Rook Lane Chapel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rook Lane Chapel |
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Chapel front, following renovation
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| General information | |
| Location | Frome, Somerset, England |
| Construction started | 1705 |
| Completed | 1707 |
Rook Lane Chapel is a historic building in Frome, Somerset, England. It was once a church and is now a busy arts centre.
Contents
A Chapel's Long History
Rook Lane Chapel was built in 1707 by James Pope. It was a place of worship for people called nonconformists. These were Protestants who did not follow the main Church of England.
A Growing Congregation
The chapel was very popular at first. By 1717, about a thousand people attended services there. However, in 1773, some members left. They started another church nearby called Zion Chapel.
Decline and Closure
Over time, fewer people came to Rook Lane Chapel. Other churches opened, and attendance slowly dropped. By 1933, the pastor's salary was reduced. In 1965, Rook Lane Chapel joined with Zion Chapel. Rook Lane Chapel finally closed its doors in 1968.
A Time of Trouble
After closing, the building was sold. However, the new owners could not get permission to use it for their plans. The chapel then suffered a lot of damage. Thieves stole lead and tiles from the roof. Vandals broke in, smashing memorials and pulling down the gallery inside.
The Building's Unique Design
The chapel has a square shape. Inside, two large pillars help hold up the roof. There is also a gallery, which is like a balcony, around three sides of the building.
Windows and Details
The chapel has two rows of seven windows each. A central pediment, which is a triangular shape often found above doors or windows, covers five of these windows. In 1862, side lobbies were added. These matched the chapel's style and held stairs to the gallery.
Above the main door, there is an old inscription. It is a quote from the Bible about respecting a holy place. The chapel also has a special domed roof. This unique roof led people to call the chapel "The Cupola."
From Ruin to Revival
The Somerset Buildings Preservation Trust bought the chapel. With help from English Heritage, they worked to restore the building. It is a Grade I listed building, which means it is very important and protected.
Rook Lane Today
Today, the building belongs to NVB, a company of architects. They have turned it into a community space. The ground floor is used for art shows, parties, meetings, and concerts. This part of the building is now known simply as Rook Lane.
The upper floor, with its gallery, is used as office space by the architects. The building is also a licensed place for weddings. It has truly been brought back to life!
