Wesleyan Methodist Church, Hugh Town facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wesleyan Methodist Church, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly |
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Wesleyan Methodist Church, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly
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| 49°54′52.58″N 6°18′59.6″W / 49.9146056°N 6.316556°W | |
| Location | Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly |
| Country | England |
| Denomination | Wesleyan Methodist |
| History | |
| Founded | 1790 |
The Wesleyan Methodist Church in Hugh Town, located on the Isles of Scilly, was once a busy place of worship. It first opened its doors in 1790. Today, this historic building has a new purpose. It serves as an office for the Council of the Isles of Scilly. The building is also recognized as a Grade II listed site, meaning it's an important historical structure.
Contents
History of the Church Building
Early Days and First Building
The very first church building on this spot was built in 1790. It was a place for the Wesleyan Methodist community to gather. However, this first building didn't last forever.
The Current Building and Its Upgrades
In 1828, a new building was constructed. This is the same building you can see today. Over the years, it received several important updates.
Renovations in the Late 1800s
The church got a big makeover in 1884. The main area where people sat, called the chapel body, was given new seats. A rostrum (a raised platform for speakers) and a communion-rail (a rail in front of the altar) were added. The front of the gallery, which is an upper seating area, was painted white with gold details. A new school room was also built. All these improvements cost about £500 at the time.
Further Updates in the Early 1900s
The church was renovated again in 1905. These updates helped keep the building in good condition.
The Church's Later Years and New Purpose
In the 1930s, the Wesleyan Methodist Church joined with another group called the Bible Christians. They decided to use a newer building on Church Street for their services. Because of this, the old Wesleyan Methodist Church building became empty. The rostrum and communion rail were carefully moved to the new chapel on Church Street.
Music in the Church
Early Musical Instruments
When the church first opened, music for services was played on different instruments. These included a flute, a bass viol (a string instrument similar to a cello), and a clarionet (an early type of clarinet).
The Arrival of the Pipe Organ
Later, a harmonium was used to provide music. A harmonium is a keyboard instrument that makes sound using air. In 1905, the church got a special upgrade. They installed a pipe organ, which is a much larger and more powerful instrument. This organ was made by a company called Messrs Heard of Truro.
