Coke Memorial Methodist Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coke Memorial Methodist Church |
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Methodist |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Closed |
| Location | |
| Location | South Petherton, Somerset, England |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Alexander Lauder |
| Architectural type | Church |
| Completed | 1882 |
| Specifications | |
| Capacity | 320 |
| Materials | Hamstone |
The Coke Memorial Methodist Church is a former Methodist church. You can find it in South Petherton, Somerset, England. It was designed by Alexander Lauder and built between 1881 and 1882. Since 1988, it has been a Grade II listed building. This means it's an important historical building. The church stopped holding services in 2023.
History of the Church
The Coke Memorial Methodist Church was built to replace an older church. The old Wesleyan Methodist chapel was built in 1809. It was getting old and uncomfortable for the people who went there.
The new church was built to remember Rev. Dr. Thomas Coke. He was a church leader in the village from 1772 to 1776. Later, he became a very important person in Methodism. He also helped start the Wesleyan Missionary Society.
The idea to build a new church began in 1875. The plan was to raise money for a new church, a minister's house, and two schools. This plan didn't happen right away.
In 1881, the idea was started again. People wanted to make sure there was enough support. Once they knew there was, a group was formed to raise money. They raised £750 in April 1881. A schoolroom for about 200 children was also part of the plan. Mr. Alexander Lauder from Barnstaple drew the designs for the church and school.
Mr. J. Walter of South Petherton was chosen as the builder. The stone work was done by Messrs. Hallett Bros and Mr. John Trask. By August 1881, £1,020 had been raised. Special memorial stones were laid on August 10, 1881. The church building was almost finished by March 1882. Master Joseph Workman placed the top stone on the church's spire.
The church officially opened for services on August 24, 1882. A special dedication service was held that day. The whole project cost £2,118. This included £500 for the land. A new organ was added to the church in November 1894. It cost £200 and was built by Mr. F. Minns.
The church held its last service on October 1, 2023. Rev. Andrew Longshaw led the closing service.
Church Design and Features
The church is built using a type of stone called Hamstone. Its roof is made of Welsh slate. The building is designed in the Gothic style. This style often features pointed arches and tall windows.
The church was built to hold 320 people. The seats inside are made of pitch pine wood. The church has a tall tower and spire on its south-eastern side. This spire is about 70 feet (21 meters) high.
The large front window has beautiful stained glass. It was made by Mr. Swaine Bourne of Birmingham. Mrs. Masters gave this window to the church to remember her father. The pulpit, called a rostrum, was made by Mr. Pulsford. The shiny steps inside are made from Pibsbury stone. These steps were placed to remember Rev. T. W. Smith.
