Mynyddbach Chapel facts for kids
Mynyddbach Chapel is the oldest Independent chapel in the city of Swansea, Wales. It has a long and interesting history, starting way back in the 1600s.
Around 1640, a group of people began meeting in a farmhouse called "Cilfwnwr" near Llangyfelach. They would gather on Sundays and during the week to read the Bible and pray. Later, they moved their meetings to another place called "Tirdwncyn." These early meetings eventually grew into a proper church. They continued to meet there until 1762. From 1720 to 1759, a minister named Samuel Jones led the group at "Tirdwncyn."
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Building the Chapel
In 1761, the group leased some land. Soon after, they built the first chapel building. This chapel was located at Tirdoncyn-newydd, also near Llangyfelach. Over a century later, in 1867, a new and larger chapel was built on the same site. This newer building was updated and repaired quite a bit in the 1930s.
Why the Chapel Was Built Outside Swansea
When the first chapel was built, it became a very important place for the nonconformist movement in Wales. Nonconformists were Protestants who did not follow the official Church of England. At that time, they faced difficulties and were not always allowed to practice their faith freely. Because of these challenges, the chapel had to be built at least five miles outside the official boundaries of Swansea town. This rule helped them meet without as much trouble.
Saving the Chapel Today
In 2011, Mynyddbach Chapel was in danger of being torn down. However, a group of local people, along with the chapel's remaining members and leaders, decided to save it. They formed the Mynyddbach Chapel Project. This project was led by Reverend Grenville Fisher, a Congregational minister.
The main goal of the Mynyddbach Chapel Project is to protect the building and its grounds for the future. They want to turn it into a lively Arts and Culture centre. This new centre will serve the local community and the wider area. Importantly, it will also keep its original religious and spiritual meaning. The Mynyddbach Chapel Project now runs from the Calon Lân Centre, which is based right at Mynyddbach Chapel.
Mynyddbach Cemetery
The cemetery at Mynyddbach Chapel is the final resting place for several important people.
Notable Burials
- John Humphrey: He was known as "God's architect." He designed the new Mynyddbach Chapel. He also designed another famous chapel, the Tabernacle Chapel, Morriston.
- Daniel James (Gwyrosydd): This famous poet is buried here. He wrote the words to the well-known Welsh hymn, Calon Lân. Many people consider "Calon Lân" to be the second National Anthem of Wales because it is so loved and important to Welsh culture.
See also
In Spanish: Capilla de Mynyddbach para niños
