Mapping Methodism – Boswinger Bible Christian Chapel

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Boswinger is a hamlet in the parish of St. Goran in Gorran, two miles south of Mevagissey. This profile of Boswinger Bible Christian Chapel was compiled by Mark Mitchley.

 

Overview

Boswinger Bible Christian Chapel was probably opened in 1829. It was enlarged in 1850 and then this building was replaced by a new chapel and an additional Sunday School (built by William Blamey of Veryan) in 1885. The Chapel anniversary was celebrated in April and the Sunday School in July. The chapel and Sunday School still exist and are undergoing conversion by the adjacent campsite who own it.

1829, Original Chapel built

A lease (dated 24th June 1829) at Kresen Kernow (X331/26) records that a chapel had lately been built adjacent to Little Meadow, part of James Guy’s freehold tenement. It was leased for 99 years at £6 rent annually.

1851, Religious census

Completed by the steward, Joseph Tucker, and he gives the date of 1826 for the founding and records a rebuilding in 1850. He estimates room for 50 free sittings and 144 other sittings. Services are in the afternoon and evening and are attended by 88 in the afternoon and 148 in the evening. The steward notes that there is no Sunday School.

West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser, 29th May 1873

‘Good Templary at Goran Haven: The Good Templars of “Come and Welcome” Lodge held a public demonstration at Goran on Monday. After parading the village they repaired to a n adjoining village, name Boswinger, where about 150 took tea together. Afterwards a public meeting was held in the Bible Christian Chapel, when the chair was taken by Br. B. H. Roberts, D.G.W.C.T, of the Mevagissey Olive Branch Lodge. The meeting was addressed by Brs. Penhall, S.D.G.W.T., Buzza, and Lobb, of St. Austell Unity Lodge. The Good Templar Choir of St. Austell sang some excellent selections of music to the great satisfaction of the audience, and the meeting was a great success. This lodge was started about two months since with 12 charter members, and now they number 42.’

22nd October 1883 (Facebook – Phil Trevarton)

 

Royal Cornwall Gazette, 2nd May 1884

‘Notice to builders, contractors and others: Persons desirous of contracting for the erection of a new Bible Christian chapel and schoolroom, at Boswinger, should send tenders to Mr. W. H. Michell, Boswinger, Gorran, with whom specifications may be seen, on or before 20th May, 1884. The advertisers do not bind themselves to accept the lowest or any tender.’

Royal Cornwall Gazette, 11th July 1884

‘Gorran: New Chapel. Corner stones of a new Bible Christian chapel at Gorran have been laid by Rev. H. Ellis. A debt of £80 was previously removed, £60 being produced by a bazaar in aid. Mr. Blamey’s tender for the work has been accepted. The Mevagissey singers’ service in connection with this work have been highly appreciated.  The estimated expenditure is £500.’

Royal Cornwall Gazette, 24th April 1885

‘Gorran Bible Christian Chapel: A new chapel and schoolroom for the Bible Christian denominations have been opened at Gorran. A morning sermon was preached on the occasion by the Rev. J. Tremelling, of Torquay, and subsequently there was tastefully laid luncheon, to which a large number sat down. The Revs. J. Tremelling, T. Crisp and Hellis responded to toasts and Mr. Crisp preached in the afternoon. There was a public tea following the afternoon service and I the evening, a meeting over which Mr. Moses Parnall presided and at which addresses were delivered by the Revs. V. H. Culleford, T. Crisp, J. Tremelling and Hellis. The Grampound Choir rendered a choice selection of music. Mr. G. Blamey was the builder. Somewhat over half of the amount required has been raised.’

The St. Austell Star, 4th March 1892

‘Bible Christians, Boswinger: Tenders are invited for painting, varnishing &c., of the Bible Christian Chapel and Schoolroom, Boswinger, Gorran. Specifications to be seen either at Mr. W. H. Michell’s, Boswinger, or at Rev. W. H. Webber’s, Mevagissey. All tenders to be sent to Mr. Michell, Boswinger, by March 8th. The Trustees do not bind themselves to accept the lowest or any tender.’

The St. Austell Star, 2nd January 1902

‘The Boswinger Bible Christians held their annual teachers’ social gathering on New Year’s Eve. The gathering was not quite as large as was anticipated, though in spite of the inclement weather a goodly number sat down to tea. At the subsequent meeting, which was presided over by the Rev. E. Faull, the circuit minister, readings were given by Mrs. Thomas, Mrs. J. Chesterfield, Miss Dingle and Mr. R. Parnall, recitations by Mr. R. Parnall, and Misses R. Allen and O. Whetter; solos by Misses M. Liddicoat and P. Jorey, and Mr. D. Ivey. Supper followed, and brought a pleasing evening to a close.’

The St. Austell Star, 8th January 1903

‘The quarterly meeting of the Bible Christian connexion was held at Boswinger on Tuesday of last week. A tea was held in the schoolroom at 5 o’clock. A public meeting followed, when an appropriate address by the Rev. C. Faull on “Reminiscences of the old and dawning of the New Year”, which was much enjoyed. Miss P. Jorey presided at the organ.’

The St. Austell Star, 14th July 1904

‘On Sunday and Tuesday the anniversary services in connection with the Boswinger Bible Christian Sunday School was held. On the former day sermons were preached by Mr. W. Pearce, of Mevagissey, which were highly appreciate. On Tuesday the Mevagissey Town Band was in attendance under the leadership of Mr. S. Rowe, R. A. M., when the annual march was taken through Mevagissey on to Caerhays Park. On the homeward journey the scholars perambulated Tregavarras and Treveor, which was much enjoyed. After home had been reached, ample justice was done to the cakes and buns which had been provided, the tea was held in a field kindly lent by Mr. Michell.’

The St. Austell Star, 6th January 1910

‘A soirée in connection with the Boswinger United Methodist Church was held on New Year’s Eve. The number present, which included the church members and the teachers and officers of the Sunday School, was about sixty. After an excellent entertainment of readings, recitations and songs, refreshments were partaken of, and amusements followed. As the bells of the Parish Church announced the passing of the old year and the approach of the new, the party broke up.’

The Cornish Guardian, 15th October 1926

‘Harvest thanksgiving services in connection with the United Methodist Church, Boswinger, were held on Sunday Oct. 3rd, when two appropriate sermons were delivered by the Rev. E. Hill, of Mevagissey.  On the following Tuesday the services were continued by a public tea in the Schoolroom. The public meeting in the evening was presided over by Mr. J. Bunney, Senr. Addresses were given by Pastor E. Hill and Rev. Ware. The singing of Mr. Lawry Richards at the organ was exceptionally hearty and the display of fruit and vegetables was very fine. Mr. W. Bunney disposed of them later and fetched a good price. The takings were in aid of the chapel funds.’

The Cornish Guardian, 2nd January 1936

‘At the Boswinger Methodist Church on Tuesday a faith tea was held. Rev. Rickard addressed the gathering and gave and impressive recitation. An appreciated solo was also rendered by Mrs. Rickard and community singing of carols was a feature of the proceedings. Mrs. Betty Rowe accompanied throughout, and a supper followed.’

The Cornish Guardian, 16th October 1941

‘Harvest thanksgiving services held at the Boswinger Methodist Church on Sunday and Tuesday, October 5th and 7th, were among the most successful for many years, The Rev. B.C. Solomon conducted the services on each occasion and the church, which had been tastefully decorated by the ladies, was almost filled to capacity.’

The Cornish Guardian, 5th November 1970

‘Boswinger Methodist Church: Annual sale of work Saturday, November 14 opened 4pm by Mrs. Murrish. Concert by Trevere Male Voice Choir at 7.30pm. Tea, organ recital and community hymn singing before concert.’

The West Briton, 11th April 1996

‘Church anniversary: Boswinger Methodist Church anniversary will be celebrated with a concert this Saturday by Mevagissey Ladies Choir, at 7pm. This will be followed by a supper and evening service on Sunday at 6pm, conducted by John Parkhouse.’

The West Briton, 11th July 1996

‘Cream Teas: Cream teas and stalls at Treveor Farm on Thursday, July 18 at 3-5pm in aid of Boswinger Chapel. All are welcome.’

The West Briton, 25th March 1999

‘Concert: A concert by Mevagissey Male Voice Choir will be held at Boswinger Methodist Church on Saturday at 7.30pm; admission £3 including supper.’

2005, closure

Probable date the Chapel closed – the last baptisms were in 2004.

Date Publication Subject matter
10th June 1887 Royal Cornwall Gazette The chapel collected 5s 2d for the Royal Cornwall Infirmary along with Mevagissey, Grampound, Polmassick, Kestle and Pentewan etc chapels presented by Rev. H. Ellis.
7th November 1889 West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser The solemnisation of the marriage (by licence) between Mr. Charles Richards and Miss Elizabeth Parsons Michell by Rev. D. Murley on 31st October.
2nd February 1894 The St. Austell Star The solemnisation of the marriage Mr. Edward James Guy Michell and Clara Mingo by Rev. W. H. Webber on 30th January.
27th June 1901 The Cornishman The Mevagissey Circuit Quarterly meeting was held at the chapel. The Circuit debt was calculated to be £1,020.
3rd October 1901 The Cornish Guardian The solemnisation of the marriage between Mr. Jabez Grose and Miss Caroline Burns on 21st September. Also covered in St. Austell Star 26th September.
21st May 1903 The St. Austell Star The Mevagissey Circuit Sunday School Convention was held at Boswinger chapel. An arch was erected over the entrance gate with the conspicuous word ‘welcome’.
1st October 1903 The St. Austell Star Harvest Festival services led by Rev. E. Faull and newly appointed second minister Rev. Mr. Batt who spoke on ‘Development and degeneration’.
8th October 1903 The St. Austell Star Harvest Festival profits of £4 5s 7d and Rev. Mr. Batt’s first sermon at Boswinger on Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Babylon.
29th July 1904 The Cornish Guardian A brief mention of ‘improvements’ at Boswinger, mentioned at the recent Bible Christian conference.
7th December 1906

 

The Cornish Guardian A temperance convention was held at the chapel followed by a public tea and speakers.
28th December 1906 The Cornish Guardian The quarterly circuit meeting was held at the chapel followed by a tea.
27th June 1907 The St. Austell Star The chapel contributed 5s 6d to the Royal Cornwall Infirmary, presented by Mr. J. Honey.
11th July 1907 The St. Austell Star The solemnisation of the marriage between Elizabeth [actually Elijah!) Carveth and Mary Jane Billing by Rev. J. Honey on 10th July.
18th July 1907 The St. Austell Star Sunday School anniversary services with a tea for children and then a public tea. The Foxhole Band was in attendance.
7th October 1909 The St. Austell Star Report of the ‘pretty’ wedding of Mr. Charlie Bunney of Treveor and Miss Ethel Carne of Mevagissey performed by Rev. J. Datson.
3rd March 1910

 

The St. Austell Star Bible Class social event and Home and Foreign Missions annual meeting.
31st March 1910 The St. Austell Star The chapel contributed 8s to the Royal Cornwall Infirmary, presented by Mr. P. Whetter.
13th February 1913 St. Austell Star Report of Home and Foreign Mission services with proceeds of £2.
13th March 1913 St. Austell Star Report of the ‘interesting’ wedding of Mr. Richard Billing and Miss Grace Alice Brown both of Gorran Haven.
16th April 1914 St. Austell Star Band of Hope meeting with ‘special’ singing.
4th February 1915 St. Austell Star Band of Hope meeting with readings and recitations.
4th March 1915 St. Austell Star Report of Home and Foreign Mission services with followed by a ‘faith tea’ with proceeds of £2 higher than last year.
8th January 1926 The Cornish Guardian Report of a carol service followed by a faith supper.
5th November 1926 The Cornish Guardian The solemnisation of the marriage on October 20th of Mr. Henry J. Michell of Boswinger and Miss Carrie Yelland of Tubb’s Mill by Rev. J. Ware.
21st November 1927 Western Morning News The Mevagissey Male Voice Choir divided £6 proceeds of a concert between the East Cornwall Hospital and Boswinger United Methodist Church.
27th February 1930 The Cornish Guardian Yong people’s services held on the previous Sunday and Tuesday.
19th February 1931 The Cornish Guardian Foreign Missionary meeting, presided over by Mr. E. Lanyon, preceded by tea and entertainments in the Schoolroom.
3rd December 1931 The Cornish Guardian Obituary of John Parnall aged 91 of St. Austell and former long-standing member of Boswinger Bible Christian Chapel.
14th January 1932 The Cornish Guardian Funeral service for Miss Mary Maria Michell of Trecoon aged 77.
21st December 1939 The Cornish Guardian Foreign Missionary meetings, presided over by Rev. A. Ralph and collection of boxes.
17th October 1940 The Cornish Guardian i Harvest festival services led by Rev. A. Ralph and presentation of silver tea service on the occasion of her marriage (to Mr. John Francis Julyan) to Miss Betty Grose as a token of thanks for her organ playing.

i i Report of the wedding above ‘of exceptional interest’.

8th January 1942 The Cornish Guardian Report of a carol service on New Year’s Eve led by Mr. W. Grose followed by a faith supper.
14th June 1950 The Western Morning News Funeral service of Mr. Edward James Guy Michell aged 83 on 14th June.
30th October 1958 The Cornish Guardian Solemnisation of the marriage between Mr. John Pick and Miss Enid Michell. [With photograph]
7th March 1968 The Cornish Guardian Solemnisation of the marriage between Mr. John Thomas James and Miss Irene Elizabeth Bunney by Rev. L. S. Marston.
30th January 1969 Cornish Guardian Funeral service of Mr. Leonard Charles Bunney of Boswinger and trustee of Polmassick Church (as well as Polmassick, Gorran High Lanes and Gorran Haven).
16th November 1978 The West Briton Mention of a Sankey evening at which Trewartha Chapel, Veryan joined Boswinger.
5th March 1981 The West Briton Solemnisation of the marriage between Mr. Hugh Dudley Green and Miss Belinda Mary Rowse by Rev. D. Forway. [With photograph]
31st October 1985 The West Briton Notice of Sankey evening at 7.30pm Friday 1st November.

 

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