Stokesley Primitive Methodist chapel as shown in the picture was built in 1903 when they decided that better premises than the previous chapel (built in 1835 in Back Lane) were needed. The site on High Green (College Square) was acquired for £40 and the new chapel was built for a total cost of £832.
The Primitive Methodist magazine of 1904 reports the opening of the chapel. The previous chapel was “in a poor place, reached by a flight of stairs with a tenant underneath and would hardly accommodate more than a hundred persons. In addition, it was quite out of town”. On the initiative of Rev Watson, “a beautiful chapel has been opened in the heart of the town, on a commanding site, and the total debt will be hardly more than £300. ” Interestingly “he has also built a very excellent minister’s house.
A new organ, built by Nelsons of Durham, was installed in the chapel in September 1915 for £265. When the chapel was closed the organ was transferred to Swainby Chapel. The chapel was closed around 1950 and became the N.F.U. Building.
Reference:
Stokesley Methodist church website accessed January 19 2015.
Primitive Methodist magazine 1904 page 161
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North Yorkshire Record Office, Northallerton:
Ref. QSB 1837 4/2: Michaelmas Quarter Sessions: Oath of John Jobling with certificate that he is the Preacher at Primitive Methodist Chapel, Stokesley, year 1837. (2 items).
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