| Winsham Chapel - Minutes of Meetings 1900-1910 |
|
On Friday Dec 1st 1899 I met by appointment the following
gentlemen in the vestry at Pauls Meeting Chapel, Taunton, vis
Rev G W Joyce, Secty of Evangelist Socty, Somerset
Rev W Wilkinson, Pastor Pauls Meeting Church
Rev Coleman A
Goodman, Treasurer of Evangelist Society. Mr
Joyce had invited me here for the purpose of formerly appointing me to
the work at Winsham near Chard.
My papers and letter being satisfactory I was engaged and requested to
commence work on Sunday 7th
Januaryy 1900.
Thursday Jan 4th we arrived at Winsham.
The Manse had been prepared for us. Mr
Crook, Mr Beviss and Mrs Johnson received us.
Sunday 7th
Service morning at 11.ock Mr
Sanders, Chard was present
Evening at 6.30) Congregation encouraging
Salary of £60 and Manse.
Henry Hammond
Church Meeting held at the Manse Jany 1900 Bros Hutchins & Rowe were
present. The
Annual Schedule for 1899 had been prepared by Mr King, together with
Messrs Beviss, Rowe, Crook and was submitted to this meeting and signed
by the Deacon, Mr Rowe and by the Auditor, Mr Crook.
Schedule forwarded to Rev G W Joyce Secty Wellington.
Then was a Conversation about revising the Church Roll both felt
that names of persons removed and dead should no longer be retained on
Register.
Church Meeting
March 22nd held in Manse.
Brothers Hutchins, Rowe & Crook were present.
the last name by invitation.
Mrs Hammond and Mrs Crook were also present.
This meeting was called to consider the resignation of Brother Bevis as
Church Treasurer. Our
Brother had a serious seizure in January and remains in a helpless
state. Sister Bevis has
done the work of the office during her husbands affliction.
She now finds herself unable to continue the same so has
expressed her decision to ask, on behalf of her husband, that his
resignation of the office of treasurer should be accepted. The
Meeting deeply regret our brother’s affliction and feel bound to accept
the resignation. Each
expressed their sorrow, and their certain and hoped that our Lord Jesus
would grant him all needful grace.
After some conversation as to a successor to the office of Treasurer it
was unanimously resolved to ask our brother John Crook to accept the
Office. Our
brother Crook is not yet a member of the Church but has for some years
served her well in the Sunday School, and during intervals when there
was no Pastor. Brothers
Hutchings and Rowe pointed out a presidence for the appointment in the
fact that Mr Trenchard had long acted as Treasurer although not a Church
Member. So the offer and
election to office was accepted by brother John Crook who would accept
office at once. It
was resolved to take collections on Sunday next on behalf of the War
Fund ( It was further resolved that
the Pastors Recognition Service should be held on April 5th. Rev W Macdonald, Chard be
asked to preach at Rev
F J Hyde, Macdonald, Vine & Cannon and Mr Crook be speakers, J Prentice
Esq, Ilminster be Chariman.
That Mrs Hammond and Mrs Crook superintend the arrangements for public
tea at 5.30. Tickets 6d
each.
Resolved that collections be taken on Mar 25 on behalf of the London
Missionary Society. Rev G W
Joyce writes to say that the Rev E Hawker BA from Coimbator,
After a brief conversation on the desirability of choosing another
Deacon to serve with Brother Rowe it was resolved to elect one.
Brother Rowe proposed that brother Hutchins be elected into the
Deaconate - which now
consists of brothers Rowe & Hutchins together with brother Crook, with
pastor as Secretary.
Sunday Mar 5th
Collections were made for the Transvall was found amounting to £1.10.6.
which the Deacon forwarded
further.
Sunday Mar 25th was Anniversary Day of the London Missionary
Society’s Meetings.
Preachers as follows.
Morning H
Afternoon F J Fry, Esq, Cricket St Thomas
Evening Rev Hawker, MA, Coomibatoor, The
afternoon service was a full one, many men attended both from the
village and the neighbourhood.
Evidently Mr Frys services were appreciated. The
evening service also was a full one.
Mr Hawkers account of his work amongst the various castes in
south Our
choir did useful work with the Missionary Hymns. The
collections were very good. Mr
Fry contributed largely (£2.0.0.), total £3.14.6.
Thursday Apr 5th Recognition Services Rev
Macdonald, Chard, preached at 4 o’ck.
A very good attendance.
Public tea at 5.30. 90 sat
down.
Public Meeting at 7.0 chairman J Prentice, Esq, Ilminster.
Speakers, Rev F J Hyde, Rev H Macdonald, W Vine, W Cannon, Mr
Crook & H Hammond. Many
friends came in from Chard, Ilminster & Venn & Broadwinsor.
Truly encouraging to all.
Deacons Meeting held in the Manse Friday Apr 20th Present
Brothers Crook, King, Hutchins & Hammond. The
Minutes of meeting on Mar 2 were read & confirmed. The
meeting was called to consider the advisability of introducing the
Christian Endeavour movement into Winsham.
And also to arrange for the ventilation of the Chapel.
After a free conversation about the C E Movement it was resolved to
introduce the movement by holding meetings during the summer months on
Sunday afternoons. 1.
Proposed by Mr Crook and seconded by brother Rowe that we ask
several well known gentlemen to visit us on the last Sunday afternoon in
the months of May, June, July, Aug & Sep to explain the nature and
working of the Christian Endeavour movement.
Further that we ask Mr John Prentice of Ilminster to give the final
address. And
that the following gentlemen be asked to supply on the succeeding
occasions, viz Mr
Sanders, Mr Baker, Mr Fone and Mr Whitmarch.
Failing the above we then ask Mr Phillips and Mr Tutcher of Chard. No
collection be taken on this occasions. It
is hoped that an interest will be created by this initiatory meeting
quite strong enough to justify the formation of a CE society in Sept. 2.
Resolved that on 1st Sunday afternoon in June
we hold a Flower Service and that a penny collection be taken to defray
cost of sending flowers to 3.
Resolved that the question of ventilating the Chapel be left to
the management of Brother Crook, that he may adopt the most useful mode
of ventilation possible to the strength of the window frame.
And we wish him success for the work is very needed.
Deacons Meeting
held in the Manse May22 1900
Present Mr Crook, Mr Rowe, Mr Hutching and HH
Minutes of meeting held on Ap 20th were read and confirmed. After conversation on the
favourable impression made by Mr J Prentices address given on May 6 on
the Christian Endeavour Movement, it was thought advisable to open a
meeting for adults on Sunday afternoon from 3 to 4 o’ck to be conducted
by HH commencing Sunday June 10th.
Resolved that the following anniversaries be held during the summer and
autumn, vis the Sunday School in July or Aug – preacher HH =
the Harvest Festival be held in September or October and that F J Fry,
Esq of Cricket St Thomas be asked to preach. =
that the Chapel Anniversary be held in November – arrangements to be
deferred for the present.
Several other matters, such as seat letting and sale of hymn books was
talked over, which Mr Crook kindly offered to attend to.
Sunday July 1st Mr
Fone, Crewkerne, conducted the monthly Christian Endeavour meeting,
assisted by Miss Cross. The
attendance was good.
On
Tuesday July 10th was held the first of such meetings. Rev
J B Figgis, MA, Mr
Figgis seemed much helped by the Holy Spirit, ineed I have not had such
a spiritual treat for a
long time. We thank God and
take courage.
Public tea at 5.30 – tickets 6d. Conference at 7.00 - President
G E Colthurst, Esq,
Speakers Revs J B Figgis, F W Macdonald,
IJ Hyde, W
Vine and W Cannon and Mr Whitmarch.
The subject was “The deepening of the Spiritual Life”.
The attenance at the afternoon service and tea and meeting was
very good – friends from Chard, Venn, Hawkchurch, Broadwindsor &
Crewkerne were present.
Collection more than covered expenses. Mr
Figgis would not charge his expenses. Mr
Cross entertained Mr Figgis.
Sunday School Anniversary
on Sunday Aug 5th 1901
11.00 - H Hammond
3.00 - H Hammond
6.30 - Hugh Trenchard, Esq All
the services were well attended – especially that in the evening.
Collections £2-15s-0d. S S
Treat on Friday 10th in Mr Raisons fields – very enjoyable.
Deacon’s meeting held in the Manse Sept 12th
01
Present HH, Mr Crook, Mr Rowe and Mr Hutchings The
meeting was called to arrange for forthcoming Harvest Thanksgiving –
Winters work, etc.
Proposed by Mr Rowe and seconded by Mr Hutchings that the transfer of
membership of brother and sister The
Rev Campbell, pastor of the Church at Binwood has written a commendatory
note on the printed transfer which shall be acknowledged. Harvest Thanksgiving
Res. 1.
That the services be held on Sunday Oct 7 and the following
Tuesday . Our
Secretary reported the consent of F J Fry Esq to preach on the afternoon
of Oct 7th. The
Pastor preach morning and evening. 2.
That the collections on the Sabbath be devoted to Benevolent
purposes amongst our Congregation and the Village, that is, the sick and
the Aged in the Congregation and the village. 3.
That the fruit and vegetables be sold in the school room on the
Tuesday evening, and the cash be forwarded to the Secretary of Crewkerne
Hospital . 4.
That we write the following members of our congregation to assist
in the decorations and arrangement and sale of the Tuesday evenings,,
viz Messrs Hopkins, Batstone, Good and Taylor and Loaring.
Together with Mrs Butler, Misses Cothell and 5.
That we call a general meeting, composed of members and the
above, for Wednesday, 19th to be held in the Schoolroom at
7.30. The first part of the
business to be devoted to receiving new members into Church fellowship,
and then to arrange the work for the winter.
Also to complete arrangements for Harvest Thanksgivings. 6.
The deacons appointed time of opening Chapel and of lighting for
the services, and requested Mr Crook to inform the Chapel Keeper.
Meeting held Wednesday, Sept 19th in the Schoolroom.
After prayers by Mr Rowe, H H read the notice of transfer of membership
of our brother and sister The
following new members were proposed and accepted into fellowship.
Each name submitted separately, and then the meeting was asked if
they knew any reason why each should not be received into membership.
No voice was raised against so I proceeded to admit them one by
one in the following order viz Sister Foisey, Sister Crook and Sister
Elsie Vernon. After the
reception our brother Hutchings commended each in prayer to God.
May it please the Great Head of the Church to keep those His
members full of life and devotion to Him and his Church.
After the above we proceeded to make the following arrangements for work
during the winter, viz;
-
that those in weekly
prayer meeting held in the schoolroom every Thursday evening at 7.30
commencing first week in October.
-
A Bible Class on
Tuesday evening at 7.30 – ditto
-
A childrens meeting
on Wednesday evening at 7.00 – ditto For the Harvest
Thankgsgiving
That we accept the kind offer of Messrs Hopkin, Taylor and Hutching to
supply corn, barley and oats for decoration in the Chapel. The following promised to
supply evergreens, viz Messrs Good, Rowe, F Cothell and
That we make a general appeal for flowers for decorating Chapel. The
decorators be asked to meet on Saturday evening at 6 o’ck Mr
Crook consented to be salesman and H H cashier on the Tuesday evening. All
brrethren present promised to assist. We
regret that Mr Fry cannot be with us on Oct 7th but has
promised to come later on.
Deacons Meeting
held
Present Messrs Crook, Rowe and Hutchings
Brother Rowe opening the meeting with prayer. HH
read the minutes of last meeting which were confirmed as read.
Business 1.
Circular from the Chard & District Free Church Council asking if
we would have a five days mission early in March next.
Also, if we would appoint our own Missioner, or should the F.C.
Council. In the latter case
then we should be expected to contriubte a sum of 10/- towards cost of
mission. The deacons concluded in favour of holding the mission – but
deputised the Treasurer to confer with Mr Sanders about the Missioner,
etc. 2.
That we suggest to the Vicar the desirability of holding united
prayer meetings in the first week of the New Year. 3.
That on the first Sunday afternoon in the New Year we hold a
Service of Song entitled “The Musical Miller”. 4.
That the Deacons prepare the Annual Report for the 5.
We regret to report that Mr & Mrs Vernon and their daughter have
decided to go out to
Church Meeting
Held Sunday evening
After prayer by Brothers Rowe and Hutchings we had the great pleasure of
receiving the following brother and sisters into church fellowship.
viz: Mr
John Crook, proposed by HH and seconded by J Hutchins.
John Goldsworthy, proposed by D Rowe and J Crook.
Herbert Goldsworthy, proposed by the same brethren
Ellen Batstone, proposed by Mrs Hammond and seconded by Mrs Crook.
Anne M Hucker, proposed by HH and seconded by Mrs Hammond.
Deacons Meeting
Held in the Manse The
Secretary read the Minutes of meeting held on the
After general conversation the deacons proceeded to make arrangements
for the forthcoming Free Church Council Quarterly meeting of which is to
be held in our Chapel on Thursday Apr 25. Mrs
Crook and Mrs Hammond were appointed to superintend the arrangement of
the Public Tea on Apr 25. The
deacons would superintend all other arrangements. The
deacons desire to record their devout thanksgiving to God that they were
able to send £6.12.0 to the London Missionary Society for Anniversary on
March 17th last.
They then proceeded to make arrangements for the Village Keswick,
proposed for Thursday June 6.
The opinion of the meeting was that Thursday 13 or 20 might suit
better than 6th.
This suggestion was to be made to Rev E Hamilton. Rev
Edward Hamilton of 1.
Service in the afternoon at 4 o’ock, sermon by Rev E Hamilton 2.
Public tea at 5.30, tickets 6d each 3.
Public Meeting – Several speakers, say Rev F J Hyde and A
Macdonald of Chard 4.
That Rev E The
bills, special choir, public tea to be arranged for later.
Brothers Rowe & Hutchings were appointed to call on Mr Batstone and Mrs
Lacey to confer with them about becoming members of the church. That we make a strong effort
to raise £5 or £10 for the funds of the Evangelist Society of the It
was thought possible to do this, as there might be a surplus of £5 on
the collection – which together with collection at Chapel Anniversary in
Nov or early in Dec would probably reach the latter sum.
p.s. I feel constrained to
record that in prayer to God about the forthcoming Village Keswick, I
feel that the Keswick is “the Lords”.
He has it in his purpose and power for success.
Church Meeting held on Sunday May 5 when the following brother and
sister were proposed for membership and accepted. 1.
Mr William Golsworthy – proposed by Mr Hammond and seconded by Mr
Rowe 2.
Mrs Mary Golsworthy – proposed by Mrs Hammond and seconded by Mrs
Hutchings 3.
Mr Cullen - proposed by Mr Hammond and seconded by Mr Hutchings
After this there were nineteen of us sat at his Table to holy communion
– we all gratefully acknowledged the presence of the Lord in our midst,
it was a sanctifying time and we are grateful.
We thank God and take courage.
Deacons Meeting
held The
Treasurer reported that there was a sum of over five pounds in hand
which might be forwarded to the Treasurer of the Evangelist Society. 1.
Resolved that the stone piping be brought within the wall– but
not at present. 2.
That 10/6 be forwarded to the Treasurer of the 20th Century Fund
in the County. 3.
That as the work of the Christian Endeavour Society is nearing
completion in preparation for a sale of work for funds to paint the
Chapel – we convey this recommendation to the other members of the
Chapel committee residing in Chard – viz – Rev FJ Hyde, J Sanders and Mr
Gibbs, soon as presented to us.
That is. 4.
That a Church meeting be called and the whole business of
painting the Chapel be submitted to them before going to Chard as above. 5.
That our Harvest Festival be held last Sunday in September or the
first in October – should Mr Crook be asked on 1st Sunday in
Oct – then we hold the 29th Sept as the date. 6.
That Mr
Present H H, J Crook and H Rowe
Members of Church and Congregation were invited to attend to confirm
suggestions made by the Christian Endeavour Committee concerning choice
of colour for painting Chapel walls, also estimates of contractors.
Only the above named were present. 1.
It was agreed that Bros Hammond and Crook go into Chard and
confer with the members residing there – before confirming contract with
Messrs Brewer & Bartlett.
Confirmed
Note 1.
Harvest Thanksgiving – Sept 29/01
Collection
£1 13 8
Surplus stock of sale of work
8s 10
£3 11 6
Paid Treasurer of
“
“ Poor Fund
£1 16
0
Commission pd
6
£3 11 6
-
See full particulars
entered in Poor Book a/c The
Chapel was painted and Decorated by
Messrs Brewer & Bartlett of Chard on a contract for £12 0 0 The
sale of work realised
£21 11 3
Only this amount the Contractors were paid, and
all other accounts amounting to
£19 6 7 1/2
£ 2
4 7 1/2 Since then, for oil cloth,
vestry floor
16
3
Paid Mr Crook for Chapel Fund
£1 1
0
7
4 1/2
Note 3
“The Sale of Work and Chapel Painting
the work of the Christian Endeavour Society” – HH
Church Meeting held Mr
Crook presided.
Minutes of previous meeting read and confirmed.
The meeting was called to discuss the date and arrangements of
annual meeting of the church and congregation – the following
particulars were decided upon – viz
ANNUAL MEETING
Held
Prayer was offered by Bro Hutchings
Minutes discussing the arrangements made on Dec 5 were read. Mr
Sydney Cross of Maudlin occupied the Chair.
The Deacons report made by Mr Hutchings relative to the services
was satisfactory. An
abstract of the Treasurers report was read.
Nine members had been received into church fellowship during the year.
The following special meetings had been held, viz
A Five days
A Village Keswick – Sunday School
Anniversary – and Harvest Festival services.
All these occasions had been a source of good cheer to us all.
There was a small balance in hand.
Weekly offering had amounted to £21 10 0.
£6 16 0 had been sent to the London
Missionary Society
£5 0 0
“
“
“ “
“ County
Evangelists Society
£1 15 0
“
“
“ “
“
Crewkerne Hospital
£1 1
0
“
“
“ “
“ Miss
Fry for Fund for Supporting Nurse
£0 10 6
“
“
“ “
“
XXth Century Fund
£1 15 0 had been devoted to local
benevolences
Through the medium of the Christian Endeavour Society a Sale of Work had
been held realising £21 0 0 And
out of this fund the Contract of £12 0 0 for painting and decorating the
Chapel had been paid. Also,
cost of twelve chairs and matting for choir, etc, amounting to £2 15 0,
Oil cloth for vestry 16/7½.
These facts, viz addition of nine members, painting the Sanctuary,
successful anniversaries, good attendance at the Sabbath services and a
balance in hand – Calls for devout thanksgiving to the Head of the
Church and fervent prayer that He may Abide with us making the place of
the Lord glorious.
Miss Bessie Bishop gave the report of the Christian Endeavour Society. H H
gave report of the Band of Hope meetings. In
the absence of the Superintendent, through sickness, there was no report
of the Sunday School work. the
following conversations on the work of God amongst us under the
following headings, viz 1.
What has been done? 2.
What signs of encouragement are there? 3.
What should be done in the future? The
Chairman privately expressed his interest and pleasure in this
conversation – thought it was a new feature – and a very important one.
Deacons Meeting held
Present Bros Crook, Rowe, Hutchings, Golsworthy snr & jnr. 2.
The meeting held on behalf of Dr Barnardos Homes was very
satisfactory – attendance very good. Collections
£3 0 0. Mr Budge occupied
the Chair. The
meeting then proceeded to consider and arrange for the forthcoming
Missionary Anniversary next month.
Resolved that we invite the Rev Samuel Wilkinson of
Resolved that the Sunday School children be asked to take collecting
card, and that not more than five be allowed, further that they collect
for two weeks only.
Resolved that we invite the Quartette Choir in Chard to come over and
help us in the afternoon.
After this H H reported that George Good, Junior, had expressed a desire
to be received into Church fellowship, and brother Rowe and Hutchings
were appointed to confer with him and report.
Then there followed a brief conversation about a Village Keswick –
whether we should hold one this year – and whether Rev C Hamilton of
Deacons Meeting
Held in the vestry Mar 28th Our first business was to render thanks to God for making our London Missionary Anniversary so prosperous in numbers interest and amount. £8 8 0 was sent to the Society. Collected by Cards
£6 3 5
Collected on Sunday
£2 8 2
£8 11 7
Less expenses 5/11 The
collection in 1901 were £6 12 0
The
collection in1900 were £3 12 0
Much prayer had been offered – 3 Missionary prayer meetings had been
held and the collecters had done well. The
minutes of last meeting were read and confirmed.
After this we proceeded to consider the necessity of engaging some one
to play the organ on the Sabbath evenings, and to practice the choir
during the week when required. Mr
Crooke reported that Miss Miller had said that she could not continue to
play at the evening services.
So the whole question of amount to be paid was considered.
It was resolved to increase the stipend from £2 to £3 and to
apportion it as follows – viz 25/- to be paid to Mrs Butler, for playing
at the morning service and 35/- to be paid to the one playing at the
evening service – and for the practices. It
was proposed by Mr Golsworthy and seconded by Mr Rowe that we invite
Miss Linsmore to play at the evening service on the aforesaid terms.
And that Mr Crook write to Miss Linsmore fully stating our
requirements, and for an early date if accepted.
Resolved that we make an annual collection for the choir fund, and that
some effort such as a service of song or social tea to be held to
provide for any deficit there may be on this fund.
Resolved – that we hold a service in the Chapel on the day of the Kings
Coronation – Also that Mr Hammond preach on that occasion.
Service at 12 o’ck.
After this, the Deacons remained to confer on the matter of asking the
Church and Congregation to vote whether an application be made to the
General Committee for Mr Hammond to remain with us a fourth year.
This proposal was brought before the Church and carried unanimously (Mr
Crook/Mr Rowe)
On Tuesday Apr 8th Rev
FJ Hyde and Mr Gibbs met the Committee and members of the Local
committee in the vestry.
Present Messrs Crook, Rev Hutchings & above. The
affairs of the Church – the services of the church – and the general
prospects were discussed.
All agreed that the Evangelist Committee should grant a fourth year to
H.H. Messrs Hyde and Gibbs
confessed their satisfaction and pleasure in the work – and wished us
well for the future. Mr
Hyde addressed the C. E. meeting at the close of the above.
Apr 18 at the
County Union meetings held at Wellington the Evangelist Society
Committee granted the request of the Winsham Church to retain the
services of Mr Hammond a fourth year.
Deacons Meeting held Aug 28th
Present Brothers Crook, Rowe,
Meeting was called to make arrangements for Harvest Thanksgiving.
Res 1
That we hold the services on Sunday Sept 28th
morning afternoon and evening. 2
that Mr Fry be invited to preach in the afternoon
or evening. 3
That fearing there may be a lack in the supply of
fruits and vegetables, it is resolved that we make a public request for
rabbits, butter and eggs also. 4
That bills be printed and sent to all the farmers 5.
The proceeds of the Sunday collections and sale of fruits to be
equally divided between 6.
That the meeting be adjourned to Thursday Sep 11th.
Adjourned mtg Sept 11th
Present Messrs Crook, Rowe, Hutchings, G Good, W & C Spurdle.
Minutes of last meeting read and confirmed. 1.
Reported Mr Fry consents to come to us as above. 2.
Arranged for hymns and duets 3.
Decorations
Deacons meeting held
Present Messrs Crook, Rowe, Golsworthy, Hopkins, Perham & Good. We
met to report on Harvest Thanksgivings, as follows Morning collection 0 18 8, afternoon 1 7 6½, evening 0 16 10
£3
2
8½
Contribution by Mr Fry
£1 0
0
Subscribed at this meeting
2 11
£5 17
7½ We
Resolved to distribute as follows
To
To Village Nurses Fund for Miss Fry
£1 10
0 (paid out)
To our own Benevolent Fund
£1 10
0
To printer 5/-,
hymns 1/-,
sundries 1/9
7 7½ (paid
Mr Crook)
£5 17
7½
After the business there was a conversation held on the work of God in
our hands. The
meeting was opened and closed with prayers by Mr Rowe. Children collected
£1 18
9
Adults collected
£1 15
0 Subscription
12
6
Donation from C E S
0 15
0
Donation from S S
0
6
0 Collections on the Sunday
1
2 9
6
10
0 Less expenses
2
6
6
7
6
sent to Secty
L M S Mar 24th 03
In March 1903 The
deacons of the Venn Congregational Church expressed a desire that the
two churches Winsham and Venn should be united under one pastorate. Mr
Colthurst of No
resolution was proposed – neither was any report made to the Committee. So
the matter was allowed to subside. But
out of the above question arose this “What will Mr Hammond do?”
Mr Joyce proposed to appoint me to the Oakhill District and I
consented. On July the 6th
I received a letter from Mr Joyce saying that very probably the
Evangelical Committee would require my removal to Oakhill at an early
date. On
Aug 28th Mr Joyce informed me that I should take up the work
at Oakhill at the end of September. So a farewell meeting was
arranged for by the Deacons to take place on Sep 24th. On
Sunday Sep 13th I closed my ministry at Winsham – Many
friends gathered and the services were most encouraging to us all.
After four years of useful and happy work in which nothing has failed –
I leave the membership increased – indeed more than doubled – and
without any debt in any of the departments.
There is a balance in the hand of the Treasurer of the Church
accounts and also of the School accounts. The
work has been carried on most harmoniously – there has been no
unpleasantness – only brotherly love has prevailed.
Besides the united testimony of the Deacons to the above
proposperity and peace, there is the testimony of Mr Hugh Trenchard, Mr
Fry of Cricket House and the Rev GW Joyce. At
the Deacons meeting held on Tuesday Sept 15th I submitted all
the accounts in my hands and handed over to Mr Crook, this book and the
Poor Fund Book.
Signed H
John Crook Treasurer
Solomon Hutchings
Henry Daniel Rowe
1903 October 28th
Removed from Low Ham to Winsham after 7½ years work in Pitney District
and 28½ years in
November 1st -
commenced my work at Winsham.
November 26th After the service a Deacons Meeting was held
when it was decided to hold recognition services on December 17th
in the following order – afternoon at Mr
J Crook (Chairman), Revs F J Hyde, G Say, S Jones and Messrs Sanders and
Gibbs. Mr Crook presented
his accounts as Treasurere. Mr
Cullen was appointed Junior Deacon.
Other Church matters were discussed.
John J Jordan
1904 January 7th.
After the usual service a Deacons Meeting was held when the
annual schedule were passed and signed. Mr
Crook kindly consented to remain Treasurer.
Mention was made of several of the members on the Church roll who
have left or gone away – their names will be dropped from revised list.
General matters were also discussed.
John J Jordan
1904 September 1st.
That Mr Jordan be empowered to seek outside help for the
thatching of the Manse and other work.
Pro: Mr Crook, Sec Mr Cullen carried.
That the Harvest Thanksgiving services be either on Sept 25th
or Oct 2nd. Pro M Hutchings Sec Mr Rowe, carried.
Services to be conducted by Mr
Bills from Langport.
John J Jordan
1904 Oct 26th.
After the usual service a Deacons meeting was held.
Present Messrs J Crook, H Rowe, It
was decided to send £1 10 to I
paid in £4 15 collected for manse repairs etc. The
order is to be given to Mr J Loaring to do the thatching forthwith.
Mr Crook spoke of holding some pleasant evenings meetings this
winter for which he will be responsible if held.
John J Jordan Mr
Weardale Phillips commenced his ministry on As
an outcome of a Social Meeting of the Church and Congregations the
decision was arrived at to have regular church meetings at which the
ordinary business of the church should be considered and despatched, in
accordance with Congregational usage. The
first of these Church meetings was held on Feb 28th 06 at
which the pastor presided. It
was agreed on the motion of Mr
£600 on the Chapel and school and
vestry @ 1/6 per cent
£50 on the two harmoniums, furniture
and books @ 1/6 per cent
£250
on the thatched Manse @ 5/- per cent
Total £900
costing £1 2 3 premium Mr
John Crook after six years faithful and zealous stewardship resigned the
position of treasurer. On
the motion of Mr On
the motion of Mr
Some informal conversation took place with regard to the better
management of the church – greater care of the hymn books and the need
of officials being in this place at the public services – being points
that were earnestly insisted upon. In accordance with the above a
Policy numbered 6158565 for £900 has been placed with Deeds at
repository in
Particulars of insurance for ‘The Trustees of Congregational Chapel’.
£600 on the Building of the Chapel, vestry and school all communicating £50
on the pews, two harmoniums, furniture and books therein
£250 on the building of the manse stone-built and thatched near but not
connected with or adjoining the above.
Apr 16 06 Mr
& Mrs Jordan were transferred to the Venn Congreg. Church.
Nov 26 06 The Deacons,
Messrs Crook & Rowe and the Pastor, met and allocated the above sum £4 9
1 to the following objects:
Nursing Association
£1 0
0
Evangelist Society
£1 5
0
Poor Fund
£1 0
1
Printing of bills
3 0 Gratuity to Chapel Keeper 1 0
£4 9
1 On
Rev Weardale Phillips, having
accepted the invitation to become Warden of the social settlement in
comnnection with Dr James’ church at In
the good providence and grace of God the first term of 4 years ministry
was both useful and happy.
And now re-appointed by the same unchangeable Lord of this Church, his
prayer is that Peace and Prosperity may prevail, to live the more
abundant life, and to preach the gospel of Christ in the power of the
Holy Spirit, is the one desire of his heart.
March. Mr Prentice gave
selections from “The Messiah” on his excellent gramaphone there was a
splendid audience – Chapel full.
Collection £1 12 6.
Jul 7th S S Anniversary Service.
Preacher Mr Prentice.
Chapel crowded at both afternoon and evening services.
Collection in Chapel and subscription collected a total of £6 6
0.
July 11 S S Treat at Seaton.
Beautiful weather.
Nine conveyances – expenses. On
Tuesday Aug 13th a meeting to say Goodbye to Mr & Mrs Crock
was held in the Schoolroom.
Tea at 6 o’clk about 35 sat down.
Mtg 7.00. An illuminated
address was presented to Mr & Mrs Crock in acknowledgement of the 12
years service for School and Church.
Both Mr & Mrs C suitably acknowledged the presentation.
The Presentation address cost for printing 7/6, for framing 4/-,
total 11/6. Profits on tea
7/-. Subscribed by G W
Sanders 2/6, P Rowe 1/-, school children 1/-.
At this meeting it was proposed and seconded that Harvest
Thanksgiving Service be held on Sunday Sep 22nd.
That Mr Hammond be requested to preach morning and evening and F
J Fry Esq in the afternoon.
A Committee to arrange for decorations etc were appointed. 1908
April 27th
Meeting held in the Manse
Present Mr Rowe, Mr Helliar, Mr Gould and myself. I
deeply regret to have to report that this meeting was called to arrange
for the work being carried on during my absence.
During this month I consulted Dr Balfour, Chard, respecting my
health. Since end of
January I have felt painfully unequal to my work.
I was away for two weeks in February at It was resolved 1.
That Messrs Gould, Helliar, Spurdle and H Loaring be a Committee
to assist Mr Rowe during my absence.
Res 2. That Mr Helliar be
appointed to act as correspondent with Rev F J Hyde, also that Mr
Helliar receive the collections and act as Treasurer. 3.
That the Committee secure accommodation for preachers. 4.
that the Committee ask Miss Linsmeyer and Mrs Butler to prepare
for S S Anniversary in July. 5.
that Mr John Prentice be asked to preach anniversary sermons
Committee called to consider whether we shall have stone-piping inside
the Chapel instead of as at present.
Present
Note Oct 30th
Mr Churchill has completed the refitting of stone pipes.
Cash £3 0 0. Satisfactory.
Paid for.
1909 January 4th.
This evening at the C E Social a beautiful Illuminated Address in
lithograph print and colour was presented to Mr H D Rowe for the years
of useful and faithful service in School and church.
The address was to cost 22/6 – the framing was done by Mr Mumford of
Chard and paid for by Messrs Hyde, Sanders and others.
Members of the congregation and children at the school have
subscribed cost of printing.
And now I must enter my last note in the journal.
In consequence of eye and brain trouble I was advised by Dr
Balfour, Chard, to obtain six months rest and do only light work.
So I resigned. My
official connection ceased on Dec 6th 08.
Since then I have superintended the work till Mr Taylor’s
arrival. I grieve that I
cannot close my Ministerial life in Winsham – I intended to do so when I
returned in March 1907.
However, I hope the Lord may grant me the pleasure of serving him for
another year or two. I have
preached His gospel for forty two years.
In the London City Mission I spent years of very hard work.
Four members have joined the Church during this second
appointment. May my
successor be abundantly blessed in soul and in service. Henry Hammond
Meeting held
Present Mr Rowe, Mr & Mrs Helliar, Miss Linsmeyer, Mr Spurdle and Mr H
Loaring with Mrs H and myself.
After prayer – and remarks expressing thanks to God for the favours
during past few months, we proceeded to arrange for forthcoming Harvest
thanksgiving Services.
Reslvd. 1.
That our friends of Venn Chapel having chosen Sep 20th
as the date of the Harvest Service, it was resolved that we hold ours on
Sunday Sep 28th. 2.
That Mr 2.
That Miss Linsmeyer be asked to prepare some special hymns and
music. 3.
That Miss Northcombe be asked to play her violin, and that Mr
Ernest Shissy play his cornet. 4.
That Mr Rowe be asked to dispose of the harvest offerings on the
following Monday evening. 5.
That bills be printed. 6.
That the proceeds be devoted to County Mission Fund and
benevolent purposes. 7.
That Mrs Roper of Ford Abbey and Mrs Fry of Cricket House be
asked for fruit and flowers. January 1909 Mr
J Taylor commenced his ministry here as Evangelist & Pastor on There was handed to me
2/-.
There being no money in hand for the Sunday School a meeting was called
after the Sunday evening service and it was decided to ask Mr Prentice
of Ilminster to come over and give his lecture on his recent visit to
Switzerland etc., to give
the children a treat and also to have a public tea.
J. T.
Feb 10th Mr
Prentice came over on the occasion referred to above and the service was
much enjoyed and the proceedings gave us a small bal-in-hand.
J. T. At
a meeting called after the Com Service March 7th, it was
decided to hold a recognition service in connection with my settlement
here on the 25th inst.
And to ask the Rev F J Hyde, The Rev J W Gadsby, & TT Forsay to
speak and Mr Prentice to take the chair.
A collection to be taken towards repairs of manse etc.
At the above meeting a letter
was read from the Rev J H Shanger, late of Wiveliscombe in which he
spoke very highly of the earnest service rendered in the Lyd St Lawrence
District by Mr Taylor. Mr
Hammond also wrote regretting his inability through sickness to be
present and wishing Mr Taylor every blessing.
J. T. At
a meeting called after the Sunday Evening Service May 9th it
was decided to ask Mr Prentice to conduct the Anniversary Services of
the Sunday School on June 13th.
J. T. It
was further decided to have a Public Tea on the following Monday and to
give the children a tea.
Also to have a public meeting and to write the Rev F J Hyde, TT Forsey
to speak and Mr Prentice to take the chair.
J. T.
Meeting called after eve service Aug 8th It
was decided to have the School Treat on the 26th and to ask
Mr Cross of Bere Farm for the use of his field and to have a public tea
6d each. At
the above meeting it was decided to ask Mr Fry of Cricket House to
conduct the afternoon service in connection with the Harvest
Thanksgiving services and to have the same if possible the end of Sept.
J. T. Meeting held after Evening
service Sep 5th. Mr Taylor reported that
Mr Fry would not be able to be present at the harvest Service but that
he had promised £5 towards renovation funds and had sent 20/- for the
collection. Mr
Taylor was asked to preach in the evening and asked the Rev Forsey to
take the morning service and that the Chard Open Air Mission Band be
asked to take the afternoon service.
That there be a public meeting on Wed 29th, Mr Taylor
to secure speakers after which the fruits etc to be sold
and the proceeds to be devoted to the renovation funds.
Meeting held after the Comm Service
Meeting called before the service Nov 7th to consider reports
from Mr Rowe and Mrs Hammond re Mr Hill Miss Warren and Miss Forsey.
The Visitors gave a satisfactory report in each case.
At the Ordinance Service Bro Hill and Sisters
It was decided that Mr
Taylor should conduct some Continuation Services during the Winter on
Sunday evenings with the aid of the Lantern first Lecture to be on John
Bunyan. It was further decided
that Mr Taylor should start a Band of Hope if possible and that Mr Taylor
conduct a Lantern Mission if possible the beginning of the New Year.
Meeting called after the Ord Service Dec 5th Mr
Taylor stated that owing to the General Election he thought it was wise
to have a
(Special note re Payment of Rates)
Mr Taylor having stated that He was a Passive Resister under the
Education Act and by refusing to pay that part of the rates He would be
misunderstood in the village after consultation with the Local Members
of the Committee and Mr Prentice it was decided that under the
circumstances and considering that Mr Taylor had done a lot of labour
and was prepared still to do so Free that his rates should be paid out
of the Church Funds. 1910
Meeting after the Comm Service Sunday Feb 6th
After careful consideration it was decided to adopt the weekly envelope
system but some expressed disapproval.
It was further unanimously decided that Mr Taylor should
endeavour to book Mr Cook from the London Evangelisation Society for a At
a meeting of the Congregation called after the Mornning & Evening
Service on March 6th it was unan. decided to purchase the New
Cong Hymnal. That Tune
Books be bought from the Organ and that 2 doz at 6d and 3 doz at 1/- and
1 doz at 1/6 be bought and that the congregation be induced to buy their
own the others to be used for visitors. It
was also decided to ask the Rev J H Cox of
Meeting of Church and Congregation called after the evening service Aug
28th.
(1) It was decided that the
Harvest Thanksgiving Services be held the last Sunday in Sept and the
most suitable night in the week following (2) that Mr Fry be asked
to conduct the afternoon service.
(3) That Mr Farne of Crewkerne be asked to preach on the Sunday failing
him Mr Adams.
(4) That Mr Symes be asked to take the Chair on the weeknight.
Speakers the Rev F J Hyde, the Rev Bied Baptist Minister Chard.
The Rev Forsey, H Hammond, J J Jordan and Mr A Gibbs.
That the Proceeds be devoted to the Renovation Funds.
J
These minutes of various meetings during the year 1910 were read at the
Church meeting on
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