Salem Independent Chapel, Llandovery facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Salem Independent Chapel, Llandovery |
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| Location | Orchard Street, Llandovery |
| Country | Wales, United Kingdom |
| Denomination | Independent chapel |
| History | |
| Founded | 1836 |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade II |
| Designated | 26 February 1981 |
| Architectural type | Chapel |
Salem Independent Chapel is a special church building in the town of Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, Wales. It is an Independent chapel, which means it belongs to a type of Christian church that is self-governing. The building you see today was mostly built between 1829 and 1830.
This chapel is located on Orchard Street in Llandovery. It is considered very important because it was given a special status called Grade II on February 26, 1981. This status helps protect old and important buildings.
Contents
History and Design of Salem Chapel
Building the Chapel: Early Years
Salem Independent Chapel was first built a long time ago, between 1829 and 1830. Later, in the 1870s, it had many big changes made to it. These changes helped shape how the chapel looks inside and out today.
What the Chapel Looks Like
The front of the chapel has two floors. It has a slightly raised base, called a plinth, and special corner stones, known as quoins. The front also has three sections, or "bays." The roof is shaped like a pyramid, but the very front edge is cut off. This is called a hipped roof with a truncated front.
The windows on the chapel are special too. They have decorative columns on the sides, called pilasters, and rounded tops. On the top floor, there are three windows. On the ground floor, there is one window in the middle, with two doors on either side of it.
Inside the Chapel: Features and Style
Inside, the chapel is shaped like a rectangle. It has a single balcony, or "gallery," that goes around part of the room. This gallery also has pilasters that divide its long panels.
The pulpit, which is where the minister speaks from, has a grand, sweeping staircase. Both the gallery and the pulpit were added around 1870. They were designed in the style of a famous architect named Thomas Thomas. The part of the chapel where the organ is located was built in 1937. The organ itself was made by a company called Conacher.
Why Salem Chapel is a Grade II Listed Building
Understanding "Grade II Listed"
Salem Independent Chapel was officially named a Grade II listed building on February 26, 1981. This means it is a building of special national importance and needs to be protected. It was given this status because it is a great example of a large chapel from 1829 with a pyramid-shaped roof. The details inside and outside, added in the 1870s, also make it very special.
Protecting Historical Buildings
The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales helps look after the history of this chapel. They keep important records about its archaeology, architecture, and history. These records include digital photos, old postcards, and notes from people who have studied the building. This helps make sure that the chapel's story and design are remembered and preserved for the future.
