were quick to produce, cost effective and became very fashionable.
See also the other commemorative teapots in the Online Collection.
Cream Jug
1750-1800 / Ceramic / Crockery / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Ceramic, glazed
c. 1780-1800
A late 18th century creamware commemorative milk jug of John Wesley featuring a black transfer print.
See also the other commemorative creamware items in the Online Collection.
Wesley’s Chapel
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1899
This unusual photograph dates just before 1900. Unlike most early images of the Chapel, it shows the whole site, including John Wesley's House to the right and the (then newly-built) ministers' manse to the left.
At the time, the Chapel had a small cupola on the roof. Probably, this was added for venting once gas lighting was installed, which gave off heat and created soot.
The landscaping of the forecourt in the image is still as laid out in the late 1700s. The straight lines of the pavement were removed and softened in the late 1970s when the Chapel was refurbished.
Corner Cabinet
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Oak
c. 1770-1800
A hanging corner cabinet with a 'swan neck' pediment top and astragal glazing, dating to the last quarter of the 1700s. An 'astragal' is a moulding or fillet profile composed of a half-round surface surrounded by two flat planes. It used to be employed as a framing device on furniture and woodwork.
Corner cabinets were fashionable and very common between 1760 and 1830. This particular example did not belong to John Wesley, but it is quite likely that one would have been in Wesley's house.
Wesley’s Belongings
1750-1800
Various
1770-90
These items belonged to John Wesley. They include a travel case, his glasses, cufflinks, an indoor hat (worn either whilst studying or in bed), and books.
Short Hymns on Select Passages of the Holy Scriptures, Vol II
1750-1800 / Book / Leather / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper, bound in leather
By Charles Wesley, 1762
This two-volume hymnal was published in Bristol in 1762, following a period during which Charles Wesley suffered ill health. This may account for the reflective tone of a lot of the hymns.
Often, they relate to a theme suggested by the biblical passages Charles Wesley read, and usually they have some sort of relevance to contemporaneous Methodist concerns. The preface makes clear that many of the hymns deal with debates about Christian Perfection, central to mid 18th century Methodism.
John Wesley's collection of books included volumes I and II, and both volumes are still in the Collection.
Vertebra Preacher
1800-1850 / God & Faith / Methodism / Organic / Other / Sculpture
Bone, painted
Probably early 1800s
This curious object is made from the bone vertebra of a cow, oxen, or horse. It depicts a preaching clergymen, possibly but not necessarily Methodist, and is a piece of folk art.
Although unusual, this piece is not unique. There are three similar vertebra preacher statuettes in the Collection at Wesley's Chapel, and occasionally one comes across them in museums and private collections. The material, colouring and the bone 'wings' at the back make these small statues appear rather sombre.
This particular statuette has very distinctive facial features and may be a portrait painted from life.
See also one other vertebra preacher - possibly a depiction of John Wesley - in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Monument and Graveyard
1850-1900 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
Photograph, c. 1880-1890
Two early photographic views of John Wesley's monument and the graveyard behind the Chapel. The plain, raised grave marker in front of the monument is Adam Clarke's (1762-1832) memorial. The metal railings surrounding John Wesley's monument no longer exist.
John Wesley Preaching to the Indians
1900-1950 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
c.1900
John Wesley went to Savannah in Georgia (north America) in 1736 to serve as minister to the colonial settlement. The posting was not a success. This fanciful print dating to around 1900 shows him preaching to indigenous Americans.
The print is factually not quite correct. It is dated '1735', and we have no evidence that John Wesley ever preached to or converted native Americans.
Trunk
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Leather / Wood / Woodwork
Leather on wood carcase
1700s
This large trunk dates to the 1700s and would have been used when travelling by coach. Judging by its size and good condition, the trunk was probably used for travel by private (not mail) coach.
Although the trunk has been in John Wesley's House for many years, we have no documentary evidence that it belonged to John or indeed the Wesley family.
The Charter House Hospital
1700-1750 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by W.H. Toms, 1739
The London Charterhouse was founded as a Carthusian priory in 1371, reportedly on land used as one of the largest London plague pits during the 'Black Death' plague of 1348-49. In 1611, the buildings were bought by Thomas Sutton, who established a school for boys and almshouses for the elderly.
John Wesley was admitted as a Foundation Scholar at the school in 1714, aged 11. John had been nominated by the Duke of Buckingham and Marquis of Normanby, his father's patron. Foundation Scholars were given financial support by the Charterhouse (or the 'Charter House Hospital', as it was known then), as their fathers could not afford to pay the school fees. John stayed until 1720 and then went on to study at Christ Church, Oxford.
This engraving shows the Charterhouse much as John would have known it.
Loving Cup
2000- / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / God & Faith / Methodism / Sculpture
Ceramic, printed
Made by Chown China, c.2010
A recent example of a loving or 'love feast' cup featuring Wesley's Chapel, intended as commemorative ware.
For further information about the 'love feast' and the use of loving cups, see also the other loving cups in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Study
2000- / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.2000
This postcard view shows John Wesley's Study in about 2000. Compare to the earlier photographs and postcard views of this room to see how its presentation has changed over the years.
Photograph of Television Recording
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1983
Another image of the recording of Songs of Praise in the Chapel on 10th March 1983. The camera equipment was mounted on a chassis in various locations in the Chapel, so the recording views could be varied. The bulk of the cameras is very obvious in this photograph.
Bible
1800-1850 / Book / God & Faith / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper, bound in leather
early 1800s
This small bible is one of many bibles collected by the museum over the years. It is a particularly nice example, with an engraved leather cover, two silvered metal clasps and metal corners. The first page bears an inscription which states that the bibe was presented as a gift to the original owner William Porter in 1814.
The Methodist Hymn Book
1900-1950 / Book / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper, bound in cardboard
1904
The Methodist Hymn Book was a joint publication between the Wesleyan Conference and the Methodist New Connexion. It indicates that attempts to move closer and possibly towards a union of the various Methodist Churches started much earlier than 1932, the year in which Methodist Union was finally achieved.
Only three years after this hymnal was published, the Methodist New Connexion and the Bible Christians as well as the United Free Methodist Churches merged to form the United Methodist Church.
Hymns on the Nativity of our Lord and New Year’s Day
1750-1800 / Book / Leather / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper, bound in leather
1793
In 1745, Charles Wesley published a small collection of 'Hymns on the Nativity of our Lord and New Year's Day'. The work contained 18 hymns which related to the Christmas period. It stood in the tradition of liturgical hymnody which celebrates the seasons and festivals of the church calendar.
The work was popular and went through many editions during Charles Wesley's lifetime and afterwards. This edition dates to 1793 and was marked for sale specifically at the 'Chapel, City Road, and at Methodist Preaching Houses in Town, and Country'.
Brooch
2003/8950
1900-1950 / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / Stone / World Parish
Gemstones and metal
c. 1950
This small diamond and Burmese sapphire brooch in the form of the letter ‘W’ stands for ‘Women’s Work'.
The stones in uncut form were given as a thank you and retirement present to Mrs Harold Crawford Walters, wife of a Methodist missionary in Burma (now Myanmar), in 1930. She had participated very actively in his work. After her death, Mr Crawford Walters' second wife had the stones cut and set in a brooch in the form of a 'W'. She then donated the brooch as a badge of office for the President of the North Lancashire District of the Methodist Missionary Society ' Women’s Work'.
The Methodist Missionary Society 'Women’s Work' trained, equipped and financed the sending of women missionaries overseas. Although not without ethical issues from today's perspective, the society empowered women at a time when it was still expected that most women would become housewives and mothers.
Select Hymns with Tunes Annext
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper, bound in leather
1770
'Select Hymns with Tunes Annext' was originally published in 1761. It is an interesting volume in that it helps one understand John Wesley’s attitude towards music in 18th century Methodist worship. It comprises about 100 tunes which are presented in melody, with some notes on how to read music and John Wesley’s ‘Directions for Singing’.
The hymnal contains many influences. These include psalm tunes, folk tunes, German-influenced hymns but also tunes resembling the fashionable music of the day, music Wesley's followers would have been familiar with.
Snuff Box
1992/18/5
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Wood / Woodwork / World Parish
Wood, carved
c. 1780-1800
This little snuff box belonged to Thomas Coke (1747-1814). Coke was the first Methodist bishop of the Episcopal Church in the Americas and is sometimes referred to as the Father of Methodist Missions.
Snuff is a form of smokeless tobacco which is made from ground tobacco leaves. It is inhaled (or 'snuffed'). Snuff originated in the Americas but was popular in Europe from the 1600s. It may be that Coke acquired the habit for snuff whilst living in America in the 1780s. Fittingly, the snuff box is in the shape of a book.
Ink Pot
1992/18/2
1750-1800 / Glass / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Sculpture / World Parish
Glass
c.1790-1810
This little ink pot is one of two and belonged to Thomas Coke (1747-1814). They were contained in his travelling writing desk or slope, an image of which is also in the Online Collection.
The writing implement, at this time either a quill or an early metal-nibbed pen, would have been dipped into the ink pot every few seconds when writing. A writer of many letters and much other material, the ink pot is a potent symbol of Coke's work.
War Club
1992/13
1800-1850 / Other / Wood / Woodwork / World Parish
Hardwood, carved
1800s
This rather savage looking object is a typical traditional Fijian war club.
War clubs were used by the indigenous Fijian population in conflicts. This one was presented to the Reverend James Calvert and his wife, a Wesleyan missionary couple in Fiji. It was given to them in the 1850s by the most powerful Fijian Chief of the day, Ratu Seru Epenisa Cakobau (c.1815 – 1883), following his conversion to Methodism.
Chinese Teapot
1992/14
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Crockery / Sculpture / World Parish
Earthenware
Probably late 1800s
This small teapot belonged to David Hill (1840-1896). Hill was a British Wesleyan Methodist missionary in China in the mid 1800s. He served with the English Wesleyan Methodist Society, primarily in Hankow.
Hill established a hospital and homes for the aged, the blind, and orphans and his evangelical work extended outside the boundaries of existing Methodist circuits in China. This resulted in the formation of the Central China Lay Mission in the 1880s.
The Visit of the Rev. John Wesley A.M. to his Mother’s Grave A.D.1779
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Other / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Aquatint on paper
By G.Hunt (active 1824-1831) after W. Lee, c.1825-30
The subject of this aquatint is somewhat fanciful. John Wesley is depicted standing by his mother's grave in Bunhill Fields. The date given is 1779, the year Wesley moved opposite Bunhill Fields into his new house and the newly-opened New Chapel (today's Wesley's Chapel).
Susanna Wesley's original tombstone is accurately depicted, with the epitaph written by Charles Wesley. The stone was later replaced with a different, more factual, epitaph.
John Wesley's academic title is given as 'A.M.' in Latin for 'atrium magister'; today, the title would be 'M.A.' (Master of Arts).
Reverend John Wesley M.A.
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving
After miniature painting by J. Barry, engraving published by J. Barry and R.Wilkinson, London, 1791, 1791
This well-known image was engraved in 1791 after a miniature painting by J. Barry. A number of versions of this engraving dating to the 1790s exist and they were used as the basis for portraits illustrated in later Wesleyan hymn books. See also John Mason's 1846 edition of the 'Collection Of Hymns, For The Use Of The People Called Methodists', in the Online Collection.
John Wesley Preaching on his Father’s Grave
1850-1900 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Engraving on paper
mid 1800s
Another version of the famous scene when John Wesley preached from his father's tombstone to a large congregation outside St Andrew's Church in Epworth in June 1742.
For further information, see also the oil painting of the same subject in the Online Collection.
The Revd. John Wesley, A.M.
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
William Ridley, after Henry Edridge, 1792
This engraving of John Wesley was engraved shortly after Wesley's passing in 1791. There was a great demand for commemorative images and mementoes of Wesley, and many engravings and works in ceramic were produced.
John Wesley's academic title is listed as 'A.M.' in Latin for 'Artium Magister'; today, the title would be 'M.A.' (Master of Arts).
Letter from Susanna Wesley to her son John
1700-1750 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Ink on paper
First of two pages, 23rd February 1724
One of the earliest letters in the Collection, this letter was written by Susanna Wesley to her son.
Aged 21 and about to take his final examination at Oxford University, John had written to his mother to inform her that he had decided to take holy orders. She refers to this as the 'alteration of yr temper' and the letter makes clear that she is very pleased with his decision. 'If it be so, happy are you if you cherish those Dispositions, and now in good Earnest resolv (sic) to make Religion the Business of yr Life.'
Interestingly, Susanna points out that John's father would prefer an academic career for his son, and that she and her husband are rarely of the same opinion: '..tis an unhappiness almost peculiar to our Family, That (sic) your Father & I Seldom (sic) think alike'.
For the full letter, please refer to 'Exhibits' and click on 'Selected Documents'.
Memorandum of Agreement
1850-1900 / Certificate / Document / John Wesley's House / Paper
Ink on vellum
First page of six, 8th November 1890
This memorandum of agreement between the Wesley Chapel Trust and the Wilson Street Trustees repurposes John Wesley's House.
The decision to repurpose John Wesley's House was made possible by three things. Firstly, a larger and more convenient ministers' manse built on the other side of the entrance to the Wesley's Chapel site. Secondly, the removal of a second minister on site, referred to as the 'Great North Road Minister' (who, at the time, lived in John Wesley's House). And finally, financial assistance from the Wilson Street Trustees.
Originally, only Wesley's rooms on the first floor were to become a museum. Later, the whole house was given over to this purpose.
For the full document, please refer to 'Exhibits' and click on 'Selected Documents'.
Note from John Wesley to Miss Nancy Ford
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
Not dated
This undated note to a lady friend - likely to date around 1780 - makes clear that John Wesley owned a carriage. He regrets not to be able to take Miss Nancy Ford to Bow, as 'My Chaise is gone to be painted. It will take a week or two to dry.'
Letter from George Whitefield to Charles Wesley
1700-1750 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Ink on paper
Page one of four, 30 December 1736
An interesting letter from George Whitefield, the well-known evangelical preacher and fellow Holy Club member, to Charles Wesley.
The letter was written following Charles's return to England in 1736, while his brother John was still serving in Savannah, Georgia. The letter makes clear Whitefield feels called to join John Wesley in Georgia, but also criticises Charles for serving as the governor's secretary when 'Labourers are so much wanted in the quality of a Missionary'.
Whitefield was to arrive in Georgia in May 1738, by which time John Wesley had already left. Whitefield became the leader of the American evangelical awakening.
For the full letter, please refer to 'Exhibits' and click on 'Selected Documents'.
Letter from John Wesley to his wife Mary (Molly), nee Vazeille
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Ink on paper
First page of two, July 10th, 1756
A letter from John Wesley to his wife Molly sent from Athlone, Ireland, on 10th July 1756.
His letter makes clear that around a dozen of Molly's letters written since March that year went missing and were delivered to John all at once in Ireland in July. In a letter in May, John had been upset over the fact that Molly had not written him for so long, and the tone of the May letter was tense.
This letter contains a lot of business relating to preachers, books and other affairs. It shows that John discussed these affairs freely with his wife.
For the full letter, please refer to 'Exhibits' and click on 'Selected Documents'. See also John Wesley's letter to his wife dated 21st May 1756 in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to Mrs Mary Fletcher (nee Bosanquet)
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
2nd April, 1785
In this short letter John Wesley advises Mary Fletcher of his travel plans that spring. He explains that his journey via Bolton, Wigan, Liverpool and Holyhead to Ireland won't leave time to visit Yorkshire that year. (Presumably Mary Fletcher had asked specifically about a visit there).
It is interesting that the envelope of this letter is addressed to Mary's husband, John Fletcher, but that John Wesley is writing exclusively to Mary.
Letter from John Wesley to Robert Carr Brackenbury, 1783
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
4th January 1783
A short letter written by John Wesley to his friend and protegee, Robert Carr Brackenbury (1752-1818) in Jersey.
Brackenbury was much younger than Wesley and came from a well-to-do and influential family. Unusually for a man of his background, he decided to join the Methodist cause and built his first Chapel above the stables of his newly-constructed mansion in Lincolnshire in 1779. A a preacher and Chapel builder, he was never ordained but was befriended, trusted and held in high regard by Wesley.
This 1782 letter makes clear Brackenbury had just arrived in St Hellier on Jersey to serve as a preacher. Apparently the new preaching house was small, but Wesley was encouraging, writing: 'Hitherto is the day of small things'.
Letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather, 1763
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
5th October 1763
This letter written by John Wesley to George Merryweather (c.1743-1817) relates to the opening of the octagonal Methodist Chapel in Yarm, Yorkshire.
Merryweather was a wealthy salt merchant involved deeply in the Methodist cause. He was overseeing the construction of Yarm Chapel on land given by his family. The letter confirms the arrangements for the opening but also hints at some troubles. Apparently, the number of 'hearers' of the sermons (as Wesley calls them) was decreasing and the book or 'tract' accounts of the society in Yarm were showing irregularities.
Yarm's octagonal Chapel was described by John Wesley in 1764 as 'by far the most elegant in England'.
Letter from John Wesley to Joseph Cownley
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
17th September 1755
A serious letter written by John Wesley in 1755 and addressed to Joseph Cownley (1723-1792). Cownley was a talented Wesleyan Methodist preacher and in regular correspondence with John Wesley. Around this time, Cownley attracted unwanted attention and controversy by administering the sacrament to his listeners which, as a lay person, he was not entitled to.
Wesley talks of Cownley's health and sleep which, for some time, had not been good. Wesley's advice for better sleep is to be 'as regular as a Clock'. Wesley goes on to comment on Cownley's lack of spiritual well-being, apparently rooted in 'lack of seriousness'. It is possible that this is a veiled reference to and rebuke for Cownley's recent indiscretion.
Letter from John Wesley to Ann (‘Nancy’) Smith
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
16th June 1769
A letter written by John Wesley to Ann ('Nancy') Smith in 1769. Wesley speaks repeatedly of love for the recipient, and offers her accommodation - 'whether single or married' - at Kingswood or Bristol.
Wesley felt deep spiritual comradeship with a number of women but these relationships were not sexual. However, taken out of context it is easy to see why intimate letters such as this one led to arguments in Wesley's marriage to Mary ('Molly') Vazeille. Molly was an independent woman, by all accounts rather jealous, too, and she was convinced such letters were proof of his infidelity.
Letter from John Wesley to Duncan Wright, 1771
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
20th December 1771
A letter full of advice written by John Wesley to Duncan Wright (1736-1791). Wright was an itinerant preacher who was noted for travelling with Wesley all over the United Kingdom in the 1760s and later for preaching in Gaelic in the Sottish Highlands.
In this 1771 letter, Wesley advises to rotate the preachers regularly in Scotland, especially in Edinburgh. Knowing the locals from experience, he notes that only 'plain, blunt speakers, or none at all, will do good there'. On a very personal note, he tells Wright to act as a 'whole' (or through and through) Methodist wherever he goes, and believe in himself.
Wright died the same year as John Wesley (1791). He was buried alongside Wesley in his tomb behind the Chapel in City Road London, today's Wesley's Chapel.
Letter from John Wesley to Samuel Bradburn
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
26th February 1780
In this short and personal letter, John Wesley addresses 'Sammy', or Samuel Bradburn (1751-1816). Bradburn was a Methodist itinerant preacher and friend of Wesley who became one of the greatest and physically most commanding orators of his day.
Wesley congratulates Bradburn on acting wisely in a matter of personal conflict and tells him of his travel plans to Ireland that year (Wesley was 77 years old).
Extract from Charles Wesley’s Diary
1750-1800 / Document / Other / Paper / The Wesley Family
Ink on paper
May - August 1769
An extract from Charles Wesley's diary for the summer of 1769. In it, he discusses the musical achievements of his 11 year old son, Charles junior (1757-1834).
On Wed, July 3rd, he writes: 'Mr K... gave him his 104th Lesson (sic); which makes a year compleat (sic). No other, he assured me, could have learned so much in many years.' Charles Wesley jun. was noted as a child prodigy and became a composer and organist.
Like his brother John, Charles Wesley sen. wrote his diary in code. The entries here are written out in plain English and relate to his son and music. They are extracts from his coded dairy, written in his hand.
Letter from John Wesley to Mr Cricket
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
Page one of two, 10th February 1783
A letter written by John Wesley to one of his preachers in Londonderry, Ireland, in 1783.
The letter contains advice how to inject vigour into the Londonderry Circuit and admonishes the recipient to show leadership. Wesley compares it to Barnard Castle:" Many years ago, the Society at Barnardcastle (sic), as large as that at Derry, was remarkably dead. (…) advised them to keep a day of Fasting and Prayers (&) a flame broke out & spread thro'ut ye Circuit.."
The letter goes to show that not all areas took to Methodism straightaway. Structure to the worship or 'method' was an important aspect, but preachers also needed to be leaders, with a strong guiding hand.
Letter from John Wesley to Mr Gaulter
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
19th February 1790
Aged 87 and with failing eyesight, Wesley dictated this letter to one of his preachers in Sunderland. The letter is not in Wesley's hand, only the recipient's address and the signature are.
It appears Mr Gaulter (1765-1839) was having trouble with three individuals involved in the Methodist Society (or circuit) in Sunderland. Wesley calls them "brethren fallen asleep" and, more harshly, "Sinners of the Methodist Society".
As promised in the letter, John Wesley did indeed visit Sunderland later that year. On 12th June 1790, he preached an evening sermon to a large congregation there. It was his last visit.
Letter from Charles Wesley to John Wesley
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Ink on paper
Page one of two, 28th July 1778
A significant letter written by Charles to his brother John Wesley in July 1778.
On page 2, Charles asks his brother: "What think you of our National Estate? My Bro. & I agree to differ (underlined). He is, as usual, all hope, & I am all fear. But a very short time will show who is the true prophet".
It is not quite clear what Charles means. The letter was written only two weeks after France declared war on Britain in July 1778 (they were opponents in the American War of Independence, 1775-83). Charles may thus be referring to the possible repercussions of these conflicts.
Charles Wesley's tone, and the strong emphasis on their opposing views, hints at disagreements or even a rift between the brothers.
For the full letter, please refer to 'Exhibits' and click on 'Selected Documents' (letter listed as July 26, 1776).
Letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather, 1758
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
16th January 1758
An early letter written by John Wesley to George Merryweather (c.1743-1817) in Yarm.
The Merryweathers were a merchant family who were committed Methodists. At the time, Methodism was growing in Yarm, and John Wesley writes: "If the Work of God does so increase at Yarm, we must not let the opportunity slip." He recommends that a travelling preacher visits every Sunday evening, or at least every other Sunday.
This letter was written a few years before Yarm's octagonal Methodist chapel was built on Merryweather land. See also John Wesley's letter of 5th October 1763 to George Merryweather in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather, 1761
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
June 7th, 1761
In this letter to George Merryweather (c.1743-1817), John Wesley informs the recipient of his changed travel plans.
Instead of spending two full days and nights in Yarm (Yorkshire), Wesley decided he would only spend the Friday night and preach Friday evening and Saturday at noon. Apparently, there was other business further south at Hutton Rudby, which was, according to Wesley, "nearer the Center (sic) of our Societies".
John Wesley visited North Yorkshire frequently. He is reputed to have stayed with the Merryweather family in Yarm on nineteen occasions.
See also the two other letters by John Wesley to George Merryweather in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather, 1766
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
8th February 1766
A letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather (c.1743-1817) in Yarm, North Yorkshire.
Wesley knew the Merryweathers well and had enjoyed their friendship for many years. Perhaps this explains his familiar but somewhat authoritarian tone. Wesley suggests Merryweather may be covering for another preacher at Yarm who "is grown faint" and admonishes him: "Let not regard for any man induce you, to betray the faith of God". Wesley was concerned that the failing preacher would adversely affect Yarm Society (or circuit): "Where Xtian (sic) Perfection is not strictly & explicitly preached, there is seldom any remarkable Blessing from God, & consequently, little addition to ye Society."
Wesley was certainly forthright with his preachers, and with his family and friends.
See also the other letters from John Wesley to George Merryweather in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather, 1767
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
6th October 1767
A letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather (c.1743-1817) in Yarm, North Yorkshire.
Like most of the other letters written by Wesley to Merryweather in the museum's collection, this one also hints at problems with the Society (circuit) at Yarm. It would appear two preachers wanted to change places, and Merryweather was embroiled in the conflict. Wesley advised: "Get out of the fire as soon as you can".
Interestingly, Wesley opens the letter with a reference to "Mr Whitefield" who at "length meets me halfway". He may be referring to George Whitefield (1714-1770), fellow Holy Club member at Oxford but now leader of the Calvinist arm of Methodism opposed to Wesley's doctrines.
See also the other letters written by John Wesley to George Merryweather in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to Duncan Wright, 1772
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
21st January 1772
A further letter from John Wesley to Duncan Wright (1736-1791) in Scotland.
Here, Wesley discusses travel plans for his visit to Scotland that year and asks whether all societies (circuits) in Scotland are supplied with the necessary (hymn) books. He advises Wright: " The Success of the work greatly depends on the constant change of the Preachers & the showing of the whole Methodist, both as to Doctrine and Discipline in every place."
For further information on Duncan Wright, see also Wesley's 1771 letter to him in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to Robert Carr Brackenbury, 1790
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
24th February 1790
A letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert Carr Brackenbury (1752-1818) in 1790. The letter illustrates how Wesley's hand writing deteriorated as he got older. Wesley found it increasingly hard to see, and sometimes he now dictated letters instead.
The spidery hand writing is hard to make out. Wesley is referring repeatedly to a bailiff who has changed his mind about an issue relating to a 'present storm'.
See also John Wesley's letter of 1783 to Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter from William Wilberforce to Robert Carr Brackenbury
1800-1850 / Abolition of Slavery / Document / Letter / Paper
Ink on paper
Page one of two, 15th September 1807
This dictated letter of thanks was sent by William Wilberforce (1759-1833) to Robert Carr Brackenbury (1752-1818).
Brackenbury was a wealthy Lincolnshire landowner who had been influenced by John Wesley from an early age, built chapels and was very active promoting the Methodist cause. Wilberforce, a fellow Methodist, was the leader of the movement to abolish the slave trade. This took twenty years to secure.
The letter is an acknowledgement of and thanks for Carr Brackenbury's public support of Wilberforce during the 1807 parliamentary session. This session was crucial in securing the Slave Trade Act that year.
Interestingly, the letter was written as late as September 1807 - royal assent to the Act had been granted in March - which would indicate that Wilberforce was extremely busy that year. This may also explain why Wilberforce added the note that he could not acknowledge and thank "every friend within your circle" who had supported him.
Letter from William Wilberforce to Reverend George Marsden
1800-1850 / Abolition of Slavery / Document / Letter / Paper
Ink on paper
Page one of three, 18th February 1824
A letter written by William Wilberforce (1759-1833) to Rev. George Marsden (1765-1838) about the good that has already been achieved vis-à-vis the abolition of slavery, and the effect of the Sunday newspapers.
Wilberforce writes:" As for the Sunday newspapers, no one can be more deeply impressed than myself with a sense of their being vicious in principle, and injurious in their effect (…)" Unfortunately, it is not quite clear from the letter how exactly the newspapers influenced or injured the abolitionist cause - perhaps by reporting negatively on abolitionist activities?
For the full letter, please refer to 'Exhibits' and click on 'Selected Documents'.
See also the other letters from William Wilberforce in the Online Collection.
Chest of Drawers
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Mahogany veneer on pine
c.1780
A small mahogany veneer chest of drawers, with a first generation (c.1890s), bakelite museum label attached stating it was John Wesley's.
The chest of drawers is of good quality but plain. Perhaps it was acquired to furnish Wesley's new house in 1779 when he moved in. It certainly looks similar in age and overall plain style to other furniture in the house, notably the mahogany bookcase in Wesley's Study. All original furniture pieces in John Wesley's House recall John Wesley's comment about Wesley's Chapel (then the 'New' Chapel) in 1778: "The Chapel is neat but not fine."
The chest of drawers is seen in Wesley's bedroom; the bedstead is a modern reproduction.
Scripture Card Dispenser or Entertainment
2006/10412
1800-1850 / God & Faith / Metal / Methodism / Object / Other / Paper
Ink on paper, metal container
c. 1800
An interesting early religious entertainment or 'game' consisting of hand-written Bible scripture cards in a box. It is likely the idea was to pick one card, reflect on the nature of the verse and to apply this to daily life. Because of the perishable nature of paper and ink, such home-made entertainments are a rare survival.
John Wesley’s Wig
2013/13864/1
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Object / Organic / Other
Horse (?) hair woven onto cotton cap
c.1780
Believed to be John Wesley's wig, which was handed down in his family. Wesley would have worn this wig in later life; in younger years, he wore his own hair, preferring to give the money saved by doing thus to the poor.
Originally, the upper part of the wig cap would have been covered with hair, too. It is likely this would have been human hair, while the lower part was made from another organic material, possibly horsehair. This would have been more suitable for curling. The human hair has disintegrated over time, while the other hair has lasted and kept its shape.
The wig is displayed on Wesley's death mask. Its fit is remarkable and the overall appearance recalls portraits of John Wesley in old age.
John Fletcher’s Study Chair
1600-1650 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Wood / Woodwork
Oak, leather, metal
Probably early to mid 1600s
This armchair belonged to John Fletcher (1729-1785). Fletcher was a gifted preacher, writer and friend of John Wesley. Many contemporaries regarded him as an example of John Wesley's teachings of Christian Perfection and the possible successor to Wesley.
The chair dates to the 1600s and its style is derived from Spanish furniture. Its studded and embossed black leather upholstery is original. It is interesting that Fletcher should have used a study chair of this age. It would indicate that he had 'antiquarian' interests, i.e. an interest in the past.
The chair bears a 19th century museum label set into the leather backrest.
Horse Riding Spurs
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Metal / Metalwork / Other
Metal
1700s
These horse riding spurs are reputed to have belonged to John Wesley. Every year, John Wesley travelled hundreds of miles and made many long-distance journeys, a lot of which were on horseback.
Spurs are attached to the heels of riding boots for the purpose of making a horse move forward. They are usually used to back up the rider’s natural aid, such as seat, leg, hands and voice, to encourage the horse to move.
Field Bed
1950-2000 / Fabric / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, fabric, metal
c.1990
This four poster or 'field' bed is on display in John Wesley's bedroom. Beds such as these could be dismantled easily and used to be taken on military campaigns and into the 'field'.
The bed is not original. As Wesley's bed has not survived, this one was made for John Wesley's House when the house was last re-displayed in the 1990s. It is a copy of a bed published in one of the many furniture pattern books of the late 1700s.
Chair (detail)
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Mahogany, horsehair (upholstery)
c.1760-1770
This image shows the back of a mahogany armchair in John Wesley's House. Because the intricate back of the chair looks like a ladder, this chair type is also known as a 'ladderback' chair. The ladder back is carved intricately, in the style made fashionable by Thomas Chippendale (1718-1779).
Although no documentary evidence exists, the chair dates to the 1700s and may have been part of the first furnishings of John Wesley's House. The chair is also pictured in a photograph of John Wesley's monument from the 1870s in the Online Collection. In the photograph, a gentleman holding a top hat leans on the back rest.
Photograph of Country Rocking Chair
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Oak, fabric
c.1900-1950
This oak country rocking chair was probably made in Wales. It is a piece of 'Wesleyana', with an association to John Wesley.
By family tradition, Wesley visited the cottage of the owners of this chair and sat in it, after which it was passed down in the family. Later, it was presented to the museum and is now on display in John Wesley's House.
The photograph shows it in about 1950.
Re-opening of John Wesley’s House
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1995
An image of the re-opening of John Wesley's House in 1995 following refurbishment.
In the early 1990s, it was decided to present John Wesley's House as it might have appeared when John Wesley lived in it. Following extensive studies and with professional advice, the house was fully refurbished.
The image shows the re-opening day in 1995, with the President of Conference, the Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy, and the then minister of the Chapel in the centre of the picture.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1995
In the early 1990s, it was decided to present John Wesley's House as it might have appeared when John Wesley lived in it. Following extensive studies and with professional advice, the house was fully refurbished.
The photograph shows the re-opening day in 1995, with the Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy, cutting the ribbon. Behind her on the right John Wesley looks on, played by a re-enactor.
Ship Model
2016/14791
1850-1900 / Fabric / Other / Wood / Woodwork / World Parish
Wod, paper, fabric
c.1860-1900
A wooden ship model of the 'John Wesley'. The 'John Wesley' was built in 1846 and was 90ft long and 25ft wide. She had with twin masts and a double hull for protection from the coral reefs of the South Pacific, where she was to sail.
The 'John Wesley' served the Methodist Missions in the South Seas for nineteen years. During this time, she returned to England only once in 1850, for repairs and to be fitted with iron tanks for transporting coconut oil. Sadly, she was thrown onto a Tongan reef during a violent storm in 1865 and foundered, luckily without loss of life.
Courtyard Works
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1977
A photograph taken during the Chapel refurbishment works of the 1970s. The picture shows the Chapel courtyard being re-landscaped.
Originally, the courtyard landscaping was formal and very symmetrical. The refurbishment works softened the lines of the road and walkways.
John Wesley’s House Prior To Refurbishment
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1990
A photograph of John Wesley's Study just before refurbishment works in the early 1990s. Although historically inaccurate, the wood panelling in the house was stripped of many layers of paint in the 1930s and can be seen here in its bare state. The panelling and doors were later repainted in an off-white colour.
In front of the window stands John Wesley's reading or 'cockfighting' chair. For further information, please refer to the Online Collection.
Horn Pipe
2010/12599
1800-1850 / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Organic / Other / World Parish
Horn, silver, metal
c. 1810-30
This pipe is made from animal horn and silver. It belonged to the Reverend Barnabas Shaw (1788-1857), first official Wesleyan missionary in Africa.
In 1816, the Rev Barnabas Shaw and his wife established the first Methodist mission station at Leliefontein, Namaqualand. Shaw was instrumental in establishing Methodist Societies in and around Cape Town, South Africa. Later, his initiative helped Methodism expand all along the eastern Cape coastline.
John Wesley’s House
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1995
A photograph taken just after the major refurbishment of John Wesley's House in 1995. The image shows Wesley's House to the right and the Chapel in the background.
The metal garden entrance gate is original to the house and dates to 1779. Like the house, it has listed English Heritage status.
Stairs in John Wesley’s House
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1994
The photo shows the stairs inside John Wesley's House prior to refurbishment in the 1990s. The stairs are made of pine, in John Wesley's day referred to as 'deal', and a number of decorative schemes can be made out.
The light brown stripped pine finish of the stairs dates to the 1930s. At that time all paintwork in the house was removed, in the (mistaken) belief that woodwork was left unpainted in the 1700s. The narrow central 'band' in dark brown is painted however and would seem to be earlier. It is probably a painted stair 'runner', dating to the mid 1800s.
According to the 1779 building plans of John Wesley's House, the staircase was painted five times in French grey. Likely, there wouldn't have been a carpet but a 'drugget', a cloth painted to look like a stair runner.
Collection Box
1996/4839
1900-1950 / Collection Box / Methodism / Object / Plastic/Bakelite / World Parish
Bakelite
c.1950
This novelty Missionary Society collecting box in the form of a globe dates to around 1950. It was used in churches but also in a non-church context to collect money for mission projects.
The Methodist Missionary Society was formed in 1932 out of many smaller missionary societies. The globe shape of the box illustrated that the Society operated world-wide - in Africa, the Caribbean, the Indian sub-continent, Europe, the Americas and Australasia.
Collection Box
1999/7437/5
1950-2000 / Collection Box / Methodism / Object / Plastic/Bakelite / World Parish
Bakelite
c.1940-60
A Methodist Missionary Society collection box in the shape of a Chapel. It is typical of the money boxes used to gather small contributions for mission work abroad and overseas in the mid 20th century.
For further information about the Methodist Missionary Society, see also the other collection boxes in the Online Collection.
Collection Box
1900-1950 / Collection Box / Methodism / Object / Wood / World Parish
Wood, paper
c. 1910-1925
This early wooden collecting box was used in the work of the Wesleyan Missionary Society Department Women's Work.
The organised work of women in the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society (WMMS) began in 1858, as an auxiliary to the main Society. The Ladies' Committee aimed at promoting systematically women's work. Women were selected and prepared for employment, for instance as teachers, in the missionary field abroad and overseas. The Committee provided its own funds and worked independently from - if alongside - the WMMS.
Both WMMS and WMMS Women's Work became part of the Methodist Missionary Society in 1932, although Women's Work continued to operate separately until the 1970s.
For further information about the Methodist Missionary Society, see also the other collection boxes in the Online Collection.
Pagoda
1900-1950 / Metal / Metalwork / Other / Wood / World Parish
Metal, silver plated
c. 1920s
This silver plate pagoda was a retirement present. It was given by the missionaries of the United Methodist Church in China to the Rev. J.E. Swallow in 1926. Little is known about him; he was one of many hundreds of Methodist missionaries who worked in China in the 19th and 20th centuries.
A Form of Discipline
1993/1059
1750-1800 / Book / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Ink on paper, bound in leather
5th edition, 1789
The full title of the book is a lengthy one: "A form of discipline, for the ministers, preachers, and members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in America, considered and approved at a conference held at Baltimore, in the state of Maryland, on Monday the 27th of December, 1784: in which Thomas Coke, and Francis Asbury, presided. : Arranged under proper heads, and methodised in a more acceptable and easy manner. With some other useful pieces annexed."
The book is the outcome of the American Christmas Conference of 1784 in Baltimore. There, the appointment of Thomas Coke as Superintendent was confirmed and the American Methodist Church was constituted as an independent body. During the Conference, Coke ordained Francis Asbury as his co-superintendent, supported unanimously by some sixty American Methodist itinerant preachers. In 1787, despite Wesley’s strong disapproval, the title ‘Superintendent’ was replaced by ‘Bishop’ and the American Methodist Church became the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Commemorative Plaque
2015/14657
1900-1950 / Metal / Metalwork / Plaque / World Parish
Brass
1924
An unusual John Wesley brass plaque which was made in Germany in 1924.
The Methodist Community in Germany is comparatively small. The first Methodist missionary to Germany, G. Müller, started preaching in 1830 and gained followers mainly in Württemberg, southern Germany.
Fijian Priests’ Dish
1992/15
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Wood / Woodwork / World Parish
Wood
1800s
This vessel is made from sacred ‘Vesi’ wood and was once used for cannibal ceremonies. The dish was given to the Rev. James Calvert (1813-1892) when its Fijian owner converted to Christianity. Calvert was a missionary to Fiji who arrived there in 1838, the same year as the Rev. John Hunt.
See also the other Fijian artefacts in the Online Collection.
1992/15
Gold Ring
1992/20
1800-1850 / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / World Parish
Metal
1800s
This ring was made from gold dust given by the king of the Ashanti to the missionary Rev. Thomas Birch Freeman during an exchange of gifts in 1841. The king permitted the establishment of the first mission post in the Ashanti capital, Kumasi, and later granted land for a second mission.
Thomas Birch Freeman (1809-1890) set up schools and agricultural projects in Africa and promoted the anti-slavery cause. Birch Freeman was the son of an African father and an English mother.
1992/20
Christening Dress
1700-1750 / Clothing / Fabric / Textile / The Wesley Family
Silk, cotton lace
1700s
By tradition, this finely-worked silk Christening dress belonged to the Wesley family. It would appear to date to the mid 1700s.
It is unlikely that John and Charles Wesley were christened in the dress. Their home, the old Rectory at Epworth, burnt down in 1709, when John was six and Charles two years' old. Susanna Wesley was not the type of mother who would have saved a christening dress when many other - more precious and essential - household items were lost.
John Wesley had no children, so it is possible and most probable that the dress belonged to the family of Charles Wesley. Charles had seven (or possibly eight) children, although only three survived infancy.
Vase
1994/1743
1950-2000 / Ceramic / Ornament / Sculpture / World Parish
Ceramic, decorated and glazed
late 1900s
This vase commemorates a visit to Wesley’s Chapel by a Methodist group from Korea, where Methodism is particularly strong.
The vase is decorated with two birds (possibly cranes) in flight and the famous Bible quotation connected to John Wesley, ‘Is this not a brand plucked from the Fire’ (Zachariah, 3:2.).
Artwork
2003/9286/2
2000- / Other / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Ink on paper
2003
This paper artwork was produced by Katherine Baxter to commemorate the 300th birth of John Wesley.
Katherine Baxter is a map illustrator. After leaving Bath Academy of Art and exploring different avenues of illustration, she started focusing on map illustration. In her own words: "I felt I really had found my true passion, and in a way it fulfils a deep psychological need of knowing where I’m going."
Model of Chapel Site
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Other / Wesley's Chapel / Wood / Woodwork
Cardboard, pvc, paint
c.1980
A model of Wesley's Chapel and the surrounding site. To the left of the entrance and in front of the Chapel are the minister's manse and the Benson office building, to the right John Wesley's House and behind (not fully visible) the former Curate's House, now offices. The Chapel is in the background.
The model was commissioned as a working model, prior to building the large mirrored office building at the back of the Chapel in the early 1980s. The model shows the Victorian Benson building office block in the forecourt replaced with a square mirrored structure. This was not built, to preserve the architectural character of the courtyard.
Cartoon
2015/14588
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Drawing / God & Faith / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Watercolour
Ink on paper, gouache
circa late 1970s
A cartoon depicting the Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1988) and entitled 'Humble Tribute to a Remarkable Ministry'.
Soper is depicted in his preaching stand at London's Speaker's Corner at Hyde Park, where he could be heard preaching regularly for many years.
For further information, see also Soper's metal preaching stand in the Online Collection.
Portrait of a Young Man (detail)
1993/1616
1850-1900 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
C.1860
Likely, the unidentified young man in this portrait was a preacher. Sadly, we know nothing of him or his background.
Paul at the Gate of the Temple Easing the Suffering
1993/1482
1650-1700 / God & Faith / Landscape / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting
Oil on panel (oak)
School of Godfried Schalcken, likely 1600s
The title of the portrait would imply a passage in the Bible. However, it has not been possible to identify this, so it is possible that the painting was an imaginary composition.
The scene is painted in the style of the Dutch Old Masters. It is similar to work by Godfried Schalcken (or Gottfried Schalken),1643 –1706. Schalcken was a Dutch portrait and genre painter. Schalcken's work was very detailed and finely painted, and he was particularly celebrated for reproducing candlelight.
See also the painting of 'The Holy Family' in the Online Collection, likely painted by the same artist.
The Holy Family
1993/1487
1650-1700 / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on panel (oak)
School of Godfried Schalcken, likely 1600s
A portrait of the Holy Family.
The scene is painted in the style of the Dutch Old Masters. It is similar to work by Godfried Schalcken (or Gottfried Schalken),1643 –1706. Schalcken was a Dutch portrait and genre painter. Schalcken's work was very detailed and finely painted, and he was particularly celebrated for reproducing candlelight.
See also the painting of 'Paul at the Gate of the Temple Easing the Suffering' in the Online Collection, likely painted by the same artist.
Unidentified Preacher or Minister
1850-1900 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Painted by Jonathan Pratt, 1892
The subject of this painting is not identified. Likely, he was a Methodist preacher or minister.
The painting is dated 1892 and it was painted by Jonathan Pratt (1835-1911). Pratt was a well-known painter of portraits, and genre and interior scenes.
Sadly, the painting is in very poor condition.
Portrait of a Man with a Dog
1993/1639
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
Unidentified artist, c. 1830
The subject of this painting is not identified. He is dressed in the manner of the early 1800s. Likely, he was a Methodist minister or preacher.
Sadly, the painting is in poor condition.
Moses, the Friend of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Elijah, the Warrior of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Amos, the Spokesman of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Jeremiah, the Mediator of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Ezekiel, the Priest-Prophet of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Habakkuk, the Sentinel of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Jonah, the Messenger of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Daniel, the Statesman of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Second Isaiah: The Forerunner of God’s Great Day
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Isaiah: The Appointed of God
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting / Portrait
Oil on canvas
By Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), c.1930
One of a series of dramatic oil on canvas studies of the biblical prophets by Frank O. Salisbury. Salisbury's work was illustrated in 'The Prophets of Israel', in 1933.
Frank O. Salisbury (1874 - 1962) was a well-known British Methodist painter and stained-glass designer. Following his studies at the Royal Academy, London (1892–1897) and a scholarship to visit Italy in 1896, he developed a taste for large scenes of pageantry and portraiture, painted in traditional style. He worked particularly in Britain and the United States of America, where he was known as Britain's 'Painter Laureate'.
The painting is on long term loan to Wesley's Chapel from the Bible Society.
See also the other paintings by Frank O. Salisbury in the Online Collection.
Romani encampment
1850-1900 / Landscape / Oil on Canvas/Board / Painting
Oil on canvas
By Arthur Nicholls (1842-1909), late 1800s
A countryside scene, possibly in Cambridgeshire, where Arthur Nicholls had a studio. The sky in this work is painted particularly well.
Nicholls (1842-1909) was an artist and photographer who specialised in portraiture.
Statue of John Wesley
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Metal / Other / Sculpture / Wesley's Chapel
Bronze, marble
Modelled and sculpted by John Adams Acton (1830-1910), 1891
This statue of John Wesley was sculpted by John Adams-Acton (1830-1910) for the forecourt of Wesley's Chapel in 1891. The bronze plinth is inscribed: "The World is My Parish".
Adams-Acton exhibited at the Royal Academy and sculpted the Wesley memorial in Westminster Abbey, the Cruikshank memorial in St Paul's Cathedral and a memorial of Cardinal Manning in Westminster Cathedral. He was well-known as a modeller and sculptor of public figures in Victorian Britain.
Bust of F.L.Wiseman (1858-1944)
1900-1950 / Bust / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Sculpture / Stone / Wesley's Chapel / Wood
Stone, on wooden plinth
By George Henry Paulin (1888–1962), 1948
The Revd Dr Frederick Luke Wiseman (1858-1944) started his ministry as the first Superintendent of the Birmingham Mission (1888-1913). He served as President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1912 and of the Methodist Conference in 1933. Between 1940 and 1944, he was minister of Wesley's Chapel, City Road. Wiseman also served as Chairman of the committee preparing the 1933 Methodist Hymn Book, which included 11 hymn tunes he had composed himself.
Following WWII, The Methodist Connexion commissioned the well-known Scottish sculptor G.H. Paulin (1888-1962) to model Wiseman's bust. Paulin was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of British sculptors in 1938.
Bust of Bishop Sundo Kim
2000- / Bust / Sculpture / Stone / Wesley's Chapel / Wood / World Parish
Marble, on wooden plinth
Unidentified artist, c.2013
Bishop Sundo Kim (b.1930) is the founding pastor of Kwanglin Methodist Church in Seoul, Korea. The Church has 94,000 members and is the largest Methodist Church in the world. Bishop Kim and his congregation have established global mission centres and seminaries in Moscow, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, and China, amongst other countries.
In 2011, a grant from Kwanglim Methodist Church started the fundraising process for refurbishing the Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
James Calvert of Fiji
1850-1900 / Bust / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Sculpture / Stone / Wesley's Chapel / World Parish
Marble
Unidentified artist, late 1800s
The Reverend James Calvert (1813-1892) and his wife Mary were a Wesleyan missionary couple in Fiji. He and his wife landed at Lakemba in 1838 and remained in Fiji for the next seventeen years. They were instrumental in the conversion of Cakobau, the most powerful chief in the Fijian islands. Later, Calvert served as missionary in the Diamond Fields of South Africa.
See also Cakobau's traditional Fijian war club and the Fijian priests' dish in the Online Collection.
Bust of Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway
1950-2000 / Bust / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Sculpture / Wesley's Chapel / Wood
Metal, wooden plinth
Sculpture by Ian Homer Walters (1930–2006), 1998
This bust was sculpted to commemorate the life of Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903–1998). Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit.
Ian Homer Walters (1930-2006) was a committed socialist who taught sculpture at Stourbridge College of Art and later at Guildford School of Art. He took part in Josip Broz Tito's public sculpture programmes in Yugoslavia in the 1960s and in the 1970s worked with the African National Congress.
See also Soper's portable preaching stand and the cartoon of Soper preaching in the Online Collection.
Miss Sarah Moore of Antigua
2003/8870
1800-1850 / Engraving / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
1815
Methodism came to Antigua through the plantation owner Rev. Nathaniel Gilbert (1736-1774), who baptized his slaves and established the first Methodist meeting house on the island.
Gilbert's legacy lived on, and Antigua became one of the first places where women, many of whom freed slaves and black or mixed race, became central to the early development of Methodism. They preached, campaigned actively for the abolition of slavery and helped manage the finances of the local Methodist society. Sarah Moore was one of them although, sadly, little more is known of her life.
Count Nikolaus Zinzendorf
1994/2752
1750-1800 / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour / World Parish
Watercolour on ivory
Unidentified artist, mid 1700s
This miniature painting depicts Count Nikolaus Zinzendorf (1700-1760). Zinzendorf was a bishop of the Moravian Church in Germany and became known as a major Protestant religious and social reformer.
John Wesley was influenced by the deep faith and spirituality of the Moravians and met Zinzendorf twice. Wesley's pivotal conversion experience in 1738 took place at a society meeting in London with Moravian links.
Needlework Sampler
2015/14648
1800-1850 / Fabric / Sampler / Textile / World Parish
Cotton and silk on cotton
Worked by Maria Shaw, 1838
This sampler was worked by a British girl in Sierra Leone in 1838. Finishing a needlework sampler was an important step in the education of well-brought-up girls in the early 1800s.
Freetown, now the capital city, was founded in 1792 by anti-slavery campaigners as a land for freed slaves. Methodist missionaries worked there and by 1811 it had an established Methodist Society.
Gourd
1992/16/1
1850-1900 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Wood / Woodwork / World Parish
Wood, carved and painted
mid to late 1800s
This decorated gourd shows missionary Thomas Birch Freeman (1809-1890) preaching in Africa. As a Methodist missionary, he set up schools and agricultural projects and promoted the anti slavery cause. Freeman was the son of an African father and an English mother.
See also the other objects with a Birch Freeman connection in the Online Collection.
Tree Trunk
1992/146
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Other / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood
c. 1800
John Wesley preached his last open air sermon in Winchelsea, East Sussex, on October 7th, 1790 under a tree. This trunk was part of this tree.
See also the framed engraving of Wesley preaching under the tree in the Online Collection.
‘The Revd Mr Whitfield preaching at Leeds, 1749’
1998/7084
1700-1750 / Engraving / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
1749
George Whitefield (1714-1770) introduced John Wesley to outdoor preaching. Here, Whitefield is depicted preaching to a gathering in Leeds in 1749.
Both Whitefield and John Wesley were charismatic preachers who stirred the masses. In the mid 1700s, outdoor revival meetings like these could be unruly and violent. Often, large crowds were being told of the transforming power of God and the choice between heaven and hell.
Collection Box
1996/4844
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Collection Box / God & Faith / Methodism / Object
Printed cardboard
c. 1960-70
Appropriately, this unusual 'National Children's Home' cardboard collection box is in the shape of a Swiss chalet, colourfully decorated.
The 'National Children's Home' was founded in 1869 by Methodist minister Revd Thomas Bowman Stephenson. Stephenson had first hand experience of the poverty and danger faced by vulnerable and often destitute young people living rough in the streets of London. In 1994, the charity was renamed 'Action for Children'. It is still the children's charity of the Methodist Church.
See also the other collection boxes in the Online Collection.
The Arminian Magazine For the Year 1796
1750-1800 / Book / Leather / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper, bound in leather
Printed by G. Paramore, North Green, Worship Street, London, Vol. XiX, 1796
The 'Arminian Magazine' was started by John Wesley in 1778 to deal with the theological differences between Calvinist and Arminian (or Wesleyan) Methodists.
The publication was edited by Wesley until his death in 1791 and helped to give identity to the Wesleyan Methodist Community. Central to their belief was the doctrine of universal redemption, i.e. that everybody could be saved through their belief in God.
World Methodist Peace Award
1950-2000 / Coin/Medal / Fabric / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates
Metal, silk
1981
The World Methodist Peace Award is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to peace, reconciliation and justice. The award was established by Dr. Stanley Leyland at the 13th World Methodist Conference in Dublin in 1976 and is presented annually by the World Methodist Council.
Recipients have included Jimmy Carter, Mikhail Gorbatchev and Nelson Mandela. This medal was awarded to Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998), in 1981 to commemorate his 'Courage, Creativity (and) Consistency'.
A Calm Address To Our American Colonies
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Printed on paper, bound in leather
By John Wesley, published by R. Hawes, Spitalfields, 1775
The 1770s were turbulent years in the American colonies, which were edging towards independence from Britain. John Wesley ventured squarely into American politics with publishing his 'Calm Address'. The booklet reversed his position of a year earlier on British oppression of the colonies and brought him down on the side of the British government and clergy. The pamphlet went through many editions straightaway and over 100,000 copies circulated within a year.
Not surprisingly, Wesley was vilified in America. It has been argued that the fact that America closed its ports to English ships - and books - on July 20th, 1775 may have saved the cause of Methodism in America. The copies of the 'Calm Address' which had entered already were largely destroyed, and no further copies found their way into the country until after the conflict.
The Christian Occupation of China
2010/12697
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Printed on paper, bound in cloth
'A General Survey of the Numerical Strength and Geographical Distribution of the Christian Forces in China, Made by the Special Committee on Survey and Occupation, China Continuation Committee, 1918-1921', published 1922
This controversial book was published simultaneously in English and Chinese by the Christian Missions Special Committee on Survey and Occupation, commissioned by the China Continuation Committee.
It was intended as a report charting progress of the status of Christian churches in China, including local conditions and social and economic background of the people. The book was to prepare the way for foreign missionaries to turn over control to Chinese Christians.
However, the imperialist title of the English version caused outrage and the book became one of the provocations of anti-Christian movements in the early 1920s.
Pair of Chalices
1700-1750 / God & Faith / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal
early 1700s
These silver chalices were donated by Peter Fenowillet, a Huguenot. They were originally used in West Street Chapel, London, built for French Protestant Huguenot refugees. John Wesley rented the Chapel for Methodist meetings in 1743.
Preaching Plan
1850-1900 / Commemorative / Fabric / Methodism / Other / Print
Printed on silk
Barton-on-Humber Circuit, 1866/7
A preaching plan showing the preachers' appointments for the Barton-on-Humber circuit for 1866/7. Printed on silk, it is likely to have been intended as a commemorative piece for framing. Early plans were sometimes printed on linen for ease of transportation.
See also the other prayer leading and preaching plans in the Online Collection.
David Hill – Missionary and Saint
1850-1900 / Book / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Paper bound in cloth
Author: William T.A. Barber, 1898
David Hill (1840-1896) served with the British Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society in China and devoted himself to the Chinese people. His personality and devotion inspired many in Britain at the time and persuaded not a few to serve in a missionary capacity in China. Hill became General Superintendent of the Wuchang District (later known as the Hupeh District) in 1885 and was elected to the Legal Hundred in 1888.
Hill was instrumental in the conversion of the Confucian scholar Hsi to Christianity.
See also David Hill's teapot in the Online Collection.
Seal of the Methodist Conference, South Africa
1900-1950 / Organic / Sculpture / Seal / World Parish
Wax
pre-1932
The Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MSCA) is a large Wesleyan Methodist denomination with churches across South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, and Mozambique. This was the pre-1932 seal of the Church's annual Conference.
Foundation Stone Ceremony Booklet, Benoni, South Africa
2015/14498
1900-1950 / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Paper, printed
1925
This order or service booklet records the foundation stone laying ceremony of the New Wesleyan Methodist Church in Benoni in 1925. The church is still very active today and has since added a mission centre and clinic.
Medal; Commander of the National Order of The Ivory Coast
2010/12548/1-3
1950-2000 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / World Parish
Metal, enamel, silk
1985
Awarded to the Rev. William Platt in 1985 for his services as a missionary in The Ivory Coast. He arrived in 1923 and established many churches and schools. The nation's president described him as "a pioneer who led us towards the light".
Collection Box
1850-1900 / Collection Box / God & Faith / Methodism / Object / Wood / World Parish
Wood, paper
c. 1880
This very early wooden collecting box was used in the work of the Wesleyan Missionary Society.
In the late 1800s and the early 1900s, the Wesleyan Missionary Society (also known as English Wesleyan Mission) was a British Methodist missionary society that was involved in sending workers overseas to places such as Africa, New Zealand and China. Monies collected by church members outside of church assisted the endeavours of the society.
See also the other collection boxes in the Online Collection.
Collection Box
1850-1900 / Collection Box / God & Faith / Methodism / Object / Wood / World Parish
Wood, paper
c. 1880-1900
This wooden collecting box was used in the work of the Wesleyan Missionary Society in the late 1800s.
In the late 1800s and the early 1900s, the Wesleyan Missionary Society (also known as English Wesleyan Mission) was a British Methodist missionary society that was involved in sending workers overseas to places such as Africa, New Zealand and China. Monies collected by church members outside of church assisted the endeavours of the society.
See also the other collection boxes in the Online Collection.
Collection Box
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Collection Box / God & Faith / Methodism / Object / World Parish
Printed cardboard
c. 1950-60
A mid 20th century Methodist Medical Missions cardboard collection box.
Missionary Societies usually looked after the physical welfare of the people in the countries to which they went. Providing medical treatment was an important part of the work of missionaries abroad and overseas. Many missionaries thus had at least basic medical knowledge.
See also the other collection boxes in the Online Collection.
Collection Plate
1700-1750 / God & Faith / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other / Wesley's Chapel
Pewter
1700s
This pewter collection plate was passed around to collect money at the Foundry and later at the New (Wesley's) Chapel. Several such plates were in use at the Chapel in the 1700s and into the early 1800s.
Plate
1950-2000 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Methodism / Sculpture
Ceramic, printed
1996
During the 1800s, chapels became grander and more imposing, especially in northern England. Grove Road Methodist Chapel in Harrogate, Yorkshire, is a typical example. Built in 1896, it has strong Italianate influences.
The plate was issued to mark the centenary of the Church in 1996.
Selina Hastings, Countess of Huntingdon
2006/10417
1750-1800 / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour
Watercolour gouache on bone; wood frame
late 1700s
This miniature painting depicts Selina Hastings, Countess of Huntingdon (1707-1791). The Countess was an early supporter of, and collaborator with, John Wesley and George Whitefield, the famous open air preacher. The Countess later set up her own religious society, the 'Countess of Huntingdon Connexion'. This was more Calvinist in character than Methodism.
Bible
2005/10359
1650-1700 / Book / God & Faith / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Ink on paper, bound in leather
1658
This early bible was printed during the protectorate of Oliver Cromwell's son Richard, towards the end of Puritan rule. In the same year Richard Cromwell appointed Samuel Annesley, John Wesley's maternal grandfather, to the vicarage and living of St Giles', Cripplegate, London. Four years later, with the monarchy restored, Parliament passed an act, stipulating a return to Anglican orthodoxy. Over 2,000 clergymen, including Samuel Annesley, refused to take the Church oath and were ejected from the Anglican Church.
Busts of Hugh Bourne and William Clowes
1992/42HA; 1992/50HA
1800-1850 / Bust / Ceramic / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Sculpture
Ceramic
late 1800s
Both Hugh Bourne (1772-1852) and William Clowes (1780-1851) took a leading role in the foundation of the Primitive Methodist Connexion in 1811. Unhappiness with the direction mainstream Methodism was taking was often the cause of smaller Methodist groups breaking away.
The three largest of the Methodist groups re-united in 1932, including the Primitive Methodists, or 'Prims'.
Record
1996/5023
1900-1950 / Methodism / Object / Other / Vinyl
Vinyl, cardboard
1932
This record was recorded at the Royal Albert Hall at the Methodist Union Conference in September 1932.
Plate
1950-2000 / Ceramic / Crockery / Sculpture / World Parish
Ceramic, printed
1960
This plate commemorates the West Indian bicentenary of Methodism, 1760-1960. The plate depicts the plantation of Nathaniel Gilbert, who introduced Wesleyan Methodism in Antigua.
Coin
1950-2000 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / World Parish
Metal
1984
This commemorative coin was issued to celebrate the bicentenary of Methodism in America, 1784-1984. The coin depicts Thomas Coke (1747-1814), close associate of John Wesley and first bishop of the American Methodist Church. Soon after the Baltimore Conference of 1784, this became known as the Methodist Episcopal Church and is known today as the United Methodist Church.
Moving John Wesley’s Statue
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1975
A black and white photograph of John Wesley's statue after removal from its plinth in the forecourt of Wesley's Chapel. The gentleman in the right foreground is Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998).
Before the Service
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1950s
This black and white photograph depicts members of the congregation and visitors getting ready for the Sunday service, sometime in the 1950s.
John Wesley’s Statue and the Curate’s House
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1930-50
The photograph shows Wesley's statue by John Adams Acton (1830-1910) in the forecourt of Wesley's Chapel and, in the background to the right hand side, the Curate's House.
The Curate's House was built shortly after the Chapel and John Wesley's House and would have provided accommodation for the chapel keeper and assistants. Today, the house provides additional office accommodation and a number of bedsits.
Wesley’s Chapel
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1950
A photograph of Wesley's Chapel around the 1950s. The prominent turret or cupola on the roof of the Chapel was added in Victorian times. It was a vent for the heat and smoke resulting from the gas lighting installed in the mid 1800s. The cupola was removed in the restoration works of the 1970s.
Building Works
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
late 1970s
The photographs depicts the refurbishment of the Benson building next to Wesley's Chapel. This was built in the 1800s, around a hundred years after the completion of the Chapel. Today, it is used as offices, and it contains a meeting room and bedsit accommodation, too.
Refurbishment
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
ca. 1980
A photograph which shows the extent of the refurbishment works of the 1970s and early 1980s. The forecourt of the Chapel was redesigned following the works to the Chapel in the preceding years. New pipe sections can be seen piled up in front of John Wesley's statue to the left of the image.
Wesley’s Chapel and Forecourt
Photograph
c. 1960-70
This large, wide-angle presentation photograph shows the Chapel, ancillary buildings and the forecourt prior refurbishment. Atop the chapel roof is a cupola (for ventilation) dating to the 1800s, and the Chapel courtyard still features the Georgian symmetrical driveway Wesley would have known.
Armchair
1750-1800 / Fabric / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, fabric, metal
c.1770-80
One of a pair of armchairs inside John Wesley's Study. It is not known whether the armchairs were in the house when John Wesley occupied it, although it is unlikely.
The armchair is made from mahogany in 'Chippendale' style, influenced by French armchairs of the period. The red velvet style upholstery is later, probably around 1900-1930.
Charles Wesley’s Armchair
1750-1800 / Furniture / John Wesley's House / Organic / The Wesley Family / Woodwork
Wood, horsehair
c.1760s
This armchair, probably a desk or study chair, belonged to Charles Wesley (1707-1788). The chair is made from mahogany with an elaborately carved back splat in a style popularised by Thomas Chippendale (1718-1779). The seat is upholstered in finely woven horsehair. Horsehair was very popular as a durable upholstery material in the late 1700s and early 1800s.
A small silver plaque dated 1862 on the crest (top) rail records that the chair was given by Charles Wesley's eldest son, Charles Wesley junior, to Thomas Jackson. Jackson was President of Conference in 1838 and a distinguished scholar. His writings included a number of books on Charles Wesley.
John Wes(t)ley (1636-1670)
1850-1900 / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Engraving, framed
1800s
The Reverend John Wes(t)ley was the paternal grandfather of John and Charles Wesley. A Puritan and Non-Conformist, he was imprisoned for preaching 'illegally' after the restoration of Charles II.
This engraving is based on the oil painting of John Wes(t)ley, accession number 1993/1635, which is also in the Online Collection.
Wesley’s Chapel Building Works
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
The black and white image shows the scope of the ambitious 1970s Chapel refurbishment works. Chapel refurbishment and works to the Benson building office block were followed by re-landscaping the courtyard. After this, the Chapel's graveyard and garden were re-designed and a new, mirrored office block constructed on Chapel land.
Hymn Book
1750-1800 / Book / God & Faith / Leather / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper bound in leather
Printed by S. Hazard, Bath, 1770
An old label stuck into the book records that this Countess of Huntingdon Connexion hymn book was given by Charles Wesley to his son, Charles Wesley junior. The book bears the latter's signature and date, '1776'.
The Countess of Huntingdon was an early supporter of John Wesley but their differing views on predestination, among other things, caused an early split into Arminian and Calvinist Methodism. The Countess of Huntingdon Connexion took a more Calvinist direction, with emphasis on predestination.
See also the miniature painting of Selina Hastings, Countess of Huntingdon, in the Online Collection.
An account of the rise and progress of the American war. Extracted from a late author.
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper, bound in leather
5th edition, 1780
A volume compiled by John Wesley from extracts of Joseph Galloway's 'Letters to a nobleman on the conduct of the war in the middle colonies' (1779), charting the course of the American War of Independence. Earlier editions of Wesley's book had the title: 'An account of the conduct of the war in the middle colonies'.
Extracting and/or paraphrasing - some would say pirating - other authors' works was neither unusual nor illegal in the days before copyright law.
Dr Jabez Bunting
2011/12932
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
mid 1800s
Jabez Bunting (1779-1858) has sometimes been described as the architect of the Wesleyan Methodist Church during the early 1800s. His leadership steered Methodism away from the Anglican Church, but his authoritarian leadership caused a split in Wesleyan Methodism which led many to leave.
Commemorative Medal
1993/598
1800-1850 / Abolition of Slavery / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork
Metal
1834
The slave trade had been abolished in Britain and its Empire in 1807. This 1834 medal commemorates its end in British dominions.
Juvenile Missionary Association and ‘League of Light’ Awards
2009/11911; 1996/5669/1-3
1900-1950 / Coin/Medal / Fabric / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal, fabric
c.1922-1935
In 1815 a Juvenile Missionary Society was started at Wesley's Chapel and many others followed, including the 'League of Light', which began over 100 years later, in 1932. It was part of a National Childrens' Home campaign.
Young people in particular (although not exclusively) were encouraged to collect every week, often in wooden or cardboard collection boxes. Those who collected were rewarded with medals and annual bars for their efforts.
See also a number of collection boxes in the Online Collection.
Vinyl Record
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Methodism / Object / Other / Vinyl / Wesley's Chapel
Vinyl, cardboard
1978
The museum has a collection of hymn recitals recorded on vinyl, tape and CD at Wesley's Chapel. They show the continued importance of hymn singing among Methodists in the 20th century and today. This record was released to mark the 200th anniversary of the Chapel, and its re-opening after major refurbishment, in 1978.
Service Programme
2007/10908/1-2
1850-1900 / Other / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Paper
1896
This service programme or order of service records the service of Sunday Sept. 6th, 1896 at the Sudder Street Wesleyan Church, Calcutta. The minister or administrator had a pre-printed form which was filled in for every service.
The Sudder Street Church was built in 1866 for use by soldiers stationed in Calcutta, but was also open to civilians. The church offered separate Sunday services for these two groups, with a morning service usually attended by civilians and an evening service for officers and soldiers.
William L. Binks
1992/374
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
mid/late 1800s
William L. Binks (1843-1890) was President of the Australasian Conference in 1869, aged only 26.
The Australasian Conference was founded on Wesleyan lines in 1855, when it was reported this Conference oversaw 442 chapels, 108 ministers, about 20,000 members, close to 80,000 'hearers' and 35,570 children in Day and Sunday Schools.
The Revd. Henry Hurd
1992/352
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
late 1800s
Henry Hurd (1838-1880) was ordained in 1838 and spent many years as a missionary in the Caribbean. Amongst other appointments, he was Superintendent in Georgetown, today's capital of Guyana.
Centenary Medal
2005/10347
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1839
The first hundred years of Methodism were celebrated with the creation of a great hall for meetings and prayer in Bishopsgate. It became known as the 'Centenary Hall' and is depicted on the reverse of this medal. Like many early Methodist medals, the obverse depicts John Wesley, founder of (Wesleyan) Methodism.
Ecumenical Conference Medal
2006/10669
1900-1950 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / World Parish
Metal, silk
1911
This medal commemorates the 1911 Ecumenical Methodist Conference, the forerunner of the World Methodist Conference. This took place in Toronto, Canada.
Methodist Conference Medal
2003/9263
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1838
Every district in the country sends representatives to the annual Methodist Conference to take part in decision-making. Commemorative items, including medals, have been produced alongside 'Conference' since its early days.
Temperance Medal
2006/10690
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Temperance
Metal
late 1800s
The temperance movement was a social movement against the consumption of alcoholic beverages which reached particular prominence in the 19th and early 20th centuries. On this temperance medal from the early 1800s, drinking tea within the family circle is depicted as promoting domestic happiness.
Gospel Temperance Union Medal
2006/10761
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Temperance
Metal
late 1800s
The Gospel Temperance Union was an offshoot of the American Blue Ribbon Mission.
See also the other medals relating to the Temperance cause in the Online Collection.
Wesleyan Methodist Band of Hope Medal
2006/10692
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Temperance
Metal
mid/late 1800s
The Band of Hope encouraged young people to "sign the pledge" that they would "abstain from all intoxicating liquors".
See also the other medals relating to temperance in the Online Collection.
Piece of Wood from a Sycamore Tree
1800-1850 / Other / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, paper
1845
This piece of wood came from a Sycamore tree at John Wesley's childhood home in Epworth, Lincolnshire. According to its original paper label dated 1845, the tree was 'planted in Epworth Church Yard by the Revd John Wesley, M.A.'.
This memento is a typical piece of 'Wesleyana', items which commemorate the life of John Wesley. These were highly sought after and collectable in the 1800s when Methodism was at its zenith.
Miniature Painting
1800-1850 / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour / Wesleyana
Watercolour gouache on board (?)
early/mid 1800s
This small painting in its original frame depicts John Wesley. It is typical of many painted of Wesley in the 1800s when Methodist membership and regard for John Wesley were reaching new heights.
Commemorative Cup
2005/10351
1950-2000 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Sculpture / World Parish
Earthenware
1976
America declared independence from Britain in 1776 and American Methodism separated from Wesleyan Methodism shortly after, in 1784. This ceramic cup celebrates the bicentennial of these events.
Seal and Seal Impression
1800-1850 / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Seal / Stone / Wax
Metal, stone, wax
late 1700s
This small 'fob' seal is made from metal and rock crystal. Fob seals were usually decorative and were carried on a chain. The seal belonged to Thomas Coke (1747-1814), who was at one time described as the 'father of Methodist missions'. On display alongside is a wax impression of the seal.
Seals and sealing wax were commonly used until the mid 19th century to seal important documents to guarantee their authenticity and letters to ensure privacy.
See also the writing slope and other items belonging to Thomas Coke in the Online Collection.
Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1898-1908
This medal was struck to commemorate giving to the 'Twentieth Century Fund'.
In 1898, the Wesleyan Methodist Twentieth Century Fund or 'One million Guinea Fund' was launched at Wesley's Chapel in City Road, London. The fund was to finance the building of a centre for world Methodism and help Methodism expand further in Britain and overseas. No-one was allowed to donate more than one guinea, but a donation could also be made in the name of a loved one who had passed away or who had emigrated. The Fund was active for 10 years, until 1908, by which time over 1,025,000 donors had contributed £ 1,073, 682.
Some of the money was used to construct the Westminster Central Hall, and about £700,000 was left and was used to help build or enlarge Wesleyan chapels and Sunday Schools in Britain. The remainder was used to send more missionaries overseas.
Mug, Muswell Hill Methodist Church
1996/4870
1950-2000 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Methodism / Sculpture
Ceramic
1985
The Muswell Hill Methodist Church illustrates the early mobile nature of many Methodist groups. Founded in 1891, the group met initially in a 'Norwegian Chalet' left over from the Alexandra Palace exhibition in London. In 1899, it built a large church and Sunday School hall. Its latest chapel, built in 1985, is seen alongside the earlier buildings on this mug.
Moravian Seal Impression
2006/10744
1700-1750 / God & Faith / Object / Seal / Wax
Wax, cardboard
1739
John Wesley was influenced by the deep faith and spirituality of the Moravian brotherhood, a religious group from Germany. The brotherhood was led by Nikolaus Ludwig, Reichsgraf ('Count') von Zinzendorff und Pottendorf (1700 – 1760), a German religious and social reformer, who became bishop of the Moravian Church. Wesley travelled to Germany and met the Count twice, and the famous meeting where Wesley experienced his conversion experience in London in 1738 had Moravian links.
This Moravian seal impression is mounted on a piece of cardboard inscribed: "The seal of the United Brethren/The Moravian or United Brethrens (sic) Seal/Given to me 1739./ John Wesley".
See also the Moravian bible and the portrait of Count Zinzendorff in the Online Collection.
Sunday School Medals
2007/10816-22
1900-1950 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal, silk
early 1900s
Medals were awarded for regular attendance at Methodist Sunday School and to commemorate special events. Attending Sunday School for a period of ten years was often rewarded with silver or gold medals. All the medals in this image were awarded to the Russell family for attending Sunday School in the early 1900s. Dorothy, Sydney and Frank Russell all obtained gold medals.
Mission Chapel, House and School
2011/12929
1850-1900 / Engraving / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
late 1800s
The engraving depicts an early Methodist chapel, mission house and school building in Mbua, Tonga. Methodism reached Tonga in 1822. The kingdom was never conquered by a western power, however in the 1800s its people enthusiastically adopted Christianity, especially Wesleyan Methodism.
Wesley’s Chapel Apse
1850-1900 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1860s-70s
This is the earliest known photograph of the apse at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, before insertion of stained glass in the 1890s. Note the wooden Venetian blinds in the windows, and the early pew arrangement.
Chapel Guidebook
2003/9271
1900-1950 / Book / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper bound in card
early 1900s
Less colourful than its modern equivalent, this guidebook of Wesley's Chapel, City Road, was published c. 1920-30. At the time, the museum was housed in a few rooms inside John Wesley's House.
The Revd John Wesley, M.A.
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour / Wesleyana
Watercolour
Unknown artist, mid 1800s
This small watercolour of John Wesley is typical of many Wesley images dating to the mid 1800s, when reverence for John Wesley was at an all-time high.
Sunday School Commemorative Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal
c.1880
This medal commemorates the 100th anniversary of the founding of Sunday Schools by Robert Raikes in 1780.
Raikes (1736 - 1811) was a pioneer of the Sunday School movement, which started with a school for boys in the slums. Raikes saw schooling as the best early intervention in a possible life of crime, a preventive measure which was better than a cure. Sunday schooling was chosen as this was usually the only day boys were not working (usually in factories), and teaching materials were based on the Bible. Although not a Methodist, Raikes' efforts and achievements were discussed in Wesley's Methodist or 'Arminian' Magazine. Methodism organised its own Sunday Schools, open to boys and girls, from the early 19th century.
The medals would have been distributed among children attending Sunday School. This medal is a slightly different version from the other Sunday School anniversary medals commemorating Raikes in the Online Collection.
Charles Wesley Medal
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / The Wesley Family
Metal
early 1800s
This medal commemorates the 100th anniversary of the founding of Methodism in 1739. Both Wesley brothers were favourite subjects for commemorative anniversary ware.
Commemorative Dish
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Crockery / Methodism / Sculpture
earthenware
c.1854
Islington has a long history of non-conformism and new evangelical groups and sects appeared with the spread of housing from the 1820s. The Methodist New Connexion, separate from Wesleyan Methodism, opened its first chapel in 1834. It commemorated its newly-built meeting house, Britannia Fields Chapel, in 1854 with this small dish.
A Discourse
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Printed by G. Paramore, 1791
The full title of the publication reads: "A Discourse Delivered at the New Chapel in the City Road on the ninth of March 1791. At the Funeral of the late Rev. Mr. John Wesley."
John Wesley died in his City Road house next to his 'New' Chapel on March 2nd, 1791. He was buried a week later on March 9th at 5a.m in the burial ground behind Wesley's Chapel – one of 5452 people buried there between 1779 and 1854 when the burial ground was closed for interments.
Dr John Whitehead (1740-1804), Methodist lay preacher, physician to the Bethlehem Hospital and also to John Wesley in his final illness, delivered Wesley's funeral sermon at the Chapel. This was published and went through four editions in 1791. It realised £200, which Whitehead handed over to the Society.
Conference Chair
1700-1750 / Fabric / Furniture / John Wesley / John Wesley's House / Methodism / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, fabric
c.1740
This walnut armchair was used at John Wesley's first annual meeting of the Methodist Society's preachers at the 'Foundery' Chapel in 1744. The meeting, or 'Conference', still takes place annually in summer. This chair was used at every Conference between 1744 and 1932.
Wesley’s Chapel
1996/5872
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Engraving / Leysian Mission / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving
1980s
This modern engraving of the Chapel may have been made to commemorate the union between Wesley's Chapel and the Leysian Mission in 1989.
Handbill
2004/9759
1950-2000 / Other / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
1978
This flyer announces the re-opening of Wesley's Chapel on November 1st, 1978. The Chapel was closed for most of the early 1970s, after extensive rot and structural problems were discovered. The re-opening ceremony was held on the 200th anniversary of the Chapel in the presence of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
Design
2003/9286/2
2000- / Other / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, ink
By Katherine Baxter, c.2005
This design was drawn by Katherine Baxter for a souvenir ceramic mug. It shows the area around Wesley's Chapel and a bust of John Wesley.
Miniature
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Leather / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour / Wesleyana
Watercolour guache, cardboard, leather
1800s
This miniature of John Wesley is in its original leather travelling case. It dates to the mid 1800s and was painted after the portrait of Wesley by George Romney. The painting is typical of many 19th century commemorative portraits of Wesley and a good example of 'Wesleyana', or Wesley commemorative ware. The artist, 'Lewis', has not as yet been identified.
Piece of Wood
1700-1750 / John Wesley / Other / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood
1700s
According to its label from the mid 1800s, this piece of wood formed part of the Epworth Rectory upper floor window through which John Wesley was rescued during a fire on Feb. 9th, 1709. Probably arson, the fire burnt down the timber-framed rectory. John's near-miraculous escape convinced his mother Susanna that 'Jacky' was the biblical 'brand pluck'd from the fire' and destined for special things.
This is another piece of 'Wesleyana' from the 1800s in the museum's Collection.
Bible
1992/19
1800-1850 / Book / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Paper, cardboard, leather
1800s
This bible belonged to the Wesleyan Methodist missionary Revd. Thomas Murray. He was stationed in Kingston and Montego Bay, Jamaica, in the 1830s.
Commemorative Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / World Parish
Metal, silk
1884
This gilt medal was struck to commemorate the centenary of Wesleyan Methodism in the Channel Islands. John Wesley sent out Robert Carr Brackenbury (1752-1818) to establish the Society's first station in Jersey (1784) and Guernsey (1789).
Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Temperance
Metal, silk
late 1800s
A Band of Hope commemorative medal from the late 19th century. The Band of Hope encouraged young people (in particular) to "sign the pledge" that they would "abstain from all intoxicating liquors".
See also the other medals relating to the Band of Hope and temperance in the Online Collection.
Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal, silk
late 1800s
A Wesleyan Sunday School medal awarded for regular attendance.
See also the other Sunday School medals in the Online Collection.
Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal
late 1800s
This elaborate Wesleyan Methodist ('W M') Sunday School medal awarded for attendance was made in silver gilt. It would have been a prized possession of the student in Woodford to whom it was given.
See also the other Sunday School medals in the Online Collection.
Award of Merit
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal, enamel
late 1800s
Another example of a Sunday School attendance medal. Unlike other examples in the Online Collection, this one is more generic and has no Methodist or other faith affiliation.
See also the other Sunday School attendance medals in the Online Collection.
Trowel
1850-1900 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal, bone
1899
This trowel was presented to Mr Solomon Jesons by the Trustees of Wesley's Chapel, City Road on July 7th, 1899. Mr Jesons had laid one of the memorial stones celebrating the completion of a full refurbishment of the Chapel that day.
In the 1800s and early 1900s, the start or finish of a building project, whether a church, chapel or secular public building, was often commemorated with laying a foundation or memorial stone. A trowel, key or other commemorative item was usually presented to the person(s) performing the honours.
See also the other trowels commemorating the foundation stone laying or refurbishment of Methodist chapels in the Online Collection.
Trowel
1850-1900 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal, bone
1898
This trowel commemorates the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Southend Primitive Methodist Chapel on January 10th, 1898.
In the 1800s and early 1900s, the start or finish of a building project, whether a church, chapel or secular public building, was often commemorated with laying a foundation or memorial stone. A trowel, key or other commemorative item was usually presented to the person(s) performing the honours.
See also the other trowels commemorating the foundation stone laying or refurbishment of Methodist chapels in the Online Collection.
Trowel
1850-1900 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal, bone
1890s
Another example of a trowel commemorating the laying of a Methodist Chapel foundation stone from the museum's collections.
In the 1800s and early 1900s, the start or finish of a building project, whether a church, chapel or secular public building, was often commemorated with laying a foundation or memorial stone. A trowel, key or other commemorative item was usually presented to the person(s) performing the honours.
See also the other trowels commemorating the building and refurbishment of Methodist chapels in the Online Collection.
Silhouette Portrait
1997/6411
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Other / Paper / Print / Wesleyana
Paper, cardboard, wood
c.1830-50
The black card background makes this small white silhouette portrait of John Wesley particularly effective. It is in its original rosewood frame, which is inscribed at the back: "This frame is made from the Sycamore tree under which Wesley preached at Kingswood on the 26th June, 1739".
The Reverend John Wesley, M.A.
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print / Wesleyana
Paper, wood
After miniature painting by J. Barry, engraving published by Dr Whitehead for his 'Life of Mr Wesley' (1792), 1792
According to the engraving, John Wesley was 87 years old when Wesley's portrait was taken, which gives good indication of the images's original publication date (c.1790/91.) The engraving is based on a miniature painting by J. Barry and was published in 1792. A number of versions of this engraving dating to the 1790s exist and they were used as the basis for portraits illustrated in later Wesleyan hymn books. See also John Mason's 1846 edition of the 'Collection Of Hymns, For The Use Of The People Called Methodists', in the Online Collection.
The work is in its original frame. The glass is painted in 'verre eglomise', a technique which refers to applying both a design and gilding onto the rear face of glass. This was popularised by the Frenchman Jean-Baptiste Glomy (1711-1786).
Photographic Print
1950-2000 / John Wesley / Methodism / Other / Paper / Print
Photographic print on paper
c.2000
A large photographic print of the bust of John Wesley at the Charterhouse in London, installed around 1980.
John Wesley went to board at the Charterhouse School between 1714 and 1720 as a 'Foundation Scholar'. The term is still in existence today and used by the school to describe students who "set a positive example to the academic life of the School through their enthusiasm, intellectual curiosity and drive".
A Collection Of Hymns, For The Use Of The People Called Methodists
1750-1800 / Book / John Wesley / Leather / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper, bound in leather
1797
The 'Collection of Hymns' was first published by John Wesley in 1780 and contained over 1000 hymns, written mostly by his brother Charles. The hymnal drew on the many other hymn books John and Charles Wesley had published over the previous decades and became the most influential hymn book in the history and development of Methodism.
The 'Collection' went through many editions, and it was the ancestor and basis of all subsequent official Connexional hymn books, including today's 'Singing the Faith'. This 1797 edition was "Printed for and sold by G. Whitfield, at the New Chapel, City Road,"
Compare also to the first edition of the hymn book and the other editions in the Online Collection.
Medal
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1839
This large bronze medal commemorates the centenary of Wesleyan Methodism in 1839.
Medal
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal, fabric
1880
This medal on a silk ribbon commemorates the 100th anniversary of the founding of Sunday Schools by Robert Raikes in 1780.
Raikes (1736 - 1811) was was a pioneer of the Sunday School movement, which started with a school for boys in the slums. Raikes saw schooling as the best early intervention in a possible life of crime, a preventive measure which was better than a cure. Sunday schooling was chosen as this was usually the only day boys were not working (usually in factories), and teaching materials were based on the Bible. Although not a Methodist, Raikes' efforts and achievements were discussed in Wesley's Methodist or 'Arminian' Magazine. Methodism organised its own Sunday Schools, open to boys and girls, from the early 19th century.
The medal would have been distributed among children attending Sunday School; see also other Sunday School commemorative medals in the Online Collection.
Medal
2000- / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Wesleyana
Metal
2003
A medal commemorating the 300th anniversary of John Wesley’s birth.
Commemorative Trowel
1850-1900 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal, bone
Late 1800s
This trowel in silver-plated metal commemorates the laying of the foundation stone of a Primitive Methodist Chapel in 1882.
It was presented to a Mr Robert Clough, Esq.; the Chapel has other examples of trowels presented to this man, so it seems that Mr Clough was of considerable standing within the Primitive Methodist community of the time.
See also the other commemorative trowels and similar items commemorating the building of Methodist chapels in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Trowel
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal, bone
1903
This elaborately engraved trowel was presented to Mr R. Oldham on his laying a memorial stone of the Wesleyan Sunday School New Town on May 16th, 1903.
See also the other memorial trowels and stones in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Stone
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Metal / Methodism / Other / Sculpture / Stone
Stone, metal
1908
This small stone and attached sterling silver tag commemorate the laying of the foundation stones of the United Methodist Church, Leicester Road, Cheetham Hill, Manchester, on March 7th, 1908. Both trowels and decorative stones, as well as keys, were favoured presentation gifts commemorating the start or finish of Methodist chapel building works in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
See also the other commemorative trowels and related items in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Key
1993/605/1
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal (key); wood, leather, fabric (box)
1898
Presented to Mrs G. Allen at the opening of the Wesleyan Chapel York Road, Southend-on-Sea, on 28th September, 1898.
See also the other commemorative stones and trowels in the Online Collection.
Pince-nez Spectacles
2006/10706/1-2
1900-1950 / Glass / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Metal, glass (glasses); cardboard, leather, cloth (case)
Early 1900s
These specs belonged to Rodney “Gypsy” Smith (1860-1947), a transatlantic evangelist. He was born in a Romany tent in Epping Forest in Essex and was proud to reflect his origins in his name.
In his early years Gypsy Smith was associated with the Salvation Army. Later he organised evangelistic campaigns in the United States and Britain. He continued the Methodist tradition of outdoor preaching; playing his concertina and attracting large crowds.
The French term ‘pince-nez’ literally means ‘pinch nose’. The term describes eyeglasses which are held in place by means of a clip over the bridge of the nose.
Bust
1800-1850 / Methodism / Object / Organic / Seal
Metal
1800s
Small metal bust of George Whitefield (1714-1770), to which a seal was probably once attached. George Whitefield was one of the most famous preachers of the 1700s and was responsible for introducing John Wesley to preaching outdoors.
Whitefield and Wesley were both Methodists but disagreed on some fundamental aspects of doctrine.
An Earnest Appeal to Men of Reason and Religion
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
Pamphlet; 6th edition, printed by W. Pine, Bristol, 1771
‘An Earnest Appeal to Men of Reason and Religion‘ is an attempt by Wesley to defend and explain Methodism to critics and outsiders, a window into his thoughts. It is also an interesting exercise in reasoning between faith and logic, and as such it is very much a product of The Age of Reason and Enlightenment.
Pocket Watch
2006/10695
1900-1950 / Glass / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates
Metal, glass
early 1900s
This pocket watch belonged to preacher and evangelist Rodney, or 'Gypsy', Smith (1860-1947), who chose to reflect his Romany origins in his first name.
For further information on Smith, see his portrait, pince-nez glasses and other items associated with him in the Online Collection.
Book and Medal
1950-2000 / 2000-
Paper, cardboard (book); metal, fabric (medal)
1970s (medal); 2006 (book)
Methodist Dr Pauline Webb (1927-2017) was a champion of gender equality and a role model for women and women preachers; she also combatted racism all her life. Dr Webb was Vice Moderator of the World Council of Churches (1968-75) and her passion for preaching led her into religious broadcasting with the BBC.
In 2006, she published her memoirs, 'World-Wide Webb'. Alongside the book can be seen her award celebrating her time as Vice Moderator of the World Council of Churches.
Newspaper
1850-1900 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
1885
Methodist publications and newspapers have been published since 1778, when John Wesley published the 'Arminian Magazine', to deal with the theological differences between Calvinist and Arminian (Wesleyan) Methodists.
The Methodist Times was a Methodist paper which helped foster a sense of identity among Methodists. The Methodist Times was absorbed into the Methodist Recorder newspaper in 1937.
The Potent Enemies Of America Laid Open
1750-1800 / Book / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper, bound in leather. Printed by Joseph Crukshank, Market Street, Philadelphia
Some account of the baneful effects attending the use of distilled spirituous liquors, and the slavery of the negroes; (...), 1774
This culturally-important publication brings together a number of contemporary views on serious issues affecting the American colonies in the mid 1700s. These included slavery and alcohol. The book was authored by Anthony Benezet (1713-84), with significant tracts, extracts and quotations taken from other authors, including John Wesley.
Receuil de Cantiques a L’usage des Eglises Methodistes
1850-1900 / Book / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Printed on paper, bound in leather
1893
A French version of the Methodist hymn book dating to the 1890s.
French Methodism was founded in the 1820s by Charles Cook. Today, Methodism exists in France in various forms, the best known being, perhaps, the Union of Evangelical Methodist Churches (l'Union de l'Eglise Evangélique Méthodiste) or UEEM. In the early 2000s, this had approximately 1,200 members and 30 ministers.
Travelling Communion Set
1996/4843/1-7
1900-1950 / God & Faith / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other / Wood / World Parish
Metal, leather, fabric
Early 1900s
This boxed silver communion set, including ewer, chalice and paten, was used by the Rev. Albert M. Payler in southern India in the early 1900s. Travelling communion sets like this one were essential equipment for ordained missionaries on the move.
First Day Cover Envelope
2015/14656
2000- / Commemorative / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print / World Parish
Paper, printed
2012
This first day cover was issued in The Gambia in 2012 to celebrate the first Gambian Methodist Presiding Bishop, Most Rev. Hannah Caroline Faal-Heim.
Rev. Hannah Caroline Faal-Heim is the first woman bishop in The Gambia.
Lock of Hair
1800-1850 / Cardboard / John Wesley / Object / Organic / Other / Wesleyana
Hair, paper; wood, cardboard glass (frame)
early 1800s
A mounted and framed strand of hair, likely John Wesley's. According to the card on which it is mounted, the hair was found among the possessions of 'Miss Tooth'. It is likely she was the daughter of Samuel Tooth, the man John Wesley engaged to build his chapel on City Road, and who was later a very active member of the congregation there.
For further, similar mementoes of Wesley see the Online Collection.
Piece of the ‘Wesley Tree’, East Sussex
1998/7115
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Other / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, paper
With label explaining the history of the piece, 1800s
The label on this piece of wood explains the wood was taken from the 'Wesley tree' in Winchelsea, East Sussex, under which John Wesley preached his last outdoor sermon on October 7th, 1790.
This piece is particularly interesting, in that the attached label, headed paper from the Winchelsea manse of the Methodist minister then serving in the Rye circuit, is signed by the minister himself.
For other wood samples of this tree, and objects made from this and other trees associated with Wesley, see the Online Collection, for instance 2006/10524.
Lord’s Day’ or Preaching Plan
1996/5140
1800-1850 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
1832
A preaching plan showing the preaching appointment in the Witney Circuit in the summer and early autumn of 1832. At the time, there were 25 places of Wesleyan worship in the circuit.
A characteristic feature of Methodism is its methodical structure and the provision of preaching and prayer meeting plans. The plans are essentially a diary of prayer and preaching appointments for preachers and other prayer and worship leaders working within a Methodist 'circuit', or defined groupings of chapels.
For further examples of such plans, please consult the Online Collection.
Preaching Plan
1993/669
1850-1900 / Fabric / Methodism / Other / Publication
Cotton, printed
1854
This preaching plan for the autumn and winter of 1854/55 is printed on fine glazed cotton. It may have been a commemorative or presentation plan. The plan shows all the Wesleyan preaching appointments in the Liverpool North Circuit, which, at the time, consisted of 10 places of worship.
A characteristic feature of Methodism is its methodical structure and the provision of preaching and prayer meeting plans. The plans are essentially a diary of prayer and preaching appointments for preachers and other prayer and worship leaders working within a Methodist 'circuit', or defined groupings of chapels.
For further examples of such plans, please consult the Online Collection.
Preaching Plan
1992/629/1
1800-1850 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
1847
A preaching plan showing the preaching appointment in the Okehampton Circuit (Devon) in the summer and early autumn of 1847. At the time, there were 17 places of Wesleyan worship in the circuit.
A characteristic feature of Methodism is its methodical structure and the provision of preaching and prayer meeting plans. The plans are essentially a diary of prayer and preaching appointments for preachers and other prayer and worship leaders working within a Methodist 'circuit', or defined groupings of chapels.
For further examples of such plans, please consult the Online Collection.
Preaching Plan
1993/650
1850-1900 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Paper, printed
1858-9
An interesting preaching plan showing the preaching appointments of ministers and lay preachers in Barbado(e)s in the late 1850s.
Methodists arrived in Barbados in 1789 but their early attempts at mission were unsuccessful. The local planters were very hostile to Methodist missionaries, as they saw the Methodists as anti-slavery. Meetings were often interrupted and churches attacked, culminating in the tearing down of the Methodist chapel in James Street, Bridgetown, in 1823. However, attempts at outlawing Methodists came to nothing and by the time this preaching plan was printed in 1858 the church had many thousand members and 12 places of worship.
For further information on preaching or prayer plans, consult the other plans in the Online Collection.
Stone Chip
1800-1850 / Object / Other / Stone / The Wesley Family / Wesleyana
Stone, paper
probably early/mid 1800s
According to its handwritten label, this small piece of stone was taken from the tomb of John Wesley's father, Samuel. Samuel Wesley (1662-1735) was buried in the grounds of St Andrew's Church at Epworth, where he had been rector since 1695 and until his death.
In the 1800s, Methodist mementoes were greatly desirable, and a huge range of objects was produced to satisfy demand. Anything with a remote connection to Wesley or his family became valuable, and, sadly, this resulted in some collectors cannibalising buildings, monuments and trees.
Seal
1994/2751
1850-1900 / Glass / Object / Seal / Wesleyana / Wood
Glass, wood
probably mid/late 1800s
This small glass seal 'stone' with a bust of John Wesley is mounted to a wooden handle. The seal didn't belong to John Wesley, rather it was one was one of a huge range of items available in the 1800s commemorating Wesley.
Traces of the red sealing wax (to seal letters) can still be seen adhering to the seal.
Bill of Exchange
1800-1850 / Document / Other / Paper / World Parish
Paper, printed
1848
This bill of exchange of the value of £400 was essentially a cheque made out on behalf of the Wesleyan Missionary Society. It was to be cashed in New Zealand and the money to be used by the newly-established District there.
The signatory of this bill, W. Lawry (1793-1859) was appointed General Superintendent for New Zealand in 1843. He spent much of his life as a missionary in Australia, Tonga and New Zealand, often using his own money to fund his work.
Methodist Mission House Booklet
2009/12198
1950-2000 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Paper, printed
mid 1900s
With the growth of Methodist missionary work came the need for a headquarters building. In 1840, money from the Centenary Fund was used to buy the City of London Tavern in Bishopsgate, which became the Methodist Centenary Hall and Mission House. This booklet traces its history. Its modern equivalent is Methodist Church House in Marylebone Road.
Souvenir Programme
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Paper, printed
1910
This Great Missionary Meeting Souvenir Programme was published to commemorate a missionary meeting in the Albert Hall in London in 1910. Historically, the different branches of Methodism in Britain carried out their own missionary work; after the Methodist Union of 1932, a single missionary society was established.
Shirt Cuffs
2014/14209/1-2
1750-1800 / Clothing / Fabric / John Wesley / Object
Cotton
1700s
These shirt cuffs belonged to John Wesley. They are made from fine cotton and embroidered with the initials 'IW', 'I' being the Roman version of the letter 'J'. The Roman alphabet was used quite commonly in the 1700s. The cuffs still bear a label from the 1800s.
Cuffs used to be shirt and sleeve protectors. They were separate from shirts, so they could be washed easily. Once worn out, cuffs could be disposed of separately from the shirt.
Preaching Bands
1750-1800 / Clothing / Fabric / John Wesley / Methodism / Object
Cotton
1700s
These preaching bands belonged to Charles Wesley. They are made from fine cotton and bear a first-generation museum label dating to the 1800s.
Preaching bands are worn around the neck and are fixed with thin ties. Such bands are still worn today as part of clerical (non-liturgical) clothing by the clergy, and also by some members of the legal and academic professions. Preaching bands are a distant cousin of historic neckwear, such as cravats, jabots and ruffs.
Piece of Fabric
1750-1800 / Fabric / John Wesley / Object / Other / Wesleyana
Cotton (linen)
1700s
By tradition, this piece of fabric was part of John Wesley's bed hangings. It is a piece of linen, printed with an India pattern fashionable in the 1700s. An old provenance label dating to 1853 is shown alongside.
Interestingly, the museum owns another piece of fabric which is said to have come from John Wesley's bed. This is also an India print cotton but in a different colour. Possibly, one was taken from the bed hangings and the other from a coverlet?
1994/1849
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Paper, printed
mid 1800s
A sepia print from the mid 1800s showing four well respected Wesleyan Methodist ministers of the time alongside the Wesley brothers and John Fletcher. The selection seems somewhat arbitrary, as some other well-known Wesleyan Methodists of the 1700s and 1800s do not feature.
Order of Service (Hymns)
1993/1562
1800-1850 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
1835
An early order of service recording the hymns to be sung at City Road Chapel on Nov. 8th, 1835. The preachers that day were the Rev. John Leifchild (morning) and the Rev. John Bowers (evening).
Single service and hymn sheets like this one are quite rare survivals, as they were often discarded after the service.
Picture
1993/1599
1800-1850 / Glass / John Wesley / Painting / Portrait / Wesleyana / Wood
Glass, paint (image); wood (frame)
c.1800
This unusual small silhouette image of John Wesley is painted onto glass and dates to the early 1800s. It is painted in 'verre églomisé', a French term referring to the process of applying both a design and gilding onto the rear face of glass. It is in its original solid mahogany frame.
Samuel Sebastian Wesley (1810-76)
1994/2782
1850-1900 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Wesley Family
Mid 1800s
This framed photographic print after an early photograph shows the young Samuel Sebastian Wesley (1810-76), grandson of Charles Wesley (1707-1788). He became a composer and one of England's leading organists and choirmasters.
Samuel Sebastian was appointed organist at Hereford Cathedral in 1832 and later held appointments at Leeds Parish Church (now Leeds Minster, from 1842), Winchester Cathedral (from 1849) and Gloucester Cathedral (1865-1876). Later, in 1850, he became a Professor of Organ at the Royal Academy of Music.
Seal Picture
2006/10550
1850-1900 / Object / Seal / Wax / Wesleyana / Wood
Wax, paper, ink; wood (frame)
mid 1800s
This small picture contains two seal impressions, one related to Charles Wesley, the other to his brother John. They are surrounded by decorative biographical script. The picture is a typical example of 'Wesleyana' commemorative ware popular in the mid 1800s.
Foundations
2003/8975
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
Photograph, 1975
This image shows an engineer in the process of examining the foundations of Wesley's Chapel. A few years earlier, much of the building structure of the Chapel had been found to be unsafe. The Chapel was closed and, with help of international donations, a major refurbishment programme was carried out. The Chapel re-opened on its 200th anniversary in November 1978, in the presence of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
For further images of this work, see the Online Collection.
The Vestry
1995/4107
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
Photograph, Early 1900s
The image shows the old Vestry at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The Vestry building was on the left hand side of and behind the Chapel (seen from the main entrance). It was housed inside a separate yet attached building. As can be seen in the image, the walls of the Vestry were panelled in dark wood.
The Vestry building was demolished early in the 1980s, when the graveyard at the back of the Chapel was also cleared and re-designed. The site of the Vestry is now occupied by a mirrored office building.
The Vestibule
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
Photograph, c.1980
The image shows the vestibule and glass screen at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, shortly after installation. Originally, there was no vestibule and the Chapel was one big space. In the late 1800s, a stained oak and glass screen was installed, however, this made the Chapel very dark. The glass screen in the photograph was thought to be much more neutral, and it is still in place today.
William Moore
1992/200
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Paper, printed
Engraving, Early 1800s
This engraving shows William Moore, minister of Bethesda Chapel in Truro, Cornwall in the early 1800s.
William Dieuaide
1992/229
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Paper, printed
Engraving, Late 1700s
The engraving shows Mr William Dieuaide, described as 'Preacher of the Gospel' in the Arminian Magazine in which this print appeared. In 1794 he was stationed on Jersey.
Interior
2019/15959/3
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2010
This photograph shows the interior of the gentlemen's lavatories at Wesley's Chapel. They were installed in the 1890s during an extensive refurbishment programme and have survived almost unchanged to this day. Notice the mosaic floor, marble urinals and wooden cubicles.
Monument
2019/15956
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
The photograph shows the marble monument of Lancelot Haslope, Esq. (1767-1838) inside Wesley's Chapel, City Road. Lancelot Haslope was a Justice of the Peace for Middlesex and involved actively in the Wesleyan Missionary Society.
Monument
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
The photograph shows the marble monument to Joseph Butterworth, Esq. (1770-1826) inside Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Joseph Butterworth was a law bookseller with large premises in Fleet Street. Later, he became Member of Parliament for Coventry (1812-18) and Dover (1820-26). Many leading philanthropists of the day met at his London house, including William Wilberforce and Zachary Macaulay, the historian.
Butterworth was a Wesleyan Methodist and the first meetings of the British and Foreign Bible Society took place at his home. In 1819, he was appointed general treasurer of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society.
Chapel Floor
2017/15347
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1975
This photograph shows a section of floor inside Wesley's Chapel during refurbishment, after removal of the mosaic floor and the remains of wooden rafters. The Chapel structure was damaged extensively by rot, identifiable as the fluffy, cob-web-like mass in the centre of this image.
See also the other photographs of the damage to the Chapel and the 1970s refurbishment works in the Online Collection.
Pulpit
2019/15985
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Postcard printed on paper
c.1900
The mahogany pulpit at Wesley's Chapel dates to the 1770s, a gift from one of John Wesley's supporters.
Simple but elegant wooden stairs curve upward to the reading platform. Originally, the pulpit had three levels. It was cut down after raked seating was installed on the second floor level of the Chapel in the 1860s and the preacher (standing on the top level of the pulpit) could be seen more easily.
In front of the pulpit stands a Renaissance-style armchair with elaborate carving. This dates to the late 1800s.
Chapel Vestibule
2019/15984
1900-1950 / Paper / Photograph / Postcard / Wesley's Chapel
Postcard printed on paper
c.1900
This postcard shows the entrance area of Wesley's Chapel, City Road, in about 1900.
As built, Wesley's Chapel had no entrance area or vestibule and the Chapel was one large room. In the late 1800s, a vestibule was thought desirable, as it reduced noise from the street and helped to keep the Chapel warmer in winter. Thus, in the 1890s, a wooden screen with stained glass windows was installed. The screen is visible to the left of the image.
Compare this postcard with the Online Collection image of the glass screen wall as installed following the refurbishment of the Chapel in the 1970s.
Chapel Interior
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Postcard printed on paper
c.1900
This black and white interior view of Wesley's Chapel, City Road, shows an older arrangement of pews close to the pulpit. On the left first floor balcony, to the north of the Chapel, a small organ can be seen. This was one of two, the other (a dummy version, not visible in this image) being installed on the opposite balcony to the right, or south, side. The organs were dismantled in the 1930s and parts of them were used in the building of one larger organ to the west side of the Chapel.
Chapel Font
2019/16003
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
The photograph shows the font inside Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
The central bowl made of stone is medieval and was originally installed in the parish church in Madeley, where John Fletcher (1729-85) was curate. The top and bottom part, made from alabaster, are 19th century. Inside the font is a hollowed-out, square piece of sandstone, which has an incised pattern. The stone has links with Nathaniel Gilbert of Antigua, an early Methodist who converted and preached to his slaves. The stone's incised patterns are deeply meaningful, symbolising the breaking of the fetters of slavery.
Pieces of Fabric
2004/9802
1800-1850 / Clothing / Fabric / John Wesley / Object / Paper / The Wesley Family / Wesleyana
Fabric on paper; ink
1800s
This piece of paper has two scraps of black fabric pinned to it. One is described as a remnant of Mr John Wesley's preaching gown, the other as a remnant of the gown belonging to his brother Charles. It is likely the pieces - Wesleyana collectables - were assembled together in the 1800s, when Wesley family mementoes were highly sought after. The scraps have a good provenance, so it is likely they were indeed taken from gowns belonging to the Wesley brothers.
Inkstand
1994/2630/1-3
1750-1800 / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Tin
1770-80
This unusual inkstand belonged to John Fletcher (1729-85). Fletcher, born in Switzerland as Jean Guillaume de la Fléchère, was of Huguenot ancestry. He was a friend of John Wesley and became one of Methodism's most important early theologians. Appropriately, the inkstand, which includes an inkwell and a vessel for blotting sand, is in the shape of two books with spines on opposite edges. A label from the early 1900s is still kept inside.
Ruler
1994/2531
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, paper, ink
c.1760-80
This foot-long wooden ruler belonged to John Fletcher (1729-85); Fletcher was one of Methodism's great early theologians. The ruler has a reliable provenance, with an original label still attached. According to this, the ruler sat on Fletcher's desk in Madeley. Interestingly, the ruler has no scale subdivisions.
1994/2531
Shoe and Buckle
1994/2933/2
1800-1850 / Clothing / Leather / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object
Leather
early 1800s
This shoe with simple steel buckle belonged to Adam Clarke (c.1760-1832). It is made from fine, hand-sewn leather and the heel is cobbled to the sole with nails.
Clarke was a Wesleyan Methodist theologian and Biblical scholar. He wrote a very comprehensive commentary on the Bible, a task which took 40 years to complete. The commentary remained an important theological resource to Methodists for many years.
Cure of Evil-Speaking
1994/2446
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
Sermon printed by Paramore, London, 1791
Many of Wesley's sermons were published individually or as collections. The Cure of Evil-speaking - A Sermon on Matt. XViii 15,16,17 was issued as part of Wesley's four volume publication 'Sermons on Several Occasions', in 1771.
This particular version was published individually as a pamphlet in 1791.
A Sermon on Salvation by Faith
1994/2444
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
14th edition, printed by Paramore, London, 1791
Wesley preached this sermon shortly after his 'conversion experience', at St. Mary’s Church, Oxford, and before the University, on June 18, 1738. Its central message is summarised by the following extract: ‘It is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no-one can boast.’ (Ephesians 2:8-9).
The sermon was to form the first of forty-four sermons published by John Wesley in four volumes between 1746-60, but it also continued to be issued in pamphlet format individually. This version, the 14th edition, dates to 1791.
Zwölf Predigten
2014/14200
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
Twelve sermons translated into German, printed by Wilhelm Thome, Berlin, 1846
Twelve sermons by John ('Johann') Wesley, translated into German and published in 1846. This collection of sermons illustrates that there was a growing awareness of, and interest in, Methodism in Germany by the 1840s.
Methodism in Germany originated with Christoph Gottlieb Mueller, a German who had fled to England during the Napoleonic wars and was converted there. He returned to Germany in 1830 and began to preach in Wuerttemberg and other south German states. Further influences came via America.
The Principles of a Methodist Considered in a Letter
1994/2422
John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
Printed by James Buckland, London, 1753
The Principles of a Methodist Considered in a Letter to Reverend Mr ****' is one of John Wesley's early attempts to explain and justify Methodist theology.
The pamphlet was written with George Whitefield in mind, whose Calvinist leanings and belief in pre-determination and salvation of the few did not accord with Wesley's belief in salvation by faith for all. These fundamental differences caused a rift between Whitefield and Wesley and impacted on the development of Methodist doctrine. The row escalated over the following years which, in 1778, resulted in Wesley publishing the 'Arminian Magazine' in defence of his views.
The Nature, Design and General Rules of the United Societies in London, Bristol, Kingswood, Newcastle-upon-Tyne &c
2018/15561
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
23rd edition, printed by Paramore, London, 1794
The pamphlet sets out the fundamental rules devised by John Wesley in the early days of Methodism for his societies. Wesley published these in 1743 to make clear the connection between the saving through faith and Christian behaviour and to indicate what was expected of persons as they joined the Methodist Societies.
The 'General Rules' went through many editions and the pamphlet was in print throughout the 18th century. This edition, the 23rd, was published in 1794.
The Manners of the Antient Christians extracted from a French Author
1994/2430
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
Fourth edition, published by William Pine, Bristol, 1771
A pamphlet published by John Wesley as a way of instructing the members in his societies in Christian behaviour. Wesley published many similar instructive texts. His pamphlets were popular and usually went through many editions - this one is the fourth, published in 1771.
Elegies on the Queen and Archbishop
2014/14432
1650-1700 / Book / Leather / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Paper, printed
Printed by B. Motte for C. Harper, Fleet Street, London, 1695
A publication of poetry composed by John Wesley's father, Samuel Wesley (1662-1735), in praise and remembrance of Queen Mary II and John Tillotson, Archbishop of Canterbury. Both Queen Mary and the Archbishop had passed away the previous year, in 1694.
Samuel Wesley was a staunch supporter of Queen Mary and the Archbishop in the 1690s and dedicated other poetic work to the Queen. This alliance may have assisted him in obtaining the appointment to the Rectory of Epworth a few years later, in 1697.
A Treatise on Christian Prudence
1994/2429
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
4th edition; printed by Paramore at the Foundery, London, 1784
The treatise is a typical example of a publication Wesley thought instructive and worth reproducing for his followers in amended form. The work had originally been published in 1710 by John Norris (1657-1711), the English philosopher, under the title "A treatise concerning Christian prudence or the principles of practical wisdom, fitted to the use of human life, and design'd for the better regulation of it."
Like many other authors of the period and in an age before copyright, Wesley extracted passages from existing texts, sometimes amending, re-arranging and commenting on them in the process. The 'Treatise' was one of John Wesley's earliest published works (1734).
A Sermon, Preached November 23, 1777
2015/14628
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by J. Fry and Co. at the Foundery, London, 1777
The pamphlet reproduces the text of a sermon John Wesley gave before the Humane Society at Lewisham Church in the autumn of 1777.
Daily Conversation with God
1994/2423
1700-1750 / God & Faith / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
1749
The full title of the publication is "Daily Conversation with God, Exemplified in the Holy Life of Armelle Nicolas, Commonly call'd the Good Armelle; A Poor Ignorant Country Maid in France." Published in English translation in many editions in the 1700s, this pamphlet was a popular religious text.
Popularly known as "La bonne Armelle" (1606-1671), the subject of the pamphlet was a saintly French serving-maid who was held in high veneration among French people in the 1600s. Born in 1606, she spent her life in piety and extreme hard work, both in service and at an Ursuline monastery, where details of her spiritual life were recorded. She died in 1671 but was never canonized.
Wandering Thoughts: A Sermon on 2 Cor. x. 4
1994/2445
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by Paramore, Worship Street, London, 1798
Sometime in the early 1760s, Wesley preached a sermon on 'Wandering Thoughts'. In it, he dismissed the idea that Christians might be delivered from wandering thoughts as "impossible" and "absurd". Such thoughts came about due to an exposure to assaults by evil spirits, provocations by hostile people and the natural operation of the senses on the mind.
The idea of 'wandering thoughts' occupied Wesley. He wrote about it in the Arminian Magazine years later and published letters he had received from readers in relation to his sermon. It appears he was never quite able to make up his mind whether or not there could be freedom from a distracted mind and total communion with God.
This edition of his sermon dates to 1798.
An Extract of Mr. Richard Baxter’s Aphorisms of Justification
1994/2440
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by Paramore at the Foundry, London, 1784
The first edition of this pamphlet Wesley published in 1745 in Newcastle. Like most of Wesley's publications, the pamphlet was reprinted a number of times during his lifetime, indicating there was strong demand for Wesley's writings.
The 'Extract' paraphrases Richard Baxter's (1615-91) work. Baxter was an English Puritan church leader, poet, theologian and hymnodist. He became a leading Nonconformist and spent time in prison for his views. Baxter argued for the necessity of repentance and faithfulness to attain salvation, not simply faith alone.
Wesleyan Methodism Considered in Relation to the Church
1994/2443
1800-1850 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
1841
Interestingly, this pamphlet was also published as 'Wesleyan Methodism Considered in Relation to the Church: to which is subjoined a Plan for their Union and more effective Co-operation'. It was published in 1841 by the Reverend Richard Hodgson. Perhaps the shorter title was thought less incendiary.
This particular copy is inscribed: "The Reverend Robert Newstead. With the Author's Xtian regards. King's College, London 12 April 1841."
Modern Christianity: Exemplified at Wednesbury, And other adjacent Places in Staffordshire.
2015/14626
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by Paramore, Worship Street, London, 1792
First published in 1745, this pamphlet is a later edition dating to 1792. The pamphlet recounts Wesley's experiences in Wednesbury, Staffordshire, in autumn 1743, when he was set upon by an angry mob. Fortunately, Wesley was sheltered by some local people in a hay barn and he escaped harm.
Wesley's experience was not uncommon. Early Methodists were viewed with suspicion; itinerant preachers often had to contend with disgruntled locals and physical attacks.
A Call to Backsliders: A Sermon on Psalm lxxvii. 7,8
2015/14625
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by R.Hawes, London, 1778
Wesley's sermon on 'backsliding' gives hope to those who 'fall away' from Christianity or lapse in their beliefs and fall into sin.
Wesley accepted that Christians could lose their salvation, although he believed this did not usually come about as one single act but more usually through profound and prolonged sinful behaviour. However, he also believed that man was not beyond redemption. Indeed, he claimed to have seen thousands of instances where those fallen away from faith had reclaimed it by amending their ways.
The Catechisms of the Wesleyan Methodists
2018/15589
1800-1850 / Book / Cardboard / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / Sunday School
Printed on paper
Published by John Mason, 14 City Road, London, mid 1800s
This instructive booklet teaching the beliefs of Wesleyan Methodism was intended 'for children of tender years'. It was primarily meant for use in Wesleyan Sunday Schools. This example was in use at Broughton Wesleyan Sabbath ('Sunday') School.
Decision – a Sermon to Young People.
2014/14201
1850-1900 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by Frederick Bell, Chelsea, London, 1866
Engagement with the young has always been important for Methodists. This sermon, preached in Chelsea by John Henshall in 1866, was aimed specifically at a young audience.
The Way to the Kingdom
1994/2539
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by John Paramore at the Foundry, Moorfields, London, 1783
This is one of John Wesley's well-known sermons. "The Way to the Kingdom” is the seventh sermon of Wesley's 'standard' sermons, which has been published for many years as a collection of forty-four sermons. The sermon is divided into two parts. The first part defines the kingdom of God, the second part defines the way there.
An Extract of the Minutes of Several Conversations
2018/15795
1750-1800 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by G. Whitfield, Finsbury, London, 1797
The full title of the publication is "An Extract of the Minutes of Several Conversations held at Leeds, July 31st, 1797. Between the Preachers late in Connection with the late Rev. Mr John Wesley."
At the 1797 Leeds Conference, the rules and regulations governing Wesleyan Methodism (and published by John Wesley and the Connexion between 1763 and 1789) were looked at and carefully revised. They were then signed by the Preachers present. This publication was the outcome of the deliberations. Effectively, it enshrined the new rules and laws of Wesleyan Methodism.
A Sermon on Original Sin
1994/2442
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed at Mr Wesley's New Chapel, City Road, London, 1788
In this sermon, Wesley points out that human nature has been so thoroughly corrupted that man has no possibility of any goodness at all without God's grace intervening.
Wesley concludes: 'Ye were born in sin: Therefore, 'ye must be born again,' born of God. By nature ye are wholly corrupted. By grace ye shall be wholly renewed.(...) go on from faith to faith,' until your whole sickness be healed; and all that 'mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus!'
Through God’s grace alone, made available to all in Jesus Christ, and through discipleship to him with his church, Wesley concludes that man may have hope of deliverance from the control of original sin.
The Life of God in the Soul of Man
1994/2424
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by R. Hawes, Moorfields, London, 1777
The Life of God in the Soul of Man or, the Nature and Excellency of the Christian Religion', was originally published by Henry Scougal (1650-78) in 1677. It originated as a letter of spiritual guidance to a friend, but Scougal agreed to its publication a year before his early death. The text soon became a classic, and John Wesley published this abridged and amended version for his followers.
Although strange to modern eyes, abridging, paraphrasing and simply copying other writers was not unusual in an age when copyright law did not exist.
Some Account of the Late Work of God in North-America in a Sermon on Ezekiel i. 16
2018/15788/2
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed at the New Chapel, City Road, 1788
In this enigmatic sermon Wesley looks at the British colonies in America. It is related closely to two other Wesley sermons and tracts on a similar subject, his 1768/70 tract 'Free Thoughts on the Present State of Affairs' and his 'Calm Address to our American Colonies' (1775).
The substance of a sermon preached in Baltimore and Philadelphia, on the first and eighth of May, 1791, on the death of the Rev. John Wesley.
1994/2427
1750-1800 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Printed on paper
Preached by T. Coke, printed by G. Paramore, Worship Street, London, 1791
Thomas Coke (1747-1814) arrived in North America in 1784 with instructions from John Wesley to ordain and consecrate ministers in the new country. Eventually, he and Francis Asbury (1745-1816) were responsible for introducing 'episcopal' Methodism, a type of revised Wesleyan Methodism, to America.
Coke preached this sermon a few months after Wesley's death. Indeed, Coke cut short his 1790/91 stay in America and returned to England, hoping to be of service there. Perhaps against expectation, Coke did not become Wesley's successor, but was made Secretary to the British Conference. Later, in 1797 and again in 1805, he became President of Conference.
A Plain Account of Genuine Christianity
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by John Paramore at the Foundry, London, 1779
First published in 1753, Wesley's letter or tract asserts “that actual Christian faith and life, not only in apostolic and patristic, but also still in modern times, reflects the supernatural power of God and the miraculous presence of the Holy Spirit.” Christian living is still present in the context of the Christian community, and one of the central tenets of the tract is Wesley's point that the genuine Christian “is full of love to his neighbour.”
The Eternity of Hell Torments – A Sermon on Mark ix. 48.
1994/2448
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed at the New Chapel, City Road, London, 1790
Hell's Torments was a popular and powerful subject for sermons in the 18th century and usually drew large crowds. Many preachers aside from Wesley delivered their own versions of this subject, including George Whitefield (1714-1770) and Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758). In an age when literacy was low and the fear of damnation high, the frightening idea of eternal hell spurred people on to convert like no other.
Elegy on the late Reverend John Wesley
2014/14204
1750-1800 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
1790s
We are told this elegy, or lament for the dead, was written by an old woman and recalls John Wesley's life and faith. It is as much a call to believe and trust in God as it is a lament for the departed Wesley.
Marlborough; or: The Fate of Europe – A Poem.
2014/14433
1700-1750 / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Printed on paper
Printed for Charles Harper, Fleet Street, London, 1705
This poem by Samuel Wesley (1662-1735), John Wesley's father, was written in the wake of the Battle of Blenheim (13th August 1704). The battle was part of the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-14). The poem celebrates the role of John Churchill, first Duke of Marlborough (1650-1722), whose victory in the battle marked a pivotal point in the conflict. It was regarded as changing point for the future of Europe - a Europe not dominated by France.
The poem shows Samuel Wesley's close alignment with the Establishment and the Stuart monarchy.
The Stations of the Preachers in the Connexion
2014/14207
1800-1850 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
1831
The stations of the (itinerant) preachers in the Methodist 'Connexion' have been published annually since Wesley's day, usually as part of the minutes of Conference. This document shows the stations of the ministers for 1831/32, as appointed by the 88th Conference held in Bristol in July 1831.
A Sermon preached before the Society for Reformation of Manners
1994/2536
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by R.Hawes, London, 1778
Wesley preached this sermon before the Society for the Reformation of Manners on January 30, 1763 at the Chapel in West-Street, Seven-Dials.
The Society for the Reformation of Manners was founded in London in 1691 and its aims were the suppression of profanity, immorality and lewd activities; The Society was especially opposed to prostitution and brothels. Wesley chose to preach before The Society in Covent Garden, which was the hotbed of prostitution and vice at the time.
The Great Assize – A Sermon on Romans xiv. 10.
2015/14627
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by Paramore, Worship Street, London, 1792
John Wesley preached this sermon at the Assizes held before the Honorable Sir Edward Clive, Knight, one of the Judges of His Majesty's Court of Common Pleas and other court officials, in St. Paul's Church, Bedford, on March 10, 1758.
This appropriately-named sermon was Wesley's most important on the subject of God’s final judgment. Wesley urged those who had authority in this life to provide justice in the courts, reminding those who judge men and women that they will one day stand to be judged themselves.
A Letter to the Rev. Mr. John Wesley; in Answer to his late Pamphlet, entitled, “Free Thoughts on the Present State of Public Affairs”
2014/14203
1750-1800 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by J. Towers, Fore Street, London, 1771
The pamphlet is a response to Wesley's tract published in 1768, in which Wesley looks at a long list of complaints that were being made against the king and several government ministers and judges. Wesley's publications often occasioned formal, and sometimes impassioned, responses.
An Answer To Several Objections Against this Work In a Letter to a Friend
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
1778
Wesley's monthly Methodist magazine was published as the 'Arminian Magazine' between 1778 and 1797. It was named after the Dutch theologian Jacobus Arminius (or Jakob Harmenszoon, 1560-1609) who, like Wesley, believed in universal redemption, opposing the Calvinist doctrine of salvation only for the few.
This 'Answer' was published in pamphlet format alongside early publications of the Arminian Magazine. Worded like a letter to a friend (a common device at the time to deal with literary criticism, or discuss difficult subjects), Wesley used the 'Answer' to defend the publication against criticism. This included its overall format and also the magazine's lack of images.
A Letter
1994/2538
1750-1800 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
mid/late 1700s
This pamphlet or 'letter' is addressed to an anonymous recipient and written by a 'country gentleman'. At the time, this form of anonymous and conversational writing was a conventional way to level (as well as deal with) criticism. The 'Letter' is an example of many such publications criticizing - as well as justifying - the emerging Methodist movement.
Thoughts Upon Necessity
1994/2432
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by R.Hawes, London, 1775
First published in 1774, Wesley's 'Thoughts Upon Necessity' is a reproach to those Churchmen who see God's decrees as fixed and immutable, and man's actions as stemming from a grand design. In essence, the 'Thoughts' refute the Calvinist world view of predetermination.
The Doctrine of Salvation, Faith and Good Works, Extracted from the Homilies of the Church of England
1994/2540
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by William Pine, Bristol, 1770
One of John Wesley's highly popular 'extract' publications, already in its 11th edition in 1770.
Thoughts on the Imputed Righteousness of Christ
1994/2441
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by W. Strahan, London, 1762
The work poses and answers key questions relating to man's salvation through Jesus Christ.
Christian Letters
1994/2550
1750-1800 / God & Faith / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
By Mr Joseph Alleine. Printed by J. Paramore, City Road, London, 1787
Joseph Alleine (1634-1668) was a Puritan preacher who was ejected from the Church of England in 1662 for Nonconformity.
The 'Christian Letters' were written during two spells of imprisonment following Alleine's ejection from the Church and a period of increased and fiery preaching. They were published by his wife in 1672, following Alleine's early death in 1668. The 'Letters' are full of spiritual instruction, and they were popular and reprinted through the 1700s and 1800s.
A Letter to the Right Reverend The Bishop Of Gloucester
1994/2547
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by William Pine, Bristol, 1763
The full title of John Wesley's 'letter' or pamphlet was 'A Letter to the Right Reverend The Bishop Of Gloucester. Occasioned by his tract, on the office and operations of the Holy Spirit.'
Following its publication in 1763, the letter occasioned an impassioned reply by one Samuel Charndler, who entitled this: 'An answer to the Rev. Mr. John Wesley's letter to William, Lord Bishop of Gloucester : concerning The Charges alledged against him and his Doctrine, in a Book lately published, entitled, The Doctrine of Grace, or the Operation of the Holy Spirit vindicated from the Insults of Infidelity, &c. In a Letter to the Rev. Mr. John Wesley.'
A Narrative of God’s Love to William Thoresby
1994/2543
1800-1850 / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by J. Bennett, Redruth, 1801
William Thoresby was admitted as a Methodist preacher on trial in 1786 and went as a Methodist missionary to Newfoundland between 1796 and 1798. Thoresby's 'Narrative' recalls his early life and trip to Newfoundland, which he published on his return in 1799.
Thoresby became a Methodist minister in Redruth District in 1801; the following years he spent ministering to Plymouth Dock District. He died early, in 1806.
Minutes of Several Conversations between The Rev. John Wesley M.A. and Others, From the Year 1744 to the Year 1789
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Printed by John Kershaw, 14, City Road, London, 1827
During John Wesley's lifetime, Wesley had full decision-making power among the Connexion and the annual Conference, over which he presided.
In 1763, the disciplinary relations of former Conferences were collected and published. Twenty-six years after that date, and just two years before John Wesley's passing, Wesley revised and enlarged this publication. The result was this document. A copy of this was given to every preacher on admission into 'full connexion'.
Following Wesley's death, the process started with this publication was formalized in a meeting of Wesley's preachers in 1797. The preachers approved and formalized most of the 'Minutes' and issued them as Connexion-wide rules and legislation governing Wesleyan Methodism.
The Principles and Practices of the Methodists considered in some Letters to the Leaders of that Sect
1994/2537
1750-1800 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Published by W. Bristow, London, 1760
An anonymous anti-Methodist publication, attributed to John Green, Bishop of Lincoln (1706-79).
Green was a contemporary of John Wesley and, like Wesley, had obtained a university fellowship in divinity (at Cambridge). Unlike Wesley, Green continued to be allied closely to the established Church and court which helped him secure a bishopric. Later, over voting in favour of a bill in the House of Lords for the relief of Protestant dissenters, he lost approval of King George III and the court.
Lantern
2004/9621
1750-1800 / Glass / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Metal, glass
late 1700s
This small lantern belonged to John Fletcher (1729-1785). Many contemporaries regarded Fletcher as an example of John Wesley's teachings of Christian Perfection and possible successor to Wesley. The lantern is made from metal and a small candle sat behind the cut-glass prism, which was useful in dispersing the candlelight and making it appear brighter.
Compare this lamp to John Wesley's small lantern in the Online Collection.
Roundel
1994/2793
1750-1800 / Glass / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Wood
Glass, wood, paper
late 1700s
This small framed roundel contains a piece of glass into which is scratched:
"God is Love
Samuel Bradburn, 16 September 1774"
A piece of paper on the back of the roundel explains that Samuel Bradburn scratched the motto, name and date into this piece of window glass at Chaston-on-the-Hill Methodist Chapel in the first year of his itinerant preaching ministry, in 1774.
Bradburn (1751-1816) was one of John Wesley's preachers and closely connected with John Fletcher of Madeley.
See also the painting of Bradburn 1993/1628 and the engraving 1995/3066 in the Online Collection.
Two Tea Spoons
1994/2563/1-2
1800-1850 / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Metal
c.1800
These silver tea spoons belonged to Adam Clarke and are engraved with his initials.
Adam Clarke (1760/62 - 1832) was a Methodist theologian and Bible scholar. Today, he is especially remembered for writing a Bible commentary. This comprehensive and scholarly work took forty years to complete and served as a Methodist theological resource for generations.
Pocket Watch and Seal
2006/10407
1850-1900 / Glass / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates
Metal, stone, fabric, cardboard
c.1880-1900
This gold pocket watch, chain and seal in the original, fitted case belonged to the Methodist minister Nehemiah Curnock (1840-1915). Curnock deciphered John Wesley's shorthand and edited Wesley's journals for publication.
In the 1800s, pocket watches were usually worn on a decorative chain, which was attached to a gentleman's waistcoat. As the chain was on display, it usually featured an attached seal or 'fob' seal, set with a semi-precious stone or crystal, as in this instance.
Muffler
2006/10406
1750-1800 / Clothing / Fabric / John Wesley / Textile
Fabric
late 1700s
This muffler, or neck scarf, belonged to John Wesley. The scarf is of a very simple design and is made from fine cotton. Its only decorative device is a set of initials embroidered in Roman letters - 'IW' - for I ohn W esley.
Seal
1998/6967
1800-1850 / Metal / Object / Organic / Seal / Wesleyana
Horn, mother-of-pearl
1800s
Small pressed horn seal in the shape of a bust of John Wesley. The preaching bands are accentuated with mother-of-pearl.
In the 1800s, letters were usually sealed with sealing wax and commemorative seals of well-known public figures were popular.
Seal
2014/14075
1800-1850 / Metal / Object / Organic / Seal / Wesleyana
Ivory or bone, metal
early to mid 1800s
Commemorative seals of public figures including John Wesley were popular in the 1800s. This seal, however, is unusual in that Wesley's bust and the remainder of the seal have been carved very finely from ivory or bone. Only the seal plate is made from metal. When made, this would have been a luxury item.
Bust of John Wesley
1993/13381/1-2
1800-1850 / Bust / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood
early 1800s
This small, wooden bust of John Wesley on a separate plinth is very finely carved. At the back of the bust is inscribed Wesley's name, as well as birth and death dates, and the sides feature the name 'Wesley' in decorative script. It would have been an expensive item to purchase in the early 1800s.
Later in the century, the demand for commemorative busts of Wesley became so great that it was met through the production of Staffordshire pottery busts. Many of these were modelled in quite a rough way and cheaply decorated.
Bust of John Wesley
1992/167
1850-1900 / Bust / Glass / Object / Wesleyana
Glass
mid 1800s
This small bust of John Wesley is more unusual than most, being made of glass. Due to its weight it was probably intended for use as a small paperweight.
Fountain Pen
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Metal
c.1920-30
This gold fountain pen bears the engraved signature of John Scott Lidgett (1854 –1953) and was used to sign the British Methodist Union documents in 1932.
Lidgett was a British Wesleyan Methodist minister and theologian committed to improving education, in particular in London. He became President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1908-09 and was instrumental in bringing about British Methodist Union in 1932. Lidgett served as first President of the newly-united Methodist Conference in 1932-33.
Seal
2017/15199
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Object / Seal / Wesleyana
Ceramic
1800s
This small 'fob' seal is made of heavy ceramicware and features an intaglio (or an incised design) of John Wesley. The small hole at the top indicates that the seal was meant to be attached to a chain, probably a watch chain.
Pencil
2009/11793
1900-1950 / Methodism / Other / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, graphite
early 1900s
Methodism has always been quite strong in North London. The Neasden Methodist Institute no longer exists, but a number of Methodist churches still serve the Neasden area.
Key
1998/7070/1
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Frank O. Salisbury / John Wesley's House / Metal / Metalwork / Other
Metal, enamel
early 1900s
This elaborate, ceremonial key was used to re-open John Wesley's House after extensive refurbishment in 1934 and once again in 1956. The 1934 opening ceremony was performed by Alice Maud Salisbury, wife of the painter Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962), the 1956 ceremony by Frank O. Salisbury himself.
See also the newspaper cutting 1998/7070/3 with an image of the 1934 re-opening ceremony in the Online Collection.
Newspaper Cutting
1998/7070/3
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Frank O. Salisbury / John Wesley's House / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
1934
This newspaper cutting discusses and shows the re-opening ceremony of John Wesley's House after extensive refurbishment in 1934. The opening ceremony was performed by Alice Maud Salisbury, wife of the painter Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962).
See also the ceremonial key 1998/7070/1 used for the ceremony in the Online Collection.
Inkwell
1992/138/1-2
1800-1850 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Organic / Other / World Parish
Horn, metal
1800s
This small inkwell is made from animal horn, possibly from a ram. It is believed the inkwell belonged to the Reverend Barnabas Shaw (1788-1857), first official Wesleyan missionary in Africa.
In 1816, Barnabas Shaw and his wife established the first Methodist mission station at Leliefontein, Namaqualand. Shaw was instrumental in establishing Methodist Societies in and around Cape Town, South Africa. Later, his initiative helped Methodism expand all along the eastern Cape coastline.
See also Barnabas Shaw's horn pipe in the Online Collection.
Cameo
2006/10523
1800-1850 / Object / Organic / Other / Wesleyana
Shell
Probably late 1800s
This oval cameo is made from shell. Shell cameos are made by cutting away layers of the shell and carving an image. This cameo was carved with an image of John Wesley. Likely, the cameo was once mounted as a piece of jewellery.
Set of Scripture Playing Cards
1994/2751/1-2
1750-1800 / Cardboard / Leather / Methodism / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, leather
1786
This early set of printed scripture playing cards is in its original leather case. Scripture playing cards were used as a form of religious entertainment. Chosen at random, each card featured a different verse from the Bible and might provide the answer to a question or problem. As such, the game was a form of superstition, and John Wesley signalled his disapproval.
For further examples of such cards, see the Online Collection.
Scripture Playing Card
2006/10405
1750-1800 / Cardboard / Methodism / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
late 1700s
A card from a set of scripture playing cards dating to the late 1700s. Scripture playing cards were used as a form of religious entertainment. Chosen at random, each card featured a different verse from the Bible and might provide the answer to a question or problem. As such, the game was a form of superstition, and John Wesley signalled his disapproval.
For further examples of such cards, see the Online Collection.
Illustrated Cards
2006/10404/1-3
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Methodism / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
Printed for J. Mason, City Road, London, mid 1800s
Each of these illustrated, religious cards features a verse or poem with a message. Some make direct reference to passages in the Bible. Likely, the cards were intended as a religious study aid or entertainment for children, possibly in Sunday School.
Spoon
2008/11226/1-6
1750-1800 / Metal / Metalwork / Other
Metal, engraved
c.1780
One of a set of six sterling silver tea spoons in the Collection. Each is engraved with the initials 'IMP'.
These spoons were not John Wesley's, but he is known to have had four silver spoons which would have looked almost identical. In a letter in 1776, he wrote: “I have two silver spoons at London and two at Bristol. This is all the plate I have at present, and I shall not buy any more while so many round me want bread.”
Shoe Buckles
2007/10868
1750-1800 / Clothing / Metal / Metalwork
Metal, leather
late 1700s
Shoe buckles are a traditional means of securing shoes to the foot. They were particularly widespread in the 1700s and lend themselves to elaborate decorations, such as moulding, engraving and setting with paste or precious stones.
These steel and leather strap buckles are typical of the type many men and women wore in Wesley's day. We know that Wesley's shoe buckles were even plainer, as one of his pairs of buckled shoes has survived. See also Adam Clarke's shoe and shoe buckle in the Online Collection which, like Wesley's, are plain.
Cufflinks
2008/11226/1-2
1850-1900 / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / The Wesley Family
Metal, engraved
Probably mid/late 1800s
Cufflinks are a traditional means of securing shirt cuffs; often they are decorative, and sometimes they are made from precious materials.
These gold-colour cufflinks are each engraved with a 'C' or a 'W'. When they entered the Collection many years ago, they were thought to have been the property of Charles Wesley (1707-1788). However, judging by the elaborate decoration, they are more likely to be Victorian (1837-1901).
Candle Wick Trimmer
2006/10437
1750-1800 / Metal / Metalwork / Other
Metal
1700s
This scissor-like object is a candle wick trimmer. It was used much like a pair of scissors, with the difference that it has a small compartment attached to its blades into which the cut-off wick is collected.
Trimming candle wicks ensured candles burnt evenly. This was important, as many candles in Wesley's day were made from materials other than wax and tended to burn less reliably than candles today.
Funeral Hymns
1750-1800 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / The Wesley Family
Paper, printed
Published by W. Pine, Wine Street, Bristol, 1769
This small volume contains hymns written by Charles Wesley (1707-1788). Charles Wesley, like his brother John, was deeply religious. He wrote thousands of hymns and published his first hymn booklet dedicated to funeral hymns in 1746. He regularly wrote hymns on the occasion of the death of family, friends and well-known members of the Methodist societies.
This volume of the Funeral Hymns is a later edition, published in Bristol in 1769.
The Orphan House
2000/8079
1850-1900 / Lithograph / Methodism / Paper / Print
Lithograph on paper
1800s
Methodist meeting houses were sometimes multi-purpose, with libraries, soup kitchens, dispensaries: whatever was needed by the local community
This engraving shows the Orphan House in Newcastle-upon-Tyne was also used for preaching in its early days and was at one time run by Grace Murray, said to have been John Wesley's true love. The Orphan House was demolished in 1951.
Conscientious Objectors
2009/12167
2000- / B/W / Methodism / Paper / Photograph
Photographic print
c. 1950s
This re-print of a WWII photograph shows Methodist conscientious objectors. In both World Wars, men who objected on moral or religious grounds were known as 'conscientious objectors'. They were expected to do their duty in other ways, often in agriculture, forestry, or mining.
John Wesley
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Lithograph / Paper / Print
Lithograph on paper
1800s
This print of John Wesley is marked 'Copyright Sir Joshua Reynolds'. This is a bit of a mystery. The lithograph is not by Joshua Reynolds, as Reynolds was a painter and contemporary of John Wesley, and the lithograph dates to the 1800s. Also, the quality of the image is not high, and the sitter is not portrayed in the 'style' of Joshua Reynolds. This makes it unlikely that this lithograph was worked after a genuine portrait of John Wesley by Joshua Reynolds.
It is possible, however, that the lithograph was made after a painting which, at the time, was thought of as a work by Joshua Reynolds. There are other engravings of John Wesley which claim to be after a painting by Reynolds. Sadly, no actual portrait of John Wesley painted by Joshua Reynolds is known.
John Wesley
1996/4823
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Lithograph / Paper / Print
Lithograph on paper
Lithographed by W. Greatbach, 1800s
An engraving of an aged John Wesley by the artist W. Greatbach. It is titled 'Wesley (In Extreme Age)'. The work was lithographed in the 1800s and the image was not taken from life.
The Official Likeness
1900-1950 / John Wesley / Lithograph / Paper / Print
Lithograph, after an engraving
Engraved by James Fittler, early 1900s
A presentation copy lithograph entitled "The Official Likeness After the Painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds". The image, together with the small watercolour painting mentioned, are well known depictions of John Wesley. Sadly, no actual portrait of John Wesley painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds is known.
See also the other lithographs and engravings purporting to be after Reynolds in the Online Collection.
The Rev. John Wesley, A. M.
1850-1900 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by George Zobel, 1864(?)
This somewhat fanciful engraving from the 1800s shows John Wesley surrounded by books and sitting in an apparently elaborately-carved chair.
Interestingly, Wesley's M.A. title ('Master of Arts', or 'Magister Artium', in Latin) is reversed as 'A.M.' This is grammatically correct ('Artium Magister', in Latin) but is hardly ever seen in portraits of John Wesley.
Iohn Wesley
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraved on paper
Published by Robert Sayer, Fleet Street, London, 1791
The full title of this engraving is "Iohn Wesley - That Excellent Minister of the Gospel carried by Angels into Abraham's Bosom.
Well done, good and faithful Servant: Enter Thou into the Joy of Thy Lord. St Matthew. Ch. 23
The hand-coloured scene shows Wesley transported by angels to heaven, with a small vignette depicting his Chapel in City Road to the bottom right hand corner.
John Wesley
2000- / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by David Carr, c.2000
This recent engraving of John Wesley was made by David Carr in a small edition of twenty. This engraving is number two. The engraving would appear to be based on the bust of Wesley made by Enoch Wood in 1781.
The Rev. John Wesley M.A.
1993/1394
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by Bodlidge, King Street, Upper Moor-Fields, London, mid-late 1700s
An unusual engraving of a younger-looking John Wesley, possibly made around 1760-70.
John Wesley
1994/2283
1800-1850 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraved on paper
Engraved by William Thomas Fry, Early 1800s
William Thomas Fry (1789–1843) was an English engraver. This engraving of John Wesley, and the writing beneath in Wesley's hand and with his signature, "Yours most affectionately JWesley", shows the engraver's high level of skill.
Rev. John Wesley A. M.
1994/2189
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraved on paper
I. Miller delt., R. Hancock sculp. Published by H. Humphrey, Old Bond Street, London, 1790
Published 1st Dec. 1790, three months before John Wesley passed away, this image was one of the last issued of Wesley during his lifetime.
John Wesley
1994/2293
1900-1950 / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Printed on paper, after an engraving
early/mid 1900s
This print of an engraving of John Wesley was done after a miniature portrait by John Barry (active c. 1784-1827).
According to the print, Barry's portrait of Wesley was painted around 1790; it was exhibited at the Royal Academy the same year. Judging by the crudeness of this print, it is likely that the engraved image bore only a passing resemblance to Barry's portrait of Wesley.
John Wesley, M.A.
1994/2308
1700-1750 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraved on paper
Engraved by G. Vertue, 1742
This is one of the earliest depictions of John Wesley. The engraving is signed by the artist in the right hand bottom corner, 'G. Vertue del. & sculp. 1742', so it was engraved when Wesley was 39 years of age.
Interestingly, the artist has titled the engraving 'Thro Evil And Good Report.', hinting at the controversies surrounding Wesley and the new Methodist societies. Vertue also chose to represent the moment John was rescued from the fire at Epworth Old Rectory aged six and he makes reference to Wesley's post as Fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford. Vertue may have done so as a means of emphasising Wesley's good character.
George Vertue FSA (1684 – 1756) was a well-known English engraver and noted antiquary.
A Striking Likeness
1992/510
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Published by ? Sheppard, Lambert Hill, Doctors Common (London), March 22nd, 1791
The full title of the image is 'A Striking Likeness of the late Justly Celebrated, and Pious Christian, the truly Reverend John Wesley, A.M. .' Wesley is shown crowned by angels and a 'New Song in Praise of Methodism' features beneath the portrait.
This flysheet image was published within three weeks of Wesley's passing by the 'Doctors' Commons', also known as the College of Civilians. This was a society of lawyers practising civil law in London. Like the Inns of Court, the society had buildings with work and living space, as well as a large library.
Sketch of John Wesley
1999/7233/4
1900-1950 / Frank O. Salisbury / John Wesley / Other / Painting / Portrait
Crayon on paper
Drawn by Frank O. Salisbury, c.1931/32
This small crayon sketch of John Wesley was drawn by Frank O. Salisbury (1874-1962) in preparation for one of a small number of oil paintings of Wesley he did in 1932 to celebrate Methodist Union. This sketch was one of at least three preparatory sketches.
See also one of Salisbury's oil paintings of John Wesley in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Cover
1997/6386/1
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Other / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed; ink
1978
This commemorative cover celebrates the bicentenary and re-opening of Wesley's Chapel, City Road after refurbishment on 1st November, 1978.
The cover was issued by the Methodist Philatelic Society. Its function is to encourage the study of philately associated with Methodism.
Commemorative Cover
1997/6385/1
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print
Paper, printed; ink
1997
This commemorative cover celebrates the 150th birth of the Methodist clergyman and reformer Hugh Price Hughes (1847-1902) on 8th February 1997.
The cover was issued by the Methodist Philatelic Society. Its function is to encourage the study of philately associated with Methodism.
Sheet of Stamps
1998/6982/2
1950-2000 / Commemorative / John Wesley / Other / Paper / Print
Paper, printed
1997
This sheet of commemorative Irish stamps of John Wesley was issued in 1997 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Wesley's first visit to Ireland in 1747.
Commemorative Cover
1999/7643/1
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print
Paper, printed; ink
1993
This commemorative cover was issued by the Methodist Philatelic Society to commemorate the 90th birthday of Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998). Soper was a Methodist minister, a socialist and also a pacifist. In 1953-54 he served as President of the Methodist Conference.
Commemorative Cover
1999/7644
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print
Paper, printed; ink
1998
This commemorative cover was issued by the Methodist Philatelic Society to commemorate the 95th birthday of Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998). Soper was a Methodist minister, a socialist and also a pacifist. In 1953-54 he served as President of the Methodist Conference.
See also the Philatelic Society's commemorative cover issued in 1993 to mark Soper's 90th birthday in the Online Collection.
Millennium Countdown Commemorative Cover
1999/7812/3
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Methodism / Other / Paper / Print
Paper, printed; ink
1999
The Methodist Philatelic Society issued this cover in November 1999, as a way of commemorating the countdown to the millennium. The issue was limited to 5,000 pieces.
Sheet of Stamps, ‘Hark the herald angels sing’
1999/7813
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Methodism / Other / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Paper, printed
1999
This commemorative stamp was one of the stamps issued in the series 'The Christian's Tale' by Royal Mail to celebrate the Millennium. It bears the famous first line: 'Hark the herald angels sing', from Charles Wesley's hymn, and a hymn book extract.
Commemorative Cover
2019/15963
2000- / Commemorative / Methodism / Other / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Paper, printed; ink
2019
Susanna Wesley (1669-1742), mother of John and Charles Wesley, is the subject of this commemorative cover issued by the Methodist Philatelic Society in 2019. The cover celebrates the 350th anniversary of her birth.
Commemorative Cover
2008/11153/3
2000- / Commemorative / Metal / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed; ink, metal
2000
This commemorative Christmas cover was issued by Benham in 2000. It makes reference to Charles Wesley and his hymn 'Hark, the herald angels sing' and is signed by the Lord Griffiths of Pembrey and Burry Port, then superintending minister of Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The cover furthermore includes a commemorative 50p piece, which is unusual.
Wesleyan Society Centenary Medal
2005/10348
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1839
This medal was issued by the Wesleyan Methodist Church on Oct. 25th, 1839 to celebrate the centenary of its Foundation. Remarkably, the medal lists precise membership numbers for Britain and the Americas at the time, including 389,853 itinerant preachers in the United Kingdom alone - a very large number.
The top of the medal is drilled, presumably to attach a ribbon.
Centenary Medal
2005/10345
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1839
The first hundred years of Wesleyan Methodism were celebrated with the creation of a great hall for meetings and prayer in Bishopsgate. It became known as the 'Centenary Hall' and is depicted on this medal. Like many early Methodist medals, the reverse depicts John Wesley, founder of (Wesleyan) Methodism.
For another example of this medal, but depicting the reverse, see no. 2005/10347 in the Online Collection.
Sunday School Medal
2006/10657
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal
1880
This medal commemorates the 100th anniversary of the founding of Sunday Schools by Robert Raikes in 1780.
Raikes (1736 - 1811) was a pioneer of the Sunday School movement, which started with a school for boys in the slums. Raikes saw schooling as the best early intervention in a possible life of crime, a preventive measure which was better than a cure. Sunday schooling was chosen as this was usually the only day boys were not working (usually in factories), and teaching materials were based on the Bible. Although not a Methodist, Raikes' efforts and achievements were discussed in Wesley's Methodist or 'Arminian' Magazine. Methodism organised its own Sunday Schools, open to boys and girls, from the early 19th century.
The medals would have been distributed among children attending Sunday School in 1880; this one had a hole added at the top, probably for a ribbon. Compare also to the other Sunday School commemorative medals in the Online Collection.
Medal
2003/9111
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1895
This medal commemorates 100 years of the Ebenezer Wesleyan Chapel, Old King Street, Bristol in 1895. The Chapel was pulled down in 1954 for the development of the Broad Mead Shopping Centre.
Sunday School Commemorative Medal
2006/10661
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Sunday School
Metal
1885
This medal commemorates the 100th anniversary of St. Domingo Street Wesleyan Methodist Sunday School in Oldham. This was established in March 1785. The top of the medal is drilled, probably to attach a ribbon.
See also the other Sunday School commemorative medals in the Online Collection.
Prize Medal
2016/15050
1850-1900 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Sunday School
Metal
late 1800s
This medal was awarded to a Wesleyan Prize Scholar at Sunday School. No details of the Sunday School where it was awarded are provided, nor any of the winner. Likely, it was a generic prize medal which could have been handed out at any Wesleyan Sunday School.
Commemorative Medal
2006/10350
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1837
This medal was issued to commemorate the Wesleyan Conference at Leeds in 1837. It was the ninety-fourth Conference and the ninth time the Conference was held in Leeds. See also 1996/4951 in the Online Collection, the Conference Medal issued the preceding year, in 1836.
Commemorative Badge
2018/15599
2000- / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / World Parish
Metal, enamel
2016
A lapel badge titled 'Methodists in Mission' and celebrating 200 years of the Methodist Church in Africa, 1816-2016.
Commemorative Medal
1996/4951
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
1836
A medal commemorating the ninety-third Methodist Conference in 1836. The Conference was held in Birmingham that year, the first time it had taken place there, and the President of Conference that year was Jabez Bunting (1779-1858). The reverse features a bust of John Wesley, name and dates; this was standard for official Methodist commemorative medals of this period. The top of the medal has been drilled, presumably to take a ribbon.
See also 2006/10350 in the Online Collection, the Conference Medal issued the following year, in 1837.
Commemorative Keyring
2013/13880/1
2000- / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / World Parish
Metal
2013
A keyring issued to commemorate the re-opening of the Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, after refurbishment in 2013. The keyring was commissioned by Kwanglim Methodist Church, South Korea, one of the donors to the refurbishment, and distributed on the day of re-opening.
Commemorative Badge
2018/15576
1950-2000 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal; printed
mid 1900s
A Junior Methodist Association (JMA) badge from the mid 1900s. The association has been renamed 'Junior Mission for All' and its purpose is to inspire children to learn about and support the mission of the Church in a fun, creative and engaging way.
Tercentenary Medal
2014/14196
2000- / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism
Metal
2003
This gilt-metal commemorative medal was issued in 2003 to mark the tercentenary of John Wesley's birth.
Bicentenary Medal
2005/10344
1950-2000 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / World Parish
Metal
1986
A medal commemorating two-hundred years of Methodist world mission, 1786-1986. The reverse of the medal bears a double portrait of John Wesley (1703-1791) and Thomas Coke (1747-1814).
Temperance Medal
2006/10768
1900-1950 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Temperance
Metal
1901
A medal issued to commemorate a temperance demonstration in Alford on June 12th, 1901. The 20th century had only just begun, so it seemed sensible to the organisers of the demonstration to commemorate this on the medal, and emphasise temperance as one of the goals of the 20th century.
Brooch
2006/10595
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Jewellery / Metal / Object / Wesleyana
Ceramic, metal (brooch); cardboard, leather, fabric (box)
mid 1800s
A jasperware ceramic cameo brooch of John Wesley in profile, looking left. Pieces of jewellery commemorating John Wesley such as this are less common than other ceramic memorabilia, including Wesley busts, crockery and small portraits for the home.
The cameo is in its original leather box. The brooch has additional fixings to enable the owner to wear the cameo as a pendant from a necklace.
Seals
2006/10596/1-2
1800-1850 / Object / Organic / Seal / Wesleyana
Horn
1800s
Two small pressed horn seals in the shape of Wesley busts, each with mother-of-pearl preaching bands. This particular seal appears to have been very popular; the museum owns several and occasionally one comes across them at collectors fairs and online.
Interestingly, the right-hand seal is more detailed and the modelling crisper than the left. Although both are by the same manufacturer, it is possible that a different mould was used in their production, or that the existing mould had been used many times prior to casting the left hand seal. This would have resulted in poorer detail.
See also seal 1998/6967 in the Online Collection.
Miniature Book
2008/11228
1800-1850 / Book / Cardboard / God & Faith / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper; cardboard; printed
Published by the Religious Tract Society, Paternoster Row, London, 1800s
A novelty publication by the Religious Tract Society, 'Small Rain Upon The Tender Herb'. This miniature book is only 2.5cm (1 inch) high but printed on every page. It was probably meant as a gift item for a child. The booklet would appear to have been popular, as this is the 12th edition.
Cardboard Box
1994/2789/1-2
1800-1850 / Cardboard / John Wesley / Object / Other / Paper / Wesleyana
Cardboard; paper; ink
c.1840-60
Very small pink cardboard box with a piece of paper signed by John Wesley attached to the top. Wesley's signature was probably cut out from a letter and the paper then attached to the box. It is a typical mid 1800s 'Wesleyana' item, celebrating John Wesley.
Commemorative Key
2006/10650/1-2
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Leather / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal (key, dedication plate); cardboard, fabric (box)
1923
This commemorative key in its original box was presented to Mrs R. P. Baines on opening an extension to the Seven Kings United Methodist Church and School on Jan 27th, 1923. The presentation of a key at ceremonial openings of Methodist buildings was established practice by the 1920s, although this key and box are more elaborate than many of that period.
Commemorative Key
2006/10649
1850-1900 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Metal
1895
Commemorative key, presented to the Rev. J. B. Knipp on June 4th, 1895 at the opening of the Primitive Methodist Book Depot in Aldersgate Street, London
This key follows the tradition of opening Methodist buildings with an opening ceremony and the presentation of a symbolic key or trowel. But this key is unusual. Even by the standards of the time it is very elaborate, large and the materials costly. The key was made from hallmarked sterling silver gilt, and with 'teeth' in the shape of the initials of the person conducting the opening ceremony ('JBK'). It is perhaps somewhat grand for celebrating the opening of a Book Depot by a Primitive Methodist minister.
See also the other commemorative keys, trowels and foundation stones in the Online Collection.
Statuette
2006/10598
1850-1900 / Metal / Other / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Metal
Probably mid to late 1800s
This small metal statuette of John Wesley with outstretched arm as if giving a blessing might have been used as a small paperweight.
Directions to Penitents and Believers
2006/10727
1800-1850 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
Published by John Mason, Wesleyan Conference Office, City Road, London, 1842
In 1780, John Wesley wrote and published his 'Directions to Penitents and Believers For Renewing Their Covenant With God'. The pamphlet outlined the purpose and contents of the Covenant Service, a distinctive Methodist service which renews the believers' commitment to Christ and the Church.
Wesley held the first Methodist Covenant Service on 11th August, 1755 and the service has become one of the pillars of the Methodist Faith. This edition of the pamphlet dates to 1842.
Bodkin and Case
1800-1850 / Metal / Metalwork / Other / Wesleyana / Wood
Metal (bodkin); wood (case)
c.1800
The definition of a bodkin according to the Cambridge English Dictionary is 'a large needle that does not have a sharp point, used especially for pulling a strip of material through cloth'. It can also be small instrument with a sharp point for making holes in leather or fabric.
This commemorative bodkin and case date to around 1800 and the bodkin bears the name of John Wesley. The bodkin didn't belong to Wesley but it is nonetheless very interesting. It shows that Methodism and commemoration of Wesley were widespread at the time, especially among working people and also women.
Quill Pen Holder
1800-1850 / Object / Organic / Other / Wesleyana
Nacre; metal
c.1780-1810
This nacre (or mother-of-pearl) pen with a bust of John Wesley was used as a holder for feather quills. It is, effectively, the precursor of the fountain pen. A quill would be cut from a feather by retaining only an inch or so of the 'stalk' of the feather. This was then slid into the metal aperture and cut at the end, to retain ink when dipping the quill end into an inkwell.
Roundel
2006/10540
1800-1850 / Other / Paper / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, paper (printed)
1800s
This wooden roundel encloses a printed note card which reads "Part of the Sycamore Tree planted in Epworth Church Yard at the Birth of the Rev. John Wesley by his Father. Wesleyan Centenary 1839."
Quite a few of these roundels were made; they are typical pieces of 'Wesleyana' popular in the 1800s. See also other wooden items made from a sycamore tree from Epworth churchyard in the Online Collection.
Piece of ‘Wesley’s Tree’, West Sussex
2006/10524
1800-1850 / Other / Paper / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood, paper, ink
1800s/early 1900s
The label on this piece of wood explains it was taken from 'Wesley's Tree, Winchelsea, Sussex'. John Wesley preached his last outdoor sermon beneath this tree on October 7th, 1790.
For other wood samples of this tree, and objects made from this and other trees associated with Wesley, see the Online Collection, for instance 1998/7115.
Print Picture
1997/6409
1800-1850 / Engraving / Glass / Paper / Print / Printing & Publishing / Wesleyana / Wood
Wood (frame); paper, printed (image)
1839
As he lay dying, John Wesley's last words were 'The Best of all is, God is with us'. These words have become central to the Methodist Faith. They are reproduced in this printed image with laurel leaves issued to commemorate the centenary of Wesleyan Methodism in 1839.
Box
2006/10522
1800-1850 / Other / Wesleyana / Wood / Woodwork
Wood
c.1853
This wooden box is inscribed: "Part of the Tree planted by the Rev. J. Wesley. Born at Epworth, June 17th, 1703. Died in London, Mar, 2nd, 1791. Made for Read & Co. Epworth".
The box contains a printed slip signed by the minister of Epworth Church dated Jan, 24th, 1853, verifying that the box was indeed cut from wood of this particular sycamore tree in Epworth churchyard.
There are some wooden roundels in the museum's collection (see Online Collection, 2006/10540) which purport to have been cut from the sycamore tree John Wesley's father Samuel Wesley planted in the churchyard at Epworth to commemorate the birth of his son John. Likely, the trees in question were one and the same.
John Wesley’s Study
2014/14268
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1900
An early postcard view of John Wesley's Study, with Wesley's bookcase to the left. Note the decorative arrangement of Church pewter collection plates above the door, and Susanna Wesley's tombstone to the left of the bookcase. Susanna's tombstone was replaced a number of times over the years as the stone and wording began to disintegrate.
Compare also to the other views of Wesley's Study in the Online Collection to see how the layout and displays of the room have changed over the years.
John Wesley’s Bedroom
2019/15976
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard printed on paper
c.1950
A mid 1900s postcard view of John Wesley's bedroom, with Wesley's prayer closet beyond. Wesley's teapot stands in a glass case on top of a chest of drawers. Note the stripped pine panelling and door. All of the woodwork inside Wesley's House was stripped during 1930s refurbishment works in the (mistaken) belief that Georgian woodwork was usually left unpainted.
Compare also to the other views of Wesley's bedroom in the Online Collection to see how the layout and displays in this room have changed over the years.
John Wesley’s Study
2013/13775
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1995
A black and white photograph of John Wesley's Study taken in the mid 1990s, shortly after extensive refurbishment of John Wesley's House. The refurbishment returned the rooms to something of their appearance during Wesley's occupation of the house, 1779-1791.
Note the longcase clock by Claude Duchesne (c.1670-1733) on the right hand side next to the window and a portrait of John Wesley by Hunter (fl. 1752-1803) above the fireplace.
Preachers’ Bedroom
2013/13782
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1995
This black and white photograph shows the second-floor Preachers' Bedroom inside John Wesley's House. It was taken in the mid 1990s, shortly after extensive refurbishment of John Wesley's House. The refurbishment returned the rooms to something of their appearance during Wesley's occupation of the house, 1779-1791.
This particular room was decorated and furnished in a slightly later style of about 1800-1820, to show the continuing use of John Wesley's House as a manse after Wesley's death.
Prayer Closet
2013/13781
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1995
A black and white photograph of John Wesley's Prayer Closet taken in the mid 1990s, shortly after extensive refurbishment of John Wesley's House. The refurbishment returned the rooms to something of their appearance during Wesley's occupation of the house, 1779-1791.
John Wesley rose early, and it is said he spent an hour every morning in his prayer closet when in London, preparing for his day. The closet is sometimes referred to as the 'powerhouse' of Methodism.
Visit of the Prime Minister II
2019/16024
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1980
Margaret Hilda Thatcher, Baroness Thatcher (1925-2013) was married and her children baptized at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Here she is shown in John Wesley's House around 1980, attending an official function and surrounded by the Superintendent of the Chapel, the Curator and the Mayor of Islington.
See also photograph 2019/16023 in the Online Collection.
Visit of the Prime Minister
2019/16023
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1980
Margaret Hilda Thatcher, Baroness Thatcher (1925-2013) was married and her children baptized at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Here she is shown outside John Wesley's House around 1980, attending an official event in the capacity as PM, giving a speech.
Her pose next to a tombstone recalls John Wesley preaching from his father's tomb.
See also photograph 2019/16024 in the Online Collection.
The Museum of Methodism
2007/11001
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism
Photograph
c.2004
The Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel, City Road explores the development of Methodism in Britain and overseas. It receives many thousands of visitors every year. This photograph shows a visitor group watching the introductory film, prior to the museum's refurbishment in 2013.
Visitors at the Museum of Methodism
2007/11031
2000- / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism
Photograph
c.2000
A black and white photograph showing visitors exploring the Museum of Methodism in around 2000. The museum is located in the former crypt of Wesley's Chapel, City Road. It was opened in 1984 and fully refurbished between 2012 and 2016.
Manse at Wesley’s Chapel
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
A black and white view of the manse at Wesley's Chapel undergoing refurbishment in the 1970s.
The manse was built in the late 1800s to provide more spacious accommodation than John Wesley's House. It was built in brick like the Chapel and in Italianate style fashionable at the time.
Manse at Wesley’s Chapel during Restoration Works
1995/4122/1
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
A photograph of the manse at Wesley's Chapel in course of restoration. The work was carried out as part of a major Chapel refurbishment scheme which lasted for most of the 1970s. The photograph shows the fitting of new roof timbers.
Manse and Front Garden at Wesley’s Chapel
1995/4123/1
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1970
A black and white photograph of the manse and its front garden at Wesley's Chapel around 1970. The manse and Chapel were about to undergo extensive restoration works, which included re-landscaping of the garden.
Susanna Wesley Memorial
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Wesley Family / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
A black and white photograph of Susanna Wesley's memorial, the front garden and manse at Wesley's Chapel.
The memorial was erected by public subscription in 1870, but it does not mark Susanna's grave. She was buried in Bunhill Fields graveyard, opposite the Chapel, in 1742. This was some thirty-six years before Wesley's Chapel in City Road was built.
Wesley’s Chapel and Courtyard
1995/4138/5
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1940-50s
This black and white photograph of the Chapel shows a prominent cupola, or roof light, on top of the Chapel's roof. This was installed in the 1800s, as a decorative vent for the heat and smoke issuing from the newly-installed Chapel gas lighting.
The cupola was removed in the 1970s restoration works. Electrical lighting made the vent redundant.
Wesley’s Chapel and Forecourt
2009/12098
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1960
A large black and white photograph of Wesley's Chapel and forecourt dating to c. 1960. On the plinth of John Wesley's statue are advertised the weekly services, led by Reverend Ronald Spivey.
Wesley’s Grave and Garden
2009/11948
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1985
A black and white photograph showing John Wesley's grave in the Chapel garden in the mid 1980s, following major building work and a new layout of the Chapel's burial ground. Many graves were exhumed and remains reburied elsewhere, the most prominent, including Wesley's, being retained.
Wesley’s Grave and New Building
2009/11949
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1982
A black and white photograph of Wesley's grave, showing parts of the redesigned graveyard and the new office building at the back of the Chapel.
The new office block was constructed in the early 1980s. The design incorporated a mirrored facade, in which can be seen the reflection of the Chapel apse and garden.
Susanna Wesley Memorial and John Wesley’s House
2009/12011
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / The Wesley Family
Photograph
c.1965
Black and white photograph of Susanna Wesley's memorial and John Wesley's House. Attached to the house on the right hand side of the image is an office building, constructed in the late 1950s.
Building Works
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
The photograph shows the major building works undertaken in the 1970s to save Wesley's Chapel. The works centred on the Chapel, but ultimately included work to most of the buildings onsite and the Chapel forecourt. This image shows the forecourt prior to re-paving.
John Wesley’s House and Forecourt
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1970s
John Wesley's House was one of the few buildings on campus which did not undergo refurbishment during the large-scale restoration works at Wesley's Chapel in the 1970s.
The works took years to complete and included the 'Benson' office building, so the site's administration office was moved temporarily into John Wesley's House. Note the red sign on the railings in this photograph of the time which reads 'Wesley's Chapel Office and Enquiries'.
Chapel Courtyard
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1977
A photograph of the major building works at Wesley's Chapel undertaken in the 1970s. Here, the courtyard re-paving in front of the Chapel is seen nearing completion.
See also the other photographs of the 1970s refurbishment works of the Chapel, courtyard and ancillary buildings in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Monument, Chapel and Tomb
2010/12436
1900-1950 / Paper / Photograph / Postcard / Wesley's Chapel
Postcard printed on paper
c.1920-40
An unusual black and white composite postcard dating to the interwar years, c. 1919-39. Many of the older buildings surrounding Wesley's Chapel were bombed during WWII, including the large window-fronted building visible behind Wesley's tomb.
John Wesley’s Monument
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
prior 1940
Black and white photograph of John Wesley's tomb monument taken in the early 1900s. Compare also to other photographs and postcards of Wesley's monument in the Online Collection.
Martha Hall Commemorative Plaque
2010/12449
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Wesley Family / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1950s
Black and white photograph of Martha Hall's memorial plaque on John Wesley's monument at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Martha Hall, nee Wesley (1706-1791) was John Wesley's younger sister. She was married to Wes(t)ley Hall, a clergyman, in 1735 and they had 10 children, none of whom reached adulthood. Wes(t)ley was unfaithful to Martha and had many mistresses, eventually running off to the West Indies and leaving Martha behind.
In later life, Martha pursued a lively social life in London, her acquaintances including Dr Samuel Johnson (1709-1784). She died four months after John in 1791 and was buried beside him in the same crypt.
Wesley’s Chapel and Forecourt
2010/12460
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1930
A black and white photograph of Wesley's Chapel, showing the layout of the forecourt before re-landscaping. In Wesley's day and in keeping with the fashions of the time, the approach to the Chapel was strictly symmetrical. In the 1970s a softer scheme was introduced, with elements of asymmetry, including curved pathways.
John Wesley’s Statue
2010/12464
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1970
A black and white photograph of John Wesley's statue looking towards City Road, dated c.1970. The large, modern building in the background had only recently been built; it has since been replaced with another high rise block of flats.
John Wesley’s Tomb
2010/12633
1950-2000 / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Postcard / Wesley's Chapel
Postcard printed on paper
1965-75
An early colour postcard of John Wesley's tomb monument. The photograph was taken before the graveyard behind the Chapel was redeveloped.
Former Vestry
1995/4109
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1950-60
This unusual photograph gives a view of the former vestry at Wesley's Chapel. The vestry was a small building attached to the Chapel which was used as an office and for changing into ceremonial robes.
The vestry would appear to have been built shortly after the Chapel, probably around 1820. It was located at the back of the Chapel close to John Wesley's tomb (which can be seen in the photograph). The vestry was demolished around 1980 when the graveyard was redeveloped, which included the construction of an office block over part of the land.
Bomb Damage
1995/2955
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1945
The black and white photograph shows bomb damage next to the manse at Wesley's Chapel during WWII. The area around the Chapel in City Road was bombed heavily, but the Chapel and ancillary buildings survived virtually intact.
John Wesley’s House
1992/549/3
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1900
A black and white photograph from one of the earliest sets of images of the Chapel and its buildings published in about 1900.
The front garden still has the original square walkways. The window treatments, with half-height curtains and Venetian wood blinds, are still very much like John Wesley would have known them.
Site Model
1993/1308/1
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
Late 1970s
A black and white photograph of the model of Wesley's Chapel, its buildings, gardens and courtyard. The model dates to the late 1970s.
At the time, extensive rebuilding on site was under discussion. This included the demolition of the vestry house, the site of the morning chapel (Philadelphia Room) and the Benson office building block, at the front of the Chapel. The model included the rebuilt sections, distinguishable as the black (mirror) fronted and light-grey flat-roofed sections at the 'top' and right hand side of the model.
Eventually, the Benson office building and the morning chapel (Philadelphia Room) were retained and new construction was confined to the back of the Chapel, partially over and to the side of the old graveyard.
Chapel Roof on Fire
1995/2951/4
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1952
A fire on 25th November 1952 had the potential to become devastating, but swift action by the fire brigade ensured that the damage was minor. In the photograph, smoke can be seen rising from the Chapel roof and fire fighters are investigating the cause of the blaze.
See also other images of this fire in the Online Collection.
Chapel Roof on Fire II
1995/2951/2
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1952
A fire on 25th November 1952 had the potential to become devastating, but swift action by the fire brigade ensured that the damage was minor. In the photograph, smoke can be seen rising from the Chapel roof and fire fighters are investigating the cause of the blaze.
See also other images of this fire in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Monument
1995/4111
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1900
Black and white photograph of the Chapel graveyard and John Wesley's tomb monument taken on a winter's day in the early 1900s.
Graveyard and John Wesley’s Tomb
1995/4113
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1919-39
A black and white photograph of the Chapel's graveyard and John Wesley's tomb in the interwar years, c. 1919-39.
Compare to other photographs of Wesley's tomb and this area of the site in the Online Collection.
Wesley’s Chapel
1995/4137
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1950
This black and white photograph shows an unusual side view of Wesley's Chapel, taken from the garden (or rear). The photograph was taken before redevelopment of the graveyard in the late 1970s.
See also the other views of the Chapel's garden in the Online Collection.
Donald English Memorial Window
2007/11070
2000- / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
2003
The Donald English Memorial Window, 'God as Fire', by Mark Cazalet (b.1964) in the process of being installed at Wesley's Chapel in 2003.
Dr. Donald English, CBE (1930-1998) was a prominent Methodist minister and leader. He was twice-President of the Methodist Conference and a well-known speaker and author. He received a number of honorary doctorates in America and in Britain, and was awarded the CBE in 1996.
Donald English Memorial Window II
2007/11070/4
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
2003
The Donald English Memorial Window, 'God as Fire', by Mark Cazalet (b.1964). See also the image showing the window being installed, 2007/11070.
Dr. Donald English, CBE (1930-1998) was a prominent Methodist minister and leader. He was twice-President of the Methodist Conference and a well-known speaker and author. He received a number of honorary doctorates in America and in Britain, and was awarded the CBE in 1996.
Garden Preparation Works
2008/11261
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
early 1980s
This photograph shows the start of the graveyard clearance works, prior to building the office block at the back of the Chapel and re-landscaping. Young members of the Chapel can be seen burning leaves and wood.
Susanna Wesley Memorial
2008/11371/1
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Wesley Family / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1970
A black and white photograph of the commemorative inscription on Susanna Wesley's memorial, in the grounds of Wesley's Chapel.
Susanna Wesley (1669-1742) was Revd. John Wesley's mother. She was buried in 1742 opposite Wesley's Chapel, then a 'tenter' (or cloth-drying) ground, in Bunhill Fields burial ground. The memorial was erected by public subscription in 1870.
Wesley’s Chapel and Grounds
2008/11631
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph of the Chapel, manse and grounds taken in September 1990. Note there are no railings (other than gates) at the front of the site; the metal railings were removed sometime in the early 1900s. The present day railings are copies of the originals.
Wesley’s Chapel Garden
2008/11637
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph of the Chapel garden, looking from beneath the new office block towards John Wesley's tomb monument and the Chapel.
Post-WWII Rebuilding
2012/13501
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1962
The black and white photograph shows the rear of the Chapel in the early 1960s. WWII bombings caused a lot of damage in the streets around the Chapel, which took years to clear and rebuild. The photograph gives a very good view of the Chapel graveyard and John Wesley's tomb prior to re-landscaping works in the early 1980s.
Wesley’s Chapel Garden
2008/11671
2000- / Colour / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2005
A view of Wesley's tomb at Wesley's Chapel in the early 2000s. In the background can be seen the mirrored office building built over part of the site in the early 1980s.
The former graveyard today is a commemorative garden, which is used by the local community and visitors to the site.
Pilgrims and Visitors
2017/15343/1
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1970
Coaches in front of the Chapel site, as seen in this photograph dating to around 1970, are nothing unusual. Wesley's Chapel, the Museum of Methodism and John Wesley's House are visited by many pilgrims and other visitors every year, many of whom come from abroad and arrive in groups.
These days, buses are only allowed to drop off visitors outside the Chapel gates, they may no longer park in City Road.
Clearance Works
2012/13467
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
early 1980s
A birds-eye view of the Chapel's graveyard in the process of being re-landscaped. Only John Wesley's tomb remains, boxed-in for protection.
See also 2012/13466 in the Online Collection for a view of the Chapel and vestry house at this time and 2012/13472, 2012/13483 and 2012/13492 for other views of the works.
Clearance Works II
2012/13466
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
early 1980s
Another view of the graveyard clearance and re-landscaping works of the early 1980s. The vestry house next to the Chapel, about to be demolished, can be seen to the right in this image.
See also 2012/13467 in the Online Collection for a view of the other side of the graveyard at this time and 2012/13472, 2012/13483 and 2012/13492 for general views of the works.
Clearance Works III
2012/13472
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
early 1980s
During the clearance and re-landscaping works of the Chapel's graveyard in the early 1980s, most grave markers were removed. Many can be seen in this photograph stacked together against the Chapel, others lying in the foreground of the image.
Many of the grave markers were later used to create a floor covering in the Chapel's crypt (today's Museum of Methodism). Any human remains found at the time were transferred and re-interred in a graveyard in south London.
See also 2012/13466, 2012/13467, 2012/13483 and 2012/13492 in the Online Collection for other views of the clearance works.
Clearance Works IV
2012/13483
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
early 1980s
This photograph of the graveyard during clearance was taken from the roof of the vestry house at the back of the Chapel, soon to be demolished. John Wesley's boxed-in tomb is not visible in this image but was just to the right-hand side of this photograph.
See also 2012/13466, 2012/13467, 2012/13472 and 2012/13492 in the Online Collection for other views of the clearance works.
Clearance Works V
2012/13492
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
Early 1980s
This photograph of the vestry house behind Wesley's Chapel is one of the last images taken before the house was demolished.
See also 2012/13466, 2012/13467, 2012/13472 and 2012/13483 in the Online Collection for other views of the clearance works.
Office Building Construction
2012/13494
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
March 1983
The photo shows the graveyard of Wesley's Chapel after clearance, in readiness for the construction of an office block. John Wesley's tomb can be seen in the foreground, the temporary barracks for the workmen constructing the new building in the background.
See also photographs 2012/13495 and 2012/13500/3 of the construction process in the Online Collection.
Office Building Construction II
2012/13495
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
March 1983
The image shows the dug-out area for the foundations of the new office building to be constructed in Wesley's Chapel's former graveyard. At the back can be seen the remains of the vestry house, which was demolished to make way for the office block.
See also photographs 2012/13494 and 2012/13500/3 of the construction process in the Online Collection.
Office Building Construction III
2012/13500/3
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
April 1983
The office block covering part of the former graveyard at Wesley's Chapel under construction. The foundations are laid; John Wesley's tomb and monument are boxed-in.
See also photographs 2012/13494 and 2012/13495 of the construction process in the Online Collection.
John Wesley Blue Plaque
2011/12971
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1990
A photograph of the 'blue' plaque fixed to John Wesley's House. The plaque was made by Royal Doulton and installed by the London County Council ('LCC') in the interwar years (1919-1939).
Blue plaques are permanent markers installed on a public building or in a public place in Britain, and specifically in London. They commemorate links between historic places or buildings, and the people who lived or worked in them. The London scheme was launched in 1866 and has since been administered by the Society of Arts (1866-1901), the London County Council (1901-1965), the Greater London Council (1965-1985) and English Heritage (1986 to date).
Commemorative Plaque
2009/11967
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1978
A black and white photograph of the plaque commemorating the great Chapel refurbishment of the 1970s. This was completed in 1978. The plaque was installed in the Chapel Vestibule and unveiled at the re-opening ceremony in November that year.
John Rattenbury Memorial
2000- / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
Photograph of the marble memorial of the the Rev. John Rattenbury (1806-1879) at Wesley's Chapel. Rattenbury joined the Wesleyan Methodist Society in Manchester at the age of sixteen, soon becoming a local preacher and later a minister. He was elected President of the Conference in 1861.
Perhaps his greatest achievement lay in the foundation of a whole dynasty of Methodist ministers, including his sons and grandsons.
William Fiddian Moulton Memorial
2000- / Colour / Leysian Mission / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
Photograph of the memorial to Revd. William Fiddian Moulton (1835-1898) at Wesley's Chapel.
A scientist as well as minister by training, Moulton rose quickly to a teaching appointment at Richmond College in 1858. In 1875, he moved to Cambridge and founded The Leys School where he remained as Headmaster until his death in 1891. Moulton established The Leysian Mission in London and became President of the Methodist Conference in 1890-1891. Throughout his career, he contributed to scholarly debates and published academic works, in particular in relation to the Bible.
See also the engraving 1992/174 of the Revd. Moulton in the Online Collection.
Conversion Window
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1950
If one looks up to the gallery on the north side of Wesley's Chapel, one can see the 1920s 'Conversion Window'. It shows John Wesley and his brother Charles  singing  Charles’   ‘conversion’  hymn,   ‘Where  shall  my   wondering  soul  begin?’   The window commemorates the conversion experiences of the Wesleys which took place in the Aldersgate area of London in 1738.
This black and white photograph of the window dates to around 1950.
Chapel Interior with Organ
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1930
A black and white Chapel interior image dating to c.1930. The organ can be seen on the north balcony to the left. It was one of two, the other (on the south balcony, opposite the other, but not visible in this image) was a dummy organ, installed for symmetry. Both organs were removed in the mid 1930s and a new, larger one constructed on the west balcony.
Organ
2010/12385
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
Mid 1900s
This black and white photograph shows the newly-constructed organ at Wesley's Chapel shortly after installation in the late 1930s.
The traditional design of the organ was determined by the decision to re-use materials from the previous Chapel organ dating to the 1890s.
Thomas Jackson Memorial
1995/3348/2
Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1995
A photograph of the marble memorial to Thomas Jackson (1783-1873) at Wesley's Chapel.
Jackson was a Wesleyan Methodist minister, historian and scholar. He served as Connexional Editor (1824-37 and 1839-41) and theological tutor at Richmond College (1842-61). In 1838 he became President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference and played an active part in the Wesleyan Centenary celebrations in 1839.
Radnor Hall
1992/349/2
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1900
This early black and white view shows today's 'Radnor Hall', a large room adjacent to Wesley's Chapel.
When this photograph was taken around 1900, this room was still known as the 'Morning Chapel', and the doors in the end wall led to the vestry (now demolished). Church gatherings and Sunday School would have taken place in this room. The Radnor Hall is still used for gatherings of all kinds, including church and other meetings, and child creche facilities.
Lobby
2008/11642
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph showing the lobby outside the Radnor Hall (the former Morning Chapel) at Wesley's Chapel.
The stairs to the right led into the former crypt area, which in the 1980s had been converted into the Museum of Methodism. The stairs were removed shortly after, as the area between the two staircases and leading into the Radnor Hall was too cramped, as visible in this image. The stairs into the basement today form a continuation of the main staircase to the left.
Foundery Chapel
2008/11646
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
An image of the small 'Foundery Chapel' at Wesley's Chapel. It was named after John Wesley's 'Foundery', which once stood close-by in Tabernacle Street.
The room was added to the Chapel complex in the 1890s, together with large ladies and gents' lavatories and a new entrance to the garden of Wesley's Chapel.
Wesley’s Chapel Interior
2008/11650
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
An unusual black and white view of the Chapel interior, taken from beneath the balcony. The architectural detail and the Chapel monuments are captured very well.
Chapel Pews
2008/11654
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A photograph of the Chapel pews; and the photographer has captured a sunbeam falling through the Chapel's stained glass windows onto them.
The pews are made of oak, and each one is carved with a different roundel. They extend, as can be seen in the image, to accommodate additional worshippers during busy services. The pews were installed in the 1890s, replacing the original plain 'box' pews.
Monument to John Wesley
2008/11657
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph of the marble monument inside Wesley's Chapel commemorating its founder, John Wesley. The monument features symbolic carvings, including a trumpet and a globe.
Thomas Coke Memorial
2008/11662
1950-2000 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
Photograph in black and white of the memorial to Thomas Coke (1747-1814) at Wesley's Chapel.
John Wesley first met Thomas Coke in 1776 and sent him to America in the 1780s to oversee the development of Methodism there. Later, he became the first Methodist Bishop in America.
Coke was particularly interested in establishing Methodist Missions abroad and overseas, which is why he is often referred to as the father of Methodist missions.
Organ
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / The Foundery / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1995
Photograph of the small organ in the Foundery Chapel at Wesley's Chapel. The organ case is made from mahogany and dates to the early 1800s.
It is believed that this organ was played by Charles Wesley junior (1757-1834) who was a child prodigy and later became a well-known organist.
Wesley’s Chapel Interior
2012/13326
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
Photograph of an engraving showing the Chapel's interior around 1870. There are gas lights all around the balcony and green wooden Venetian (slatted) blinds in the apse.
The image gives a good impression of what the Chapel interior looked like before major alterations were carried out in the 1890s and early 1900s, including the insertion of stained glass windows and new pews.
Ceiling Detail
2012/13563
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1978
Ceiling detail photograph taken during the Chapel refurbishment works of the 1970s.
During a fire in the late 1800s, the Chapel ceiling collapsed. Fortunately, the original ceiling plaster moulds were still in existence and the ceiling elements could be recast and the ceiling design re-instated.
Crypt Refurbishment
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1975
This 1970s photograph shows the works to stabilize the foundations of the Chapel and refurbish the crypt.
See also the other images of the crypt refurbishment in the Online Collection.
Crypt Refurbishment II
2003/8977
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1975
This 1970s black and white photograph shows the stairs leading down to the Chapel crypt during works to stabilize the foundations.
See also the other images of the crypt refurbishment in the Online Collection.
Crypt Refurbishment III
2003/8976
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1975
This 1970s black and white photograph shows new - if muddy - stairs leading down to the Chapel crypt during works to stabilize the foundations.
In the 1980s, this space was redesigned to house The Museum of Methodism.
See also the other images of the crypt refurbishment in the Online Collection.
Chapel Refurbishment
1995/4120
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1930-35
Black and white photograph of the Chapel apse during a refurbishment in the 1930s. The wall immediately surrounding the apse is still painted a dark colour - a remnant of the 1800s colour scheme. To the left of the apse the wall is partially stripped, and the wooden battens (usually plastered over) may be seen.
Note the traditional wooden scaffolding.
Crypt Refurbishment IV
2019/15997
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
late 1970s
This 1970s photograph shows the Chapel crypt. Works to stabilize the Chapel foundations are almost complete.
Shortly after, this space was redesigned to house The Museum of Methodism.
See also the other images of the crypt refurbishment in the Online Collection.
Chapel Postcard
2019/15991
1900-1950 / Paper / Photograph / Postcard / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
c.1901-04
An early postcard showing the interior of Wesley's Chapel. The postcard was part of a series showing different views of the Chapel and site published by the Methodist Publishing House in the early 1900s.
Memorials to William Morley Punshon and Gervase Smith
2019/15954
2000- / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
Photograph of the memorials to William Morley Punshon (1824-1881) and Gervase Smith (821-1882).
Morley Punshon was President of the Methodist Conference in 1874, following his Presidency of the Canadian Methodist Conference. Smith was President of the Methodist Conference in 1875.
Pulpit
2014/14120
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1968 reprint
This black and white photograph is a reprint of one taken around 1880. The original is one of the earliest detailed images of the mahogany pulpit at Wesley's Chapel. The pulpit dates to the 1770s and it was a gift from one of John Wesley's supporters.
Simple but elegant wooden stairs curve upward to the reading platform. Originally, the pulpit had three levels. It was cut down after raked seating was installed on the second floor level of the Chapel in the 1860s and the preacher (standing on the top level of the pulpit) could be seen more easily.
Also visible in the image are the original Chapel box pews, which were replaced in the early 1890s.
Donald Soper Memorial
2016/15138/1
2000- / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.2000
Photograph of the bust commemorating the life of Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903–1998). Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit. The bust was installed at the Chapel around 2000.
See also other images of this bust, Soper's portable preaching stand and the cartoon of Soper preaching in the Online Collection.
Interior
2011/13059/1
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1980
A view of the Dining Room inside John Wesley's House prior to refurbishment in the 1990s. The woodwork is stripped, which was done in the 1930s in the belief that all Georgian panelling and interior woodwork was either bare or waxed.
John Wesley’s Prayer Closet
2011/13021
1950-2000 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard
Postcard
c.1980
The postcard shows John Wesley's prayer room or closet on the first floor of Wesley's house in around 1980. The prayer closet is a small room located off Wesley's bedroom, at the back of the house. The 'lowboy' or side table was probably in the house in John Wesley's day, the other furnishings are of the right period but were probably acquired later.
Wesley’s Prayer Closet
1994/2935
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
late 1800s
This early photograph shows John Wesley's prayer room or closet on the first floor of Wesley's house in around 1890. The image shows the room probably just after the house ceased to be used as a manse and before the rooms became a dedicated museum.
Compare also with the postcard of this room dating to around 1980, 2011/13021, in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s Study
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1900
One of the earliest photographs of Wesley's Study. Various objects and furniture - at the time usually referred to as the 'relics' - are on show throughout the room. Wesley's bookcase houses a collection of ceramics, and there is another display case in the middle of the Study.
To the left of the bookcase, and very prominent in this picture, is Susanna Wesley's tombstone. Susanna's tombstone in Bunhill Fields (opposite the Chapel) was replaced a number of times over the years as the stone and wording began to disintegrate. This was the original grave marker.
Compare also to various other views of Wesley's Study in the Online Collection to see how the layout and displays of the room have changed over time.
John Wesley Museum
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1900
This black and white photograph shows Wesley's bedroom inside John Wesley's House in about 1900. It was one of three first floor museum rooms opened in 1898 to show the 'relics', as objects with a Wesley collection at the Chapel were then referred to. The minister and his family had just moved out of the house and into a new manse, on the other side of the courtyard.
Stairs
2012/13600
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1935-50
The photograph shows the stairs inside John Wesley's House following the 1930s refurbishment of the house and stripping of the paint on the woodwork.
In the right hand bottom corner of the image can just be made out parts of a stained glass window featuring John Wesley, installed in this position in a few years before this picture was taken and removed in the 1990s.
John Wesley’s House Interior
2012/13607
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1935-1950
The photograph shows the second floor front room inside John Wesley's House. The tree trunk in the centre of the image was part of the 'Wesley Tree' in Winchelsea, East Sussex, under which Wesley preached his last outdoor sermon in October 1790. It is now on display in the Museum of Methodism.
Cockfighting Chair
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1935-50
A photograph from the early to mid 1900s showing the 'cockfighting', or study, chair, in John Wesley's Study.
With broad armrests that form a yoke with the back rail and to which a collapsible reading desk is attached, this type of chair became known as a 'cockfighting' chair, because it was often illustrated in paintings and engravings of 18th century cockfights. Cockfights were a popular - if cruel and bloody - pastime in the 1700s and often took place in the backyards of inns and pubs.
See also the other images of Wesley's Study and this chair in the Online Collection.
Closet Fireplace
2012/13638
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1950-60
Black and white photograph of a fireplace inside one of the five closet-room extensions inside John Wesley's House.
Each of the five floors of Wesley's House has a small closet located in an extension. The extension is located at the back of the house and all the rooms in it - one per floor - are significantly smaller than the front rooms. This arrangement was quite typical of London town houses of the 1700 and early 1800s, and these small rooms were considered private. John Wesley had his prayer closet in the room off his bedroom on the first floor of the house.
Original Paintwork I
2012/13651
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1994
The photograph was taken in the hallway of John Wesley's House, during refurbishment works in the early 1990s.
It shows some of the original interior paintwork, after removal of wallpaper on top. The building plans of the house specified that the interior woodwork was to be painted three times in oil in a 'French grey', and a number of the principal rooms were to be ready for 'papering'.
French grey was commonly chosen to paint house interiors in the mid to late 1700s, as it was a cheap and serviceable colour. It was a somewhat indeterminable hue between grey and green and was often used on woodwork and plaster, as in this instance. In Georgian times, only rooms of high status and in better-off households were painted in colours such as yellow, light pink or blue.
Original Paintwork II
2012/13697
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1994
The photograph was taken in the second floor front room of John Wesley's House, during refurbishment works in the early 1990s.
It shows some of the original interior paintwork, after removal of wallpaper on top. The building plans of the house specified that the interior woodwork was to be painted three times in oil in a 'French grey', and a number of the principal rooms were to be ready for 'papering'.
French grey was commonly chosen to paint house interiors in the mid to late 1700s, as it was a cheap and serviceable colour. It was a somewhat indeterminable hue between grey and green and was often used on woodwork and plaster, as in this instance. In Georgian times, only rooms of high status and in better-off households were painted in colours such as yellow, light pink or blue.
See also image 2012/13651 showing the same colour in the hallway.
Original Paintwork III
2012/13681
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1994
This photograph was taken in the first floor Study of John Wesley's House, during refurbishment works in the early 1990s. It shows some of the original interior paintwork behind John Wesley's large mahogany bookcase, after the bookcase was removed for repainting the room.
Various paint schemes can be made out, but the original would appear to be a pearl (green) colour on the walls, and a darker green on the woodwork below. It is possible that the woodwork colour was originally 'French grey', a greyish-green, as this was specified for most of the house, but that it darkened with age and layers of grime.
As this was one of the rooms which was to readied for 'paper', according to the building plans, the finish on the upper wall is either a paper without pattern in a light pearl colour, or a paper which was painted over in this colour shortly after its installation. Either way, the colours give an idea of the appearance of the room in the late 1700s when Wesley lived in the house.
Note the geometric pattern on the upper wall. This is actually dust and grime, which has left an impression of the panelled back of the bookcase on the wall.
See also images 2012/13651 and 2012/13697 showing similar colours in the hallway and in a second floor room.
John Wesley’s House Interior
2019/16000
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1994
The photograph shows a third floor room in John Wesley's House during refurbishment in the 1990s. Today, this room is the Curator's office, but it may once have accommodated visiting preachers or, more likely, Wesley's housekeeper and her family.
The woodwork is largely original to the room, and the patches of green paint may be the original wall colour.
The Museum of Methodism
2014/14348
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1990
The Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel was opened in the crypt of the Chapel in 1984. This photograph shows the original display on circuits and circuit plans, helping to explain the organisational structure of Methodism.
The Museum of Methodism
2014/15293/4
2000- / Colour / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
2013
The Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel was opened in 1984 and fully refurbished between 2012 and 2016.
This photograph shows the museum after completion of the first phase of the refurbishment in 2013. The space features a central open or viewing area, with screens illustrating the life of John Wesley and the story of Methodism. This screens and the viewing area can be seen in the image.
Chapel Crypt
2019/15918/1
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1975
A photograph showing the crypt at Wesley's Chapel undergoing refurbishment works shortly before the installation of the Museum of Methodism in 1983-84.
Note of Theft
1995/4973/1
1900-1950 / Other / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
Engraving, c.1920
This reprint of a note dating to 1777 illustrates that thefts from building sites were just as common in Georgian times as they are today! The 10 guinea reward offered for the return of the tools was a great deal of money; sadly, we do not know whether the tools were ever returned.
The original note was found under wooden panelling inside the Morning Chapel (today's Radnor Hall) in 1864.
Wesley’s Chapel Apse
2014/14361
1950-2000 / Etching / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Etched on paper
Etching, c.2000
This etching shows the interior of Wesley's Chapel. The work was etched by David Carr (b.1939) and issued in a small edition of twenty; this one is etching no. 2.
The work was done by David Carr in about 2000. Carr carried out a series of etchings and painting of the Chapel around this time.
See also the other works by the artist in the Online Collection, including 2014/14359.
Wesley’s Chapel from Bunhill Fields
2014/14359
1950-2000 / Etching / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Etched on paper
Etching, c.2000
An etching of the exterior of Wesley's Chapel, seen from Bunhill Fields graveyard. John Wesley's House is to the right of the Chapel, the manse to the left.
The work was done by David Carr in about 2000. This one is no. 5 of a series of twenty. Carr carried out a series of etchings and painting of the Chapel around this time.
See also the other works by the artist in the Online Collection, including 2014/14361.
John Wesley
1998/7076
1900-1950 / Etching / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Etched on paper
Etching, c.1920
Etching of John Wesley by Ernest Herbert Whydale (1886-1952).
Whydale studied at the Westminster College of Art and at Camberwell. Nearly every year from 1910 to 1950, he displayed works at the Royal Academy. Whyedale was known for his etchings, a type pf printmaking, and in 1920 he became an associate member of the Royal Society of Painter-Etchers and Engravers.
John Wesley A.M.
1996/5923
1750-1800 / Engraving / John Wesley / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
mid/late1700s
Engraving of John Wesley, possibly by John Faber, after a painting by John Williams dated c. 1741. The original painting was done when Wesley was thirty-eight years old.
The Cockpit
2014/14307
1750-1800 / Engraving / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Original Engraved by William Hogarth (1697-1764), late 1700s
The engraving illustrates a cockfight taking place at the Royal Cockpit in Birdcage Walk, St James's Park. The print is inscribed at bottom left: 'Design'd and Engrav'd by Willm Hogarth', and at bottom right 'Published according to Act of Parliament Nov 5th 1759'.
See also the 'Cockfighting Chair' in the Online Collection.
Sailors at a Methodist Sermon
2014/14256
1800-1850 / Engraving / Methodism / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
1807
Satirical engraving by George Murgatroyd Woodward (1765-1809) entitled ‘Sailors at a Methodist Sermon’. The print was published by Walker in the Strand in 1807.
Woodward was an English humorous writer and caricaturist. He issued many similar engravings satirising Methodism, the established Church, the law and the state in the early 1800s. His drawings were nearly all etched by others, in particular Thomas Rowlandson, but also Charles Williams, Isaac Cruikshank, Piercy Roberts and others.
Portrait of John Wesley
1993/1844
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Lithograph / Methodism / Paper / Print
Lithograph on paper
mid 1800s
This unusual portrait of John Wesley consist of tiny script, which tells the early story of Methodism. Not many copies of this portrait are known.
Wesleyan Methodist Twentieth Century Fund Certificate
1993/614
1850-1900 / Certificate / Commemorative / Document / Methodism / Paper
Printed on paper
1899/1900
This certificate was issued to contributors to the Wesleyan Methodist Twentieth Century Fund.
In 1898, the Wesleyan Methodist Twentieth Century Fund or 'One million Guinea Fund' was launched at Wesley's Chapel in City Road, London. The fund was to finance the building of a centre for world Methodism and help Methodism expand further in Britain and overseas. No-one was allowed to donate more than one guinea, but a donation could also be made in the name of a loved one who had passed away or who had emigrated. The Fund was active for 10 years, until 1908, by which time over 1,025,000 donors had contributed £ 1,073, 682.
Some of the money was used to construct the Westminster Central Hall, and about £700,000 was left and was used to help build or enlarge Wesleyan chapels and Sunday Schools in Britain. The remainder was used to finance more missionaries overseas.
See also the medal issued to commemorate the Fund in the Online Collection.
1993/614
Stranger’s Friend Society Annual Accounts, 1786-91
1993/686/2
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1792
These accounts give a picture of the dealings of the Methodist Stranger's Friend Society in Bristol in the late 1700s. Similar societies were set up in a number of British towns at the time, and they were a significant part of the welfare work of Methodism in urban areas.
John Wesley encouraged this type of welfare by regular financial contributions and more formal support, as in this case, by writing the introduction to the accounts of the Bristol society. One of the defining features of the Stranger's Friend Society was that the recipients of money and assistance did not need to be Methodists but were to be 'deserving' poor, sick, friendless strangers of any religious background (or none).
Wesley’s Chapel
1996/6009
1950-2000 / Etching / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Etching on paper
c.1980-90
This etching of Wesley's Chapel was made in the late 1900s. An etching is a type of print which involves a cut, often metal, plate being inked and pressed onto paper. This leaves an imprint of the plate design and can be repeated many times to manufacture a number of almost identical prints.
This etching was made by Bill Diggins and it is number 9 of a run of 150.
Meeting Plan
1996/5143
1750-1800 / Document / Methodism / Other / Paper
Ink on paper
1794
A characteristic feature of Methodism is its methodical structure and the provision of preaching and prayer meeting plans. The plans are essentially a diary of prayer and preaching appointments for preachers and other prayer and worship leaders working within a Methodist 'circuit', or defined groupings of chapels.
This particular meeting plan is a very early handwritten example showing arrangements for the months between October 1794 and March 1795. It is very interesting that only women's names are listed. Women were accepted and welcome to lead prayer meetings within Methodism. This particular class was led by a woman and was a women-only meeting. Sadly, we do not know the name of the chapel or meeting place for which this plan was drawn up.
For very similar, early class meeting plans, see 1992/86 and 1996/5137 in the Online Collection.
Meeting Plan
1996/5137
1750-1800 / Document / Methodism / Other / Paper
Ink on paper
1793
A characteristic feature of Methodism is its methodical structure and the provision of preaching and prayer meeting plans. The plans are essentially a diary of prayer and preaching appointments for preachers and other prayer and worship leaders working within a Methodist 'circuit', or defined groupings of chapels.
This particular meeting plan is a very early handwritten example showing arrangements for the months between June and October 1793. It is very interesting that only women's names are listed. Women were accepted and welcome to lead prayer meetings within Methodism. This particular group was led by a woman and was a women-only meeting. Sadly, we do not know the name of the chapel or meeting place for which this plan was drawn up.
For very similar, early class meeting plans, see 1996/5143 and 1992/86 in the Online Collection.
Meeting Plan
1800-1850 / Document / Methodism / Other / Paper
Printed on paper; ink
1820
A characteristic feature of Methodism is its methodical structure and the provision of preaching and prayer meeting plans. The plans are essentially a diary of prayer and preaching appointments for preachers and other prayer and worship leaders working within a Methodist 'circuit', or defined groupings of chapels.
This handwritten meeting plan is an early example showing class arrangements for the months December 1820 to February 1821. Only women's names are listed. Women were accepted and welcome to lead prayer meetings within Methodism. This particular class was a women-only meeting. Sadly, we do not know the name of the chapel or meeting place for which this plan was drawn up.
For very similar, early class meeting plans, see 1996/5137 and 1996/5143 in the Online Collection.
Wesley’s Chapel Magazine
1999/7613
1900-1950 / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
1938
For over 100 years, Wesley's Chapel, City Road has published a quarterly newsletter. Today, it is called 'Window on Wesleys', or 'WOW'.
This example dates to June 1938.
Pew Rent Receipts
2004/9717/1-2; 2004/9739/1-2
1850-1900 / Document / Methodism / Other / Paper / Wesley's Chapel
Cardboard, printed
1861-1872
Four pew rent receipts dated between 1861 and 1872.
Pew rents were commonly charged to families or individuals in churches of most faiths until the mid 20th century. It was one of the principal ways of raising church income. The pew rent system often resulted in a kind of social status and hierarchy in church. The pews closest to the altar were usually occupied by the wealthiest of a parish.
These receipts are particularly interesting, as they chronicle a significant change in the appearance of Wesley's Chapel.
The receipts for 1861 and 1862 show a plain brick building, virtually identical to the one John Wesley would have known. However, the 1871 receipt shows new stone dressings on the brickwork, including stone pilasters, quoining, window surrounds and a columned parapet balustrade.
It is likely these additions were made following a significant fire at the Chapel in 1864, when also much of the chapel interior was redone. In the 1860s, 'Italianate' style, in particular in architecture, was admired and fashionable, which explains the choice of the new elements.
Compare also the pew rent receipt dating to 1804/09 in the Online Collection.
Hymn Sheet
2003/9272
1800-1850 / Other / Paper / Publication / Sunday School / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
1810
Hymn sheet for two services held at Wesley's Chapel on Sunday 17th June, 1810. The hymns were sung by the 'Children of the Methodists' Charity Schools'.
The hymn sheet acts as an advertisement for the charity schools, in that it explains their function and achievements; it also includes a call for further financial support. At a time when there was no state assistance, charity ventures such as these made a big difference to poorer people's lives, and they were an important part of Methodism's social activism.
Advertisement
2004/9855
1900-1950 / Other / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
c.1920
An advertisement for the Chapel dating to the early 1900s. Interestingly, the Chapel is referred to as the 'Cathedral of Methodism', a description sometimes used from the mid 1800s onwards. The minister at the time was the Rev. Walter H. Armstrong, who served at Wesley's Chapel between 1919 and 1923. He was to serve for another term during and after the end of WWII, between 1944 and 1947.
Primitive Methodist Connexion Society Rules
2003/9255
1850-1900 / Book / Cardboard / Methodism / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
late 1800s
This small and quite spartan-looking booklet contains the rules of the Primitive Methodist Connexion, also referred to as 'Prims'.
The Primitive Methodist Church existed in the United Kingdom within the Methodist tradition, but was formed only in the early 1800s. The Church was established in a spirit of revivalism by its leaders, the Wesleyan Methodists Hugh Bourne (1772–1852) and William Clowes (1780–1851). In the UK, the Church merged with the Wesleyan Methodist Church and the Wesleyan New Connexion in 1932. In the US the denomination, although small, still exists.
Primitive Methodist Centenary Celebration Programme
2005/10309
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
1907
The Primitive Methodist Church, also referred to as 'Prims', existed in the United Kingdom within the Methodist tradition, but was formed only in 1807. The Church was established in a spirit of revivalism by its leaders, the Wesleyan Methodists Hugh Bourne (1772–1852) and William Clowes (1780–1851). This programme commemorates the centenary of the Church in 1907.
In the UK, the 'Prims' merged with the Wesleyan branch of the Methodist Church and the Wesleyan New Connexion in 1932. In the US the denomination, although small, still exists.
See also the Society Rules booklet 2003/9255 in the Online Collection.
United Methodist Church Souvenir Handbook
2006/10535
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
1932
This souvenir handbook was issued to commemorate the last Conference of The United Methodist Church in Britain in 1932. The Conference was held at Kingswood in July. A month later the Church merged with the Wesleyan Methodist and the Primitive Methodist Churches to become The Methodist Church in Britain.
The United Methodist Church was formed in 1907 by the union of the United Methodist Free Churches with two other small Protestant Churches, the Bible Christians and the Methodist New Connexion.
Concert Handbill
1999/7649/1
1900-1950 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
1906
This handbill was issued to advertise Handel's 'The Messiah', a concert given at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, on April 11th, 1906.
Chapel Rota
2018/15522
1850-1900 / Document / Methodism / Other / Paper
Ink on paper
1850
This early Chapel cleaning and lighting rota is artistically handwritten and illustrated. Volunteers were responsible for providing a substitute if they found they were no longer able to carry out the duties themselves.
Sadly, it is not known whether this rota relates to Wesley's Chapel, City Road, or another Methodist Chapel in Britain.
Methodist Conference Handbook
2017/15437
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Commemorative / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
1952
This Methodist Conference Handbook was issued in 1952. The cover page is illustrated beautifully, including Tudor Roses, to celebrate the Coronation year.
Wesley’s Chapel
1850-1900 / Lithograph / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, lithographed
John C. Anderson del. et lith.; printed by R. Black, mid 1800s
An interesting lithograph of the Chapel illustrating the interior as it appeared in the mid 1800s. There is no stained glass as yet, and small chandeliers with candles suspended from the gallery are the only means of lighting the interior. There are vignettes with illustrations of John and Charles Wesley's commemorative tablets to the left and right of the main image, and historical detail recording the foundation stone laying and opening day in 1778 below.
Samuel Wesley A.M.
1994/6580
1700-1750 / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Engraving on paper
N. Parr sculp., early 1700s
This engraving by N. Parr is of Samuel Wesley junior (1690-1739), elder brother of John Wesley. Samuel Wesley was educated at Westminster School and became an Anglican Churchman, poet, classical scholar and teacher. In 1732, he was made Headmaster of Blundell’s Free School at Tiverton in Devon.
The Stations of the Ministers
2018/15440
1800-1850 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1844
The stations of the (itinerant) ministers in the Methodist 'Connexion' have been published annually since Wesley's day, usually as part of the minutes of Conference. This document shows the stations of the ministers for 1844/45, as appointed by the 101st Conference held in Birmingham in July 1844.
Compare also with the 'Stations of the Preachers appointed by Conference' in Bristol in 1831, Online Collection no. 2014/14207.
Memorial Card
2018/15587
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Methodism / Other / Publication
Printed on paper
1869
A memorial card for Mrs Mary Crowther dating to 1869. Mary Crowther, as the card explains, received her first Methodist membership ticket from John Wesley personally in 1790, in Bristol. Clearly, this was a memorable event for her, the memory of which was treasured by her as well as her family.
Memorial cards look similar to visiting cards or the French 'cartes de visite.' In the 1800s, visiting cards were usually left in well-to-do households with a butler or maid by a visiting person on arrival, and used by the butler to announce the visitor to the host or hostess. Memorial cards announced the passing of an individual. They were usually framed heavily in black and were sent out via mail to family, friends and acquaintances.
See also the memorial card for Jabez Bunting (1779-1858), 2004/9740/1-2, in the Online Collection.
Kingsway Hall Booklet
2017/15228
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
Witney Press Ltd, Witney, Oxford, c. 1960
The Kingsway Hall was the home of the (Methodist) West London Mission (or WLM) in Holborn. Perhaps the best known Methodist associated with the Hall and the Mission was Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1988) who was Superintendent Minister of the West London Mission for over 40 years. The Hall also became famous as a recording venue for classical music and film scores.
In this booklet, dating to the mid 1900s, Soper explains the work and recent achievements of the Mission.
Leys School Booklet
2019/16169
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Commemorative / Leysian Mission / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1925
This Leys School booklet or brochure commemorates the first fifty years of the school. The school was founded in Cambridge in 1875 as a Methodist School for the sons of lay Methodists. The Reverend Dr W.F. Moulton (1835-98) became its first headmaster and the school grew rapidly. 'The Leys', as it is often referred to, is still a very successful school today, but its students are no longer specifically Methodist.
Wesley's Chapel and The Museum of Methodism have a close connection with the Leys School through the Methodist 'Leysian Mission'. The Mission was founded in East London in the late 1800s by former members of the school, to combat hardship and poverty. The Mission and Wesley's Chapel united as 'Wesley's Chapel and Leysian Mission' in 1989. The Leys School, Chapel and the Museum regularly work together on partnership projects.
Document
2014/14249
1800-1850 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Ink on vellum
1803
This interesting document is a reference for the Rev. Walter Griffith (1761-1825). It certifies that Walter Griffith had been a Methodist itinerant preacher since 1784 ('for nineteen years'), and that he was lawfully appointed by the Methodist Conference. Intriguingly, the document refers to Griffith bearing 'presents'. Sadly, we do not know what they were - perhaps books? - or for whom these were intended.
The document appears to be signed by the then President of Conference, Joseph Bradford (1748-1808), who was a travelling companion of John Wesley between 1774 and 1780, and Thomas Coke (1747-1814). Coke has since often been referred to as the father of Methodist missions and is better known today than Bradford.
However, it is odd that there are question marks in relation to Griffith's and Wesley's titles (i.e. 'Rev.?'), that both signatures look like they could possibly be by the same hand, and that there is no seal affixed to the document. Could it be that this document was a file copy of the original reference?
Band of Hope Certificate
2010/12610
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Temperance
Printed on paper; ink
1932
The Band of Hope temperance society was founded in 1855. Its goal was to teach children and young people the dangers of alcohol and the importance of leading a sober or 'teetotal' life. It encouraged young people to "sign the pledge" that they would "abstain from all intoxicating liquors". The Band of Hope was not specifically Methodist; founded by a Baptist, the movement became a national one and most churches supported its cause.
This particular certificate - or pledge - is interesting in that it is headed 'United Methodist Church' and is dated 21st October 1932. One month earlier, on 20th September, the United Methodist Church, the Wesleyan Methodist Church and the Primitive Methodist Church had formally united as the 'Methodist Church'. The Mount Pleasant Band of Hope division was probably using up old certificates, which makes this pledge one of the last headed 'United Methodist Church'.
See also various medals relating to temperance in the Online Collection, including 2006/10692.
The United Kingdom Band of Hope Union Certificate
2010/12611
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Temperance
Printed on paper; ink
1932
The Band of Hope temperance society was founded in 1855. Its goal was to teach children and young people the dangers of alcohol and the importance of leading a sober or 'teetotal' life. It encouraged young people to "sign the pledge" that they would "abstain from all intoxicating liquors". The Band of Hope was not specifically Methodist; founded by a Baptist, the movement became a national one and most churches supported its cause.
This certificate of merit was issued by The United Kingdom Band of Hope Union for excellent performance in a national essay competition in 1931.
See also various medals and other certificates relating to temperance in the Online Collection, including 2006/10692 and 2010/12610.
Western Temperance League Certificate
2010/12612
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Temperance
Printed on paper; ink
1931
The Western Temperance League was founded as The Bristol Temperance Society in 1836 by Cyrus Clark. His aim was to promote abstention from alcohol by any possible means, including missionary efforts. The WTL covered Herefordshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Devon, Cornwall, Dorset and various parts of South Wales.
This certificate of merit was awarded by the Juvenile Department of the League to Isabel Florence Powell, who had performed excellently in the League's examination in 1931. See also her Band of Hope Union Certificate 2010/12611 in the Online Collection.
There are other certificates and medals relating to temperance in the Online Collection, including 2010/12610, 2006/10692.
Hymn Sheet
2010/12741
1800-1850 / Commemorative / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1834
This hymn sheet commemorates the opening of the New Wesleyan Chapel on the High Street in West Bromwich in August 1834. The Chapel - a simple, classical building inspired by Wesley's Chapel, City Road - no longer exists. It was rebuilt in the mid 1900s in a contemporary design.
Brochure
2010/12743
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1926
A brochure for the Caroline Street and Park Lane United Methodist Church bazaar in November 1926. The bazaar's theme was 'Little Switzerland'. Themed bazaars - usually indoor markets, with stalls dressed up in accordance with a theme - were very popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. They were a traditional and important means of raising money for the church.
Registration Certificate
2014/14251
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper
Ink on paper
1799
An interesting certificate registering the house of John Bonsor of Kinoulton in Nottinghamshire as a 'Place of public Worship... for Protestant Dissenters' on 13th December, 1799.
In small villages where there was no chapel, private houses were often the first place in which 'dissenters' (in this case Methodists) practised public worship. Registration made this worship legal. Often a chapel was built soon after.
It is not clear whether this document is the original, or a file copy, as it is not witnessed and bears no seal, but it demonstrates how damaged or defaced sections could be corrected without wasting paper - by pasting a small piece of paper on top!
Calling Card
2014/14080/2
1800-1850 / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Publication
Paper, printed
c.1840
A calling or visiting card left by 'Mr Hanwell, The Preacher'. When visiting, it used to be polite practice to produce a visiting card on arrival, which the butler or maid of the (well-to-do) house would use to announce the visitor. If the master or lady of the house were out, the card alerted them to the caller's visit.
Little is known of 'Mr Hanwell' ; likely, he was the Wesleyan Methodist minister Revd. John Hanwell, 1805-1854.
Commemorative Booklet
2010/12757
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Commemorative / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1929
A booklet commemorating the 55th anniversary of the Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Beckett Street, Leeds. The anniversary was celebrated on 19th October, 1929 with a 'Meat Tea and Concert'. The booklet contains the missionary report for the Chapel for 1928-29.
The chapel no longer exists.
Rules of the Society
1998/68471/1
1850-1900 / Cardboard / John Wesley / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
Late 1800s
The pamphlet sets out the fundamental rules devised by John Wesley in the early days of Methodism for his societies. Wesley published these to make clear the connection between the saving through faith and Christian behaviour and to indicate what was expected of persons as they joined the Methodist Societies.
The 'General Rules' went through many editions and the pamphlet was in print throughout the 1700s and 1800s. This edition is based on the original of 1743.
For an earlier edition, see 2018/15561 in the Online Collection.
Certificate
2010/12614
Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Methodism
Printed on paper; ink
1932
A distinguished service order certificate issued by the United Methodist Church Home and Foreign Missions to juvenile missionary collectors. Many young Methodists in the early 1900s helped collect funds for church and mission purposes, often (but not exclusively) after church on Sundays.
This certificate was awarded to Miss Isobel Powell. She was an active member of her church in the West Country and received various other church and temperance society awards around this time (1932), just before the United, Primitive and Wesleyan Methodist Churches united as The Methodist Church.
See also 2010/12610, 12611 and 12612 and 12613.
Booklet
2014/14205
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1854
This thin booklet contains a schedule of bible classes and lectures in connection with the classes at the Wesleyan Chapel in Islington for the year 1854. The classes and lectures were aimed specifically at young men, the "Religious and Intellectual Improvement of the improvement of the Members" (..) being "the Object sought."
An added benefit of the classes and lectures was that men were kept off the streets, as well as sober, which helped improve public order.
Brochure
2010/12743/1
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1925
A brochure for the Caroline Street and Park Lane United Methodist Church bazaar in November 1925. The bazaar's theme was 'Sunny Spain'.
Themed bazaars - usually indoor markets, with stalls dressed up in accordance with a theme - were very popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. They were a traditional and important means of raising money for the church. In the 1920s, Caroline Street and Park Lane United Methodist Church held annual bazaars, the theme of the bazaar in 1926 being 'Little Switzerland'.
See also brochure 2010/12743 in the Online Collection.
Brochure
2010/12744
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1923
A brochure for the Lady Lane Central Mission bazaar in November 1923. The bazaar's theme was 'Empire'.
Themed bazaars - usually indoor markets, with stalls dressed up in accordance with a theme - were very popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. They were a traditional and important means of raising money for churches and missions. In the 1920s, the Leeds District under the direction of Superintendent Rev. James L. Powell held annual themed bazaars.
See also the brochures for the Caroline Street and Park Lane United Methodist Church bazaars for 1925 and 1926 (2010/12743 & 2010/12743/1) in the Online Collection.
Membership Card
2015/14692
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Document / Other / Sunday School
Printed on paper; ink
1931
This Primitive Methodist Sunday School Union membership card was issued to show that the enrolled was taking the Correspondence Course of the Teacher Training Department Advanced Section. Taking courses such as this one enabled one to become a Sunday School teacher, a career path especially popular at the time among women.
The reverse of the card shows a sample certificate of merit, which would be awarded to the student on completing his or her studies.
Certificate
2010/12613
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Methodism
Printed on paper; ink
1931
A distinguished service order certificate issued by the United Methodist Church Home and Foreign Missions to juvenile missionary collectors. Many young Methodists in the early 1900s helped collect funds for church and mission purposes, often (but not exclusively) after church on Sundays.
This certificate was awarded to Miss Isobel Powell for collecting £1 and 1 shilling. This was a lot of money in 1931.
Isobel Powell was an active member of her church in the West Country. She received various other church and temperance society awards around this time (1931-2), just before the United, Primitive and Wesleyan Methodist Churches united as The Methodist Church.
See also 2010/12610, 12611, 12612 and 12614.
Letter
2006/10757
1950-2000 / Document / Letter / Paper / Sunday School / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
1958
Letter informing the Friends of the Radnor Street Wesleyan Sunday Schools and Mission of the closure of its Radnor Street premises.
The Schools and Mission had operated since 1798 and they were the oldest dedicated Wesleyan Methodist Sunday school and Mission premises in London. Following compulsory purchase of the Radnor Street building, the school was transferred to nearby Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Handbill
2009/11909
1900-1950 / Leysian Mission / Other / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
1933
This flyer or handbill was printed by the Leysian Mission on City Road, advertising a 'Grand Bazaar' on 15th and 16th November, 1933. The handbill outlined how to participate in the bazaar and "seven ways of being a helper".
The Leysian Mission was established in the late 1800s by former students of the (Methodist) Leys School, Cambridge, and owned large mission premises on City Road. It was primarily a local mission, to alleviate hardship amongst people in the City Road and Old Street areas in London.
The Mission united with Wesley's Chapel, City Road in 1989.
Sunday School Certificate
2006/10688
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Sunday School
Printed on paper; ink
1903
This rather grand-looking Wesleyan Methodist Sunday School Union certificate was awarded to 11 year-old Lily Hughes for passing 2nd class in the subject 'Missionary Life of St Paul's...First Catechism and Ten Commandments". Such certificates and other prizes were important milestones in every student's Sunday School career, and they would have been taken home and displayed with pride.
Christmas Card
2007/10939/4
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
The original drawn by Derek Schofield, 1930s
This card was sent with Christmas wishes by Kathleen and Max Woodward in the 1930s. Max Woodward was Superintendent at Wesley's Chapel at the time.
A printed note on the reverse explains that Derek Schofield's drawing was taken "from an original coloured print which hangs in the vestry of Wesley's Chapel". The work referred to is the original watercolour work of the Chapel dating to 1820, which is still in the Collection of the Museum of Methodism.
Christmas Card
2007/10939/1
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Engraving on paper
1936
A Christmas card sent by the Rev. W.J. Roberts in Kearsley/Farnworth (close to Bolton) in 1936. His chosen motif was an engraving of John Wesley.
Compare also with Christmas card 2007/10939/4 in the Online Collection.
Christmas Card
2007/10939/3
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
1935
A Christmas card sent by the Rev. Fred Roberts and his wife in 1935 from Newark, Notts. The card depicts Adam Acton's statue of John Wesley at City Road and is typical of the type of Christmas card sent out by Methodist ministers at the time.
Compare also with 2007/10939/1 in the Online Collection, a Christmas card sent the following year by a relative, possibly the son of Rev. Roberts.
Ticket
2008/11704
1850-1900 / Cardboard / John Wesley's House / Other / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
1898
John Wesley's House was opened to the public as a historic house museum in 1898. Originally, the three rooms on the first floor only (Wesley's rooms) were dedicated to the museum.
This is a reserved seat ticket, which admitted "its holder to a seat in the Body of the Chapel, or front seats in the Gallery, at any service in connection" with the opening of Wesley's House. Four days of services were dedicated to the opening ceremonies.
The ticket cost 1 guinea, which was a great deal of money in 1898, especially when considering that admission to the services for the public was free of charge. Likely, the money raised was earmarked to help defray the costs of preparing Wesley's House for opening.
Letter to the Printer of the Public Advertiser
1993/1516
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1780
This stinging 'letter' to the printer of the Public Advertiser newspaper was published by John Wesley in 1780. In it, he takes issue with a recently-published government act of tolerance - implied or real - of Roman Catholicism.
The letter is very interesting. Clearly, it was an article in the form of a letter intended for publication in the Public Advertiser paper. However, it is worded in such a way as to avoid censorship (the government act is only referred to in passing, for example). The letter leaves no doubt whatsoever as to Wesley's negative view of the Roman Catholic Church.
Certificate
2004/9842
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / World Parish
Paper; printed, with cut-out photograph
Mid 1900s
A certificate presented by the Wesley Church in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia, to Wesley's Chapel, City Road. It marks the planting of an Australian snow gum or Eucalyptus pauciflora seed. The tree is one of the native trees of the area and an important link in the local flora and wildlife.
Sadly, no individual names or dates are given but it is likely the certificate was presented to the Superintendent Minister at Wesley's Chapel, City Road by an Australian visitor from Wesley Chapel Wagga Wagga.
Memorial Card and Envelope
2004/9740/1-2
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Printed on paper; ink
1858
A memorial card for Jabez Bunting (1779-1858), with its original envelope addressed to Miss M. Robinson in Bloomsbury, London. Bunting was a very prominent Methodist minister and church leader in the early 1800, with great dedication to Methodist Church order and discipline. He was instrumental in making the Methodist Conference the organ of highest authority in Methodism and was very interested in missions.
Memorial cards look similar to visiting cards or the French 'cartes de visite.' In the 1800s, visiting cards were usually left in well-to-do households with a butler or maid by a visiting person on arrival, and used by the butler to announce the visitor to the host or hostess. Memorial cards announced the passing of an individual. They were usually framed heavily in black and were sent out via mail to family, friends and acquaintances.
See also the memorial card for Mrs Mary Crowther, 2018/15587, in the Online Collection.
Letter
2004/9709
1950-2000 / Document / Letter / Leysian Mission / Paper / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
1992
Letter received from HRH Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1992 on occasion of the union between the Leysian Mission with Wesley's Chapel, City Road (1989), and following significant refurbishment of the Chapel office building.
Card
2000/7894
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Document / Methodism / Other
Printed on paper
1896
Invitation card for the annual gathering of the Aldershot and Farnham circuit. The event lasted through the afternoon and early evening.
Curiously, the services and the gathering was held on a Wednesday, when working people were at work, rather than a Sunday. In the days of very large Wesleyan Methodist Church membership this may have been a way of controlling potential crowds.
Membership Card
2004/9858
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Document / Other / Temperance
Printed on paper; ink
1888
Primitive Methodist Sunday School Band of Hope Poplar membership card belonging to Florence Chapman and dating to the summer and autumn of 1888. It is not clear whether Florence was an early member of the PMSS Band of Hope in Poplar ("No.5"), or whether "5" may refer to the fifth card, possibly that year, recording her attendance dates in the latter half of 1888.
The card is perhaps most interesting for its date and attendance record. Commencing on 31st August 1888, a series of brutal, and soon-to-become notorious, murders swept Whitechapel in the East End of London. The perpetrator became known as 'Jack the Ripper', and the last of at least five linked murders in the East End occurred on 9th November, 1888. Whitechapel was literally only a mile down the road from Poplar where Florence attended school, and the area was gripped by panic that autumn.
It would seem that Florence attended the PMSS Band of Hope meetings, scheduled for Wednesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm, less regularly that autumn than earlier in the year. Is this a coincidence or could this be linked to the events in the area?
2004/9858
The Methodist Church Active Service Booklets
201/13754/1-3
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1939-45
These small booklets in a cardboard sleeve and entitled 'The Methodist Church - On Active Service for God and King' were issued to soldiers serving in WWII. One volume contained hymns and prayers, the other was entitled 'My Faith'. The booklets were intended to help boost morale and strengthen the soldiers' courage and belief in times of extreme physical and emotional hardship.
Souvenir Programme
2004/9803
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Printed on paper
Printed by Novello and Company Limited, London, W., 1915
Wesleyan Great Missionary Meeting Souvenir programme for a meeting in the Royal Albert Hall on May 3rd, 1915. In 1915, the realities of WWI and the conflict with Germany were only beginning to influence every-day life. Many peacetime activities and traditions, like this Wesleyan Great Missionary meeting in the Royal Albert Hall, continued.
Cliff College House Rules
2004/9512
1900-1950 / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
c. 1930-50
Cliff College was founded in the early 1900s and provides Christian theological education and training with a focus on mission and evangelism. Historically, it was a Methodist Lay Training college with roots in Bolton Lancashire; later, it operated from Derbyshire and London, and today its home is once more in Derbyshire, at Calver.
This handbill of house rules was issued to resident students; likely, it was pinned to the doors of their rooms. It sets out - rather harsh - directives, including when the students were allowed to be in their rooms, at what time to turn off the light at night and the need to answer roll calls. Interestingly, students were only allowed to write with pencils in their rooms, fountain pens - possibly for the mess overturned pots of ink could cause - were prohibited.
Methodist Accounts
2005/9957/4
1750-1800 / Document / Methodism / Other / Paper
Paper; ink
late 1700s
Handwritten account sheet accounting for monies brought in by Methodist preachers and class leaders through classes, ticket sales and similar.
Sadly, there is no information as to the exact date of the accounts or to which circuit(s) they belonged.
Ceremony Handbill
2004/9501
1800-1850 / Commemorative / Methodism / Other / Paper / Publication / Sunday School
Printed on paper
1849
Handbill commemorating the foundation stone laying for the City Chapel and schools in Jewin and Aldersgate Streets on March 20th, 1849. Events such as this one were important events in the Church calendar and were celebrated as such.
Interestingly, the commemorative breakfast was held at the City of London Tavern. Some would have found this a curious place for a Chapel breakfast, but it probably showed the practical nature of the Church and their proximity to their grass roots support. It is very possible that the tavern owner or manager was connected to the Chapel in some way.
Wesley’s Chapel Renovation Fund Accounts Booklet
1996/5233
1900-1950 / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
1926
This booklet details the Renovation and Endowment Fund Accounts at Wesley's Chapel for the years 1920-26.
The Chapel complex consist of the Chapel, a number of large office and other buildings, many of which of considerable age, and gardens. Upkeep has always been a major consideration in the every-day running of the site, and still requires considerable funds.
In the twenty years or so between the end of WWI (1918) and the beginning of WWII (1939), a lot of structural work was undertaken onsite, including a thorough refurbishment of John Wesley's House. Works included the re-instatement of most fireplaces, a central heating system, new door and cabinet brass furniture and complete redecoration.
The booklet lists individual money gifts by donor and discusses the works undertaken, with plenty of images. The publication was also intended as an appeal for further funding.
Fundraising Brochures
2005/9955; 2004/4913; 2014/14118
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
1970s
Three fundraising brochures relating to the great refurbishment of Wesley's Chapel in the 1970s. By the early 1970s, the Chapel was in a very decayed state and a full refurbishment programme, including underpinning, was required. With help of publicity material such as these brochures, sufficient funds were raised and the work eventually carried out. The Chapel re-opened on Nov. 1st, 1978.
See also the photographs and other items relating to the refurbishment works in the Online Collection.
Reverend Richard Watson
1992/199
1800-1850 / Lithograph / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Lithograph on paper
mid 1800s
This engraving shows the Reverend Richard Watson. Watson was one of the first outstanding Wesleyan Methodist theologians and had a keen interest in promoting foreign missions. He became President of Conference in 1826. Watson is perhaps best remembered for his publication 'Theological Institutes' (1831), in which he tried to bring John Wesley's theology into a coherent system.
See also the oil painting of Richard Watson in the Online Collection, 1993/1480.
Reverend John Brown
1992/336
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
c. 1800
The Rev. John Brown John Brown of Haddington (1722 -87) was a highly-educated Scottish minister and author.
Self-educated and entirely self-made, Brown started out as a shepherd. Soon, he discovered he had a gift for languages and came to know and speak at least ten, including Latin, Greek and Hebrew. Brown's career choices were very varied. Following his experience as a shepherd, Brown became a travelling merchant, a soldier in Edinburgh, a school master and then a churchman.
From 1750 until his death, Brown was a minister of the Secession Church in Haddington. In the 1780s, he obtained a professorship in Divinity in this denomination and started training other churchman. He also wrote a number of books, some of the best-known being a Self-Interpreting Bible and a Dictionary of the Bible.
Preacher Thomas Dobson
1992/194
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Ridley sculpt., 1799
Little is known of the preacher Thomas Dobson. In the late 1790s, he was thirty years of age and there are indications that he was a Methodist preacher in the area around St Bartholomews-the-Great, close to London Wall. He does not appear to have entered the Methodist ministry.
Preacher Miles Martindale
1992/193
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Ridley sculpt., c.1800
Miles Martindale was born in Lancashire. He became a Methodist local preacher in 1786 and an itinerant minister in 1789. In later life he came to hold some prestigious appointments, including District Chairman in Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle and York. He also became a school governor, and was something of a writer. He published an elegy on the death of John Wesley in 1791 and, later, a Dictionary of the Holy Bible (1810).
Martindale died suddenly while attending Conference in 1824, a victim of Cholera.
The Reverend Frederick J. Jobson
1996/6012
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
Engraved by J. Cochran, after the painting by W. Gush, early 1800s
The Reverend Frederick J. Jobson D.D. (1812-1881) was an influential Wesleyan minister in the mid 1800s. He had served an architectural apprenticeship and was particularly interested in the Gothic style, which he explored in his 1850s book, "Chapel and School Architecture". This had a major influence on Methodist buildings over the coming decades.
Jobson was also a missionary advocate. He was a representative at the MEC General Conference of 1856 and at the Australian Conference in 1860. Later, he became Methodist Book Steward at the Book Room at City Road in 1864, which he expanded. Jobson was elected President of the Methodist Conference in 1869.
The brown spots on the engraving are a type of paper mould known as 'foxing'. This may develop if paper is stored in damp conditions for a long time and is difficult to eradicate.
See also the oil painting 1993/1479 of Jobson in the Online Collection.
Isaac Watts
1993/1408
1800-1850 / Engraving / God & Faith / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
W. Hawkins sculpt.; published by Maxwell & Wilson, Skinner Street, 1809
Engraving of Isaac Watts (1674 – 1748), who was a dissenting minister, theologian, hymn writer and logician. Sometimes Watts is referred to as the "Godfather of English Hymnody", and many of his hymns are still sung today.
In 1690, Isaac Watts went to the Dissenting Academy at Stoke Newington, then a village outside of London. There, he spent much of his remaining life as a pastor of a congregational chapel. Watts was unusually non-denominational (or ecumenical) in his views for the time, and he was especially interested in promoting scholarship.
Watts was buried opposite Wesley's Chapel, in Bunhill Fields graveyard, in 1748.
Dr Adam Clarke
1992/382
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
late 1700s
Engraving of the young Adam Clarke (1762-1832).
Clarke was a Wesleyan minister and scholar. He met John Wesley in 1782 and was soon after received into full Connexion, in 1783. After Wesley died, Clarke became a moderating influence in Wesleyan Methodism and became President of the British Wesleyan Methodist Conference three times, in 1806, 1814 and 1822. He combatted poverty and was fiercely against African slavery. Instead, he advocated mission activity abroad and overseas.
Clarke was also an outstanding scholar. He had a reputation as a linguist, especially in Oriental and Middle Eastern languages, and he played an important part in the Bible Society of the time as a result. He received an honorary doctorate from Aberdeen University in 1808 and was elected a Fellow of the Antiquarian and Geological Societies shortly after. He was also a Foundation member and Fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society. Sadly, his attempt at decoding the Rosetta Stone (now in the British Museum) were not crowned by success.
George Whitefield
1993/1405
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Probably early to mid 1800s
Engraving of George Whitefield (1714-1770) preaching in a pulpit. The seventh child of Thomas and Elizabeth Whitefield, George Whitefield was left with a squint by a bout of childhood measles. This resulted in a nickname in later life, 'Dr Squintum', among those who didn't like Whitefield. His squint is not obvious in this engraving.
At Oxford, Whitefield met the Wesley brothers and became a member of the 'Holy Club', the fledgling evangelical group which preceded Methodism. Whitefield was an instant success as an evangelist and orator, and it was he who persuaded John Wesley to preach out of doors. Over the following thirty years, Whitefield's 'field preaching' attracted huge crowds in England, Scotland and the Americas, where he sailed seven times.
As time went by, Whitefield increasingly followed Calvinist doctrine, which brought him into collision course with the Wesley brothers, who argued against Calvinist views that grace and salvation were only for the few. Eventually, in the 1770s, Methodism divided into Wesleyan (Arminian) and Calvinistic branches.
See also 2001/8263 in the Online Collection for further information on Whitefield's relationship with the Wesley brothers, and the oil painting of Whitefield, 2011/12897.
Dr Squintum
1993/1409
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
mid to late 1700s
Engraving of George Whitefield (1714-1770), titled 'Dr Squintum'. The seventh child of Thomas and Elizabeth Whitefield, George Whitefield was left with a squint by a bout of childhood measles. This resulted in the nickname 'Dr Squintum' in later life, among those who didn't like Whitefield. His squint is very pronounced in this engraving.
At Oxford, Whitefield met the Wesley brothers and became a member of the 'Holy Club', the fledgling evangelical group which preceded Methodism. Whitefield was an instant success as an evangelist and orator, and it was he who persuaded John Wesley to preach out of doors. Over the following thirty years, Whitefield's 'field preaching' attracted huge crowds in England, Scotland and the Americas, where he sailed seven times.
As time went by, Whitefield increasingly followed Calvinist doctrine, which brought him into collision course with the Wesley brothers, who argued against Calvinist views that grace and salvation were only for the few. Eventually, in the 1770s, Methodism divided into Wesleyan (Arminian) and Calvinistic branches.
See also 2001/8263 in the Online Collection for further information on Whitefield's relationship with the Wesley brothers, as well as the oil painting of Whitefield, 2011/12897, and the engraving 1993/1405.
George Whit(e)field
2014/14206
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Warren sculpt., published by Longman, Hurst, late 1700s
Engraving of George Whit(e)field (1714-1770). The seventh child of Thomas and Elizabeth Whitefield, George Whitefield was left with a squint by a bout of childhood measles. This resulted in the nickname 'Dr Squintum' in later life, among those who didn't like Whitefield. His squint is visible in this engraving.
At Oxford, Whitefield met the Wesley brothers and became a member of the 'Holy Club', the fledgling evangelical group which preceded Methodism. Whitefield was an instant success as an evangelist and orator, and it was he who persuaded John Wesley to preach out of doors. Over the following thirty years, Whitefield's 'field preaching' attracted huge crowds in England, Scotland and the Americas, where he sailed seven times.
As time went by, Whitefield increasingly followed Calvinist doctrine, which brought him into collision course with the Wesley brothers, who argued against Calvinist views that grace and salvation were only for the few. Eventually, in the 1770s, Methodism divided into Wesleyan (Arminian) and Calvinistic branches.
See also 2001/8263 in the Online Collection for further information on Whitefield's relationship with the Wesley brothers, as well as the oil painting of Whitefield, 2011/12897, and various engravings, including 1993/1405 and 1993/1409.
Rev. Luke H. Wiseman, M.A.
1996/6020
1900-1950 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by C. Balding, Probably early 1900s
The engraving depicts Reverend Luke H. Wiseman (1822-1875). Wiseman was well known as a Methodist preacher and biblical scholar. He was strongly opposed to slavery and was a supporter of the Anti-Slavery Association. Wiseman was one of the founders of the Methodist Recorder (1861) and became President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1872.
Rev. Luke H. Wiseman was the father of Rev. Dr Frederick Luke Wiseman (1858-1944), who became minister of Wesley's Chapel, City Road (1940-44) and President of the newly- united Methodist Conference in 1933.
Mr Henry Moore
1992/184
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
late 1700s
Henry Moore (1751-1844) was a contemporary of John Wesley and is perhaps best known as one of Wesley's three literary executors. Moore was converted to Methodism in 1777 and he became a local preacher and opened a school. He met Wesley in 1779, who appointed him as an itinerant preacher; later, in 1785-86, Moore was in London as Wesley's travelling companion. In 1789 Wesley ordained Moore and he was present when Wesley died in 1791.
Moore, as one of Wesley's literary executors, became involved in the controversy with Dr John Whitehead and Thomas Coke over Wesley's papers. He and Coke prepared hastily a Wesley biography (1792), trying to beat Dr Whitehead - whose biography of Wesley followed a few years later. Moore's and Coke's work may have been the more 'official' (and possibly more flattering) biography of Wesley.
Moore was elected President of Conference's twice, in 1804 and 1823, although his relationship with that body was sometimes fraught with difficulties and a number of disputes occurred. Moore also served as minister at Wesley's Chapel in the early 1800s and was buried in the Chapel's graveyard in 1844.
The Revd William Romaine, A.M.
1992/180
1750-1800 / Engraving / God & Faith / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Published by Vallance & Simmons, 120 Cheapside, 1774
This engraving of Revd. William Romaine (1714-1795) was engraved for the Gospel Magazine.
Romaine was the son of a Huguenot merchant and became an Anglican evangelical. He studied at Oxford at the same time as the Wesley brothers, but apparently was not influenced by them and did not join the 'Holy Club'. Later, he supported some of the early tenets of the Wesleys' Methodism, but disagreed with John Wesley over the doctrine of Christian Perfection, siding with George Whitefield instead. In the mid 1750s, the Countess of Huntingdon appointed Romaine one of her chaplains. A decade later, he succeeded to an appointment as rector of St Anne's, Blackfriars and of St Andrew by the Wardrobe.
Liturgically, Romaine was a conservative, and he condemned Isaac Watt's popular hymns. Romaine wrote various treatises and essays, among them an 'Essay on Psalmody' (1775) , The Life of Faith (1763), The Walk of Faith (1771) and The Triumph of Faith (1795).
Revd. John Hannah
1992/441
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by J. Thomson, after painting by Paradise, c. 1840-50
Engraving of Revd. John Hannah (1792-1867), with a facsimile signature beneath.
Hannah, a Wesleyan Methodist minister, was especially interested in overseas mission work. He was an intellectual and excellent public speaker, gaining an MA and a doctorate. Hannah was appointed as Tutor of Theology at the Theological institution in Hoxton by the Wesleyan Conference in 1834. Later, he became Chairman of the Manchester and Bolton District and Conference Secretary; in 1842 and 1851, he was elected President of Conference.
The Revd. James Creighton, Aged 45
1992/176
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
c. 1784
Engraving of The Revd. James Creighton (1739-1818).
Born and ordained in Ireland, Creighton served as curate in Swanlinbar between 1769 and 1783. He met John Wesley for the first time in 1773 and was converted to Methodism in 1776. Creighton's new faith antagonised his own parish and Irish Catholics in general, so he left Ireland and became an assistant at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, in 1783. One of his tasks there was to edit the Arminian Magazine, which he did between 1788 and 1792.
Creighton assisted at the controversial ordination in Bristol of Thomas Coke and preachers for America (1784) and was named as one of the 'Legal Hundred' in the Deed of Declaration the same year. Creighton was also a writer and poet and published 'A Dictionary of Scripture Proper Names' (1808), among other works.
Rev. Peard Dickinson, A.M.
1996/5883
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
c. 1800
Engraving of the 33 year-old Revd. Peard Dickinson (1758-1802).
Originally from Devon, Dickinson went to St Edmund Hall, Oxford, in 1779 and shortly after to Hertford College. By that time, he was already a Methodist, having been converted in his teens by the wife of his first employer.
Dickinson spent his university holidays in London, where John Wesley took him visiting the sick and needy. Wesley called him a 'very pious and sensible young man'. Dickinson was ordained deacon in 1783 and was asked by John Wesley to assist him at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, in 1786.
Revd. John Hearnshaw
1992/210
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
mid to late 1800s
An engraving of the Wesleyan minister John Hearnshaw, dating to around 1860-80. Hearnshaw entered the ministry in 1840 and died in 1909, but we have no other information about his life. If you are able to help, we would be very pleased to hear from you.
Revd. James Calvert
1996/4781
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
mid to late 1800s
Engraving of the Reverend James Calvert (1813-1892), missionary in Fiji. Calvert and his wife spent seventeen years in Fiji, between 1838 and 1855. As a result of their activity, the most powerful chief of Fiji at the time, Thakombau (or Cakobau), converted to Methodism. Later, Calvert spent eight years in the Diamond Fields in South Africa, ministering to miners and their families.
Calvert's wife, Mary Calvert (born Fowler) (1814-1882) was of great assistance to her husband in his missionary efforts and it was to no small degree due to her care and nursing skills that Thakombau converted.
See also the wooden war club in the Online Collection which Thakombau presented to Calvert as a symbol of his conversion.
Gideon Ousley
1992/73
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Jones Pinxt., Maguire Sculpt., 1815
Engraving of Gideon Ousley, or Ouseley, a 'preacher of the Gospel and Irish missionary' (1762-1839). The engraving was featured in the Irish Methodist Magazine in 1815. After a dissolute youth, in which Ouseley lost an eye during a drunken shooting incident, he converted to Methodism in 1791 and became a local preacher. In 1799, Ouseley was appointed General Missionary in Ireland.
Ouseley has sometimes been called the most effective Irish evangelist of his time. He was also strongly anti-Catholic, which brought him enemies in a predominantly Catholic society. Ouseley died following an attack and robbery in a Dublin street in 1839. Interestingly, many of Ouseley's Methodist converts eventually emigrated to America and at least some found a better life there.
Mr Jonathan Crowther
1992/461
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Jackson Pinxt., Hall Sculpt., late 1700s
Engraving of the Reverend Jonathan Crowther (1759-1824). Crowther was a Wesleyan itinerant minister, and he became known for writing a number of early books on Methodism, which included 'The Methodist Manual' (1810), 'Portraiture of Methodism' (1811), and a book about Thomas Coke (1815).
His somewhat more technical 'Thoughts upon the Finances of the Methodist Connexion' (1817) criticised Methodism's debt burden, much of which being, he thought, the result of chapel building activity and having to look after so many Methodist missions and circuits.
Crowther was elected President of Conference in 1819.
Edmund Calamy DD
1992/376
1700-1750 / Engraving / God & Faith / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
G. Vertue sculp., early-mid 1700s
Edmund Calamy (1671 – 1732) was a Nonconformist churchman and historian. He studied at Oxford and was ordained in 1694. by the Nonconformist Samuel Annesley, John Wesley's maternal grandfather. Calamy became assistant to Daniel Williams in Hand Alley; later he became pastor of a much larger congregation at Tothill Street, Westminster.
Calamy was a comparatively moderate Presbyterian. In 1709, the degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred on him by a number of Scottish universities during a tour of Scotland. Calamy published numerous books, many of which were biographies of Nonconformists.
The Revd. Thomas Coke L.L.D.
1992/585
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / World Parish
Engraving on paper
Published by G. Whitfield, City Road, Possibly 1801
Engraving of Thomas Coke (1747-1814). Coke was the first Methodist bishop of the Episcopal Church in the Americas and is sometimes referred to as the 'Father of Methodist Missions'.
Born in Brecon, South Wales, Coke met John Wesley in 1776, becoming one of his closest assistants. Wesley called Coke "the flea" because he seemed always to be hopping around from one place to another.
Controversially, John Wesley consecrated Coke for the work in the Americas which, theoretically, only bishops were able to do. Then, in December 1784, a conference of Methodist preachers was held at Baltimore. At this Coke, together with Francis Asbury, was elected superintendent and the Church was constituted as an independent body under the name of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1787 the American Methodist Conference formally endorsed the title of 'bishop' instead of superintendent.
Coke later returned to England and hoped to open Methodist missions in the East Indies. He set sail for Ceylon (Sri Lanka) on 30 December 1813 but died after four months at sea.
See also the miniature painting of Thomas Coke in the Online Collection, 1992/12.
Alexander Kilham, Minister of the Gospel
1996/4786/1
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Published by Butterworths of Leeds, Early 1800s
Engraving of Alexander Kilham, Minister of the Gospel (1762-1798), published in the Methodist Magazine. Kilham was a radical Wesleyan itinerant minister who eventually founded the Methodist New Connexion.
Kilham became a local preacher in 1782 and acted as assistant to R.C. Brackenbury in the Channel Islands. By 1785 he had met John Wesley and become an itinerant preacher. Following Wesley's death, Kilham became involved in the various debates about Methodism and its future. He was more radical than many of his Methodist contemporaries and advocated the formal separation of Methodism from the Anglican Church. He made enemies among the Methodist establishment and was expelled from the Methodist Church in 1796.
Following this, and after starting the 'Methodist Monitor' paper, Kilham and three other preachers, William Thom, Stephen Eversfield and Alexander Cummin were instrumental in setting up the Methodist New Connection, with its own Conference. The remaining years of his life Kilham spent around Sheffield and Nottingham. He died early, in 1798, probably of tuberculosis.
The engraving is rather crude, see also the somewhat more detailed engraving of Kilham, 1996/4786/2 in the Online Collection.
Alexander Kilham
1996/4786/2
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Early 1800s
Engraving of Alexander Kilham, Minister of the Gospel (1762-1798). Kilham was a radical Wesleyan itinerant minister who eventually founded the Methodist New Connexion.
Kilham became a local preacher in 1782 and acted as assistant to R.C. Brackenbury in the Channel Islands. By 1785 he had met John Wesley and become an itinerant preacher. Following Wesley's death, Kilham became involved in the various debates about Methodism and its future. He was more radical than many of his Methodist contemporaries and advocated the formal separation of Methodism from the Anglican Church. He made enemies among the Methodist establishment and was expelled from the Methodist Church in 1796.
Following this, and after starting the 'Methodist Monitor' paper, Kilham and three other preachers, William Thom, Stephen Eversfield and Alexander Cummin, were instrumental in setting up the Methodist New Connection, with its own Conference. The remaining years of his life Kilham spent around Sheffield and Nottingham. He died early, in 1798, probably of tuberculosis.
See also in the Online Collection the somewhat more crude engraving of Kilham, 1996/4786/1, published in the Methodist Magazine.
Revd. Thomas Jackson
1992/485
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Painted by W. Gush, engraved by J. Cochran, mid/late 1800s
Engraving of Reverend Thomas Jackson (1783-1873), Wesleyan Methodist minister and historian.
Although Jackson had little education and started working life as a farm labourer, he converted to Methodism early and became a well-respected scholar. Jackson was made Connexional editor (1824-37 and 1839-41) and later as tutor for Theology at Richmond College (1842-61). He was twice elected President of the Wesleyan Conference, in 1838 and 1849.
Jackson published a number of well-known books, including 'The Centenary of Wesleyan Methodism' (1839), a biography of Charles Wesley (1841) and a number of editions of John Wesley's Works (1829-31). He also wrote about the lives of early Methodist preachers (1837-38).
Jackson's own memoirs were published the year he died (1873) and give a good overview of Methodism in the early to mid 1800s.
Mr Robert Newton, Preacher of the Gospel
1996/6037
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Early 1800s
Engraving of The Revd. Dr. Robert Newton (1780-1854). He was the son of a farmer, and was converted to Methodism in 1798. After becoming a minister, he served primarily in northern circuits and raised large sums for overseas missionary work. Apparently he was handsome, and a persuasive preacher with a powerful voice, described by Benjamin Gregory in 1841 as 'the grandest figure and the best-loved preacher in the whole Connexion'.
Over the years, Newton opened numerous chapels and became repeatedly secretary of the Methodist Conference. Unusually, he served as President of the Conference four times (in 1824, 1832, 1840 and 1848).
The following description by a contemporary provides an interesting perspective:
'He was not a statesman like Dr. Bunting, nor a man of high culture like W.M. Bunting, nor a theologian like Hannah, Farrar and Jackson, nor a teacher of wisdom and a cyclopaedia of knowledge like Osborn. Newton had the advantage of them all in this way, that he was nobly handsome and an orator by nature. Tall, with good features, grizzled hair, fine eyes, and very dark arched eyebrows, he was impressive even before he spoke, and when he rolled out his rich organ notes, he was irresistible.
I have listened to orators at the bar and in the pulpit for half a century, and have never met with such a magnificent voice as that of Robert Newton. He was not great in conversation, nor did his sermons and speeches, when examined, show original power. He had simply the great gift of being able to present commonplaces in the most attractive and forcible way.'
R. Denny Urlin, Father Reece, the Old Methodist Minister (1901), pp.61-2
See also the oil paintings by W. Gush (1993/1610) and J. Jackson, R.A. (1997/6631) in the Online Collection.
The Revd. Richard Graves, A.M.
1992/338
1750-1800 / Engraving / God & Faith / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Late 1700s
Richard Graves (1715-1804) was an English cleric, and a writer and poet.
Graves went to Oxford around the same time (1732) as the Wesley brothers and George Whitefield. There, he spent time with members of the Holy Club but was not convinced by their efforts and his association with early Methodism wasn't lasting. Later, he studied medicine and was ordained as an Anglican cleric. Over his long life, he was appointed to a number of curacies in England, including at Claverton, close to Bath, and he wrote both poetry and prose.
Graves' best-known work is 'The Spiritual Quixote' (1773), a comic romance, in which he satirises John Wesley, George Whitefield and the enthusiasm of the Methodists. The book probably arose out of his own fear of the success of the Methodists, and how they posed a threat to his (Anglican) congregation. 'The Spiritual Quixote' was a popular book and it was published in many editions over the following thirty years.
Revd. William H. Cornforth
1992/372
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
1860-80
Engraving of the Revd. William H. Cornforth. Sadly, little is known of him, other than that he was the son of David Cornforth of Uttoxeter, and that he entered the Wesleyan ministry in 1841. William Cornforth died in 1898.
If you have further information on him, please contact the museum.
Revd. J. Newland
1192/218
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Early/mid 1800s
Engraving of the Revd. J. Newland. Nothing is known of Newland, other than that he served in Edinburgh sometime in the early to mid 1800s.
If you have information on him, please contact the museum.
Revd. Morley Punshon, L.L.D.
1992/339
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by H(?) C Balding, Mid 1800s
Engraving of Revd. Morley Punshon, L.L.D. (1824-1881). Punshon was born into a Methodist family in Doncaster and he first became a local preacher in 1840. After training at (Methodist) Richmond College, he obtained an appointment at Hinde Street, London in 1858.
Punshon was a good preacher and lecturer who raised a great deal of funding for Methodism, and he was appointed to the Methodist Legal Hundred in 1859. In the 1860s, Punshon travelled, including to Canada, where he eventually served as President of the Canadian Methodist Conference between 1868 and 1873. Here, he was involved in a number of high-profile church building projects and was awarded the L.L.D. degree from Victoria University.
After his return to England, Punshon was elected President of the Wesleyan Conference in 1874.
Revd. Richard Reece
1996/5957
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Painted by M. Pearson, engraved by T.A.Dean, Probably mid 1800s
Engraving of Revd. Richard Reece (1765-1850).
Reece converted to Methodism early and met John Wesley in 1787. He first went to serve in the Methodist circuit in Oxford and was stationed in Guernsey in 1793. It is known that Reece saved a number of Wesley's manuscripts from destruction by John Pawson around this time; probably, Pawson was trying to preserve and mould Wesley's image for future generations.
Reece became one of the best-known Methodists in the Wesleyan Connexion by the early 1800s and was painted a number times, including by John Jackson, in 1825. Reece was elected President of the Conference in 1816 and once more in 1835.
Mr John Doncaster
1992/366
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Engraved by Ridley, c.1800
This engraving, done for the Methodist Magazine, is of Mr John Doncaster, 'Preacher of the Gospel'. Sadly, we have little information about John Doncaster. It would appear he joined the Melton Mowbray Circuit in 1790, together with his brother Andrew. He died in 1828.
Revd. William F. Moulton, D.D.
1992/174
1850-1900 / Engraving / Leysian Mission / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
Engraved by H.C. Balding, late 1800s
An engraving of Revd. William Fiddian Moulton (1835-1898).
A scientist as well as minister by training, Moulton rose quickly to a teaching appointment at Richmond College in 1858. In 1875, he moved to Cambridge and founded The Leys School where he remained as Headmaster until his death in 1891. The Leysian Mission in London was Moulton's brainchild. Moulton became President of the Methodist Conference in 1890-1891. Throughout his career, he contributed to scholarly debates and published academic works, in particular in relation to the Bible.
See also the photograph of Moulton's marble monument in Wesley's Chapel in the Online Collection.
Mr Saml. Bradburn Aged 32
1995/3066
1750-1800 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Engraving on paper
late 1700s
Samuel Bradburn (1751-1816) was a Methodist minister and preacher. Bradburn converted to Methodism in 1769, became an itinerant preacher in 1774, and was a friend of John Wesley. Bradburn was a witty and talented speaker and writer. He became noted for championing the poor and founded the Manchester 'Strangers' Friend' Society (1792).
In the 1790s, Bradburn was thought to be a political radical, but he did not join the radical Alexander Kilham when he and some others founded the Methodist New Connexion. Bradburn appears to have supported the American model of Methodism, i.e. a Presbyterian Methodism with an episcopal hierarchy and - possibly travelling - bishops.
Bradburn was elected President of the Conference in 1799, but his somewhat eccentric and sometimes too witty remarks were thought unbecoming. Unusually, Bradburn was suspended from Methodism for a year in 1802 over drinking issues. In 1816, he was buried at Wesley's Chapel.
See also the painting of Bradburn, 1993/1628, and the roundel associated with Bradburn,1994/2793, in the Online Collection.
Revd. Samuel D. Waddy
1996/5888
1850-1900 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
mid 1800s
The Waddy family produced six Wesleyan ministers in the 1800s. This engraving shows Revd. Dr Samuel Dousland Waddy (1804-1876). Waddy believed firmly in the value of education and Wesley College, Sheffield, was established with his initiative and assistance. There, he served as governor and chaplain between 1844 and 1862. Waddy was elected President of the Conference in 1859.
Mr John Davies
1992/330
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Early 1800s
This well-executed engraving shows the Revd. John Davies (1784-1845). He was born in Flintshire and following his conversion became a Wesleyan Methodist minister overseeing Welsh circuits, first in the north, later in south Wales.
Davies was thought of as a very capable administrator and good spiritual leader. In the 1820s, he was elected Chairman of the Welsh District and, later, of the South Wales District. Between 1833 and 1843, Davies was Secretary of the South Wales Synod and became the Chairman for the District once more in 1843.
Mr George Dermott, Aged 42, Preacher of the Gospel
1992/209
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Ridley sculpt., Early 1800s
The engraving shows George Darby Dermott, engraved for the Methodist Magazine aged 42.
Dermott was a surgeon in Wellingborough who was converted through the efforts of of the Methodist dressmaker, Martha Tomkins of Northampton. She visited the town in the mid 1780s and broke an arm there. Dermott treated Martha Tomkins and he, his family and many others in the town were influenced by her and converted to Methodism. Dermott became a local preacher and, soon after, he gave up his medical practice to become an itinerant minister (1792).
Mr Thomas Dixon, Preacher of the Gospel
1992/206
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Ridley sculpt., Early 1800s
The engraving shows Thomas Dixon, Wesleyan preacher and minister. Dixon entered the ministry in 1769 and died in 1820.
Mr John Dean, Aged 35, Preacher of the Gospel
1992/205
1800-1850 / Engraving / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
Ridley sculpt., C. 1800
This engraving of the preacher John Dean was commissioned for the Methodist Magazine and published around 1800. John Dean was ordained in 1790 and died in 1822.
King Siaosi Tupou II of Tonga
2011/12928
1850-1900 / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour / World Parish
Watercolour
Unknown artist, c. 1890
This small watercolour painting is of the Tongan King Siaosi (or George) Tupou II (1874 –1918). Siaosi was King of Tonga from 1893 until his death from Spanish flu in 1918. The King was a Methodist; traditionally, Methodism has been strong in Tonga, with most of the islands converting in the 1800s.
King Siaosi Tupou II's reign was not the most successful, and his administration was mired by corruption charges. One of the King's greatest and longest-lasting achievements was the introduction of cement water tanks all over Tonga, which provided clean water to his people and improved public health.
Mr C. Wesley
1997/6605
1800-1850 / Lithograph / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Lithograph on paper
c. 1800-1810
Charles Wesley junior (1757-1834) was the son of Charles (1707-1788) and nephew of John Wesley (1703-1791). Charles jr. became a composer and organist.
Charles jr. is less well known than his younger brother Samuel Wesley (1766-1837), also an organist and composer, who was somewhat more wayward. Like him however, Charles jr. was thought a musical prodigy in childhood and performed from an early age. However, he disliked performing in public and later decided to work privately as an organist. At some time in his life, Charles jr. composed and played for the Prince Regent, later George IV.
Charles jr. never married and lived most of his life with his mother and sister.
Charles Wesley
1997/6574
1750-1800 / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Engraving on paper
late 1700s
The Reverend Charles Wesley MA (1707-1788), was John Wesley's younger brother. He was one of the youngest children of Susanna and Samuel Wesley, their eighteenth child. Like his brother, Charles was ordained into the Anglican Church and later became active in the Methodist movement, However, despite their closeness, the brothers did not always agree on questions relating to their beliefs, in particular whether a breach with the Church of England was permissible or justified. This led to open conflict.
Charles Wesley is best known for writing about 6,500 hymns and he has sometimes been called the 'sweet singer of Methodism'. His sons Charles Wesley jr. (1757-1834) and Samuel Wesley (1766-1837) both became composers and organists, carrying on the musical tradition in the family.
See also the oil painting 1997/6656 of Charles Wesley by John Russell in the Online Collection.
Letter written by Charles Wesley jr.
1997/6608
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Paper; ink
1818
Letter from Charles Wesley jr (1757-1834) written to 'Dr. Kitchiner' in Warren Street, London, on March 28th, 1818. Wesley discusses a singing performance of an unnamed lady in the letter and advises that he thinks "the Lady's voice capable of much improvement, there are few of that kind now." He also makes an interesting reference to G.F. Handel.
The recipient of the letter was William Kitchiner, M.D. (1775–1827), a scientist, amateur musician and celebrity chef. Kitchiner was well known in the early 1800s, and his 1817 'The Cook's Oracle' became a bestselling cookbook in the UK and abroad. Apparently, Kitchiner was the inventor of the potato crisp, or at least his cookbook includes the earliest crisp recipe known. Why Wesley addresses him as 'your worship' towards the end of the letter is a mystery.
Letter from Charles Wesley (III) to his aunt, 1804
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Paper; ink
1804
This letter would appear to have been written by Charles Wesley, son of Samuel Wesley and grandson of Charles Wesley (1707-88). His mother was Charlotte Louise Wesley (born Martin), whom Samuel Wesley had married in 1793.
The letter is a typical child's letter of the early 1800s, containing many polite phrases and written out in Charles's best handwriting. Charles thanks his aunt - probably Sarah Wesley (1759–1828), sister of Samuel Wesley - for a blanket. He also mentions that he has just written to his 'dear Mother'. Clearly, Charles was spending time away from home; perhaps he had just gone to boarding school?
Letter written by Sarah Wesley
1997/6610
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Paper; ink
1824
Letter written by Sarah Wesley (1759-1828), daughter of Charles Wesley (1707-88) and Sarah Gwynne (1726-1822). The recipient was 'Miss Tooth', probably the daughter of the builder of Wesley's Chapel and one-time Methodist preacher, Samuel Tooth.
The Tooths were closely involved in Chapel affairs in the late 1700s and early 1800s; they were also friends of the Wesley family. In this short and somewhat nagging letter, Sarah Wesley, expresses concern for Miss Tooth, tells her about a servant with a cold, and that she cannot find a conscientious servant, "an all work woman".
Letter from John Wesley to Miss Bishop, 1769
1997/6661
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
1769
First page of a letter written by John Wesley to Miss Bishop on Nov. 5th, 1769. Miss Bishop lived in the vineyards near Bath, and had desired - unsuccessfully - an introduction to John Wesley during his latest visit to Bath. It would appear she was on the point of converting to Methodism, and sought assurance of Methodist beliefs.
The letter is very interesting. It outlines the beginnings of the Methodist Society in Bath and it is the first in a long line of letters between John Wesley and Miss Bishop. The two continued to write to each other for many years, and their correspondence gives an excellent insight into John Wesley's mind, his hopes and aims for the Society and, more generally, the state of Methodism in the 1770s and 1780s.
Letter from John Wesley to Miss Bishop, 1770
1997/6665
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
1770
A letter written by John Wesley to Miss Bishop near Bath on 5th Nov. 1770. The two had started writing to each other exactly one year before, primarily about Miss Bishop's faith and the work of the Methodist Society in Bath.
Although he doesn't say so in the letter, it is surely no coincidence that Wesley writes to Miss Bishop on the anniversary of their first letter, and it is indicative of their correspondence that he asks a plethora of questions in this letter. Some are general, for instance about the society in Bath, but many are of a more personal nature. Wesley concludes: "See, I ask you many questions, because I have a mind you shd say a great deal to me!"
The correspondence between John Wesley and Miss Bishop was to last many years.
For comparison, see also Wesley's letter 1997/6661 in the Online Collection, written to Miss Bishop on Nov. 5th, 1769.
Letter from John Wesley to Miss Bishop, 1771
1997/6668
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
1771
John Wesley and Miss Bishop, resident near Bath, first struck up a correspondence over Miss Bishop's faith in 1769. By 1771, Wesley and Miss Bishop had been in regular correspondence about the Methodist Society in Bath and personal affairs.
This letter would seem to show that certain people, notably a woman, were beginning to meddle. Whether this was in the Society at large or on a more personal level is not clear in the letter: "You will have other trials, when that well-meaning (tho not always well-judging) woman comes to Bath. If she continues to show scraps of my letter, I shall be obliged to give you a Copy (sic.) of the whole."
See also the other letters from John Wesley to Miss Bishop in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to Miss Bishop, Sept. 1771
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
1771
John Wesley and Miss Bishop, resident near Bath, first struck up a correspondence over Miss Bishop's faith in 1769. By September 1771, Wesley and Miss Bishop had been in regular correspondence about the Methodist Society in Bath and personal affairs.
In this letter, written Sept. 1st, 1771, Wesley informs Miss Bishop of his plans to come to and preach in Bath. He is now calling Miss Bishop 'My dear Sister'; Wesley addressed many friends and well-known correspondents either as 'My dear Sister' or 'My dear Brother'.
See also Wesley's other letters to Miss Bishop in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to Miss Bishop, 1774
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
1774
John Wesley and Miss Bishop, resident near Bath, first struck up a correspondence over Miss Bishop's faith in 1769. By 1774, Wesley and Miss Bishop knew each other well; they had been in regular correspondence about the Methodist Society in Bath and personal affairs, and they had met a number of times in Bath.
In this letter written on June 17th, 1774 from Sunderland, Wesley discusses primarily personal and faith matters, including the notion of self examination, or "double watchfulness", to stay on the right path.
See also the other letters written by John Wesley to Miss Bishop in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to Miss Bishop, 1777
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
1777
John Wesley and Miss Bishop, resident near Bath, first struck up a correspondence over Miss Bishop's faith in 1769. By 1774, Wesley and Miss Bishop knew each other well; they had been in regular correspondence about the Methodist Society in Bath and personal affairs, and they had met a number of times in Bath.
In this personal letter written on June 26th 1777 from near London, Wesley writes of Miss Bishop's recent illness, and that "It is not probable that you will be able to teach School any more, as it implies breathing so long in a confined air and speaking several hours in a day." However, Wesley was encouraging her to meet with the Bristol class of the Methodist Society once better. By this time, they had known each other and corresponded regularly by letter for over eight years.
See also the other letters written by John Wesley to Miss Bishop in the Online Collection.
Letter from Susanna Wesley to her son Samuel Wesley jr.
2001/8418
1700-1750 / Document / God & Faith / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Paper; ink
Early 1700s
First page of a letter written by Susanna Wesley (1669-1742), mother of John and Charles Wesley, to her son Samuel (1690/91-1739).
In this undated letter, Susanna discusses family matters and religion with her first-born son Samuel, or 'Sam'. As she mentions her son coming of age (at 21), the letter likely dates to sometime around 1711 to 1713, and was probably written while Sam was studying at Christ Church, Oxford. It is thus one of the earliest Wesley family letters in the museum's collection.
The letter is noteworthy for Susanna's very sensible and practical attitude towards things, and also the way she writes about religion and her faith.
Samuel Wesley jr. was ordained and became head usher at Westminster School, 1713-1733. Later. he became headmaster of Blundell's School, Tiverton, in Devon.
Rev. Richard Baxter
2001/8479
1750-1800 / Engraving / God & Faith / Paper / Print
Engraving on paper
I. (?) Swaine sc., Probably mid to late 1700s
Engraving of the Revd. Richard Baxter (1615-1691), including his engraved signature.
Baxter was a Nonconformist Puritan minister, theologian, poet and hymn writer. His ministry in Kidderminster was controversial, as Baxter's strong views on justification and sanctification, with their emphasis on faithfulness and repentance, were unusual. Baxter was ejected from the Church of England after the 1662 Act of Uniformity. However, he became one of the most influential leaders of the Nonconformists in the 1600s, partly because of his prolific theological writings, partly because of prosecutions and his time in prison, for various faith-related offences.
This engraving of Baxter is of unusually fine quality.
Letter written by John Wesley, 1791
1997/6749
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
1791
This is one of John Wesley's last letters. Wesley had been preaching in Leatherhead on February 18th, and then visited friends in Balham, London, on February 24th. This short letter was written on February 22nd, just before he went to Balham.
The letter was dictated, only the signature is John Wesley's, and Wesley did still "hope to be at Bristol next week". Two days later, on Feb. 24th, Wesley wrote his final letter to William Wilberforce about the "execrable villainy" of slavery, and the following day he started feeling ill. He passed away a few days later, on March 2nd, 1791, in his 88th year.
The name of the recipient of this letter is hard to make out (Mr Churdrey?), but it was sent to near Hay-on-Wye, Brecon.
Bill of Mortality
2011/8537
1650-1700 / Other / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1665-66
A printed bill of mortality for the year 1665.
Mortality statistics in London were kept on an experimental basis from the 1590s. They were kept weekly and continuously from 1611 by the London Worshipful Company of Parish Clerks. Annual summaries of the bills were issued at the end of every year. The greatest issue for the record keepers was the continuing growth of London, especially from the late 1600s onwards. This began to render the data increasingly inaccurate and ultimately unreliable. The last surviving weekly mortality bill in its traditional format dates to 1847.
This mortality bill for the year 1665 is particularly famous, as it lists the dead of the Great Plague which swept London that year. By 19th December 1665, a total of 68,596 plague deaths had been recorded in all the London parishes. The plague did not subside until the following year, by which time an estimated 100,000 people had perished, around a quarter of all of London's inhabitants.
Note also the other causes of death listed, including "Frighted", or "Grief". Apparently, "Teeth and Worms" took 2,614 lives and the curiously-titled "Rising of the Lights", whatever it was, claimed 397.
Exterior of John Wesley’s House
1994/2933
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1942
This photograph of the exterior of John Wesley's House was taken on August 1st, 1942, during World War II. Note the glass window panes which are taped. Taping window glass was very common, to help prevent bomb damage. Un-taped glass shattered more easily during bomb raids and could turn into life-threatening projectiles for people inside and outside houses.
Interior of Wesley’s Chapel
1996/5924
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1940
This black and white photograph of the interior of Wesley's Chapel was taken during World War II. Likely, it was supposed to provide a record of the interior in case the building was damaged or destroyed by enemy bombing.
Sunday School Class
2011/13126
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Sunday School / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1920
A black and white photograph of a Sunday School class in front of the portico of Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
School on Sunday usually preceded a Sunday church service. It was and still is one way of providing instruction in the Christian faith. Traditionally, this was not limited to children, and most churches had classrooms and meeting facilities adjacent to the church premises.
Sunday Schools were first introduced in the 1700s in England. They provided education and opportunities for children from poorer families who had to work during the week and could only attend classes on Sundays.
Thomas Allen, D.D.
1992/446
1900-1950 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print
Photograph
1900
Rev. Thomas Allen D.D. (1837-1912) trained for the Wesleyan Ministry at Didsbury College and entered the ministry in 1859. He rose to become Chairman of the Sheffield Wesleyan Methodist District (1886-1897) and Chairman of the Birmingham and Shrewsbury District; he also became Governor of Handsworth College (1887-1905). Allen was elected President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1900.
This photograph was distributed with the Methodist Recorder newspaper on July 26th, 1900, two days after Allen was elected President of Conference.
See also the oil painting of Thomas Allen in the Online Collection, 1993/1612.
Leysian Mission Sunday School Workers
2011/13208
1900-1950 / B/W / Leysian Mission / Paper / Photograph / Sunday School
Photograph
1908
This black and white photograph shows Leysian Mission School workers in 1908.
The Methodist young men and women in the picture were primarily teachers in the Leysian Mission School. The mission was located at the Old Street roundabout close to City Road and the City of London. The mission's purpose was to look after the physical, spiritual and social welfare of the poorer families living in the Old Street area in the days when state welfare didn't exist.
The Leysian Mission joined Wesley's Chapel in 1989 and the Chapel still employs a Leysian Missioner. For further information on the Mission, see the various photographs and objects in connection with the Mission and the Leys School, Cambridge in the Online Collection.
Sunday School Teachers, Leysian Mission, 1915
2011/13207
1900-1950 / B/W / Leysian Mission / Paper / Photograph / Sunday School
Photograph
1915
This black and white photograph shows Leysian Mission School teachers in 1915.
The Methodist men and women in the picture were teachers in the Leysian Mission School. The mission and school were located at the Old Street roundabout close to City Road and the City of London. The mission's purpose was to look after the physical, spiritual and social welfare of the poorer families living in the Old Street area in the days when state welfare didn't exist.
The Leysian Mission joined Wesley's Chapel in 1989 and the Chapel still employs a Leysian Missioner. For further information on the Mission, see the various photographs and objects in connection with the Mission and the Leys School, Cambridge in the Online Collection. See also 2011/13208.
Wesley Deaconesses
2011/12867
1850-1900 / B/W / Methodism / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1896
This black and white composite presentation photograph shows four types of Wesley Deaconess nurses. Deaconesses worked in various capacities; often starting as nurses, they became Deaconess Home or Foreign Mission Workers and Deaconess Evangelists. All are pictured in this photograph.
The Wesley Deaconess Order and Wesley Deaconesses were founded in 1890 by the Rev. Thomas Bowman Stephenson. In 1902 a Deaconess Institute College was established for training purposes; the workload of deaconesses was always varied and very heavy.
As society changed in the 1900s, the deaconess roles had to change, and the Wesleyan Deaconess Order in its original format closed in 1978.
John Wesley’s Bedroom
2011/12852
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1900
One of the earliest photograph of John Wesley's bedroom, taken shortly after John Wesley's House opened as a museum in 1898.
Note Wesley's bureau bookcase standing where once Wesley's bed would have been placed, and the Victorian-style, very dense arrangement of the pictures on the walls.
See also the other early photographs of this and the other rooms in John Wesley's House in the Online Collection.
Model of Aldersgate Flame Monument
2019/16009
1950-2000 / B/W / Methodism / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c. 1980
This photograph shows a model of the 'Aldersgate's Flame' monument erected at the approximate site of John Wesley's conversion on 24 May 1738. The original house on this site no longer exists, and the area is now called 'London Wall', next to the Museum of London.
The modern bronze sculpture was erected in 1981 and commemorates John Wesley's pivotal conversion experience, featuring text from Wesley's journal describing this event.
Wesley’s Chapel during World War II
1993/1307
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1939-45
This black and white photograph shows the garden and rear of Wesley's Chapel during WWII. Note the boxed-in upper level windows, and the two stained glass windows at ground floor level which have opening shutters. There were many bomb raids on London during the war, and the wooden boarding and shutters helped protect the windows from damage.
Sir Galahad Stained Glass Window
1995/4288
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1970
This black and white photograph depicts the 'Sir Galahad' stained glass window at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
The window shows Sir Galahad overcoming the seven deadly sins and, through his victory, building the City of God. Sir Galahad is the patron saint of the Wesley Guild, which, when founded, was seen as a modern youth movement.
The window was designed by Frank O. Salisbury in 1932 and manufactured by Hawes & Harris, Harpenden.
Wesley’s Chapel Exterior and Portico Drawing
2008/11488/5
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
This black and white photograph shows an original design drawing of the west exterior and entrance portico of Wesley's Chapel (1778).
The building was designed by George Dance the Younger (1741-1825) who, at the time, was the Architect and Surveyor to the Corporation of London and responsible for the design of public buildings in the City of London. It was the same office Christopher Wren had held a hundred years or so before Dance, during which time Wren designed the City Churches.
The design drawing shows the planned, neoclassical portico of the Chapel. This was semi-circular, the roof being supported by Ionic columns and a frieze decorated with classical swags. The portico was not built as designed; Wesley chose a simpler version of rectangular steps and a pilastered entrance door. Both were replaced in the early 1800s with a rectangular portico with Greek Doric columns, a style fashionable at that time. This now gives a more monumental, but less refined, appearance than Dance's semi-circular portico.
The original drawing is in the Guildhall Library, London. See also the photograph of the design for the east (garden) exterior of the Chapel in the Online Collection, 2008/11488/4.
Wesley’s Chapel Exterior and Apse Drawing
2008/11488/5
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
This black and white photograph shows an original design drawing of the exterior east front (or rear) and apse of Wesley's Chapel (1778).
The building was designed by George Dance the Younger (1741-1825) who, at the time, was the Architect and Surveyor to the Corporation of London and responsible for the design of public buildings in the City of London. It was the same office Christopher Wren had held a hundred years or so before Dance, during which time Wren designed the City Churches.
The design drawing shows clearly a neoclassical frieze with classical swags, a motif mirrored in the original entrance portico of the Chapel. Also, columned balustrades were planned for the apse windows and a (triangular) pediment above the apse area. None were carried out so the Chapel, in Wesley's words, became 'neat but not fine'.
The original drawing is in the Guildhall Library, London. See also the photograph of the original drawing of the west (entrance) front of the Chapel in the Online Collection, 2008/11488/5.
Wesley’s Chapel Interior Drawing
2008/11488/1
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1970s
This black and white photograph shows an original design drawing for the interior of Wesley's Chapel (1778).
The building was designed by George Dance the Younger (1741-1825) who, at the time, was the Architect and Surveyor to the Corporation of London and responsible for the design of public buildings in the City of London. It was the same office Christopher Wren had held a hundred years or so before Dance, during which time Wren designed the City Churches.
The design drawing shows elaborate, classical windows and neoclassical friezes, echoing those designed for the outside of the Chapel. These were not carried out, so the Chapel, in Wesley's words, became 'neat but not fine'.
The original drawing is in the Guildhall Library, London. See also the other photographs of Dance's designs for the Chapel in the Online Collection, 2008/11488/4-5.
Exterior of Wesley’s Chapel
1995/4188
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1939-45
This black and white image of the front and portico of Wesley's Chapel was taken during World War II. To the right of the image, a window can be seen with wooden shutters; these shutters were added to the windows for protection during the war, so that bombing and vibration wouldn't damage the stained glass.
This photograph of the Chapel was taken from an unusual angle. A close-up shows small metal frames at floor level in front of the portico columns. These were boot scrapers installed in the 1810s when the portico was added, so Chapel visitors could wipe their boots before entering. Sadly, these were removed in the 1970s Chapel restoration works.
Stained Glass Window in John Wesley’s House
2012/13599
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1993
A photograph of the stained glass window, 'John Wesley preaching'. It was manufactured in 1947 by Osborne & Phillips, Plymouth and installed in the stairwell of John Wesley's House. The window was removed during restoration works in 1995 and transferred to the south gallery of the Chapel.
John Wesley’s House Interior with Display Case
2012/13605
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c. 1950-70
A black and white photograph of the front room on the second floor of John Wesley's House in the mid 1900s. In the centre of the room is a tabletop display cabinet featuring small items belonging to John Wesley and his family.
Photograph of Electricity Machine
2012/13627
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
mid 1900s
This black and white photograph shows John Wesley's electricity machine. Like many educated men and women of the 18th century Enlightenment, John Wesley was an enthusiastic believer in the healing properties of electricity. Portable machines such as this one were invented to harness and channel electricity in the treatment of ailments.
In 1747 Wesley wrote a tract, the 'Primitive Physic', a compendium of treatments for many common problems and diseases. In this, he mentions use of 'electrifying' as treatment for a wide range of conditions. Unusually for 18th century London, Wesley offered free electrification for his followers. It is known that Wesley had four electricity machines available for treatment in different locations in London. This is believed to be one of of them.
Photograph of Sewing Etui
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Wesley Family
Photograph
Mid 1900s
Black and white photograph of a small sewing etui or pouch. The etui is made from green silk and is very unusual, in that it rolls out and becomes a length of material, embroidered with numbers. The numbers denote inches, so the etui, once unrolled, can be used as a measuring tape for sewing. Both stitching and embroidery are very finely carried out.
Traditionally, this sewing etui has been associated with Susanna Wesley (1669-1742), mother of John Wesley.
John Wesley’s House during Refurbishment
2012/13650
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994
This photograph shows John Wesley's bookcase being removed from his house prior to major refurbishment in 1994-5. The refurbishment aimed at presenting John Wesley's House as John Wesley might have known it when living there between 1779 and 1791.
See also the other images in the Online Collection of John Wesley's House undergoing refurbishment.
John Wesley’s House during Refurbishment II
2012/13656
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994
This photograph shows the ceiling of the basement kitchen in John Wesley's House prior to refurbishment in 1994-5. The refurbishment aimed at presenting John Wesley's House as John Wesley might have known it when living there between 1779 and 1791.
See also photograph 2012/13650 in the Online Collection.
John Wesley’s House during Refurbishment III
2012/13654
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994-5
This photograph shows a new doorway being constructed inside John Wesley's House, leading from the former housekeeper's room to the basement kitchen. The work was undertaken during major refurbishment in 1994-5, to facilitate a better visitor route in the basement.
See also the other images in the Online Collection of John Wesley's House undergoing refurbishment.
John Wesley’s House during Refurbishment IV
2012/13661
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994-5
This photograph shows the refurbishment of a recessed radiator inside John Wesley's House, during major works in 1994-5. The radiator is of an unusual design, as it is normally hidden from view completely by the room's panelling. The recessed radiators in John Wesley's House were installed during a refurbishment of the house in the 1930s. At the time, such radiators were a great novelty and had only just been introduced.
See also the other images in the Online Collection of John Wesley's House undergoing refurbishment.
Painted Wall inside John Wesley’s House
2012/13665
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994/5
This photograph shows a painted wall in the back parlour on the ground floor of John Wesley's House. The small door which can just be made out in the wall is a recessed (or secret) wall door.
The wall colour, a shiny green-grey oil colour, also once known as 'French grey' or possibly 'pearl', came to light during refurbishment works in 1994-5. It was found in most rooms of the house and, likely, it is the original colour. This would have been used throughout the house, probably excepting the main parlour, as it was cost saving. In the 1700s using the same colour for most of the house was the standard way of painting interiors, except in well-to-do households and mansions.
Paintwork inside John Wesley’s House
2012/13682
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994
This photograph shows a fireplace and painted wall in the front first floor room, today known as Wesley's Study, inside John Wesley's House.
The wall colour, a shiny green-grey oil colour, also once known as 'French grey' or possibly 'pearl', came to light during refurbishment works in 1994-5. It was found in most rooms of the house and, likely, it is the original colour. This would have been used throughout the house, probably excepting the main parlour, as it was cost saving. We know from the original building plans of the house that the rooms were painted three times 'in oil', and some rooms were to be got ready for 'papering'.
In the 1700s using the same colour for most of the house was the standard way of painting interiors, except in well-to-do households and mansions. See also the other photographs of the refurbishment of John Wesley's House, including 2012/13665.
Window Shutters
2012/13689
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1990
This black and white photograph shows a set of window shutters located on the first floor of John Wesley's House.
Shutters on the inside of windows were a standard feature inside newly-built houses in the 1700s. Shutters were made from panelled wood; they were decorative and helped to keep warmth in the house and cold out. They also added additional security, as shutter locks were usually fitted, which meant the shutters could only be opened from the inside.
John Wesley's House preserves almost all of its original shutters.
John Wesley’s Prayer Closet and Bedroom
1994/2930
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1900
This early photograph was taken from John Wesley's prayer room; the view is towards Wesley's bedroom. The image documents how the first floor rooms looked when they were first opened as a museum in 1898.
To the front left, a notice covers the fireplace opening, which reads: "This Little Room is The Place Where Wesley Retired For Prayer".
John Wesley’s Bedroom
1994/2945
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
c.1900
This early photograph was taken inside John Wesley's former bedroom. It shows Wesley's bureau bookcase, which is open and reveals a collection of preacher engravings pasted to the inside doors. Likely, these were stuck to the doors in the 1800s, after Wesley died. Note also the various small 'Wesleyana' commemorative items on a table next to the bookcase, including a Wesley bust and a number of books.
The Curator’s Temporary Office
2011/12814/3
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994-5
A photograph showing the temporary office occupied by the Curator inside john Wesley's House during refurbishment works in 1994/5. To facilitate access for works, the Curator's office was moved from the third floor to the basement kitchen. The kitchen fireplace can be seen behind the office equipment; a fridge and microwave stand inside the fireplace recess.
Dresser in Wesley’s Kitchen
2012/13574
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
1994/5
The dresser in this photograph was made for the kitchen of John Wesley's House, where it has stood since 1779. Its panelling at the back is configured in such a way that it slots onto protrusions on panelling fixed to the kitchen wall behind. The dresser would have held plates, cups, jars and implements for cooking; dressers were the precursors of built-in kitchen cupboards.
Commemorative Cover
2004/9605
2000- / Commemorative / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper; ink
2004
This commemorative cover was issued on 21st July 2004, to commemorate the introduction of The Revd. Lord Leslie Griffiths of Pembrey and Burry Port to the House of Lords. At the time, Lord Griffiths of Pembrey and Burry Port was superintending minister at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
See also the commemorative cover 2008/11153/3 in the Online Collection.
Sixpenny Piece
1750-1800 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / John Wesley / Metal / Metalwork / Paper / Wesleyana
Metal
1787
A sixpenny piece depicting King George III and dating to 1787, in near mint condition.
The coin has an interesting link to John Wesley. A letter in the museum's collection explains that this coin was given by John Wesley to the infant John Wesley Dall. He was the son of Robert Dall, one of Wesley's preachers, and John Wesley was to have baptized the child in 1787.
However, at the last minute, John Wesley was unable to christen the boy, and Wesley presented this new sixpenny piece to the child at his next visit. The letter in the museum's collection explains that the sixpenny piece was kept in the family as an heirloom ever after. Letter and coin arrived at the museum in 1942, donated by a descendant of John Wesley Dall.
Commemorative Key
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Commemorative / Fabric / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Other
Silver (Key); cardboard, leather, fabric (box)
1902
This elaborately-tooled silver key in its velvet-lined box was used for the opening of Wainfleet Wesleyan Chapel on July 10th, 1902. Wainfleet is close to the Lincolnshire Wolds, not far from Skegness.
See also the other commemorative and presentation keys used for opening newly-built or refurbished Wesleyan chapels and Sunday Schools in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Picture
1994/2774
1850-1900 / John Wesley / Organic / Other / Wesleyana / Woodwork
Wood, glass (frame); paper, ink, organic material (image)
mid 1800s
This small commemorative wooden picture frame holds small rose leaves 'From the Grave of John Wesley'. It is a typical item of 'Wesleyana' of the 1800s, when any item with a connection to John Wesley, however small, was greatly esteemed by Wesleyan Methodists. As such, it is an interesting piece of social history.
Wesley's grave is a stone monument which, in the 1800s, was surrounded by metal railings. It is unlikely that a rosebush grew on or near the grave. These leaves may have been taken from a rose put onto Wesley's monument, or a rose bush in the graveyard itself.
Brooch
1800-1850 / Fabric / Glass / Jewellery / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Organic
Metal, glass, hair
Early 1800s
A small, handwritten note pinned to the felt with this small brooch explains that the brooch contains the hair of Mary Bosanquet Fletcher ('Mrs John Fletcher') of Madeley (1739-1815). Mary Bosanquet Fletcher was married to John Fletcher (1729-1785). She was a Methodist preacher, and one of the best-known women preachers of her time. By tradition, she persuaded John Wesley to allow women to preach in public.
See also the framed lock of her hair dating to 1814 in the Online Collection.
Universal Learning Medal
2006/10584
1800-1850 / Coin/Medal / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Sunday School
Metal (coin); fabric (ribbon)
Early 1800s
An interesting universal learning medal, not specifically Methodist but demonstrating the great push to educate poorer children in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The front of the medal reads: "IT IS MY WISH THAT EVERY POOR CHILD SHOULD BE TAUGHT TO READ THE BIBLE. GEORGE III 1805" , and the reverse: "UNIVERSAL EDUCATION. FROM A CHILD THOU HAST KNOWN THE HOLY SCRIPTURES".
The medal was struck around 1805-10 and may have been given out in Sunday Schools, possibly to Sunday School teachers.
Wesley’s Chapel Christmas Postcard
2006/10603
1900-1950 / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Postcard / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
c.1900
This postcard of the exterior of Wesley's Chapel and John Wesley's House is unusual. It was issued as a Christmas card sometime around 1900, with the note from the post office (on the back) that, for inland mail, it was now permissible for inland postcards to write messages on the address (or back) side. For international mail, all personal messages still had to be confined to the front (picture side) of the postcard.
Note the curious metal apparatus on the pavement in front of the railings, next to the gas street lamp. Was this connected to the gas supply and the lamp, or was it possibly a small water pump?
Design Sketch for the Museum of Methodism
2009/11981/2
1950-2000 / Other / Paper / Print / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
c. 1983
A print of an early design sketch for the Museum of Methodism, as envisaged around 1983, before the Museum opened to the public. The design was carried out in a very similar way and the museum featured a chronological storyline with a series of information boards, interspersed with comparatively few exhibits.
The displays continued in use until 2012, when the museum underwent a full refurbishment. See also the proposed plan of the original museum, 2009/11981/1, in the Online Collection.
Proposed Plan for the Museum of Methodism
2009/11981/1
1950-2000 / Other / Paper / Print / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Printed on paper
c. 1983
A print of an early proposal for the overall layout of the Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The final design did not include separate spaces for a library and film and lecture room, and the book shop was located close to the entrance of the museum.
See also the proposed design print of the museum, 2009/11981/2, in the Online Collection.
Photograph of Stained Glass Window
2010/12430
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1950-70
The stained glass window shown in this black and white photograph is entitled 'Suffer the little Children'. Christ is shown at the centre holding a small child and blessing a group of mothers and their children.
The window was manufactured by J.K. Knowles & Sons, York, and installed at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, around 1923. The window commemorates the Rev. William George Beardmore (1843-1919), whose wife presented it.
Photograph of Stained Glass Window
2010/12429
1950-2000 / B/W / Methodism / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1950-70
Black and white photograph of the 'Paul before Agrippa' stained glass window at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The window is Methodist in emphasis, as it takes John Wesley's sermon, 'The almost Christian' as its inspiration. The latter is based on Agrippa's words, recorded in Acts 26.
The window was designed by Henry Holiday, circa 1888 and installed in memory of the Rev. George Thomas Perks (1819-1877).
Photograph of Stained Glass Window
1950-2000 / B/W / God & Faith / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1955
Black and white photograph of a window entitled 'The Architect' at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
The window depicts King Solomon, architect of the Temple in Jerusalem. The face of Solomon is actually a portrait of William Wilmer Pocock, and the window commemorates him and other members of the Pocock family. Pocock was a trustee of Wesley's Chapel for 49 years and his grandfather was present when John Wesley laid the foundation stone for Wesley's Chapel.
W.W. Pocock must have been a Freemason, as there are a number of Freemasonry elements in this window, including the subject of the window, the compass in Solomon's hand, and the Temple column colours of blue and white.
The window was designed by Alfred O. Hemmings in 1901.
Photograph of Stained Glass Window
1950-2000 / B/W / Frank O. Salisbury / God & Faith / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1955-65
The black and white photograph shows the 'Spiritual Power' stained glass window at Wesley's Chapel. The window depicts the soldier of Christ kneeling in front of and angel illuminated from Heaven.
The window commemorates the sending of Methodist missionaries to Australia in the early 1800s. It was designed by Frank O. Salisbury and manufactured by Hawes & Harris, Harpenden, in 1930.
Photograph of Stained Glass Window
1950-2000 / Colour / God & Faith / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c. 1960-70
Early colour photograph of the 'Saint John' stained glass window at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The central figure is St John, depicted as a young man, with a banner bearing the message "Let us love one another" by his arm. The window is in the Pre-Raphaelite Style, the only one at Wesley's Chapel.
The window was designed by Henry Holiday in 1901 and presented to Wesley's Chapel on behalf of the Methodist Church in Canada.
Photograph of the Side Entrance Vestibule
2008/11643
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
This black and white photograph shows the entrance vestibule at the north west corner of the Chapel, where it attaches to the Benson Building. The right hand side pair of doors leads into the Chapel vestibule. The doors on the left lead into the Sanctuary.
The image was taken before the stairs and entrance to the Chapel crypt, visible to the left in the photograph, were moved. This enabled better access to the museum, meeting rooms and lavatories in the basement.
Note the bust of John Wesley and relief portrait of John and Charles Wesley in the centre of the image.
Photograph of the Radnor Hall
2008/11645
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph of the Radnor Hall. In the 1800s, this space was occupied by the morning chapel and led to the vestry building. The morning chapel was lost in a fire in the mid 1800s; the vestry house was demolished in about 1980.
Shortly after the photograph was taken, the war memorial against the back wall of the Radnor Hall was moved. It was relocated to the top of the staircase leading from the Foundery Chapel into the Sanctuary.
Photograph of Foundery Chapel Skylight
2008/11647
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Foundery / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
The stained glass skylight window in the Foundery Chapel is depicted in this black and white photograph. The window is set into the ceiling and the floral decoration includes honeysuckle.
The small, commemorative Foundery Chapel was added to the side of Wesley's Chapel at the end of the 1800s.
Photograph of the Chapel Font
2008/11652
1950-2000 / B/W / God & Faith / Methodism / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
Black and white photograph of the Chapel font. The font's stone bowl is medieval and was originally installed in the parish church in Madeley, where John Fletcher (1729-85) was curate. The top and bottom part, made from alabaster, date to the late 1800s.
Inside the font is a hollowed-out, square piece of sandstone, which has an incised pattern. The stone has links with Nathaniel Gilbert of Antigua, an early Methodist who converted and preached to his slaves. The stone's incised patterns are deeply meaningful, symbolising the breaking of the fetters of slavery.
Photograph of the Chapel Lectern
2008/11653
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
This black and white photograph shows the Chapel lectern. It was inspired by Italian Renaissance designs from the 1400s and dates to around 1860-80.
Photograph of John Wesley’s Memorial Tablet
2008/11657
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph of John Wesley's memorial tablet inside Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Photograph of Chapel Vestibule
2008/11658
1950-2000 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel / World Parish
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph showing the vestibule at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The monument in the centre commemorates Richard Watson (1781-1833).
Watson was one of the first outstanding Wesleyan Methodist theologians and had a keen interest in promoting foreign missions. He became President of Conference in 1826.
Photograph of Chapel Vestibule
2018/11659
1950-2000 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph showing the vestibule at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The monument in the centre commemorates Jabez Bunting (1779-1858).
Jabez Bunting has sometimes been described as the architect of the Wesleyan Methodist Church during the early 1800s. His leadership steered Methodism away from the Anglican Church, but his authoritarian leadership caused a split in Wesleyan Methodism which led many to leave.
Photograph of Luke Wiseman Monument
2008/11660
1950-2000 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
This black and white photograph shows the monument bust of The Revd Dr Frederick Luke Wiseman (1858-1944) at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Wiseman served as President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1912 and of the Methodist Conference in 1933. Between 1940 and 1944, he was minister of Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
The bust was modelled by the Scottish sculptor G.H. Paulin (1888-1962).
Photograph of the Monument to James Calvert
2008/11663
1950-2000 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel / World Parish
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph of the monument bust of James Calvert (1813-1892), "of Fiji".
The Reverend James Calvert was a missionary in Fiji. Calvert and his wife spent seventeen years there, between 1838 and 1855. As a result of their activity, the most powerful chief of Fiji at the time, Thakombau (or Cakobau), converted to Methodism. Later, Calvert spent eight years in the Diamond Fields in South Africa, ministering to miners and their families.
Photograph of the Monument to Sir Francis Lycett
2008/11664
1950-2000 / B/W / Leysian Mission / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
Black and white photograph of the monument to Sir Francis Lycett (1803-1880).
Lycett was a wealthy businessman and philanthropist who gave large sums to Wesleyan Methodism; in 1870 he offered £50,000 for fifty new chapels.
Lycett was also one of the founders of The Leys School, Cambridge and a trustee of Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Photograph of Monuments inside Wesley’s Chapel, City Road
2008/11665
1950-2000 / B/W / Leysian Mission / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
Black and white photograph of the monuments to William Fiddian Moulton (1835-1898), William Morley Punshon (1824-1881) and Gervase Smith (1821-1882) at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. All three men were well-known Methodist ministers.
Photograph of the Monument to Joseph Butterworth
2008/11666
1950-2000 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel / World Parish
Photograph
1990
A black and white photograph of the marble monument to Joseph Butterworth (1770-1826) inside Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Joseph Butterworth was a law bookseller with large premises in Fleet Street. Later, he became Member of Parliament for Coventry (1812-18) and Dover (1820-26). Many leading philanthropists of the day met at his London house, including William Wilberforce and Zachary Macaulay, the historian.
Butterworth was a Wesleyan Methodist and the first meetings of the British and Foreign Bible Society took place at his home. In 1819, he was appointed general treasurer of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society.
Photograph of the War Memorial
2008/11668
1950-2000 / B/W / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
The war memorial at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, commemorates all Methodists who served and fell during WWI (1914-18) and WWII (1939-45). It also serves as a marker for all Methodist men, women and children who suffered as a result of WWII.
Photograph of the Memorial to Charles Prest
1995/3337
1950-2000 / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1990
A photograph of the memorial to Charles Prest (1806-1875) at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Prest was a Wesleyan Methodist minister who played a part in the building of the new Kingswood School following its move to Bath in 1851. He served at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, between 1851 and 1854 and became secretary of the Home Mission Committee from 1856 to 1875. In 1862, Prest was elected President of the Conference.
Photograph of the Monument to Thomas Protheroe
1995/3336/2
1950-2000 / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel / World Parish
Photograph
c.1990
Photograph of the monument tablet to The Revd. Thomas Protheroe inside Wesley's Chapel, City Road. Protheroe went to China as a missionary in 1881, ministering there until his death in 1908.
Photograph of the Monument to Theophilus Lessey
1995/3334/2
1950-2000 / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1990
Photograph of the monument to Theophilus Lessey (1787-1841) at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
The Revd. Theophilus Lessey was the son of a Wesleyan minister. He was baptized by John Wesley and educated at Kingswood School. Lessey became a powerful preacher and often preached at significant Wesleyan Methodist events, for example at Chapel openings, such as Brunswick Chapel (1825) or Oxford Place Chapel, Leeds (1835). He was elected President of the Conference in the Methodist Centenary year 1839.
Photograph of the Memorial to Lady Mary Fitzgerald
1995/3554/1
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1990
Photograph of the memorial tablet to Lady Mary Fitzgerald (1725-1815) at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. Although early Methodism was primarily a movement of working and professional people, the aristocracy was by no means excluded.
Photograph of the Memorial to John Mason
1995/3428/2
1950-2000 / Colour / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel / World Parish
Photograph
c.1990
John Mason (?-1864) served as Book Steward of the Book Room, the Methodist Publishing House in City Road, for thirty-seven years. With good financial acumen and business sense, he cleared many of the Book Room's debts and put the business onto a much sounder footing. Earlier in his career, he had served as the Church's Foreign Missions Secretary.
Photograph of the Memorial to James Hamilton, M.D.
1995/3429/2
1950-2000 / Colour / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1990
Photograph of the memorial tablet to James Hamilton, M.D. (1740-1827) at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Hamilton spent his early years as a surgeon's mate in the Navy. He joined the Methodists in the 1760s and became a local preacher. Hamilton lived in Dunbar and opened his home to other itinerant Methodist preachers, assisting John Wesley to organise Methodism in Scotland. In 1771 he received an MD from Aberdeen University and in 1780 was elected a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.
Later, Hamilton moved to London and became a member of Wesley's Chapel, City Road. Hamilton was against Methodism's split from the Anglican Church and he worked, unsuccessfully, to prevent it.
See also Joseph Kay's painting 'John Wesley walking between two of his preachers, Dr James Hamilton and Joseph Cole, in Edinburgh' (1997/6735) in the Online Collection.
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II
1993/1306/1
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1978
By the early 1970s, Wesley's Chapel had become structurally unsafe and a major building programme was required to ensure the building's survival. This took over four years to complete. The Chapel was re-opened on its 200th anniversary, on 1st November 1978, by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
This photograph shows Her Majesty leaving the building following the re-opening service.
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II
1993/1306/3
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1978
By the early 1970s, Wesley's Chapel had become structurally unsafe and a major building programme was required to ensure the building's survival. This took over four years to complete. The Chapel was re-opened on its 200th anniversary, on 1st November 1978, by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
This photograph shows Her Majesty after the re-opening service, greeting the crowds outside Bunhill Fields graveyard.
Photograph of Girls outside Wesley’s Chapel
1993/612/8
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Sunday School / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1927
This sepia colour photo shows a group of young girls in front of the entrance at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. It is inscribed at the back 'Wesley's Chapel Brownies, 1927'. Likely, the girls attended Sunday School and/or the Girls Brigade Christian social group at Wesley's Chapel. Some of the girls are wearing full scout uniform, including then fashionable 'cloche' hats.
Photograph of Wesley’s Chapel Scouts
1993/612/9
1900-1950 / B/W / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1924
A sepia colour photograph of a procession of boy scouts from Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The group is shown outside the Chapel site (to the right of the photograph but not visible in this image), marching down City Road towards the City of London.
Photograph of Wesley’s Chapel Girl Guides
1993/612/7
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
c.1922
A sepia colour photograph of Wesley's Chapel Girl Guides in the early 1920s. The Guides are shown in front of the Chapel portico. The girls' uniforms and the flags lend a somewhat military tone to the scene. The idea of being part of an 'army for faith' was quite common at the time; the Salvation Army even incorporated this concept into its name.
Photograph of Margaret Thatcher at Wesley’s Chapel
2008/11497
1950-2000 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1992
A black and white photograph of Margaret and Denis Thatcher being greeted by Rev. Paul Hulme on arrival at Wesley's Chapel in July 1992.
In the background can be seen the memorial tablets mounted to the side of John Wesley's House.
Postcard of a Group in front of John Wesley’s Statue
2004/9720
1900-1950 / Paper / Photograph / Postcard / Wesley's Chapel
Postcard
c.1935
A black and white postcard based on a photograph of National Wesley Guild Conference members in front of John Wesley's Statue at Wesley's Chapel, City Road.
Second from the left (back row) is the young George Thomas (1909-1997), who later became a well-known British Labour politician and was elevated to the peerage as Viscount Tonypandy.
Photograph of a Methodist Procession on City Road
1999/7700
1950-2000 / Colour / Methodism / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1985
This photograph shows a group from Wesley's Chapel proceeding down City Road towards the City of London. Likely, this photograph was taken on Wesley Day (24th May), when John Wesley's conversion (24th May, 1738) is celebrated with a pilgrimage to a number of significant London sites linked to John Wesley's life, including St Paul's Cathedral.
Photograph of Chapel Service
2019/15952
1900-1950 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph
1934
This black and white photograph records the Chapel service on 20th September, 1934, commemorating the re-opening of John Wesley's House after restoration. To the right of the painting of John Wesley and behind the speaker are seated the painter Frank O. Salisbury and his wife. They were guests of honour who officially re-opened John Wesley's House that day.
Miniature Paintings of John Wesley and John Fletcher
1993/1412
1800-1850 / Cardboard / Fabric / Glass / John Wesley / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Organic / Other / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour / Wood
Gouache on ivory (paintings); glass, wood, fabric and cardboard (frame and case)
Probably early 1800s (paintings)
Two miniature paintings of John Wesley and John Fletcher in a fitted case, display-mounted in a wooden frame.
Note the original label which attributes the miniatures to 'Smart, Jun.'. a well known miniature painter, by a member of staff at the 'British & South Kensington Museums' (today's Victoria & Albert Museum), in 1887.
Plan of the Crypt
2015/14737/2
2000- / Object / Other / Other / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Foamboard, printed
c.2012
A plan of the crypt area at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. This and other plans were drawn up prior to refurbishing the Museum of Methodism, to show the 'before' and 'after' appearance of the space.
See also 2015/14737/4 and 2015/14737/6.
Proposed Plan of the Crypt I
2015/14737/4
2000- / Object / Other / Other / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Foamboard, printed
c.2012
A proposed plan of the crypt area at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. This and other plans were drawn up prior to refurbishing the Museum of Methodism, to show the 'before' and 'after' appearance of the space. This planning proposal was not carried out.
Compare also with 2015/14737/2 and 2015/14737/6.
Proposed Plan of the Crypt II
2015/14737/6
2000- / Object / Other / Other / The Museum of Methodism / Wesley's Chapel
Foamboard, printed
c.2012
A proposed plan of the crypt area at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. This and other plans were drawn up prior to refurbishing the Museum of Methodism, to show the 'before' and 'after' appearance of the space. This was an intermediate planning proposal and elements of it were carried out.
Compare also with 2015/14737/2 and 2015/14737/4.
Design Drawing for a Museum Shop Counter
2015/14738/3
1950-2000 / Drawing / Painting / Paper / The Museum of Methodism / Watercolour / Wesley's Chapel
Watercolour and ink on paper
c.1983
A design drawing for the shop counter to be installed inside the Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The Museum of Methodism opened in the crypt at Wesley's Chapel in 1984.
Design Drawing for a Museum Shop Counter II
2015/14738/2
1950-2000 / Drawing / Painting / Paper / The Museum of Methodism / Watercolour / Wesley's Chapel
Watercolour and ink on paper
c.1983
A design drawing for the shop counter to be installed inside the Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The Museum of Methodism opened in the crypt at Wesley's Chapel in 1984.
See also 2015/14738/3.
Design Drawing for the Museum Shop Area
2015/14738/1
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Drawing / Painting / The Museum of Methodism / Watercolour / Wesley's Chapel
Watercolour and ink on paper
c.1983
A design drawing for the shop area inside the Museum of Methodism at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The Museum of Methodism opened in the crypt at Wesley's Chapel in 1984.
See also 2015/14738/2 and 2015/14738/3.
Radnor Street School Centenary Brochure
2004/9704
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / Sunday School / Wesley's Chapel
Paper, printed
1898
A brochure celebrating the centenary of the Day, Sunday, Ragged School and Mission premises in Radnor Street, close to Wesley's Chapel. The Schools and Mission had operated since 1798 and they were the oldest dedicated Wesleyan Methodist Sunday School and Mission premises in London.
Mrs Wesley’s Memorial Subscriptions
2014/14210
1850-1900 / Book / Cardboard / Commemorative / Document / Paper / The Wesley Family / Wesley's Chapel
Cardboard and paper, printed; ink
Late 1860s
Scrapbook entitled 'Mrs Wesley's Memorial Subscriptions'. The booklet contains newspaper cuttings and a running total detailing all the subscriptions from the public for erecting a memorial to Susanna Wesley (1669-1742).
Susanna was Revd. John Wesley's mother. She was buried in 1742 opposite Wesley's Chapel, then a 'tenter' (or cloth-drying) ground, in Bunhill Fields burial ground. The memorial was erected in the grounds of Wesley's Chapel in 1870.
See also the photograph of the memorial in the Online Collection, 2008/11371/1.
Chapel Interior
1999/7612/6
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Postcard / Print / Wesley's Chapel
Postcard printed on paper
pre 1937
This black and white picture postcard shows the interior of Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The photo from which the postcard was printed was taken sometime before 1937, as a new organ was installed that year. This postcard still shows the two old organs at first-floor (or gallery) level, facing one another.
Illuminated Certificate
1999/7836
1900-1950 / Certificate / Commemorative / Document / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Vellum / Watercolour / Wesley's Chapel
Vellum, watercolour, gold leaf (certificate); leather (cover)
1931
This beautifully-illuminated certificate was presented to A.E.Robinson Esq. on retiring from his posts as Treasurer and Circuit Steward at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The certificate is signed by the London District representative, the then-minister of Wesley's Chapel (George McNeal), all Circuit Stewards, the Trustees of the Chapel, as well as various schools and mission representatives with a close connection to Wesley's Chapel.
Letter
1994/1932
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Ink on paper
Letter to Miss Ford, c. 1770-80
Wesley made many journeys on horseback, a fact that is well known. It is a lesser known fact that John Wesley also owned a carriage in later life. In this letter he writes: 'I am quite disappointed. My Chaise is gone to be painted. It will require a week or two to dry. So that I can’t have the pleasure I proposed to myself in carrying you to Bow. Your Company will always be agreeable to…'
This undated note to a lady friend, Miss Nancy Ford, likely dates to the 1770s. No doubt perfectly innocent, it was letters and notes like this one which contributed to the difficulties John and Mary (‘Molly’) Vazeille were experiencing in their marriage. Molly and John separated permanently in 1771.
Conference Ticket
1993/798
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1914
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in Leeds in 1914. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/819
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1922
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in Sheffield in 1922. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/816
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Document / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1918
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference at the Albert Hall in Manchester in 1918. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/818
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1923
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference at the Victoria Rooms in Clifton, Bristol, in 1923. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1999/7255
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1924
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference at the Albert Hall, Nottingham, in 1924. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/827
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1927
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference at the Eastbrook Hall in Bradford in 1927. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1999/7256
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1932
A ticket giving admission to the Uniting Methodist Conference at Westminster Central Hall, London, in 1932. The 'Uniting' Conference of 1932 united the Wesleyan, Primitive and United Methodist Churches to form 'The Methodist Church'.
The Conference started at Wesley's Chapel, City Road, on the morning of Tues 20th September 1932, and the unification ceremony took place in the Albert Hall that afternoon. On the following day, there were a number of services and a presidential address at Westminster Central Hall. Further events took place at both Westminster Central Hall and the Albert Hall over the following days. The Conference concluded on Sat 24th September with an open air demonstration in Hyde Park.
The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Visiting Card
1992/134
1750-1800 / Cardboard / John Wesley / Object / Other / Wesleyana
Cardboard
Visiting Card, late 1700s
John Wesley's visiting card. Visiting cards, often referred to in French as 'carte-de-visite', were an essential visiting accessory in polte society of the 1700s and 1800s. The 'caller' would produce a visiting card, usually printed with his or her name, to the maid, housekeeper or butler answering the door. The card would then be taken to the family or resident of the house, who would then ask for the visitor to be admitted.
Visiting cards were often elegantly decorated, especially in the 1800s. John Wesley's, notably, was very plain, its only decoration a faintly gilded edge.
Conference Ticket
1993/827
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard
Conference Ticket, 1927
This Conference ticket is marked 'season ticket' and was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith for the Methodist Conference at the Eastbrook Hall, Bradford. It was an additional ticket to a more elaborate one issued to Gypsy Smith for the same Conference, which is also in the Online Collection. This smaller ticket was reserved for 'the Secretary's guests' and probably admitted to a specific seating area.
'Season ticket' in this instance probably indicates the ticket covered the whole of the Conference week, not just one day.
This ticket is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/827
1900-1950 / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1927
This Conference ticket was issued by the Rev. Robert Bond to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is marked 'season ticket' and was issued for the Wesleyan Methodist Conference at Plymouth in 1929. This particular ticket was reserved for the 'friends of the Secretary of the Conference' and would have given admission to a reserved seating area.
This ticket is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/817
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard
Conference Ticket, 1923
This Conference ticket admitted the bearer to the Representative session at the Bristol Methodist Conference in 1923 and gave access to the balcony area. It is a season ticket covering July 18th to July 24th and was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith.
This ticket is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1999/7252
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1909
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference at the Wesley Chapel in Lincoln in 1909. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1999/7253
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1915
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in Birmingham in 1915. The ticket was issued to 'Gypsy' (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1999/7254
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1912
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in Liverpool in 1912. The ticket was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/824
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1926
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in York in 1926. The ticket was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1999/7257
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1917
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference at Westminster Central Hall in London in 1917. The ticket was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1999/7249
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1920
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in Dublin in 1920. The ticket was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Welsh Wesleyan Methodist Assembly Ticket
1999/7258
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Welsh Wesleyan Methodist Assembly Ticket, 1928
A ticket giving admission to the Welsh Wesleyan Methodist Assembly in Wrexham in 1928. The ticket was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Special Service Hymn Sheet
1993/846
1900-1950 / God & Faith / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Special Service Hymn Sheet, 1925
Special service hymn sheet issued in welcome of the Wesleyan Conference at Lincoln in 1925. The hymn sheet was among the Conference papers issued to and collected by Gypsy (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the Conference tickets and related material collected by Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/820
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed
Conference Ticket, 1924
This Conference ticket, a season ticket, was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith for the Methodist Conference at the Albert Hall, Nottingham, in 1924. It was an additional ticket to a more elaborate one issued to Gypsy Smith for the same Conference, which is also in the Online Collection. This smaller ticket admitted the bearer to the seats in the Gallery.
'Season ticket' in this instance probably indicates the ticket covered the whole of the Conference week, not just one day.
This ticket is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/825
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1926
This Conference ticket was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith for the Representative session at the Methodist Conference held at the Centenary Chapel in York in 1926. It was an additional ticket to a more elaborate one issued to Gypsy Smith for the same Conference, which is also in the Online Collection. This smaller ticket was reserved for 'Secretary's Guests' and probably admitted to a specific seating area.
This ticket is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Banquet Plan of Tables
1993/858
1900-1950 / Cardboard / God & Faith / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Banquet Plan of Tables, 1900
This plan of tables was issued alongside an invitation to the Lord Mayor's Banquet for the Archbishops and Bishops on July 4th, 1900.
It bears the name of 'Mr Rodney Smith', who was invited to the banquet. In keeping with the formal nature of the event and social conventions at the time, Rodney's preferred name, 'Gypsy', was not mentioned.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Invitation
1993/854/1
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Invitation, 1930
A Buckingham Palace garden party invitation sent by The Lord Chamberlain on behalf of King George V and Queen Mary to Mr and Mrs Gypsy Smith in 1930. At the time, royal garden parties were still regarded as the highlight of the social calendar, and the invitation is indicative of the high regard in which Gypsy was held.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Invitation
1993/839
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Invitation, 1932
An invitation from The Corporation of the City of London to Gypsy Smith. The invitation was issued to the delegates of the Conference of the Union of the Wesleyan Primitive and United Methodist Churches in September 1932.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Service sheet
1993/873
1900-1950 / Methodism / Object / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Printed on paper
Service sheet, 1900
A Watch Night service sheet for the Wesleyan Methodist twentieth century celebration held on 31 December, 1900.
Watch Night services are late night services. John Wesley introduced Watch Night services in the mid-1700s, and they were sometimes called Covenant Renewal services. Originally, such services were meant to deepen the spiritual faith of the particiapnts and they were quite spontaneous. Later, they became more formal and associated with the end of the year, providing an alternative to alcohol-fuelled revelry, especially on New Year's eve.
Envelope
1993/978
1900-1950 / Document / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper; ink
Envelope, 1927
An envelope addressed to "Gypsy" Smith in 1927. Proud of his Romani origins, Rodney ("Gypsy") Smith called his house in 37 Hinton Avenue, Cambridge, 'Romany Tan'.
By the 1920s Gypsy Smith was very well known. Gypsy would have received large quantities of mail daily; clearly, there was no longer any need to write the full address of the Smith household on the envelope.
This envelope is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Invitation
1993/847
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Invitation, 1931
A 1931 Buckingham Palace garden party invitation sent by The Lord Chamberlain on behalf of 'their majesties' (King George V and Queen Mary) to Mr and Mrs Gypsy Smith. At the time, royal garden parties were still regarded as the highlight of the social calendar, and the invitation is indicative of the high regard in which Gypsy was held. He and his wife had also been invited the year before, see also 1993/854/1 in the Online Collection.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Conference Ticket
1993/747/1
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard, printed; ink
Conference Ticket, 1913
A ticket giving admission to the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in Plymouth in 1913, when Luke Wiseman was President of the Conference. The ticket was issued to Gypsy (Rodney) Smith. It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also the other Conference tickets issued to Gypsy Smith in the Online Collection.
Photograph
1993/807/3
1900-1950 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph
Paper, printed
Photograph, 1934
A photograph of Gypsy Smith holding Bill Hellborn, son of a friend.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph
2010/12787
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II arriving at Wesley's Chapel, 1978
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip are seen arriving at Wesley's Chapel for the Chapel re-opening ceremony in November 1978. The Chapel had undergone a comprehensive scheme of restoration between 1972 and 1978, following severe structural issues with the foundations, the roof and the south gallery. The re-opening ceremony took place two hundred years to the day of the Chapel opening in November 1778.
See also the other photographs of the same occasion in the Online Collection.
Photograph
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II being welcomed into the Manse, 1978
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip being welcomed into the Manse at Wesley's Chapel before the Chapel re-opening ceremony in November 1978. The Chapel had undergone a comprehensive scheme of restoration between 1972 and 1978, following severe structural issues with the foundations, the roof and the south gallery. The re-opening ceremony took place two hundred years to the day of the Chapel opening in November 1778.
See also the other photographs of the same occasion in the Online Collection.
Photograph
1993/1310/2
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Higness, Prince Phillip signing the visitor book, 1978
The image shows Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip signing the visitor book at Wesley's Chapel before the Chapel re-opening ceremony in November 1978. The Chapel had undergone a comprehensive scheme of restoration between 1972 and 1978, following severe structural issues with the foundations, the roof and the south gallery. The re-opening ceremony took place two hundred years to the day of the Chapel opening in November 1778.
See also the other photographs of the same occasion in the Online Collection.
Photograph
2009/12214
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II signing the visitor book at Wesley's Chapel, 1978
A photograph of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II signing the visitor book at Wesley's Chapel before the Chapel re-opening ceremony in November 1978. The Chapel had undergone a comprehensive scheme of restoration between 1972 and 1978, following severe structural issues with the foundations, the roof and the south gallery. The re-opening ceremony took place two hundred years to the day of the Chapel opening in November 1778.
See also the other photographs of the same occasion in the Online Collection.
Photograph
2009/12211
1950-2000 / Collection Type / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II being handed a bouquet of flowers, 1978
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II being handed a bouquet of flowers at the re-opening ceremony at Wesley's Chapel in November 1978. His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip and a lady-in-waiting stand to the right in the photograph.
The Chapel had undergone a comprehensive scheme of restoration between 1972 and 1978, following severe structural issues with the foundations, the roof and the south gallery. The re-opening ceremony took place two hundred years to the day of the Chapel opening in November 1778.
See also the other photographs of the same occasion in the Online Collection.
Photograph
2009/12212
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II with a bouquet of flowers, 1978
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II with a bouquet of flowers at the re-opening ceremony at Wesley's Chapel in November 1978.
The Chapel had undergone a comprehensive scheme of restoration between 1972 and 1978, following severe structural issues with the foundations, the roof and the south gallery. The re-opening ceremony took place two hundred years to the day of the Chapel opening in November 1778.
See also the other photographs of the same occasion in the Online Collection.
Photograph
1993/1306/2
1950-2000 / Colour / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Paper
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II leaving Wesley's Chapel, 1978
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II leaving Wesley's Chapel after the re-opening ceremony at the Chapel in November 1978. Behind Her Majesty follow local dignitaries and her lady-in-waiting.
The Chapel had undergone a comprehensive scheme of restoration between 1972 and 1978, following severe structural issues with the foundations, the roof and the south gallery. The re-opening ceremony took place two hundred years to the day of the Chapel opening in November 1778.
See also the other photographs of the same occasion in the Online Collection.
Photograph of Gypsy Smith
1993/1188
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
Photograph of Gypsy Smith, c. 1930
A close-up photograph of Gypsy Smith dating to around 1930.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Group photograph of Gypsy Smith and Seattle ministers
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
Group photograph of Gypsy Smith and Seattle ministers, 1911
The photograph depicts Gypsy Smith among the Seattle Ministers Federation in 1911. Gypsy stands in the centre of the picture in the second row, wearing a moustache and a dark-coloured suit. Gypsy's evangelical work took him to the United States of America regularly, and he visited many other countries, too.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph of Gypsy Smith
1993/1250/1
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph
Photograph of Gypsy Smith, c. 1915-20
A photograph of evangelist Gypsy Smith dating to the early 1900s. Gypsy is dressed in a soldier-like suit, as a 'soldier' for Christ. The uniform recalls his early days in the Salvation Army. This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Certificate
1993/1517
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Watercolour
Cardboard, printed; ink
Certificate, 1929
A certificate awarded to evangelist Gypsy Smith by the Connexional Local Preachers' Committee on completion of 52 years as a local preacher in December 1929.
This certificate is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph of Gypsy Smith
1993/1226
1900-1950 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph
Photograph printed on paper
Photograph of Gypsy Smith, 1930s
A photograph of evangelist Gypsy Smith. Gypsy is leaning against a tree in Epping Forest in Waterworks Corner, Woodford Green, near to where he was born in a Romani bender tent. Today a memorial commemorates the site of his birth.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph of Gypsy Smith in Melbourne
1996/4978
1900-1950 / B/W / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph
Paper
Photograph of Gypsy Smith in Melbourne, 1926
A photograph of evangelist Gypsy Smith in 1926 in Melbourne, Australia, just prior to preaching.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph of Gypsy Smith preaching
1996/4975
1900-1950 / B/W / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
Photograph of Gypsy Smith preaching, c. 1925-30
A publicity newspaper photograph of evangelist Gypsy Smith preaching in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Gypsy was widely popular and often attracted huge crowds.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph of a Romani family
1993/1198
1850-1900 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Cardboard
Photograph of a Romani family, Late 1860s
This photograph was among Gypsy Smith's papers and photographs; likely, it shows his family in the late 1860s. It is possible that the small boy wearing a straw hat to the right of the photograph is Gypsy.
This image is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph
1993/1197
1850-1900 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
Photograph of Gypsy Smith's children, c. 1890
A photograph of Gypsy Smith's children, Albany (left) Rhoda Zillah (centre) and Alfred Hanley (right). The photo was taken around 1890.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph of Gypsy Smith
1993/213
1850-1900 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
1881
A sepia photograph of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith aged 21 taken in Hull in 1881.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Photograph
1993/1812
1850-1900 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
Photograph of Gypsy Smith and family, c. 1892
This sepia photograph of Gypsy Smith and his family in their Sunday best dates to the early 1890s. Gypsy was married to Annie E. Pennock in 1879 and they had three children, Albany (born 1881, right), Alfred Hanley (born 1882, left) and Rhoda Zillah (born 1884, second from left).
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Programme
2004/9405
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Leysian Mission / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard and paper, printed
Leys School programme, 1919
A programme for Speech Day at the Leys School in Cambridge on June 27th, 1919, at which evangelist Gypsy Smith was speaking. The Methodist Leys School was founded in 1875 and continues to thrive.
This pamphlet is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Diary of Gypsy Smith
2008/11576
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Cardboard and paper; printed
1912
Gypsy Smith's diary for 1912. On April 14th, 1912, the White Star ship 'Titanic' sank on its maiden voyage to New York in the North Atlantic. The diary notes that just one week later, on Tues 23rd April, Gypsy Smith sailed on the Cunarder 'Mauretania' to New York to honour preaching engagements. Likely, it was a sombre crossing as many passengers would have been in a state of alarm and worry.
This diary is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Telegram
1993/767
1900-1950 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper, printed
1926
A telegram received by Gypsy Smith on his tour of Australia in August 1926. It was sent from Melbourne to Union Coys Wharf in Sydney, where Gypsy's ship, the 'Maheno', was lying at anchor. The telegram was one of many thanking Gypsy for his visit to Australia; the trip was a resounding success.
This telegram is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Telegram
1993/768
1900-1950 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / World Parish
Paper, printed
1926
A telegram received by Gypsy Smith on his tour of Australia in August 1926. It was sent to Union Coys Wharf in Sydney, where Gypsy's ship, the 'Maheno', was lying at anchor. The telegram was one of many thanking Gypsy for his visit to Australia; the trip was a resounding success.
This telegram is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Newspaper Article
1993/750
1900-1950 / B/W / Document / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Paper, printed
1926
A newspaper article published by The Sun newspaper in Sydney, Australia, on August, 3rd, 1926. The article is interesting in that it credits Gypsy Smith's evangelical campaign in Australia with expanding the radio network in the country. According to the article, radio sets were installed in over 100 churches in the country to enable worshippers to listen to Gypsy's addresses. Careful reading also suggests that the writer of the article was perhaps not quite as taken by Gypsy's evangelical campaign as many of his countrymen and women.
The Sun newspaper closed in 1988.
This article is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Award
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Metal / Methodism / Object / Other / Wood
Wood, metal
1932
This Primitive Methodist award in the form of a shield was given by JW Arnold, Vice President of The Primitive Methodist Conference, in 1927. It was awarded for 'annual choir competition'.
The centre shield features a plaque with embodiments of Harmony, Melody and Rhythm, surrounded by smaller shield-shape plaques commemorating the winners until 1933 to the left. In 1932, the United Methodist, the Primitive Methodist and the Wesleyan Methodist Churches united. It would seem that the annual choir competition ceased shortly after unification, as the award was no longer made and all shields to the right hand side are blank.
Government Act
1800-1850 / Abolition of Slavery / Document / Other / Paper / Print
Paper
Blueprint, 1833
This government act in early blueprint format for multiple-copy printing was issued in 1833 under King William IV. The Slavery Abolition Act abolished slavery in all British colonies and dominions from August 1st, 1834.
The abolition of slavery in British dominions was a gradual and drawn-out process. Well-known politicans, philanthropists and religious leaders, including John Wesley, had called for the abolition of slavery for decades by the time the slave trade in British dominions was abolished in 1807. However, it took a further 27 years for slavery in the British Empire to be abolished completely and for all enslaved people in the Empire to obtain their freedom.
In America, it was not until the end of 1865 that all slaves were emancipated.
Pamphlet
1996/5987
1900-1950 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Printed on paper
1905
Pamplet published on Gypsy Smith by W.T. Stead (1849-1912) in a series of short publications on evangelists and revivalists. Stead was a well-known British newspaper editor who was also one of the first investigative journalists. Stead achieved notoriety when he was drowned on the RMS Titanic in 1912, after publishing a story in 1892 titled "From the Old World to the New", in which a ship collides with an iceberg and sinks.
This pamphlet is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
The Beauty of Jesus
2004/9343
1900-1950 / Cardboard / God & Faith / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard and paper, printed
Memories and Reflections, 1932
A biographical work in which Gypsy Smith tells of his experience in the mission field.
This book is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Wonderful Jesus and Other Songs
2004/9331
1900-1950 / Cardboard / God & Faith / Leather / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Cardboard and paper; printed, bound in leather
Used in Gypsy Smith's Campaign in Australasia, 1926
Edited by Ensign Edwin Young, this pamphlet charts the songs sung by Gypsy Smith during his visit or 'campaign' in Australia and New Zealand in 1926. The loose leather binding was specially commissioned and is engraved: "With loving greetings from the Bonny Bunch".
This pamphlet is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
A Mission of Peace
2004/9347
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / God & Faith / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Cardboard and paper, printed
Evangelistic Triumphs in South Africa 1904, 1904
A book recounting Gypsy Smith's evangelical 'campaign' in South Africa in 1904. Perceived by the western and English-speaking public in general as great triumphs at the time, such undertakings are somewhat more problematical in retrospect when seen in their cultural, political and historical contexts.
This book is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Hallowed Hymns – New and Old
2004/9397
1900-1950 / Cardboard / God & Faith / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard and paper, printed
1909
Edited and compiled by I. Allan Sankey, this booklet of hymns was to be "used at prayer and praise meetings, evangelistic services, Sunday Schools, young peoples' societies and all other departments of Church work". The booklet contains a special Supplement of Gypsy Smith hymns.
This pamphlet is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Flyer advertising a Gypsy Smith Rally or Preaching Engagement
1993/844
1900-1950 / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication / World Parish
Paper, printed
c. 1915-18
Flyer advertising a Gypsy Smith rally or preaching engagement in the USA. The flyer contains a number of references to war, which dates it to c. 1915-18. During the war years, Gypsy Smith continued his evangelical campaigns. Perishable publicity flyers in as-new condition such as this one are rare survivals.
This flyer is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith Australian Campaign Message Record
1993/777/1
1900-1950 / Document / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / World Parish
Paper, printed; ink
1926
A collection of messages - letters, telegrams and notes - received by Gypsy Smith in connection with his Australian visit or 'campaign', all typed as a record on 'Hotel Sydney' paper during the campaign.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith Australian Campaign Letter
1993/778/8
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper; ink
1926
A letter written by the Rev. Worrall, campaign director of Gyspy Smith's Australian campaign, to Mr Gordon Sprigg. The Rev. Worrall summarises the success of the Australian campaign. Although he had no "knowledge of any dramatic conversions" during the visit, he and his fellow ministers felt "we were being lifted by a tidal wave of spiritual power that thrilled our souls + brought us into closer unity of spirit + purpose".
This letter is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith Cartoon
1999/7264
1900-1950 / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Painting / Paper
Paper; ink
1915
A cartoon of Gypsy Smith shaking hands with a workman, representative of the Rochdale area and manufacturing. The image is inscribed: 'Give us yer 'and, Mr Smith, sir, You've done us good.' The cartoon illustrates the influence and following Gypsy Smith had among ordinary working people in Britain - and further afield - at this time.
Young Gypsy Smith
1993/1199
1850-1900 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
1875-78
A sepia photograph of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith in his late teens, taken in the second half of the 1870s.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith as a young man
1993/1211
1850-1900 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard; pencil
c. 1878-1880
A sepia photograph of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith as a young man, around the time of his marriage to Annie E. Pennock (1879).
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith in the early 1900s
1993/1210
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph on card
c. 1905-10
An interesting three-dimensional photograph of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith dating around 1905-10. The novelty effect is created by stamping the image into cardboard.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith
1993/1234
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
c.1930
A sepia photograph of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith in the interwar period, at the height of his fame.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith
1993/1190
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
1930
A sepia portrait study of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith, dated 1930. Unusually, Gypsy Smith is looking to the right; most photographs show him looking to the left.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith in America
1993/1243/2
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
1908
A dated and copyrighted image of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith dating to 1908 and taken in Washington, USA.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith with wreath
1993/1229/3
1900-1950 / B/W / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Photograph
Photograph printed on cardboard
c.1925-30
A sepia photograph of Rodney ('Gypsy') Smith at a commemorative event carrying a wreath. The image was taken by the British press for publication purposes.
This photograph is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other photographs and documents on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Christmas Card
1993/730
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / World Parish
Cardboard, printed; silk ribbon
Written by Ellen Green to Gypsy Smith, c. 1930
A Christmas card (and gift) sent to Gypsy Smith from Ellen Green of Vaucluse, Sydney, Australia. Either she was a member of Gypsy's evangelical campaign team in Australia during his tour there in 1926, or she and her family attended an event or rally at which Gypsy spoke. Gypsy was very popular in Australia, and this is reflected in the card.
This card is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Letter to Gypsy Smith
1993/787/3
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper
Farmer & Company Limited, Wireless Broadcasting Department, 1926
First page of a letter written by the news corporation Farmer & Company Limited in Sydney, Australia in July 1926 to Gypsy Smith. The letter relates to Gypsy's evangelical broadcasts on Australian air. Radio bradcasting was still very new in 1926. It is interesting how Australia, a very large and sparsely populated country, made use of wireless communication to reach its citizens from very early on. Radio transmission allowed Gypsy to reach huge audiences, including settlers in the outback and prisoners at Sydney's Long Bay Gaol.
This letter is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Gypsy Smith newspaper feature
1993/748
1900-1950 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Publication / World Parish
Paper
1926
Newspaper cutting showing a photograph of Gypsy Smith and companions arriving at Sydney main station during his evangelical campaign in Australia in 1926. The Australian press took a keen interest in Gypsy's trip and many of his speaking engagagements were broadcast on radio.
This cutting is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other documents and photographs from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Cloth
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Fabric / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Textile / World Parish
Cotton; printed
1935
Cloth from Ghana commemorating the 100th anniversary of the arrival of Methodism in Gold Coast; in 1957, after independence was gained, Gold Coast became Ghana. In 1835, the Missionary Committee of the British Methodist Conference sent Rev. Joseph Rhodes Dunwell to be the first Methodist missionary there. Shortly after, missionary Rev. Thomas Birch Freeman (1809-1890) arrived in Gold Coast, setting up schools and agricultural projects and promoting the anti slavery cause. Freeman was the son of an African father and an English mother, and he is depicted opposite John Wesley on this cloth.
Photograph
1900-1950 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / The Wesley Family / Wesleyana
Photograph printed on paper
Susanna Wesley's needlecase, c. 1900
Black and white photograph of a framed sewing etui or needlecase. The etui is made from green silk and is very unusual, in that it rolls out and becomes a length of material, embroidered with numbers. The numbers denote inches, so the needlecase, once unrolled, can be used as a measuring tape for sewing. Both stitching and embroidery are very finely carried out.
Traditionally, this needlecase has been associated with Susanna Wesley (1669-1742), mother of John Wesley. in this photograph it is shown framed for a Wesleyana exhibition in the late 1800s, with hand-written provenance notes below.
Photograph
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph printed on paper
Wesley's Chapel Manse, c. 1970s
A black and white view of the manse at Wesley's Chapel. The manse was built in the 1890s to provide more spacious accommodation than John Wesley's House, and also to provide more privacy to the minister and his family. By the late 1800s, there were many visitors who wanted to see Wesley's House and the 'relics' in the house - objects associated with John Wesley, the family and early Methodism. This impacted on the life of the inhabitants. Finally, it was decided to build a new manse to the left of the site entrance gate. Like the Chapel, the house was built in yellow brick and in Italianate style fashionable at the time.
Photograph
1850-1900 / B/W / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph printed on paper
Wesley's Chapel in the late 1800s, c.1899
An unusually complete view of Wesley's Chapel, John Wesley's House, the manse and the courtyard with the statue of John Wesley by Adams Acton dating to the end of the 1800s. Note the boys and workmen to the right of the entrance gates and looking at the photographer. They are standing around what could be a public water pipe, perhaps for fire fighters and horse and commercial use.. Note also the cupola (or small turret) on top of the Chapel roof. This was installed in the mid 1800s to help vent the Chapel after gaslighting was introduced. The cupola was removed in the refurbishment works at Wesley's Chapel in the 1970s.
Photograph
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph printed on paper
Wesley's Chapel after refurbishment, c. 1980
The black and white photograph shows Wesley's Chapel following refurbishment, around 1980. Soon after the picture was taken new parking rules and marked bays were introduced in the courtyard to help resolve the confused parking situation visible in this image.
Photograph
2011/13144
1950-2000 / B/W / Paper / Photograph / Wesley's Chapel
Photograph printed on paper
The Great Wesley Run, 1991
This black and white photograph shows the participants in the 'Great Wesley Run' with the minister Rev. Paul Hulme in front of John Wesley's statue. The event was a charity run from London to Bristol in May 1991.
The Methodist Magazine
1995/3499
1800-1850 / Book / Cardboard / Leather / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed; cardboard, bound in leather
1809
The Methodist Magazine was a monthly periodical which ran as Arminian Magazine 1-20 (1778-1797); then, as Methodist Magazine 21-44 (1798-1821). In 1822 and until 1913, it was known as the Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine (45-136) and became afterwards the Magazine of the Wesleyan Methodist Church between 1914 and 1926 (137-149). Since 1927, it has been known once more as the Methodist Magazine (150--). Between 1792 and 1821, the magazine was edited by George Whitfield, George Story and Joseph Benson, close associates of John Wesley. This is the edition for April, 1809.
The Life of Mrs Mary Fletcher
1800-1850 / Book / Cardboard / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed; cardboard, leather
3rd edition, 1818
This book written by Henry Moore is the first published biography of Mary Bosanquet Fetcher (1739 – 1815). Mary was an English preacher who is often credited with persuading John Wesley to allow women to preach in public. Although born into affluent circumstances, she rejected luxury and converted to Methodism, becoming involved deeply in Methodist preaching and all kinds of charity work. She married John Fletcher in 1781, and they moved to Madeley, Shropshire, where they started a joint ministry.
Following Fletcher's early death in 1785, Mary continued living in the vicarage. She advised her husband's successor on curate appointments and continued to preach at Madeley, Coalbrookdale and Coalport until shortly before her death in 1815.
Mrs Sarah Wesley
1997/6595
1800-1850 / Engraving / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Paper
Engraving, 1822
Sarah ('Sally') Gwynne (1726-1822) married Charles Wesley in 1749. The marriage was happy and produced two sons, both well-known musicians.
The engraving shows Mrs Wesley at the age of ninety eight, living in London, shortly before her death that same year. The image is signed 'Blood ft'; probably, it was engraved by Thomas Blood (1777-1850), a well-known British engraver of the early 1800s. Compare also with the small oil sketch of Sarah Wesley in the Online Collection, 1997/6629.
Samuel Wesley
1997/6597
1850-1900 / Lithograph / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Paper
Lithograph, mid to late 1800s
Samuel Wesley (1766-1837) was the son of John Wesley’s brother Charles and Sarah Wesley ('Gwynne'). He was a child prodigy, sometimes referred to as the 'English Mozart'. Like his father, Samuel became a well-known composer; he also became a very accomplished organist.
Ordination Certificate of Thomas Coke
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / John Wesley / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Organic / Vellum / Wax / World Parish
Vellum; ink; wax
Signed by John Wesley, 1784
In 1784, John Wesley ordained Thomas Coke as a minister to work in America, although Wesley, as an Anglican minister, did not have the authority to do so. This act contributed to the widening gulf between Methodists and the Church of England. After his ordination, Coke left for America and, with Francis Asbury, became a founder of the American Methodist Church.
Meanwhile, Charles Wesley was more loyal to the Anglican Church and was unhappy with anything John did to move Methodism farther away from it. Charles was furious when John ordained Coke and wrote scathingly:
"So easily are Bishop's made
By man or woman's whim.
Wesley his hands on Coke has laid,
But who laid hands on him?"
Methodist Missionary Society Collection Box
1900-1950 / Collection Box / Methodism / Object / Paper / Wood / World Parish
Wood; paper
c. 1935-50
This wooden money collecting box was used to help support the work of the Methodist Missionary Society in the mid 1900s.
'Mission', in particular the conversion of indidenous people to Christianity, became an important aspect of Methodist work as the 19th century progressed. There were many small Methodist missionary societies which eventually, in 1932, merged to become the Methodist Missionary Society. This operated in Africa, the Caribbean, the Indian sub-continent, Europe, the Americas and Australasia.
See also the other collection boxes in the Online Collection.
Photograph
2012/13670
1950-2000 / Colour / John Wesley's House / Paper / Photograph
Photograph
John Wesley's House during refurbishment works, early 1990s
The photograph was taken in the hallway of John Wesley's House, during refurbishment works in the early 1990s.
It shows some of the original interior paintwork, after removal of wallpaper on top. The building plans of the house specified that the interior woodwork was to be painted three times in oil in a 'French grey', and a number of the principal rooms were to be ready for 'papering'.
French grey was commonly chosen to paint house interiors in the mid to late 1700s, as it was a cheap and serviceable colour. It was a somewhat indeterminable hue between grey and green and was often used on woodwork and plaster, as in this instance. In Georgian times, only rooms of high status and in better-off households were painted in colours such as yellow, light pink or blue.
See also the other photographs of the refurbishment of John Wesley's House in the Online Collection.
Invitation
1993/837
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Cardboard, printed; ink
1930
An invitation issued to Gypsy Smith from the Lord and Lady Mayoress of Leeds to attend a Civic Reception at the Art Gallery in Leeds on 16th July, 1930.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Invitation
1993/791
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Cardboard, printed
1904
An invitation from Polhemus Lyon Esq. for a luncheon given in honour of Gypsy Smith to the members of the South African Parliament at the City Club in Cape Town on 18th April, 1904. Lyon was the President of the Evangelical Church Council there.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Newspaper Cutting
1993/895/2
1900-1950 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
c.1910-20
Newspaper cutting showing an image of Gypsy Smith alongside his son, the Rev. A. Hanley Smith. The cutting is undated. Gypsy's youngest son, A(lfred) Hanley, became a Wesleyan pastor and served at 11 pastorates during a ministry which spanned over 40 years. Alfred Hanley Smith died in 1949, aged 67.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Programme
1993/871
1900-1950 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper, printed
1918
A pamphlet for the Service of Intercession held at the London Opera House Kingsway on the National Day of Prayer 1918. The service was presided over by The Right Reverend The Lord Bishop of London and Gypsy Smith was one of the guests taking part.
National days of prayer used to be common in Britain and further afield as a way of seeking divine guidance and intercession, often in times of crisis, or for thanksgiving.
This document is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Miniature painting of Gypsy Smith in presentation case
2006/10694/1&2
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Fabric / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Organic / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour
Gouache painted on natural substrate; metal, textile, cardboard
c. 1930
Elaborately framed miniature painting of Gypsy Smith after a photograph, painted on a natural substrate. The miniature is in its original display case, which also has a display stand mounted to its back. Miniature paintings such as this, often in elaborate presentation cases covered in leather or 'leatherette' (imitation leather), were popular in Victorian times (1837-1901). This is a late example and symbolic of the high esteem in which Gypsy Smith was held at the time.
This object is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other objects from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Inkwell, tray and pen
2006/10698/1-3
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Glass / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other
Silver; glass
1901
Decorative inkwell, tray and pen hallmarked for and given to Gypsy Smith in 1901. The tray is elaborately chased with squirrels, butterflies, doves and flowers. It is engraved:
TO GYPSY SMITH
IN GRATEFUL APPRECIATION OF HIS
MISSION SERVICES IN COLCHESTER, 1901
"Count your Blessings"
The inkwell, tray and pen are part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other objects from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Printing block
2006/10697
1900-1950 / Commemorative / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other
Metal
1930s
Printing block, likely in copper, commemorating Gypsy Smith's 60th jubilee as a preacher. The block is engraved with a tune and the words:
60 years of service for my King
60 years for him to preach and sing
If he should grant me 60 more
I'd give them to the Christ whom I adore.
The printing block is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other objects from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Pince-nez glasses, attachment and case
2006/10707/1&2
1900-1950 / Cardboard / Fabric / Glass / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other
Glass, metal; cardboard, fabric
Early 1900s
Pair of hexagonal shape pince-nez glasses belonging to Gypsy Smith, together with their case and a decorative round metal attachment device with safety pin. Pince-nez ('nose clip') glasses were popular in the late 1800s and the early 1900s and are supported without earpieces, by pinching the bridge of the nose.
The glasses, attachment and case are part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other objects from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Penknife
2006/10700
1900-1950 / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other
Brass
c.1915-18
An unusual penknife blade which is mounted to a gun or rifle ammunition cartridge. It is a piece of WWI memorabilia. Likely, the letter opener was given to Gypsy Smith as a present or as a memento, perhaps from a regiment to which he ministered.
The penknife is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other objects and works on paper from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
Ordination Certificate
2005/9995
1900-1950 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Organic / Vellum / Wax
Vellum; ink; wax
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D. Weatherhead, CBE, 1916
Certificate ordaining Leslie D. Weatherhead (1893-1976) for the work as Methodist minister in the early 1900s.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead, CBE, was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also the other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Certificate
2005/9996
1900-1950 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper, ink
1918
WWI certificate appointing Leslie D. Weatherhead as temporary chaplain to the British Forces, 4th class, in summer 1918. The war ended on 11th November 1918, and the appointment lasted three months.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead, CBE, became a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also the other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Fountain Pen
1900-1950 / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Plastic/Bakelite
Bakelite, metal
c. 1915-30
Fountain pen belonging to The Reverend Dr. Leslie Weatherhead. It is made from Bakelite, an early plastic, and metal. The bakelite cap is extensively damaged.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead, CBE, was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also the other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Spectacles and case
2014/14052/1&2
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Fabric / Glass / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Plastic/Bakelite
Glass, plastic; cardboard, plasticised textile
c. 1980
Spectacles and case belonging to the Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903–1998). Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit.
See also other objects with a Soper connection in the Online Collection, including his portable preaching stand and the cartoon of Soper preaching.
Portrait
2012/13618/2
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Paper / Portrait / Watercolour
Watercolour gouache on cardboard and paper
c. 1980-90
Watercolour portrait of Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903–1998), on a collage of newspaper. Soper is depicted preaching from his preaching stand, which is marked 'West London Mission'. Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit.
See also Soper's portable preaching stand and other Soper artefacts in the Online Collection.
Portrait
2012/13618/1
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Portrait / Watercolour
Watercolour gouache on cardboard
c. 1980-90
Watercolour portrait of Revd. Lord Donald Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903–1998). Soper is depicted preaching from his preaching stand. Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit.
See also the other watercolour portrait of Soper preaching, 2012/13618/2, and other artefacts with a Soper connection in the Online Collection.
Preaching Bands
2017/15227/2
1950-2000 / Clothing / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Textile
Cotton
c. 1980
These preaching bands belonged to the Reverend Dr Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998), one of the most commanding Methodist preachers of the 20th century.
Preaching bands are worn around the neck and are fixed with thin ties. Such bands are still worn today as part of clerical (non-liturgical) clothing by the clergy, and also by some members of the legal and academic professions. Preaching bands are a distant cousin of historic neckwear, such as cravats, jabots and ruffs.
See also Soper's portable preaching stand and other Soper artefacts in the Online Collection.
Flute and case
2014/14048/1&2
1950-2000 / Fabric / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Wood
Metal; wood, textile
c.1960-80
Small flute, also known as an Irish whistle, belonging to and used by the Reverend Dr Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998). The flute is in its original case made of coromandel ebony.
Lord Soper dedicated his preaching career, which lasted for more than half a century, to controversial causes, including the fight against drink and gambling, slave labour, racial inequality, homelessness, capital punishment and, fundamentally, capitalism.
See also Soper's portable preaching stand and other Soper artefacts in the Online Collection.
Order of Service
2011/13294/2
1950-2000 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper; ink
1967
Order of service for the induction to the pastorate of the Reverend Kenneth Slack at the City Temple on October 2nd, 1967. The Induction Prayer to the service was led by Minister Emeritus Dr Leslie D. Weatherhead CBE, minister at the City Temple between 1936 and 1960. This is his personal order of service copy, with handwritten prayers and notes.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead, CBE, (1893-1976) was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also various other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection, including the prayer 2011/13294/3.
Prayer
2011/13294/3
1950-2000 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper
1967
Prayer composed and delivered by Dr Leslie D. Weatherhead CBE at the induction to the pastorate of Reverend Kenneth Slack at the City Temple on October 2nd, 1967. Dr Leslie D. Weatherhead CBE was minister at the City Temple between 1936 and 1960. This is his personal copy.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead CBE, (1893-1976) was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also the order of service 2011/13294/2 and other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Order of Service
2011/13283/3
1900-1950 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper
1946
Order of service leaflet for a City Temple service on 12th May, 1946, presided over by Dr Leslie D. Weatherhead CBE, the then minister of the City Temple. At the time, City Temple services were held at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Holborn Viaduct, as the City Temple had sustained a direct bomb hit in the London Blitz in 1941. The City Temple was not rebuilt and reopened until 1958.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead CBE, (1893-1976) was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also various other documents and objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Order of Service
2011/13283/4
1900-1950 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper
1949
Order of service leaflet for a joint worship event for the City Temple and the Marylebone Presbyterian Church at the latter's church premises on 2nd October, 1949. The service was presided over by Dr Leslie D. Weatherhead CBE, the then minister of the City Temple. The City Temple had sustained a direct bomb hit in the London Blitz in 1941, so until the City Temple was rebuilt and reopened in 1958, services were held at - and in partnership with - various other churches in central London.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead CBE, (1893-1976) was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also various other objects and documents with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Order of Service
2011/13283/5
1950-2000 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper
1964
Order of service for the second Sunday after Easter, 12th April, 1964, held at the City Temple. The presiding minister at the time was The Rev. Dr Leonard Griffiths, with the Minister Emeritus Dr Leslie D. Weatherhead CBE, minister at the City Temple between 1936 and 1960, continuing to officiate. This copy was among Leslie Weatherhead's personal effects.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead, CBE, (1893-1976) was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also various other documents and objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Typed Note
2011/13283/6
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
1944
Typed note written and signed by C.S. Lewis, addressed to 'Mr Weatherhead', in which Lewis declines an invitation. C.S. Lewis (1898 – 1963) was a British writer, best known for his 'Narnia' chronicles, and Anglican lay theologian. Lewis held various academic positions in English literature at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. It is possible that Weatherhead had asked him to preach at a City Temple service, but due to ill health and other engagements, Lewis was unable to do so.
The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead CBE, (1893-1976) was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also various other objects and documents with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Newspaper Article
2011/13282/2
1950-2000 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper; ink
1952
This newspaper article explores the ministry of Methodist minister W.E. Sangster (1900-1960).
Sangster was a leading British Methodist preacher, writer and theologian. Early in his ministry, in 1935, Sangster had been called to minister at a large church in Leeds, as a successor to well-known Reverend Dr Leslie D. Weatherhead (1893-1976). Later, he became Minister at Methodist Central Hall in London. Sangster was a gifted preacher and prolific writer who published several books.
A Meditation
2014/14055
1950-2000 / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication
Paper; cardboard
'Death of a Young Man', c. 1990
Publication 'Death of a Young Man', issued as a Good Friday meditation and as part of a production featuring the Reverend Dr Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998).
Lord Soper dedicated his preaching career, which lasted for more than half a century, to controversial causes, including the fight against drink and gambling, slave labour, racial inequality, homelessness, capital punishment and, fundamentally, capitalism.
See also Soper's portable preaching stand and other Soper artefacts in the Online Collection.
Newspaper Article
2014/14057
1950-2000 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper
1993
Newspaper feature, published in the Guardian on 28th January,1993, to commemorate the 90th birthday of the Reverend Dr Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998).
Lord Soper dedicated his preaching career, which lasted for more than half a century, to controversial causes, including the fight against drink and gambling, slave labour, racial inequality, homelessness, capital punishment and, fundamentally, capitalism.
See also Soper's portable preaching stand and other Soper artefacts in the Online Collection.
Newspaper Article
1950-2000 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper
c.1990
Newspaper feature reporting on the preaching of the Reverend Dr Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998), and referencing the Gulf War (1990-1991). The publisher of the article is not recorded.
Lord Soper dedicated his preaching career, which lasted for more than half a century, to controversial causes, including the fight against drink and gambling, slave labour, racial inequality, homelessness, capital punishment and, fundamentally, capitalism.
See also Soper's portable preaching stand and other Soper artefacts in the Online Collection.
Magazine Article
2014/14056
1950-2000 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Publication
Paper
1978
Magazine article discussing the work of the Reverend Dr Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998) and referring to him as the 'Soap Box King' and 'almost a national institution'. The article was featured in 'Choice' magazine in October, 1978.
Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit. From 1936 until his retirement in 1978, he was the minister of Kingsway Hall, the home of the West London Methodist Mission. The mission exercised a ministry of practical care for marginalised groups. Soper served as President of Conference in 1953-54 and was awarded a life peerage in 1965. For many years, Soper preached at Speaker's Corner on Sunday afternoons and Tower Hill at Wednesday lunchtimes.
Identity Pass
2014/14054
1950-2000 / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Plastic/Bakelite
Plastic
1990s
Identity pass for the House of Lords issued to the Reverend Dr Oliver Soper, Baron Soper of Kingsway (1903-1998).
Soper was a Methodist minister, pacifist and socialist, who was known for his powerful preaching and wit. From 1936 until his retirement in 1978, he was the minister of Kingsway Hall, the home of the West London Methodist Mission. The mission exercised a ministry of practical care for marginalised groups. Soper served as President of Conference in 1953-54 and was awarded a life peerage in 1965.
Prayer Notebook
2011/13294/1
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Paper
Paper, ink; cardboard, metal, leatherette
c. 1930s
Prayer notebook belonging to and signed by The Reverend Dr. Leslie D(ixon) Weatherhead, CBE (1893-1976). The notebook contains many handwritten prayers and a printed copy of 'A Litany of Remembrance', by the Rt. Rev. George Ridding, DD, published in 1925.
Leslie Weatherhead was a Methodist preacher of worldwide renown. He was known for his impressive appearance, clarity of thought and melodious voice. Some of his beliefs caused controversy among Methodists and non-Methodists alike, especially his interpretation of the Holy Trinity and the parentage of Jesus.
See also a number of other documents and objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Diary of Gypsy Smith
2006/10713
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Paper
Cardboard and paper; ink
1906
A Letts's diary for 1906 used by Gypsy Smith. The diary contains personal notes, addresses and prayers.
This diary is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also various photographs, documents and other objects from the Gypsy Smith archive in the Online Collection.
The Child’s Bible and Prayer Book
2004/9346
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper; cardboard, leatherette
by Cecil C. Carpenter, c. 1932
A miniature 'Child's Bible and Prayer Book', titled on the cover 'Child's Bible - The Life of Jesus', possibly intended as a child's pocket book or even to furnish a dollshouse. The book is only around 5cm high and forms part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
See also many other items with a Gypsy Smith connection in the Online Collection.
Real Religion
2004/9399/1
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard; paper
by Gypsy Smith, 1923
First published in America in 1922, 'Real Religion' is a collection of revival sermons delivered by Gypsy Smith during his 20th visit to America. This is an early presentation copy of the book published in England by Hodder and Stoughton in 1923, a gift presented by Sir Ernest Hodder Williams to Gypsy Smith. See also the accompanying letter 2004/9399/2 in the Online Collection.
The book is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection.
Letter
2004/9399/2
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper; ink
1923
Letter written by Sir Ernest Hodder-Williams, partner of the publishing firm Hodder and Stoughton, to Gypsy Smith informing him on the impending publication of the English edition of 'Real Religion'. The letter was sent to Smith together with a presentation copy of the book. See also the book 'Real Religion', 2004/9399/1, in the Online Collection.
This letter is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a number of other Gypsy Smith related items in the Online Collection.
Who’s Who in Methodism 1933
2004/9393
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper; cardboard; fabric
1933
'Who's Who in Methodism 1933' is an encyclopaedia of the ministerial and lay personnel and departments in the Methodist Church. The publication was a regular one and a standard reference work; this particular copy belonged to Gypsy Smith.
The book is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a number of other Gypsy Smith related items in the Online Collection.
The Gypsy Smith Missions in America
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper; cardboard
By Edward E. Bayliss, 1907
This volume commemorates Gypsy Smith's sixth evangelical campaign in the United States of America in 1906-07 and is his personal copy.
It is part of a small archive of objects in connection with Gypsy Smith in the museum's collection. See also a number of other Gypsy Smith related items in the Online Collection.
Memorandum
2021/16451/3
1950-2000 / Certificate / Document / Paper / Wax / Wesley's Chapel
Paper; ink; wax
1955
A memorandum of choice and appointment of new trustees at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The document lists continuing as well as new appointees. In keeping with law, trusteeship is a clearly defined role, and trustees are appointed for a defined period of time.
See also the other memoranda appointing trustees in the online collection.
Memorandum
2021/16451/4
1950-2000 / Certificate / Document / Paper / Wax / Wesley's Chapel
Paper; ink; wax
1973
A memorandum of choice and appointment of new trustees at Wesley's Chapel, City Road for the year 1973. The document lists continuing as well as new appointees. In keeping with law, trusteeship is a clearly defined role, and trustees are appointed for a defined period of time.
See also the other memoranda appointing trustees in the online collection.
Memorandum
2021/16451/2
1900-1950 / Certificate / Document / Paper / Wesley's Chapel
Paper; ink; wax
1935
A memorandum of choice and appointment of new trustees at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The document lists continuing as well as new appointees. In keeping with law, trusteeship is a clearly defined role, and trustees are appointed for a defined period of time.
See also the other memoranda appointing trustees in the online collection.
Memorandum
2021/16451/1
1900-1950 / Certificate / Document / Vellum / Wax / Wesley's Chapel
Vellum; ink; wax
1916
A memorandum of choice and appointment of new trustees at Wesley's Chapel, City Road. The document lists continuing as well as new appointees. In keeping with law, trusteeship is a clearly defined role, and trustees are appointed for a defined period of time.
See also the other memoranda appointing trustees in the online collection.
Spoons
2022/16556/1-2
1900-1950 / Leysian Mission / Metal / Metalwork / Other
Metal
c.1900
Two silver plated dessert spoons bearing the initials 'LS' for 'Leysian Mission'. The spoons were among the original furniture and fittings supplied to the Leysian Mission building in Old Street, London in around 1900.
Class Ticket
1994/2565/14
1800-1850 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper; printed
1817
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket was issued to Mary Tucker for March 1817. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including further tickets issued to Mary Tucker.
Class Ticket
1994/2565/13
1800-1850 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1817
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket was issued to Mary Tucker for June 1817. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including some issued to Mary Tucker.
Class Ticket
1994/2565/16
1800-1850 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper; printed
1813
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket was issued to Mary Tucker for December 1813. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including some issued to Mary Tucker.
Class Ticket
1994/2565/6
1800-1850 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1813
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket was issued to Mary Tucker for September 1813. It is marked at the back: 'Admitted on trial by Jacob Hanley'. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including some issued to Mary Tucker.
Class Ticket
1994/2565/7
1800-1850 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1814
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket was issued to Mary Tucker for September 1814. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including some issued to Mary Tucker.
Class Ticket
1994/2565/8
1800-1850 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1814
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket was issued to Mary Tucker for March 1814. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including some issued to Mary Tucker.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/22
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1776
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket is marked 'Sar Garland'. It was issued to Sarah Garland for September 1776 and is one of the earliest in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including some issued to Sarah Garland.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/20
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1777
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This ticket was issued to Sarah Garland for June 1777 and is one of the earliest in the museum's collection. See also a selection of other class tickets in the Online Collection, including some issued to Sarah Garland.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/7
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1796
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for December 1796. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/14
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1795
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for September 1795. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
199/2170/13
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1794
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for June 1794. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/16
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1795
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for June 1795. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/19
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1797
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for June 1797. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/18
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1796
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for September 1796. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/15
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1795
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for December 1795. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/8
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1781
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for June 1781. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/9
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1784
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for September 1784. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/10
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1791
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for June 1791. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/11
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1792
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for June 1792. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Class Ticket
1994/2170/12
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1793
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued to Sarah Ha(e)y for September 1793. Sarah Ha(e)y was born Sarah Garland and married George Ha(e)y around 1780. The museum owns tickets issued to Sarah both before and after marriage; see other examples in the Online Collection.
Band of Hope Certificate
2019/16159
1850-1900 / Cardboard / Certificate / Document / Temperance
Cardboard, printed; ink
1879
The Band of Hope temperance society was founded in 1855. Its goal was to teach children and young people the dangers of alcohol and the importance of leading a sober or 'teetotal' life. It encouraged young people to "sign the pledge" that they would "abstain from all intoxicating liquors". The Band of Hope was not specifically Methodist; founded by a Baptist, the movement became a national one and most churches supported its cause.
This certificate - or membership pledge - was issued by the Metropolitan Tabernacle and signed by Frederick W. Way on joining the society in 1879. The Metropolitan Tabernacle is a large independent Reformed Baptist church in the Elephant and Castle area in London.
See also various medals and other certificates relating to temperance in the Online Collection, including 2006/10692 and 2010/12610.
Handbill
1992/83
1800-1850 / Document / Other / Paper / The Wesley Family
Paper, printed
1834
A handbill advertising the composition of a funeral hymn by Samuel Wesley (1766-1837) to commemorate the passing of his brother, Charles Wesley junior (1757-1834). Both were sons of Charles Wesley (1707-1788) and child prodigies. The brothers became organists and composers, but Charles Wesley junior was much less well known than his brother Samuel.
The piece was first performed by the Sacred Harmonic Society, an amateur music society in London. The society existed between 1832 and 1888 and was organized for the practice and performance of sacred music, including oratorios.
Document
2018/15581/8
1850-1900 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1872
A Primitive Methodist document to accompany travelling preachers when moving from one station to another. The document was part of a 'character', or reference, for the preacher.
The questions answered are interesting, especially no.4, 'If married, has the house he occupied been properly cleaned, and is the furniture etc., left in good condition, clean, and orderly?' It would appear that unmarried travelling preachers were not expected to clean their houses, and leave them orderly when moving to another station!
Document
2018/15581/9
1850-1900 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed; ink
1872
A Primitive Methodist document to accompany travelling preachers when moving from one station to another. The document was part of a 'character', or reference, for the preacher.
See also 2018/15581/8.
Study Plan
2018/15572/1
1900-1950 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1921
A weekly study plan for preparatory ministers from Didsbury College, dating to 1921-22.
Didsbury College became a theological college for the Wesleyan Methodist Church in 1842. Its campus was at Didsbury, Manchester, and the college existed until 1946, when its campus was turned temporarily into a teacher training college (made permanent in 1950). Some of the college classes were recognised by the University of Manchester for the final B.D. degree.
The Heart of the Eternal
2019/16165
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard and paper, printed
1930
Published by Albert S(wales) Hullah (1885-1966) in 1930. Albert S. Hullah came from a musical family, and he was related to John Pyke Hullah (1812-1884), the composer and music teacher who published many music books and tracts, including 'Hullah's method of teaching singing' (1880).
Hullah became a minister in the Irish Conference in 1911 and an army Chaplain when WWI broke out in 1914. He also served in WWII but became a prisoner of war in German hands from 1941 to 1944. Although in captivity in a war camp, Hullah continued to exercise a powerful ministry.
Pamphlet
2021/16453
1950-2000 / Document / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper, printed
1964
A brochure illustrating the 1964 Christian Stewardship campaign of Park Lane Methodist Church in Wembley. The brochure explains Christian Stewardship as "the practice of regular and proportionate giving of our time, our talents and our possessions for the service of God".
Park Lane Methodist Church Wembley celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2022, so it opened only shortly before the Christian Stewardship campaign.
Wesleyan Methodist Catechism
1998/6835
1900-1950 / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
prior 1932
A catechism (from the ancient Greek 'κατηχέω', "to teach orally") is a summary or exposition of doctrine. Catechisms serve as an introduction to the Sacraments in Christian religious teaching and as such are something of a doctrinal manual.
This catechism for the Wesleyan Methodist Church explains the beliefs and practices of the Wesleyan Methodist Church prior to 1932 when it united with the United Methodist and the Primitive Methodist Churches. This particular copy was a proof copy belonging to the Rev. W.J.Jenkins and is signed by him on the cover.
Order of Service booklet
1997/6512/2
1950-2000 / Pamphlet / Paper / Publication / Wesley's Chapel
Paper; printed
mid 1970s
An order of service booklet for a service held by Wesley's Chapel at The Guild Church of St Martin-Within-Ludgate in the City of London.
By the 1970s, Wesley's Chapel City Road was in a very bad state of repair. The foundations were giving way, there was wood rot and the Chapel needed extensive roof repairs. The situation was critical and for some years the congregation of Wesley's Chapel could not worship inside the building. During this time, services were held at other Methodist and non-Methodist churches in and around the City of London.
The First Methodist Chapel, called’ The Foundery’
1992/137/9
1850-1900 / Engraving / Methodism / Paper / Print / The Foundery
Paper, printed; wood, glass.
c. 1900
Small illustration of the 'Foundery', Moorfields, London.
The ‘Foundery’, originally a government cannon foundry, was Wesley’s first Chapel in London and in use between 1739 and 1778. It was a multi-purpose building which housed a Chapel, living quarters, a band-room, a school and a book room (where Methodist publications were stored and sold). There were also stables for the preachers’ horses.
One of a set of three framed small prints in the Collection illustrating buildings with a close connection to Methodism's founder, John Wesley (1703-1791). See also 1992/137/8 and 1992/137/7.
Rectory, Epworth, Lincolnshire
1992/137/7
1850-1900 / Engraving / Methodism / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Paper, printed; wood, glass.
c.1900
Small illustration of Epworth Rectory, Epworth, Lincolnshire, John Wesley's childhood home.
Originally a large thatched building dating to at least the 1600s, the Rectory burnt down in a catastrophic fire in 1709. It was rebuilt in brick by John Wesley's father, Samuel Wesley (1662-1735), at near ruinous expense.
One of a set of three framed small prints in the Collection illustrating buildings with a close connection to Methodism's founder, John Wesley (1703-1791). See also 1992/137/8 and 1992/137/9.
Escape from Fire of John Wesley
1992/137/8
1850-1900 / Engraving / Methodism / Paper / Print / The Wesley Family
Paper, printed; wood, glass.
c,1900
Small illustration of Old Epworth Rectory, Epworth, Lincolnshire, John Wesley's childhood home.
Originally a large thatched building dating to at least the 1600s, the Rectory burnt down in a catastrophic fire in 1709. This almost cost John's life, but his near miraculous escape convinced his mother Susanna that her son was the biblical 'brand pluck'd from the burning' and destined for great things.
One of a set of three framed small prints in the Collection illustrating buildings with a close connection to Methodism's founder, John Wesley (1703-1791). See also 1992/137/7 and 1992/137/9.
Medal in box
2007/10572/1-3
1950-2000 / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Wood / Woodwork
Metal; wood, fabric.
Late 20th century
Medal in hallmarked silver on a chain, engraved "London North West District Presidential Medal', in a small purpose-made wooden storage box.
The defunct Methodist London North West District consisted of the north west London boroughs, central and western Hertfordshire, Luton, most of Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes, and a small part of eastern Oxfordshire. Today, it is part of District 35, 'London'.
Class Ticket
1995/4239/46
1900-1950 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper
Paper, printed; ink
1908
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued as a quarterly membership ticket to Edith Parker in March 1908. There are other examples belonging to Edith Parker in the Collection; this is the earliest. See other examples in the Online Collection catalogued under no. 1995/4239.
Class Ticket
1995/4239/1
1900-1950 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper
Paper, printed; ink
1921
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued as a quarterly membership ticket to Edith Parker in December 1921. There are more tickets belonging to Edith Parker in the Collection, see other examples in the Online Collection catalogued under no. 1995/4239.
Class Ticket
1995/4239/33
1900-1950 / Certificate / Document / Methodism / Paper
Paper, printed; ink
1912
The membership ticket or 'class ticket' system is specifically Methodist. Class tickets originate in the 1700s, when the Methodist Church was a religious society and still within the Church of England. Members belonged to 'classes' within local Methodist societies, and every member received a ticket at least once a year. Many societies issued monthly tickets.
Membership is an important milestone in becoming a Methodist, and membership tickets are still issued on a regular basis.
This class ticket was issued as a quarterly membership ticket to Edith Parker in June 1912. There are more tickets belonging to Edith Parker in the collection; see also the other examples in the Online Collection catalogued under no. 1995/4239.
Fragment
1994/2565/28
1700-1750 / Methodism / Pamphlet / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper, printed
1743
A fragment introducing the fundamental rules devised by John Wesley in the early days of Methodism for his societies. Wesley published these rules in 1743 to make clear the connection between the saving through faith and Christian behaviour and to indicate what was expected of persons as they joined the Methodist Societies.
The 'Rules' went through many editions and the pamphlet continued in print throughout the 18th century.
First Day Cover
2009/11792
2000- / Commemorative / Letter / Paper / Publication
Paper, printed
c.2000
A first day cover of a Christmas airmail envelope commemorating Charles Wesley's hymn 'Hark! The Herald Angels sing'. Charles' hymn was first published in 1739 and the original opening couplet was "Hark! how all the welkin rings / Glory to the King of Kings".
The cover was issued by the Methodist Philatelic Society, which disbanded in 2020. Its function was to encourage the study of philately associated with Methodism.
Commemorative Cover
2022/16599
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Paper
Paper, printed
1969
A philatelic cover commemorating the visit of the Connexional President, Rev. Brian S. O'Gorman, to Scotland on 14th October, 1969. The envelope is signed by the President.
Commemorative Cover
2022/16600
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Letter / Object / Paper
Paper, printed
1969
A philatelic first day cover commemorating the Methodist Conference in Birmingham in July 1969.
Commemorative Cover
2022/16601
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Paper
Paper, printed
1968
A philatelic cover commemorating the opening of the New Methodist Church Cheadle on 2nd March, 1968. The envelope bears the signature of the Church's minister presiding over the celebrations, Rev. Amos S. Cresswell.
Commemorative Cover
2022/16598
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Letter / Methodism / Object / Paper
Paper, printed
1988
A philatelic cover commemorating the 250th anniversary of Methodism, 1738-1988. The cover was issued by the Methodist Church in Kaapstadt (Capetown), South Africa.
Commemorative Cover
2022/16602
1950-2000 / Commemorative / Letter / Object / Paper
Paper, printed
1999
A philatelic cover commemorating the Wesley brothers and the Methodist Movement, as part of the countdown to the Millennium. The cover was issued by Benham in a series of Millennium Collection covers celebrating the Christian Faith.
Commemorative Plaque
1992/7
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Object / Ornament / Wesleyana
Ceramic, glazed
early 1800s
The image of John Wesley and his last words, 'The Best Of All God Is With Us', were transfer-printed onto this plaque.
Transfer printing is a technique of decorating porcelain or pottery using an engraved copper or steel plate from which a print on paper is taken. This is then transferred by pressing onto the ceramic object. It is a cheap way of decorating pottery and porcelain. Transfer-printed commemorative plaques and other memorial items were produced in large quantities following John Wesley's death and were accessible to most of his followers.
See also the other transfer-printed plaques in the Online Collection.
Plaque
1993/1349
1800-1850 / Ceramic / God & Faith / Object / Ornament
Ceramic, glazed
early 1800s
A Sunderland lustreware plaque with a transfer-printed bibilical verse (Job 14.10). Sunderland lustreware is a type of lustreware pottery made mostly in the early 19th century and in several potteries around Sunderland, England. They were cheap to produce and very popular; many were printed with religious messages and verses.
See also the other ceramic plaques in the Online Collection.
Plaque
1993/625
1800-1850 / Ceramic / God & Faith / Object / Ornament
Ceramic, glazed
early 1800s
A ceramic plaque transfer printed with a religious verse (John 14.15). Plaques such as this were cheap to produce and very popular; many were printed with religious messages.
See also the other ceramic plaques in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Plaque
1994/1799
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Plaque
Ceramic, glazed
early 19th century
The image of Dr Adam Clarke (1762-1832) was transfer-printed onto this plaque.
Transfer printing is a technique of decorating porcelain or pottery using an engraved copper or steel plate from which a print on paper is taken. This is then transferred by pressing onto the ceramic object. It is a cheap way of decorating pottery and porcelain. Transfer-printed commemorative and religious plaques were produced in large quantities in the early 1800s. Images of John Wesley were particularly popular.
See also the other transfer-printed plaques in the Online Collection.
Commemorative Plaque
2006/10570
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Object / Plaque / Wesleyana
Ceramic, glazed
early 19th century
The image of John Wesley and his last words, 'The Best Of All God Is With Us', as well as 'Thou God Sees Thou', were transfer-printed onto this Sunderland lustreware plaque.
Transfer printing is a technique of decorating porcelain or pottery using an engraved copper or steel plate from which a print on paper is taken. This is then transferred by pressing onto the ceramic object.
See also the other transfer-printed and lustreware plaques in the Online Collection.
Plaque
1993/629
1800-1850 / Ceramic / God & Faith / Object / Plaque
Ceramic, glazed
early 19th century
A Sunderland lustreware plaque with a transfer-printed religious message, with hand decoration. Sunderland lustreware is a type of pottery made mostly in the early 19th century and in several potteries around Sunderland, England. They were cheap to produce and very popular; many were printed with religious messages and verses.
See also the other ceramic plaques in the Online Collection.
Plaque
1800-1850 / Ceramic / God & Faith / Object / Plaque
Ceramic, glazed
early 19th century
A Sunderland lustreware plaque with a transfer-printed religious verse, with hand decoration. Sunderland lustreware is a type of pottery made mostly in the early 19th century and in several potteries around Sunderland, England. They were cheap to produce and very popular; many were printed with religious verses or messages.
See also the other ceramic plaques in the Online Collection.
Plaque of John Wesley
1996/5579
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Metal / Object / Plaque / Portrait / Wesleyana
Ceramic, painted; metal
c. 1790-1810
A painted ceramic plaque of John Wesley in a brass frame. The portrait of Wesley is quite life-like, and the quality of the item is higher than much 'Wesleyana' - or John Wesley commemorative ware - which was produced at the time.
Sadly, the ceramic has chipped over the years, and a number of ceramic pieces are now missing. The plaque was one of the early exhibits at John Wesley's House and entered the Collection in about 1900.
Flask
1992/50
1750-1800 / Ceramic / Commemorative / Object / Other / Wesleyana
Ceramic, painted
c.1780-1800
An unusual Staffordshire ceramic flask with a moulded and painted portrait of John Wesley. Originally, there would have been a stopper, possibly made of cork.
It is likely that the flask held some kind of tonic.
Loving Cup
1996/4809
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Crockery / Methodism / Object
Ceramic, glazed
c.1860-1880
This type of two-handled ceramic mug is known as a 'loving cup'. These were used at 'Love Feasts', an early type of Methodist service originating in the Apostolic Church, where members gathered to share a simple meal, with the loving cup being passed around the gathering.
This is a somewhat unusual example dating to the middle of the 19th century, transfer-printed with images of cups of classical antiquity. See also the other loving cups in the Online Collection.
Loving Cup
1996/5573
1850-1900 / Ceramic / Crockery / Methodism / Object
Ceramic, glazed
c. 1850-1880
This type of two-handled ceramic mug is known as a 'loving cup'. These were used at 'Love Feasts', an early type of Methodist service originating in the Apostolic Church, where members gathered to share a simple meal, with the loving cup being passed around the gathering.
This loving cup is more elaborate than most and is decorated with painting, gilding and transfer-printed roses and foliage. See also the other loving cups in the Online Collection.
Loving Cup
1996/5550
1800-1850 / Ceramic / Crockery / Methodism / Object
Ceramic, glazed
c.1830-50
This type of two-handled ceramic mug is known as a 'loving cup'. These were used at 'Love Feasts', an early type of Methodist service originating in the Apostolic Church, where members gathered to share a simple meal, with the loving cup being passed around the gathering.
This loving or 'love feast' cup is transfer-printed in black and features a psalm. See also the other loving cups in the Online Collection.
Letter from John Wesley to Samuel Bradburn
1997/6694/1
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
March 16th, 1776
A short but interesting letter from John Wesley to preacher 'Sammy', or Samuel, Bradburn (1751-1816). Wesley writes: "Our preachers may preach where there is no society: but I do not require it of them. I expect little good to be done in such places. It is better to break up new ground."
Bradburn was a Methodist itinerant preacher and friend of Wesley who became one of the greatest and physically most commanding orators of his day.
See also the painting of Bradburn 1993/1628 and a number of other related images and letters in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6748
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Ink on paper
From John Wesley to Mary ('Molly') Wesley, nee Vazeille, ca. 1759
First page of a long six page letter from John Wesley to his wife Mary ('Molly'). John and Molly had a difficult marriage. In this very personal letter, John reflects on their issues and focuses on Molly's behaviour, which he, rightly or wrongly, blames for most of the marital difficulties. The letter makes clear that the marriage is in serious trouble.
The exact date of this letter is no longer legible, but likely it was written from York on July 15th, 1759. John and Molly first split up in 1758, but they got back together and split again over the following years until Molly left John for good in 1771.
See also John Wesley's letter of 10th July, 1756 to his wife in the Online Collection.
Romala
2022/16551
2000- / Fabric / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Textile
Textile; acrylic
c. 1990-2000
A Romala is a piece of cloth used to fold and envelop the scriptures in Sikh temples and is a symbol of holy respect. This Romala belonged to the Rev. Dr. Inderjit Bhogal, a retired minister in the Methodist Church, who has roots in the Sikh faith. It is printed in gold and embellished with metallic sequins.
The Romala was presented to Inderjit Bhogal by his mother on being elected President of Conference for 2000-2001. It was shown by the Museum in its landmark 'Leadership on a Journey' exhibition (2021), exploring Methodist leadership in the 21st century.
Medal
2022/16552
2000- / Coin/Medal / Metal / Metalwork / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates
Metal; cloth (string)
c.2000
This silver medal was presented to the Rev. Dr Inderjit Bhogal by the Methodist Church following his Presidency in 2000-2001. It features the orb and cross motif, the Methodist Church's symbol of faith.
Boots
2022/16553
1950-2000 / Clothing / Leather / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other
Leather, pvc
Late 20th century
Walking boots of the Rev. Dr. Inderjit Bhogal, a retired minister of the Methodist Church with Sikh roots. In his words: "I am a walker. I have walked far and wide in these boots. The soles are practically worn out to a flat surface".
Inderjit Bhogal has worn these boots on long distance political protest marches in support of cultural understanding and on many interfaith pilgrimages. Rich in symbolism, the boots were the centrepiece of the Museum's landmark 'Leadership on a Journey' exhibition (2021), exploring Methodist leadership in the 21st century.
Letter
2001/8424
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
January 27th, 1761
First page of a letter of deep reflection and piety written by William Grimshaw (1708-1763) to an unknown recipient at the Orphan House, Newcastle. The Orphan House was a multi-purpose Methodist meeting houses which at one time was run by Grace Murray, said to have been John Wesley's true love.
William Grimshaw was the rector of the church in Haworth, Bradford, West Yorkshire, between 1742 and 1763. He was a strong evangelist and worked closely with John and Charles Wesleys, preaching in many parishes outside his own. He gained a reputation for the power of his sermons and was responsible for many evangelical conversions.
Letter
1998/7126
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to William Orp, December 16th, 1766
A letter written by John Wesley to William ('Billy') Orp at Stroud in Gloucestershire.
His observation that "We may repair but must not build Houses yet", is very interesting. Is Wesley making reference to building new Methodist meeting houses or chapels in general, or is he referring specifically to the situation in Stroud? In the mid 18th century most Methodist meeting houses were indeed not purpose-built but were existing buildings which had been adapted for a new purpose. Wesley's choice of words, especially the word 'yet', might indicate that purpose built Methodist chapels in 1766 were still potentially contentious, as Wesley still argued that Methodism was of part of the established (Anglican) Church.
Was Wesley anticipating the day when Methodism would move beyond the established Church, as it did by the 1780s?
Letter
1994/1961
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Duncan Wright, October 20th, 1768
A letter from John Wesley to one of his preachers, Duncan Wright (1736-1791). The letter deals with a book written by a Mr Glower (or 'Glover') in Norwich, a recent gift. Wesley was grateful for the book but unimpressed with the author's literary efforts.
For further letters written by John Wesley to Duncan Wright see the Online Collection.
Book
2014/14044
1950-2000 / Book / Cardboard / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Paper; printed. Cardboard
It is Hard to Work for God. Five Sermons., 1957
A book of sermons by Donald (Oliver) Soper, published by the Epworth Press.
From the private collection and archive of Donald Soper. See also various other objects with a Donald Soper connection in the Online Collection.
Bible
2017/15227/1
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Publication
Paper; cardboard; leather
1924
Ordination bible once in the possession of Donald (Oliver) Soper. This revised soft cover (or pocket) version of the Old and New Testament was published by the Oxford University Press in 1924.
From the private collection and archive of Donald Soper. See also various other objects with a Donald Soper connection in the Online Collection.
Letter
1999/7443
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink; wax
From John Wesley to William ('Billy') Orp, Sept 18th, 1766
A letter written by John Wesley to William ('Billy') Orp in Wednesbury, Staffordshire.
Wesley outlines his views regarding trusteeship, presumably in relation to (new) Methodist chapels. He observes that only those who "love the house of God, & the whole Methodist Plan" should become trustees. The reference to a 'Methodist Plan' is noteworthy.
See also the other letters written by John Wesley to William Orp in the Online Collection.
Note
1994/4967
1850-1900 / Document / John Wesley / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper; printed
A note ordaining Thomas Owens for the office as Deacon, 19th century
A facsimile copy of a note written by John Wesley in 1788 ordaining Thomas Owens for the office of Deacon in the Methodist Church. The note is an important document, in that it helps chart the separation of Methodism from the Anglican Church in the 1780s.
A few years earlier in 1784, in a controversial move, John Wesley ordained Englishman Thomas Coke as Wesley's American superintendent. As an Anglican clergyman, Wesley was not entitled to do so. Only Bishops could ordain. Wesley's ordinations signalled a very public split from the established Church in Britain. They also led to controversy among Methodists, including John Wesley and his brother Charles, who was horrified by John's actions.
See also Charles Wesley's ditty on the occasion of Thomas Coke's controversial ordination of Asbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1988
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
From John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, 15th September 1789
A letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in St Helier, Jersey, in 1789. The letter illustrates how Wesley's hand writing deteriorated as he got older. Wesley found it increasingly hard to see, and sometimes he now dictated letters instead.
The spidery hand writing is hard to make out. John Wesley talks about his advancing age and deteriorating health - which is rare in his letters. He also makes a very interesting reference to 'full Sanctification. This is the Grand Depositum whch GOD has lodged with the People called Methodists: And for the sake of propagating this chiefly He Appeard to have raised us up".
See also John Wesley's other letters to Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1986
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper; wax
From John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, 20th October 1787
First page and address page of a letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in St Helier, Jersey, in 1787. The letter illustrates how Wesley's hand writing deteriorated as he got older. Wesley found it increasingly hard to see, and sometimes he now dictated letters instead.
The spidery hand writing is hard to make out. John Wesley addresses membership in the Methodist Society and makes reference to a number of prominent Methodists of the day, including Adam Clarke and John Atlay, the book steward at Wesley's Chapel in the 1770s and 1780s. Atlay would soon leave the Methodists.
See also John Wesley's other letters to Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1971
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Miss Bolton, July 12th, 1768
Over the years, John Wesley carried on correspondences with a number of women. Miss Ann ('Nancy') Bolton was one of them.
In this letter, addressed to Miss Bolton in Whitney, Oxfordshire, John Wesley dispenses health advice in relation to what would appear to have been a vitamin C deficiency. John Wesley was very interested in medicine and, for the day, a very competent health advisor. Some twenty years earlier, he had written a very well received tract, 'The Primitive Physick, Or , An Easy And Natural Method of Curing Most Diseases' (1747), which ran to many editions in the years that followed.
The letter is also noteworthy for John Wesley's very personal, some might say loving, tone. It was this style of writing to women which Wesley's wife, Mary ('Molly') Vazeille, found objectionable and which added to the strain in their relationship.
Letter
1994/1981
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Letter from John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, February 15th, 1785
First page and address page of a letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in Ganges, Languedoc, France, in 1785.
John Wesley talks about Brackenbury's state of health, and that his visit in France should help restore it. He also makes reference to what would seem to be Brackenbury's plan to stay for a number of years in Jersey - which Wesley comments on: "I had almost say GOD forbid!" Nevertheless, this is where Brackenbury went following his visit to Ganges.
See also John Wesley's letters to Brackenbury in St Helier, Jersey, in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1979
1750-1800 / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, August 12th, 1781
A short letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in 1781.
The letter is little more than a note of friendly encouragement. It would appear Robert Brackenbury feared for his life, as John Wesley writes: "I trust You shall not die but live..". In later correspondence between the two men in the mid 1780s there are further references that Brackenbury's health was fragile, apparently due to a chronic lung complaint. Brackenbury lived until 1818.
See also John Wesley's other letters to Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1976
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, May 8th, 1780
A short letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) at the Orphan House in Newcastle in 1780.
Wesley informs Brackenbury of his travel plans and writes: "I am glad You are so far recovered from your late Disorder". In later correspondence between the two men in the mid 1780s there are further references that Brackenbury's health was fragile, apparently due to a chronic lung complaint.
See also John Wesley's other letters to Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1975
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Letter from John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, February 24th, 1779
A letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in Raithby, Lincolnshire, in 1779. He talks of matters in relation to music and travel.
See also John Wesley's other letters to Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/394
1850-1900 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Paper
From John Wesley to Thomas Greathead, January 22nd, 1791
A 19th century facsimile copy of one of John Wesley's last letters written about a month before his passing, encouraging Thomas Greathead. Wesley writes he is "half blind, and half lame" but he continues to exhibit his customary positive attitude.
The paper is watermarked: "A Pirie & Sons 1877"
Letter
1994/1998
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink; wax
From John Wesley to Charles Delamotte, February 11th, 1779
A personal letter written by John Wesley to Mr Charles Delamotte at Barrow, near Barton, in Lincolnshire.
Charles Delamotte (c. 1714-1786) was the son of a London sugar merchant of Huguenot descent, who had accompanied John Wesley to Georgia in 1735. He was a close companion and confidant of Wesley at the time. Later, after returning to England, Delamotte joined the Fetter Lane society and later the Moravians. He finally settled in Barton on Humber and supported the work of Moravian Benjamin Ingham in Yorkshire.
Letter
1994/1977
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, January (?) 4th, 1780
A personal letter written by John Wesley to preacher and friend Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) at Bath in 1780.
Neither Brackenbury's nor his wife's constitution seem to have been strong, leading Wesley to comment " I commend you therefore for preaching less frequently when you find less liberty of spirit...", and he agreed that, for health reasons, it was not a good idea for Brackenbury or his wife to travel far during the winter months.
The correspondence between both men in the following years reveals that Brackenbury's health was fragile, apparently due to a chronic lung complaint.
See also John Wesley's other letters to Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/410/6
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to George Merriweather, December 10th, 1768
A short letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather (c. 1743-1817) in Yarm, Yorkshire.
Wesley advises as to conduct in the Yorkshire societies.
George Merryweather was a Yorkshire salt merchant whose family was very supportive of, and friendly with, John Wesley. Reputedly, John Wesley stayed in their home on Yarm High Street on nineteen occasions. In 1763 Merryweather donated land on the banks of the River Tees and, along with Wesley, helped in the design and construction of an octagonal chapel there.
Letter
1998/7125
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to George Merryweather, June 6th, 1768
A short letter from John Wesley to George Merryweather (c. 1743-1817) in Yarm, Yorkshire.
Wesley was invited to preach in various locations in Yorkshire on a visit but couldn't visit everywhere. He asks Merryweather: "Where is it of most importance to preach..."?
George Merryweather was a Yorkshire salt merchant whose family was very supportive of, and friendly with, John Wesley. Reputedly, John Wesley stayed in their home on Yarm High Street on nineteen occasions. In 1763 Merryweather donated land on the banks of the River Tees and, along with Wesley, helped in the design and construction of an octagonal chapel there.
See more correspondence between the two men in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1970/2
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Duncan Wright, November 24th, 1787 (?)
A letter from John Wesley to one of his preachers, Duncan Wright (1736-1791). The letter is one of advice and requests.
For earlier letters written by John Wesley to Duncan Wright in the 1760s and 1770s, see the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1950/2
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper / The Wesley Family
Paper; ink
John Wesley to his wife Mary ('Molly') Vazeille, Undated
Two pages of an undated and incomplete letter or note from John Wesley to his wife Mary ('Molly'). John and Molly had a difficult marriage, and this letter was written at a time when the marriage had broken down and Molly had left her husband. John Wesley concludes: "At present, you may return whenever you please to your still affectionate husband John Wesley".
John and Molly first split up in 1758, but they got back together and split again over the following years until Molly left John for good in 1771.
See more of John Wesley's letters to his wife in the Online Collection.
Letter
1999/7188
1700-1750 / 1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink; wax
From John Wesley to Joseph Cownl(e)y, April 12th, 1750
A letter written by John Wesley in 1750 and addressed to Joseph Cownl(e)y (1723-1792) at the Orphan House in Newcastle. In it, Wesley refers to the developments among the Methodists in Dublin where he was visiting at that time.
Joseph Cownley was a talented Wesleyan Methodist preacher and in regular correspondence with John Wesley. See further letters from John Wesley to Cownley in the Online Collection
Letter
1994/1929
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to 'Tommy' Hanson, November 9th, 1782
First page of a letter from John Wesley addressed to 'Mr Hanson' at the preaching house in (?) in Lancashire.
The letter deals with preaching and stationing matters, including preachers' pay.
It would seem the address of the letter is crossed out, as the address is partially illegible. It is possible this letter did not reach its intended recipient.
Letter
1999/7799
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Jane Barton in Norwood, Yorkshire, February 19th, 1777
A letter written by John Wesley to Methodist society member Jane Barton in Yorkshire. John Wesley writes full of encouragement for the evidently new Methodist society in Norwood: "I am glad to hear that your little Society prospers. If they increase in Grace they will increase in number: of which I can have no doubt (...)"
See also many other examples of John Wesley's correspondence in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1960
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Ink on paper
From John Wesley to Duncan Wright at the 'Foundry', London, May 28th, 1768
A letter from John Wesley to Duncan Wright at the ‘Foundry’ in London requesting details as to how much money the society has collected in subscriptions in the Canterbury Circuit, as well as other circuits in the area. It appears there were debts to settle.
See also other letters written by John Wesley to Duncan Wright in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1989
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Robert (Carr) Brackenbury, November 7th, 1788
A letter written by John Wesley to his friend and protegee, Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in Guernsey. As with most of Wesley's late letters, his handwriting is hard to make out. He mentions a number of Methodist preachers, including Adam Clarke.
Brackenbury was much younger than Wesley and came from a well-to-do and influential family. Unusually for a man of his background, he decided to join the Methodist cause and built his first Chapel above the stables of his newly-constructed mansion in Lincolnshire in 1779. A a preacher and Chapel builder, he was never ordained but was befriended, trusted and held in high regard by Wesley. Brackenbury spent much of the 1780s in France and then as a Methodist preacher in the Channel Islands, at least in part for health reasons.
Letter
1992/171
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Mr Mills (?) at Mr Emnetts, Alnwick, October 18th, 1768
Remains of a letter written by John Wesley to a Mr Mills (?) in Alnwick giving advice on running the local Methodist society.
Due to the fragility of the document it was not removed from its protective sleeve during photography.
Letter
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Miss Loxdale in Shrewsbury (?), June 10th, 1781
A long letter to a Miss Loxdale musing on a missed meeting, God, and philosophical issues.
See further examples of John Wesley's correspondence in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1930
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to Mr Graham (?) in Sunderland, July (?) 10th, 1790
John Wesley's eyesight and handwriting deteriorated in later life, so he sometimes dictated letters, including this one. Wesley gives advice regarding the local society and finishes the letter:"If I do not go into Ireland I hope I shall call at Sunderland (...)"
See many other examples of John Wesley's correspondence in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1970/1
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From John Wesley to 'Sammy'' (Samuel) Bradburn, June 27th, 1787
John Wesley's letter to 'Sammy' (or Samuel) Bradburn (1751-1816) mixes business and financial with private matters. Bradburn was a Methodist itinerant preacher and friend of Wesley who became one of the greatest and physically most commanding orators of his day.
See also other letters to Samuel Bradburn in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/408
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink; wax
From John Wesley to Mary Fletcher (nee Bosanquet) in Madeley, Shropshire, April 2nd, 1785
Although addressed to the Rev. John Fletcher, John Wesley is writing to Fletcher's wife Mary. Wesley talks of his travel plans and his intention to visit Bolton, Wigan and Liverpool, Chester, Holyhead and then Dublin that spring. Wesley was planning to journey through all Irish provinces by the end of June that year for preaching and engagements on Methodist business. He had just turned 82 years of age.
This is one of John Wesley's last letters to Mary Fletcher before her husband John Fletcher caught typhoid fever that summer and died on 14th August 1785. Wesley had thought of John Fletcher as his spiritual and practical successor. Fletcher's unexpected demise at 55 years of age resulted in turmoil within Methodism's leadership following Wesley's own passing in 1791.
Letter
1997/6773
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Mr Clayton Carthy at the New Room, Bristol, June 12th, 1759
A letter with a serious undertone written by John Wesley to Mr Clayton Carthy at the New Room, Bristol, likely one of the preachers there. It would seem there was injurious talk of John Wesley behind his back at the New Room at this time.
Letter
1997/7189
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper,ink; wax
John Wesley to Joseph Conn(w)ly in Glasgow, February 14th, 1789
A letter written by John Wesley in 1789 addressed to Joseph Cownl(e)y (1723-1792) at the Methodist Chapel in Glasgow. A clearly angry Wesley discusses the appointment of Methodist preachers, and asserts his role that only he may appoint them: "I retain & cannot but retain it alone (underscored) as long I live. Then it will devolve on ye Conference (underscored).
Joseph Cownley was a talented Wesleyan Methodist preacher and in regular correspondence with John Wesley over more than forty years. See further letters from John Wesley to Cownl(e)y in the Online Collection.
Letter
1999/7442
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper, ink
John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury in Raithby, Lincolnshire, December 17th, 1787
A letter from John Wesley to Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in which Wesley discusses "persecution" (one presumes of Methodists) in the Channel Islands which should be counter-acted by fasting and prayer rather than the secular court which would mean "bringing us under their cognisance".
See also a number of other letters John Wesley wrote to Robert Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/410/2
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to George Merryweather in Yarm, Yorkshire, January 24th, 1760
John Wesley is writing to George Merryweather (c.1743-1817), recommending two books to Methodists, ' The Christian Pattern' and Wesley's 'Primitive Physic' - "Tis great pity, that any Methodist shou'd be without them". Wesley also comments somewhat high-handedly on a rich gentleman he breakfasted with recently at Yarm, "Even the Rich may (underscored) enter into the Kingdom: for with God all things are possible."
Merryweather was a wealthy salt merchant involved deeply in the Methodist cause and friendly with John Wesley.
Letter
1994/1959
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Duncan Wright at the 'Foundery', London, June 7th, 1767
A Letter full of advice written by John Wesley to Duncan Wright (1736-1791). Wright was an itinerant preacher who was noted for travelling with Wesley all over the United Kingdom in the 1760s and later for preaching in Gaelic in the Sottish Highlands.
See also a number of other letters written to Wright in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1992
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Joseph Conn(w)ly, February 17th, 1753
A letter of business from John Wesley to Joseph Connly (sic) (or Cownl(e)y). Wesley mentiones divorce: "...nothing under Heaven can be clearer, than this: 1. That Adultery doe's in ye moment dissolve ye Marriage tie, as much as if the Offender had died: 2. That Divorce is only an open Declaration of that Dissolution: 3. Tt the Method of Divorce now used in England and Ireland, is so vile & clogged with so many diabolical Additions, that no honest man would care to meddle with it. I should muself be so far from Seeking (underlined) it (in ye Case of Adultery, that I shd scruple to submit to (underlined) it)."
The lines are very interesting in light of John Wesley's own experience of marriage difficulties with Mary (Molly) Vazeille Wesley. He and Molly eventually separated but never divorced.
See also a number of other letters written by John Wesley to Joseph Cownl(e)y in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1963
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Ann Smith and Joseph Whitehead at the new Room, Bristol., June 16th, 1769
A double letter written by John Wesley to Ann Smith and Joseph Whitehead. The letter is interesting in that John Wesley addresses Ann Smith and Joseph Whitehead individually but Wesley talks in both letters of engagement and marriage. Presumably, the recipients were each other's love interest. It is notable that Wesley urges both parties not to enter an engagement or marriage hastily, perhaps reflecting on his own failed marriage.
The letter also illustrates John Wesley's comparatively free use of the word 'love'; this was one of the bones of contention between him and his wife Mary ('Molly') Vazeille Wesley. On several occasions Molly read John's letters and appears to have taken John's declarations literally, suspecting him of carrying on affairs.
Letter
1994/1958
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Miss Loxdale, October 8th, 1785
First page of a two page letter of advice to Miss Loxdale, reflecting on friendship and trust in God.
See further examples of John Wesley's correspondence with Miss Loxdale in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1972
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Joseph Cownley, December 14th, 1751
John Wesley writing to Joseph Cownl(e)y about the printing and distribution of Methodist books to the Methodist societies and his followers: "Pray let the Books be regularly dispersed every where & let the Preachers now & then speak expresly (sic) to each Society, & recommend the Reading of them."
The publication and distribution of large numbers of hymn and other Methodist books, such as the 'Christian Library' and the 'Primitive Physic', contributed greatly to Methodism's growth and success in 18th century Britain.
Letter
1997/6775
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Mr Francis Wolf ('Franky') in Redruth, Cornwall, January 24th, 1782
A letter from John Wesley to preacher Francis Wolf in Cornwall. Wesley gives advice, including: "And let none of your Preachers touch any ... Liquor upon any account!"
In 18th century Britain consumption of alcohol, especially strong liquor such as gin, caused many personal, social and political problems.
Letter
1994/1973
1700-1750 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Joseph Connly (sic) in Leominster, Herefordshire, September 20th, 1746
John Wesley is writing to Joseph Cownl(e)y and other preachers of the Leominster Methodist society, praising their efforts and encouraging their work: "As many of you have Set Your Hands to the Plough, See that You go on & look not back. (..) Meanwhile, fight the Godd Fight of Faith, enduring the Cross and despising the Shame. Beware that none of You return Evil for Evil, or Railing for Railing, but contrariwise, Blessing."
Methodism in the 1740s was still in its infancy, and many people in Britain saw it as threatening the established Church.
See also John Wesley's other letters to Joseph Cownl(e)y in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1931
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Miss Ford, February 4th, 1769
John Wesley is writing to Miss Ford on the occasion of her learning Hebrew. He approves but disagrees with her method of learning in "the less excellent way". Wesley doesn't make clear what this method is. He states that no new interpretation of the Old Testament is to be expected, with a cryptic reference to someone who was trying to interpret it in just such a way at the time.
See further correspondence between John Wesley and Miss Ford in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/119
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Robert Carr ("Peter"), January 27th, 1789
John Wesley is writing in spidery handwriting to Robert Carr ("Peter") of business matters, including preaching, asking him to write to a number of other preachers.
By 1789 John Wesley's eyesight had deteriorated greatly, as evidenced by his unclear handwriting. Often, he now dictated letters.
Letter
1994/1957
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Miss Loxdale, December 16th, 1781
John Wesley is writing to Miss Loxdale, a regular correspondent in the 1780s.
The letter is very personal and ends with: "I beg you woud (sic) always write just what you feel, without disguise, without reserve. Your Heart seems to be just as my Heart. I cannot tell that I ever before felt so close an attachment to a person whom I had never seen. Sureley it is the will of our gracious Lord, that there shd be still closer Union between You & Yours in tender Affection..."
It is likely John Wesley never actually met Miss Loxdale, but it was writing in a similar vein to other women over twenty years previously which had contributed to the souring of Wesley's marriage to Mary ('Molly') Vazeille Wesley.
Letter
1994/1928
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Thomas Hanson in Thirsk, Yorkshire, January 4th, 1772
John Wesley is writing to Thomas Hanson ("Tommy") on business matters, including:" Inforce (sic) all our Rules whereveryou are: And the opposers must either bend or break."
Letter
1994/1951
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Thomas ("Tommy") Hanson, July 30th, 1785
John Wesley is corresponding with Thomas ("Tommy") Hanson and encouraging him not to listen to others and continue "doing well". Likely, Hanson had been the target of evil tongues.
See also a number of other letters from John Wesley to Thomas Hanson in the Online Collection.
Letter
1994/1996
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Joseph Cownley, October 10th, 1789
A letter from John Wesley to Joseph Cownl(e)y including advice on how to cure his gout, with "warm treacle on brown paper".
See further letters of John Wesley to Cownl(e)y in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/7127
1750-1800 / Document / Fabric / John Wesley / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper, ink
John Wesley to James Copeland, May 14th, 1786
A letter of personal advice from John Wesley to James Copeland.
The letter is written on very thick linen paper. This is unusual for the time; perhaps no other material was to hand, which suggests John Wesley wrote the letter while travelling.
Letter
1994/1990
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury, September 12th, 1790
A letter written by John Wesley to his friend and protegee, Robert (Carr) Brackenbury (1752-1818) in Guernsey. As with most of Wesley's late letters, his handwriting is hard to make out.
Wesley talks of a lull in Metodist affairs at the time and Brackenbury's health. He advises Brackenbury to spend the winter in the south of England rather than Guernsey, and invites him to come travelling with him, including "whenever you was tired You might go into my Carrriage".
By the 1780s, John Wesley maintained a carriage for his travels, being no longer able to ride long distances on horseback.
See further letters from John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/407
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to the Rev. Walker in Truro, Cornwall, November 20th, 1753
An important letter, sent by John Wesley to the Rev. Walker in Truro, Cornwall, in 1753. In it, John Wesley discusses the role of lay preachers and that his work is NOT breaking with the established Church.
From the earliest days, there were some who felt that Methodism was an evangelical movement breaking away from the Anglican Church. John Wesley denied this, as he felt he was merely carrying out his duty as a clergyman. However, once Wesley ordained preachers for work in the Americas in the 1780s, a break was formalised.
Letter
1994/1953
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Mr George Holder in Douglas, Isle of Man, 28th February 1789
A letter advising of care - with a tone of of mild rebuke - from John Wesley. Wesley is addressing one of his preachers, George Holder, on the Isle of Man.
Letter
1994/1952
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Thomas ('Tommy') Hanson at Horbury, Yorkshire, 8th October 1785
A personal letter from John Wesley to Thomas ('Tommy') Hanson explaining why his name was not included in the minutes of Conference. It would seem Thomas Hanson was unwell at the time, and he was judged unable by Coference to look after a circuit.
Letter
1994/1954
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Miss Knapp ('Suky') in Worcester, 24th April 1788
An interesting letter in which John Wesley dispenses health advice for tuberculosis or a similar disease ('consumption'), referring to his medical tract, the 'Primitive Physic'.
Letter
1992/121
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Mr Mill ('Peter') in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 18th October 1788
John Wesley writing to Mr Peter Mill about potential issues faced from 'Separatists' at the local society.
Letter
1994/1974
1700-1750 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Joseph Conn(w)ly in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 18th September 1750
A personal letter of assurance from John Wesley to Joseph Conn(w)l(e)y, with a postscript of "I wish you Coul'd talk with every preacher, & every Exhorter that come's in your way. Perhaps you may find some who are capable, (sic) of being taken into the General Work". Wesley was always looking to strengthen the Methodist Society.
Fragment of a letter
1997/6777
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Samuel Bradburn, Undated
Fragment of a letter by John Wesley addressed to Samuel Bradburn mentioning letters from Thomas Coke in New York. The reference dates this fragment to the mid 1780s.
Letter
1994/1985
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to Robert Brackenbury in St Helier, Jersey, 16th February 1787
An interesting letter, in which John Wesley mentions the Arminian Magazine, Adam Clarke and conversions, the latter accompanied by "Bodily Convulsions".
Wesley also refers to Dr Coke, and that "we have heard nothing either from him or of him since he left for England". Coke was on his way back from the Americas at the time.
Letter
1992/410/5
1750-1800 / Document / John Wesley / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
John Wesley to George Merryweather in Yarm, Yorkshire, 26th September 1768
Letter from John Wesley regarding John Heslope at Yarm. Wesley felt Heslope was unfit to preach: "Quickly let him Sink into nothing. And the less he preaches in ..ther places, the better, till he come again to his Senses."
Letter
1998/6896
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams, Brecon, Wales, 30th January 1801
Envelope and first page of a letter dealing with financial matters, in particular mortgage and interest payments, and a note that Thomas Coke is anticipating leaving London for half a year.
Letter
1998/6894
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
From Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams in Brecon, Wales, 11th February 1801
A further letter from Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams about financial and mortgage matters, following one sent at the end of January 1801. Coke was about to leave London for some months, and the tone of the letter is pressing.
See also 1998/6896 in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6899
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams in Brecon, Wales, 27th December 1800
Thomas Coke reasoning with Thomas Williams regarding the payment of £100 immediately and the settling of a debt of £200 the following month.
See also Coke letters 1998/6894 and 1998/6896 dealing with the same debt in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6882
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wax
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams in Brecon, Wales, 18th March 1802
A letter expressing surprise an earlier one was not redirected from City Road. Coke explains a 15 months absence from London travelling - likely preaching and on Methodist business - and gives a Liverpool address for further (immediate) correspondence.
See also various other letters from Coke to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6895
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Tomas Williams, 22nd December 1787
Envelope and first page of a letter from Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams regarding financial, especially mortgage and rent, matters and naming debtors and creditors.
See further letters from Coke to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6897
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams, Brecon, Wales, 31st January 1800
Letter in which Coke insists Williams send £100 to Mr Andrew Strahan and twice stating he will think himself "ill-used" and "greatly injured" if Williams does not comply. Coke was about to sail to America, anticipating his return to Britain in July that year.
See further correspondence of a similar nature between the two men in the Online Collection.
Letter
1996/5969
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wax
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Mr Jones, Red Lion Passage, Fleet Street, London, 22nd March 1806
A letter from Thomas Coke to a Mr Jones, primarily about financial affairs, but also mentioning Methodist business and with a personal remark, "Where are you now in the Commentary?". The latter presumably refers to Wesley's commentaries on the Old and New Testaments (published in the 1750s). This suggests Mr Jones, who was handling Coke's financial affairs in London, may have been a Methodist.
See further Thomas Coke letters discussing financial affairs in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6893
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams, Brecon, Wales, 6th March 1801
Short letter in which Thomas Coke promises Williams deeds and receipt. Likely, this letter relates to two earlier ones that year in which Coke was writing to Williams requesting money owed to him.
See further letters between the two men in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6883
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams (but unaddressed), 10th March 1801
First page of a two page letter concerning deeds of Cotty estate and other financial matters, as well as Coke's travelling plans for spring 1801.
Thomas Williams was Coke's attorney at law in Brecon (Wales) and a relation. Coke's letters to Williams make clear that it was not always easy for Williams to reach Coke, as the latter was travelling frequently on Methodist business, including preaching engagements.
See also a number of other letters from Thomas Coke to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6884
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wax
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Mr Walther Williams at Thomas Williams', Brecon, Wales, 3rd July 1797
First page of a letter and envelope page from Thomas Coke to Walter Williams about financial matters, travel plans and expressing sympathy for "your Father's...misfortune", presumably Mr Thomas Williams. Thomas Williams was a cousin of Coke and handling most of the latter's financial affairs.
See also a number of letters from Coke to Thomas Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/7000
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / World Parish
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Merryweather in Yarm, Yorkshire, 5th October 1785
Letter from Thomas Coke to Mr Merryweather about his travel plans, with an interesting reference to "Mr Wesley is going soon to print a new Edition of our American (underlined) Prayer-book, at the Printing of which it is indispensably necessary I should be present".
Letter
1998/6881
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Robert Carr Brackenbury Esq, at Raithby Hall, near Bolingbroke, Lincolnshire, 18th February 1811
First page of a letter written by Thomas Coke shortly after the passing of his wife Penelope, documenting Coke's distress. Coke is referencing his overriding goal to establish missions overseas:"If God's will and the Missions were out of the question, I should long to drop my Body...", but also that "..the Missions (...) are now 1,400 £ (sic) in debt, and will be soon £1,700."
Letter
1998/6999
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Robert Carr Brackenbury Esq., redirected to Newark, Nottinghamshire, 6th April 1805
Letter from Thomas Coke informing Mr and Mrs Brackenbury of his marriage to Penelope Smith, of Bradford, Wiltshire, and Coke's travel plans following the marriage.
Letter
1998/6996
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Robert Carr Brackenbury Esq, Raithby-Hall, near Bolingbrooke, Lincolnshire, 7th February 1808
Envelope page and first page of a letter from Thomas Coke to Robert Carr Brackenburty acknowledging subscription for two sets of (Coke's) History of the West Indies, £20 for missions and relating intelligence regarding maltreatment of missionaries in Jamaica, as well as the deaths of a Mr and Mrs Firth.
There is also an interesting comment, "Awful times, very awful times, You may depend upon it,..., are at hand: and we, as a nation, have cause to tremble". This may refer to the ever growing threat of invasion from Napoleon and the French around this time.
Letter
1998/6998
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Robert Carr Brackenbury, Raithby-Hall, near Spilsby, Lincolnshire, 1st September 1810
Envelope page and first page of a letter in which Coke apologises profusely to Brackenbury for not contacting him sooner, acknowledging receipt of monies and enquiring whether Brackenbury has read Coke's "new versification (I think I may truly call it so) of Mr Samuel Wesley's Life of Christ".
Letter
1992/100
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams, Attorney at Law, Brecon, Wales, 9th November 1779
Short letter from Coke to Williams about financial matters.
See also a number of other letters directed to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/98
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Thomas Woilliams, Attorney at Law, Brecon, South Wales, 3rd April 1783
Short letter from Coke to Williams about financial matters.
See various other letters from Coke to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/112
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke, unaddressed. Presumed to Thomas Williams, Brecon, Wales., 31st May 1784
Letter from Coke to Williams about financial matters, mentioning the book steward at the New Chapel in City Road, Mr John Atlay, and referencing a forthcoming trip to America.
See also a number of other letters from Coke to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6856
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wax
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Thos Williams in Brecknock, 17th September 1781
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, the raising of £150 on bond or mortgage in relation to his house.
It would seem Williams was not the best communicator, or possibly fastest worker. There are many letters from Coke to Williams in the museum's collection in which Coke refers to unanswered letters, or where Coke was obliged to write twice, and sometimes three times, in relation to the same matter.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/109
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wax
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams in Brecknock, 7th July 1779
Letter in which Thomas Coke requests Williams to inform Coke's tenant Mr North to pay half a year's rent. Coke makes reference to a long journey commencing in August 1779.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/106
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thos Williams in Brecon, 29th June 1782
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses financial matters with Thomas Williams, his attorney.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/104
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thos Williams in Brecon, 1st August 1783
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, financial affairs in relation to Coke's recently deceased mother, who had died intestate.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Receipt
1997/6790
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
1st October 1794
Receipt written out by Thomas Coke, acknowledging receipt of £36 from Thomas Williams, his attorney. The money was two years' worth of interest on Coke's estate at Coyty in the county of Brecon.
See also a number of letters written by Coke to Williams and dealing with financial matters in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6793
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thomas Williams, Brecon, So Wales, 13th April 1796
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, mortgage interest money due to him on the Coity estate in Brecon, as well as moneys due regaring the Shoulder of Mutton Tavern and premises. Interestingly, Coke refers to two bank accounts in London with his bankers, "one for my Missions, and another for myself".
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6854
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, South Wales, 19th August 1786
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, letters of administration regarding his parents and the payment of various rents due to him.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6796
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So Wales, 17th September 1799
Letter in which Thomas Coke asks Thomas Williams, his attorney, for £100 and "the rest by installments (sic) after my return from America.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6857
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thos Williams at Brecon, South Wales, 2nd September 1784
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, various financial matters and the return of a cup.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6797
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, South Wales, 17th October 1799
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, the raising of £100, a matter he had raised with Wiliams in a previous letter.
It would seem Williams was not the best communicator, or possibly fastest worker. There are many letters from Coke to Williams in the museum's collection in which Coke refers to unanswered letters, or where Coke was obliged to write twice, and sometimes three times, in relation to the same matter.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6789
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So Wales, 1997/6789
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, the raising of various funds "before I leave London". Likely, Coke was about to leave for a journey to America. Coke's tone towards Williams is somewhat flattering, likely as a way of pleading his case and speeding Williams' reply.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Envelope
1998/6994
1750-1800 / 1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Revds Mrssrs Johnson, Chelmerdene (?), Vipond & Martin (?), Undated
Envelope page addressed by Coke to a number of preachers at Rochester. Although the letter is not preserved it would seem the letter was urgent, as the envelope is marked "To be opened immediately by some of the Family at all events".
Letter
1992/107
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos. Williams in Brecon, 21st September 1782
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, the sale of a property and the drawing up of deeds. Coke mentions travel plans to Scotland and finishes on further property matters regarding a tenant's rent or interest payments to Coke's mother.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6772
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thomas Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 17th September 1791
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, the raising of mortgage interest and rents regarding a number of his properties. Coke was about to travel to France.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/108
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wax
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Mr Thomas Williams in Brecon, South Wales, 2nd November 1781
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses with Thomas Williams, his attorney, financial affairs, including a bond and stocks. Coke had returned recently from the Isle of Wight to London.
The letter is headed by a note in a different hand "49 letters from Dr Coke presented to Rev. Allen Rees".
See also various other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6886/1
1750-1800 / 1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 3rd January 1800
Envelope page and letter alongside which Thomas Coke is sending Thomas Williams, his attorney, a stamped receipt for £200.
See also 1998/6886/2 in the Online Collection.
Receipt
1998/6886/2
1750-1800 / 1800-1850 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
3rd January 1800
Receipt written out by Thomas Coke to Thomas Williams, his attorney, acknowledging receipt of £200 towards the £400 mortgage on the Coity estate in Brecon.
See also Coke's letter 1998/6886/1 in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6792
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, South Wales, 13th May 1795
Letter in which Thomas Coke is repeating a request to Thomas Williams, his attorney, that he should send interest money. In the first letter, Coke had asked for the money to be sent to his bankers to cover payment Coke had to make on a West India bill. However in this letter Coke asks for the money to be sent instead to a Mr Bebbington, umbrella maker, at the City Road Chapel, who had ultimately paid the West India bill.
Mr Bebbington's profession,'umbrella maker', is interesting; there were many tradesmen and small-scale manufacturers among early Methodists.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6859
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, South Wales, 20th March 1786
Letter in which Thomas Coke is discussing financial matters with Thomas Williams, his attorney, and advises of a visit to Ireland.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/102
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams in Brecknock, 10th March 1779
Letter in which Thomas Coke discusses payment for roof repairs and a 'pipe', probably a drainpipe, with Thomas Williams, his attorney.
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/105
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Williams, 15th October 1783
Letter in which Thomas Coke is discussing financial investments with his attorney Thomas Williams and makes a reference to "a Visit (sic) to our large Societies in America next Spring or Summer...".
See also a number of other examples of Coke's correspondence with Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6898
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 1st January 1801
Envelope page and letter in which Coke confirms receipt of a bill for £200 from Thomas Williams, his attorney, in part paymnet on the mortgage of the Coity estate.
See also a further letter and a receipt relating to this transaction in the Online Collection.
Bond Certificate
1998/7002
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
29th September 1781
A bond for £150 given by Thomas Coke and witnessed by Joseph Bradford and others. The document was presented to the museum in the late 1800s by Rev. Allen Rees and is marked as such at the top.
Receipt
2004/9750/1&2
1750-1800 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper; ink
23rd February 1787
Receipt for £100 received by Mr Clulow of Chancery Lane from Mr Thomas Williams on behalf of Thomas Coke.
Note
1998/6995
1750-1800 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper; ink
19th August 1789
Note from Thomas Coke, marked at the top "Handwriting of Dr Coke. Pioneer of Wesleyan Methodist Missions".
Letter
1996/5891
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper, ink
Thomas Coke to The Revd Mr Fletcher at Madeley nr Sheffnal (sic) Cheshire, 6th January 1784
Letter from Coke to Reverend Fletcher in which he discusses the Methodist Society's plans to establish foreign missions. Establishing Methodist missions abroad and in particular overseas was Coke's highest aim and one to which he devoted much energy. Today, he is often referred to among Methodists as the 'father of foreign missions'.
Letter
1998/6858
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams , Brecon, 2nd November 1785
Letter from Coke to his attorney Thomas Williams about sending Coke money to the New Chapel (Wesley's Chapel), City Road. "If you can send £.100 it will be better, but £50 will do". Likely, this was money due to Coke from his property investments.
See also the other letters written by Coke to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6791
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, 1st October 1794
A letter enclosing a receipt for £36 from Coke to his attorney Thomas Williams.
See also 1997/6790 in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/7001
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 17th December 1800
Letter from Coke to Williams asking for £300 in three £100 bills of exchange as a matter of urgency. Coke explains that, if this isn't done, he will get Mr Collins to "get it in" with great pain. Coke was under pressure to pay £400 but his letter does not provide an indication why or to whom.
Letter
1997/6795
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 5th May 1798
in this letter, Coke asks Williams to "pay for me my Quota of the Subscription, which the Corporation of Brecon subscribed for the defence of our King and Country", and to send him the remainder of the year's mortgage interest on Coke's Coyty estate. It is likely the subscription payment for the defence of the kingdom was related to the increasing threat from invasion by the French under Napoleon.
Letter
1997/6794
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 11th May 1798
Coke is discussing the receipt of mortgage interest monies with his attorney and cousin Mr Thomas Williams.
Letter
1992/110
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 17th August 1784
Coke is asking his attorney Williams to raise fifty pounds from Coke's debtors, or in any other way, at short notice.
See also the other letters written by Coke to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1997/6771
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper, ink; wax
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, South Wales, 11th September 1784
Coke is writing to his attorney Williams concerning receipt of £150 and asking for £200 to be sent to Mr Henry Moore at the New Chapel (Wesley's Chapel), City Road, London. Coke is also mentioning travel plans for the following week.
Letter
1992/99
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Wiliams, Brecon, 25th October 1783
Letter in which Coke discusses with his attorney Williams money raised on Coke's investment in the Brecon turnpike.
Letter
1992/103
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 21st July 1781
Thomas Coke is discussing mortgage matters with his attorney Thomas Williams.
See also Coke's other letters to Williams in the Online Collection.
Letter
1992/111/1
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 2nd October 1783
Coke is writing to Thomas Williams about recovering monies from his debtors, including possible arrest of a Mr Wilkins.
Thomas Coke's financial affairs, especially his investments in various properties, were complex and there is much correspondence in relation to these in the Online Collection.
Letter
1998/6885
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, So. Wales, 17th January 1786
Coke is writing to his attorney Thomas Williams about an account of his financial affairs and raising £800, a great deal of money at the time. It would seem that Williams' house or estate was mortgaged to Coke, and Coke is assuring Williams he is not expecting Williams to pay all or part of the £800 out of this sum.
There is a sense of urgency and also a warning in this letter, as Coke explains his travel plans to Jersey, Guernsey and America, and his need for money. He concludes:"...I shall be in full expectation of receiving an Account of my Affairs. Indeed, I shall take it unkind, if You don't send me the Account...".
Letter
1998/6900
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Thomas Coke to Mr Thos Williams, Brecon, South Wales
Coke is writing to his attorney Thomas Williams about interest payments due on Coke's investments, including the Coity estate in Brecon, the Shoulder of Mutton inn and a turnpike bond.
See also in the Online Collection further examples of the correspondence between Coke and Williams.
Ordination Certificate
1750-1800 / Certificate / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Vellum
Vellum; ink
10th June 1770
Certificate signed by the Bishop of Oxford confirming Thomas Coke's ordination as deacon on 10th June 1770.
Letter
1996/5931
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Samuel Jackson to John Wade, Radnor Street, City Road, London, 25th September 1841
A request from Samuel Jackson to John Wade to provide an article on a religious subject for publication, including the somewhat cryptic comment: "Religious Education will go on methodism (sic), provided its friends will but keep it before the public mind, but not otherwise."
Samuel Jackson (1786-1861) was the younger brother of Wesleyan minister Thomas Jackson. He became a leading advocate of Wesleyan Methodist involvement in popular education. He was involved closely with the formation of the Wesleyan Methodist Education Committee in 1839 and was elected President of the 1847 Wesleyan Methodist Conference.
Letter
1992/122
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Mary Fletcher (Bosanquet) to Mr Tranter in Dansley, 12th December 1787 (?)
Letter from Mary Fletcher to Mr John Tranter offering spriritual support and thanking Mr Tranter for the same in return.
Mary Bosanquet Fletcher (1739-1815) was one of the first female Wesleyan Methodist preachers, and it was she who persuaded John Wesley to allow women to preach in public. Mary Bosanquet became one of the most popular female preachers of her day and was greatly revered by Methodists for her work. She was married to John Fletcher (1729-1785).
Letter
1992/124
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Mary Fletcher to, 'Wednesday Night'
Letter from Mary Fletcher to Mr John Tranter reporting news on the ill health of 'my dear Sally'. Mary's strong trust in God's will and care are evident.
Mary Bosanquet Fletcher (1739-1815) was one of the first female Wesleyan Methodist preachers, and it was she who persuaded John Wesley to allow women to preach in public. Mary Bosanquet became one of the most popular female preachers of her day and was greatly revered by Methodists for her work. She was married to John Fletcher (1729-1785).
Letter
1992/125
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Mrs Fletcher of Madeley to John Tranter, 1st January 1795
Letter with a strong spiritual tone from Mary Fletcher to Mr John Tranter. Mary Fletcher is making reference to a poem which may have been dedicated to or written about her.
Mary Bosanquet Fletcher (1739-1815) was one of the first female Wesleyan Methodist preachers, and it was she who persuaded John Wesley to allow women to preach in public. Mary Bosanquet became one of the most popular female preachers of her day and was greatly revered by Methodists for her work. She was married to John Fletcher (1729-1785).
Letter
1992/123
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Mary Fletcher to Mr Tranter, 1st January 1795
First page of a copy of a letter written by Mary Fletcher on January 1st, 1795 to Mr John Tranter (see also Oline Collection, 1992/125). The copy is in Mary Fletcher's handwriting and includes an interesting explanatory preamble in her own words. Evidently, she was concerned about being idolized.
Mary Bosanquet Fletcher (1739-1815) was one of the first female Wesleyan Methodist preachers, and it was she who persuaded John Wesley to allow women to preach in public. Mary Bosanquet became one of the most popular female preachers of her day and was greatly revered by Methodists for her work. She was married to John Fletcher (1729-1785).
Letter
1996/5947
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Jos Entwhisle to Rev. Geo. Marsden, Albion, Leeds, 10th March 1812
First page of a letter from Joseph Entwhisle to Rev. George Marsden at Leeds. The sender apologises profusely for not meeting Marsden and discusses various items of (Methodist) business, including a new school, potential issues about licensing and possible problems with a bank.
Joseph Entwhisle (1767-1841) started preaching at the age of 16 and became known as the 'boy preacher'. He eventually became President of the Methodist Conference twice, in 1812 and 1825. Reverend George Marsden (1765-1838) had been recommended by Wilberforce in 1793 as assistant to the chaplain of New South Wales, Australia. He became President of Conference in 1821 and 1831.
Letter
1992/482
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
E Grindrod to the Revd. Jabez Bunting, D.D., President of the Wesleyan Theological Institute, 12th June 1838
First page and address page of a letter to the Rev. Bunting by E. Grindrod, in which Grindrod declines a potential theological appointment at the Wesleyan Theological Institute.
Edmund Grindrod (1786-1842) was an English Wesleyan minister; he became President of the Wesleyan Conference in 1837 and wrote the 'Compendium of the Laws and Regulations of Wesleyan Methodism' in 1842. Jabez Bunting (1779-1858) has sometimes been described as the architect of the Wesleyan Methodist Church during the early 1800s. His leadership steered Methodism away from the Anglican Church, but his authoritarian leadership caused a split in Wesleyan Methodism which led many to leave. Bunting was elected President of the Wesleyan Conference four times, in 1820, 1828, 1836 and 1844.
Letter
1992/487
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wax
Paper, ink; wax
T. Lessey to Rev. Jabez Bunting, D.D., Pentonville, London, 23rd December 1840
First page and address page of a largely personal letter from T. Lessey to J. Bunting.
Theophilus Lessey jr. (1787-1841) was baptized by John Wesley and educated at Kingswood School. He became a powerful Methodist preacher and was elected President of the Wesleyan Conference in 1839.
Jabez Bunting (1779-1858) has sometimes been described as the architect of the Wesleyan Methodist Church during the early 1800s. He became President of the Wesleyan Conference four times, in 1820, 1828, 1836 and 1844.
Letter
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Robt. Young to Rev. D. Bunting, Pentonville, 18th May 1844
Short letter from Robert Young to Jabez Bunting in which Young refers to making "our plan" (i.e. preaching plan) for June and the following three months, and asking Bunting how he might assist (with preaching).
Robert Young (1796-1865) served in the West Indies and Australia for a number of years and was elected President of the British Wesleyan Conference in 1856. Jabez Bunting (1779-1858) has sometimes been described as the architect of the Wesleyan Methodist Church during the early 1800s and was elected Presdient of the Wesleyan Conference four times, in 1820, 1828, 1836 and 1844.
Letter
1996/5935
1850-1900 / 1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper
H. Price Hughes to Perrington Salvage, Esq., 29th May 1900
First page of an early typewritten and poignantly short letter about not being asked to come to Roupell Park for a year, although there is no mention of a purpose for the visit.
Hugh Price Hughes (1847-1902) was leader of the Forward Movement in the 1880s and 1890 and had a reputation for innovation and reform. He was editor of the Methodist Times from 1885 and concerned with social issues, especially regarding gambling, morality and temperance. Hugh Price Hughes was elected President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1898.
Letter
2003/8968
1900-1950 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Wesley's Chapel
Paper; ink
Frank Cox to 'My dear Vernon', 16th May 1915
Frank Cox (1867-1950) writes encouragingly to 'my dear Vernon' about serving as a soldier in WWI: "If ever young men were called to glorious deeds for a glorious cause it is now." The letter reflects the positive view of fighting for king and country held by most British and European people at the time, before WWI turned into a world war. The war went on for almost five years, costing millions of lives.
Cox was superintendent minister at Wesley' Chapel, City Road, London in 1915, and the letter is written on headed Wesley's Chapel writing paper.
Letter
1997/6407/2
1750-1800 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Joseph Benson to George Merryweather, Yarm, Yorkshire, 22nd December 1794
First page of a three page letter from preacher Joseph Benson (1749-1821) to George Merryweather (c.1743-1817). Benson dismisses the sermon of one Reverend Samuel Clapham as a "very weak & ill-judged performance. I cannot think it will do us or the cause of God any material injury." Likely, Clapham had attacked the Methodists in his sermon, which was not uncommon at the time.
Merryweather was a wealthy salt merchant involved deeply in the Methodist cause, and he oversaw the construction of Yarm Chapel on land given by his family. Benson was a friend and confidant of John Wesley, and correspondent with him frequently. Between 1771 to 1800 Benson served mostly in northern circuits, although this letter was sent from Bristol.
The letter is fixed to a page mentioning the donor's name.
Letter
1992/484
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing
Paper; ink
Thomas Jackson to Hugh Stuart Boyd, 24th October 1834
Apologetic note sent by Jackson in City Road to Boyd, promising that "a notice of your very interesting and valuable volume will be found in our next magazine".
Thomas Jackson (1783-1873) was a Methodist minister and scholar, and served as Connexional Editor (1824-37 and 1839-41), including the Methodist Magazine referred to in his letter. Jackson was elected President of Conference in 1838 and became theological tutor at Richmond College (1842-61).
Document
1998/6993
1800-1850 / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper; ink
No date
Draft for a legal document transferring property from Thomas Coke (1747-1814) to Mary Scorfield (?), following the death of a relative, likely Coke's second wife Anne nee Loxdale, in 1812.
The draft is addressed to Coke's attorney, Thomas Williams.
Letter
1996/6010
1850-1900 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
22nd October 1872
Short letter from Luke Hoult Wiseman (1822-1875), addressed to a Mr Prest, and informing him that a special committee has been fixed for 17th December 1872.
Wiseman was a Wesleyan minister and a renowned preacher and biblical scholar. He was also a supporter of the Anti-Slavery Association and of the Bible Society and became a Secretary of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society in 1868. In 1861 Wiseman was one of the founders of the Methodist Recorder, and he was elected President of the 1872 Methodist Conference.
L.H. Wiseman was the father of Dr Frederick Luke Wiseman (1858-1944), superintendent minister of the Birmingham Mission (1888-1913) and later at Wesley's Chapel, City Road (1940-1944).
Letter
1996/5939
1850-1900 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
6th July 1856 (?)
Apologetic note from George Marsden (1773-1858) addressed to Mr George Stephenson in Great Yarmouth, with later notation of Marsden's age, date of death and date of the note.
Marsden was converted in 1791 under the preaching of Joseph Benson (1749-1821). Marsden became a sick visitor in the then newly-formed Strangers' Friend Society and a minister. Later, he served as Secretary and Treasurer of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society. Marsden was twice President of the Conference (1821, 1831) but was described in 'Wesleyan Talkings' (1840) as having "no great range of mind", a "funeral manner" and a style which was "declamatory, and occasionally vociferous".
Letter
1996/5928
1800-1850 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / World Parish
Paper; ink
J. Beecham to Rev. William Moister, Wesleyan Infirmary, St Vincent's, 13th January 1844
Address page and letter of introduction written by John Beecham, Secretary of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society at the Wesleyan Mission House at Bishopsgate-Street-Within, London to Rev. William Moister at Saint Vincent on the Antilles.
The letter introduces Mr Ford, connected to the Ordnance Department, and his family, and Beecham asks Moister for "whatever kind services you may have it in your power to render them". Ford and his family travelled or emigrated to Saint Vincent, and this letter of introduction would have helped ensure a good start there.
John Beecham (1787-1856) wrote an 'Essay on the Constitution of Wesleyan Methodism' (1829), a statement of the 'high Wesleyan' view of the Pastoral Office. He was Secretary of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society from 1831 to 1855. Beecham was elected President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1850.
Letter
1996/5884
1850-1900 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Charles Prest to Rev. J.P. Lockwood, Stockton, 16th November 1861
Letter by Charles Prest (1806-1875) to Rev. Lockwood (1792-1871), in which he confirms travel arrangements to Stockton.
Prest (1806-1875) became a Wesleyan Methodist minister in 1829 and helped with the building of the new Kingswood School in 1851 when it moved to Bath. He served as superintendent at Wesley's Chapel, London, between 1851 and 1854 and was elected President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in 1862. Prest was an outspoken opponent of 'Popery' and committed to the reorganization and extension of Home Missions as Secretary of the Home Mission Committee from 1857 to 1875. Lockwood was a popular Yorkshire Methodist preacher who - somewhat oddly - became known as the 'Bishop of Berry Brow'.
Letter
1996/6032
1850-1900 / Document / Letter / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Temperance
Paper; ink
Charles Garrett to unidentified recipient, Not dated
Letter written by Charles Garrett (1823-1900) to 'my dear friend' about talking at a meeting.
Garrett was a Wesleyan Methodist missioner and temperance advocate who served primarily in northern circuits. He was involved in the founding of the Manchester and Salford Mission and later of the Liverpool Mission. Garrett was a pioneer among Wesleyan Methodists in supporting the temperance cause, campaigning against alcohol and other social evils and, later, editing the Methodist Temperance Magazine. Garrett was also one of the founders of the Methodist Recorder in 1861 and became President of the 1882 Wesleyan Methodist Conference.
Letter
1996/6017
1850-1900 / Document / Letter / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper
Paper; ink
Mr Punshon to Mr Peel, 2nd April 1879
Note written by William Morley Punshon (1824-1881) at the Wesleyan Mission House in Bishopsgate to Mr Peel about "the arrangement for keeping the garden".
Punshon became a Wesleyan Methodist local preacher in 1840 and minister in 1845. Very active in the Wesleyan Methodist Church, he was a great fundraiser through lectures on many historical subjects and was elected to the Legal Hundred in 1859.
Punshon went to Canada as British representative to its Methodist Conference and served there as its President between 1868 and 1873; during this time he was instrumental in the building of the Metropolitan Church, Toronto (1872), also colloquially known as 'Mr. Punshon's Church'. On his return in 1874 Punshon was elected President of the Wesleyan Methodist Conference in Britain. 1874
Tom Brown’s Schooldays
2009/12114
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Fabric / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Publication
Cardboard; paper; cloth
Book, early 1900s
This copy of Tom Brown's Schooldays published by Ward, Lock & Co. belonged to Donald Soper. A bookplate inside the cover reads: "St John's Hill Wandsworth Wesleyan Sunday School. Awarded to Donald Soper for regular attendance during 1912".
Soper was born in 1903 and would have been 9 years of age when awarded the book. Its choice as an award for Sunday School attendance was not coincidental. Set at a private school in Rugby in the mid 1800s, the book's sporting and personal development motifs boys of Soper's generation and age would have been able to relate to. The book's purpose was primarily didactic, and Christian morality, idealism, fighting spirit, boldness, and the importance of taking responsibility are central themes.
From the private collection and archive of Donald Soper. See also various other objects with a Soper connection in the Online Collection.
New Testament and Psalms
2014/14049
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Publication
Paper; cardboard; leather
1925
This copy of the New Testament and Psalms was given to Donald Soper on the occasion of his ordination in June 1926. It was published by the British and Foreign Bible Society and printed at the Oxford University Press in 1925. There are a number of erased child-like pencil doodlings in the back cover, likely drawn by one of Soper's four children, which are evidence that this volume was used over many years.
From the private collection and archive of Donald Soper. See also various other objects with a Soper connection in the Online Collection.
The Path to Perfection
2011/13282/1
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Fabric / Methodism / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Printing & Publishing / Publication
Cardboard; paper; cloth
Book, 1943
This copy of 'The Path to Perfection' belonged to Leslie Weatherhead. It is signed by its author, William Sangster, on the title page, and the inside cover carries the inscription: 'Leslie with affection Will. 4.2.43", as well as Leslie D. Weatherhead's signature.
From the private collection and archive of Leslie D. Weatherhead. See also various other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
The Holy Bible
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Leather / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Paper / Publication
Cardboard; paper; cloth
Book, c. 1940
This Holy Bible belonged to Leslie Weatherhead. It was a gift and is inscribed with his name and the date '1940' on the front page. Weatherhead's annotations can be found throughout. Although Weatherhead was a (Wesleyan) Methodist, his views were sometimes at odds with conventional Christian beliefs - such as a Virgin birth, or the existnce of a Holy Trinity - and he was often regarded as a rebel.
From the private collection and archive of Leslie D. Weatherhead. See also various other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
Watercolour painting
2023/16682/4
1950-2000 / Drawing / Landscape / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Paper / Watercolour
Watercolour on paper
c. 1950
Leslie D. Weatherhead was a prominent mid-20th century Methodist whose views often sparked controversy among more traditional clergy. He was also an amateur artist who painted in watercolour. This work bears his initials, 'LDW'.
From the private collection and archive of Leslie D. Weatherhead. See also various other Weatherhead watercolour paintings in the Online Collection.
Watercolour painting
2023/16682/3
1950-2000 / Drawing / Landscape / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Paper / Watercolour
Watercolour on paper
1956
Leslie D. Weatherhead was a prominent mid-20th century Methodist whose views often sparked controversy among more traditional clergy. He was also an amateur artist who painted in watercolour. This work bears his initials, 'LDW' and the date '1956'.
From the private collection and archive of Leslie D. Weatherhead. See also various other Weatherhead watercolour paintings in the Online Collection.
Watercolour painting
2023/16682/1
1950-2000 / Drawing / Landscape / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Paper / Watercolour
Watercolour on paper
1956
Leslie D. Weatherhead was a prominent mid-20th century Methodist whose views often sparked controversy among more traditional clergy. He was also an amateur artist who painted in watercolour. This work bears his initials, 'LDW' and '1956'.
From the private collection and archive of Leslie D. Weatherhead. See also various other Weatherhead watercolour paintings in the Online Collection.
Watercolour painting
2023/16682/2
1950-2000 / Drawing / Landscape / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Painting / Paper / Watercolour
Watercolour on paper
c.1950
Leslie D. Weatherhead was a prominent mid-20th century Methodist whose views often sparked controversy among more traditional clergy. He was also an amateur artist who painted in watercolour. This work bears his initials, 'LDW'.
From the private collection and archive of Leslie D. Weatherhead. See also various other Weatherhead watercolour paintings in the Online Collection.
Stole
1950-2000 / Clothing / Fabric / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Textile
Textile
c. 1950-70
A red brocade stole once belonging to the Rev. Soper.
Protestant denominations use stoles as liturgical vestments, and they symbolize being a member of the ordained. A stole consists of a band of cloth, usually coloured and often made of silk; the centre of the stole is worn around the back of the neck while the two ends hang down in front.
From the private collection and archive of Donald Oliver Soper. See also various other objects with a Soper connection in the Online Collection.
Belt
2014/14053
1950-2000 / Clothing / Leather / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object
Leather, metal
c. 1980
A dark brown leather belt once belonging to the Rev. Donald Oliver Soper.
From the private collection and archive of Rev. Donald Oliver Soper. See also various other objects with a Soper connection in the Online Collection.
Printing block
2014/14050
1950-2000 / Metal / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Object / Other / Wood
Metal, wood
c. 1980
A printing block depicting Rev. Donald Oliver Soper. Once inked and pressed onto paper, the cut surface of the print block produces a mirror or 'correct' impression of the image on paper.
From the private collection and archive of Rev. Donald Oliver Soper. See also various other objects with a Soper connection in the Online Collection.
Plaque
2014/14088
1950-2000 / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Plaque
Metal
1993
Metal plaque commemorating the Rev. Donald Oliver Soper (1903-1998) and his weekly ministry at Tower Hill.
See also various other objects with a Soper connection in the Online Collection.
Prayer book
2011/13296
1900-1950 / Book / Cardboard / Document / Ministers, Preachers & Associates / Other / Paper
Paper; ink
c.1940-50
This prayer book ringbinder was put together by and belonged to Leslie D. Weatherhead (1893-1976). Weatherhead's handwriting and annotations can be found throughout.
Although Weatherhead was a (Wesleyan) Methodist, his views were sometimes at odds with conventional Christian beliefs - such as a Virgin birth, or the existence of a Holy Trinity - and he was often regarded as a rebel.
From the private collection and archive of Leslie D. Weatherhead. See also various other objects with a Weatherhead connection in the Online Collection.
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