Free Methodists Chapel - Union Street
This plate dated from 1878 is from the chapel seen on the right, probably a commemorative piece although I am yet to find out what was significant about 1878.
The building of the chapel by builders Kendall & Hewitt commenced in September 1860 when there was a ceremony for the laying of the foundation stone. The chapel then opened for public worship on Sunday 1st June 1861.
Despite the Chapel having major renovations in March 1949 it was closed on 23 June 1963 to reduce the number of Methodist worship buildings in the town.
Many of you will remember this later being converted into a tyre repair garage, firstly Fossitt & Thorne and then First Stop. Latterly the building stood empty for many years until it was finally demolished in May 2019 to make way for new housing.
Many thanks once again to Peter Spilman.
This image of the Chapel in Union Street seen in Market Rasen Memories on Facebook, kindly provided by Peter Spilman and Jim
Wesleyan Methodists Chapel - Chapel Street
Wesleyan Church Circuit Choir Festival - launched in Mkt Rasen in 1899. This selection of programmes range from 1923-1953.
The current Market Rasen Methodist Chapel was built in 1863, although there was a chapel prior to this on the same site, which was built in 1836 (this was slightly to the left of the position of the current chapel)
St Thomas' Church - Market Place
This ink drawing of St Thomas' Church by John Bangay was kindly given by Carole Ashley.
It is thought by historians that the church was built between 1200 and 1400. By the 1860s, the church was in a bad state and required extensive renovations. This was a project taken on by Architect James Fowler of Louth in 1862 with builders Smith & Binns of Lincoln. The work was so extensive that only the original tower and chancel remained. It is reported in the Stamford Mercury that this work was completed and the church reopened on Thursday October 16 1862.
James Fowler had more business with the church in 1877 when he drew up plans to extend the church. The Stamford Mercury describes this as "to add a North chancel aisle" This work was completed early 1878 and the church reopened on January 25th.
This programme of the event above was sent to me by Anthea Briggs - many thanks!
This being broadcast would have been quite a big deal for a small town like Rasen as it was like the equivalent to a local Radio 4 which is what I believe the Home Service went on to become. Perhaps some of you might remember this broadcast or were there.
