Salem Chapel, Robertstown facts for kids
Salem, Robertstown is a historic church building located in Bridge Street, Robertstown, Aberdare, Wales. It was a chapel for a group called Independents, also known as Congregationalists. These groups are part of the Protestant Christian faith.
The Start of Salem Chapel
The story of Salem Chapel began in 1835. A minister named Joseph Harrison left his old church, Ebenezer, Trecynon. He wanted to baptize people by fully dipping them in water. This was different from what other Independent church members believed.
At first, the group met in people's homes. Later, they used a large room at the White Lion Inn.
Building the First Chapel
To solve the meeting place problem, a small wooden building was put up in 1836. People called it Ty Planca. This name means "Plank House" in Welsh.
Soon, Ty Planca became too small for everyone. So, the community decided to build a bigger chapel. They built Salem Chapel in 1841. It cost about £550, which was a lot of money back then. The land for the chapel was rented from Dr. James Lewis Roberts. Joseph Harrison continued to lead the church until he passed away in 1851.
Joshua Thomas's Time as Minister
After Joseph Harrison, Joshua Thomas became the minister. He led the chapel for many years. In April 1875, he received a special gift of £140. This gift was a way to thank him for his hard work. John Harrison, Joseph Harrison's son and the oldest church leader, presented the gift.
Other important people spoke at this event. They included Michael D. Jones from Bala and Thomas Rees from Swansea. Local ministers William Edwards from Ebenezer, Trecynon, and William Williams from Nebo, Hirwaun, also spoke.
During Joshua Thomas's time, members from Salem Chapel helped start another church. This new church was called Bethel, Gadlys.
When Salem Chapel first opened in 1841, it had 65 members. But by the next year, in 1842, the number of members went down to 25. Salem Chapel continued to be open and active into the 21st century.
