Wentworth, James (1819-1908)

Transcription of Obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by J.T.E.

James Wentworth, a local preacher of the Swindon Second Circuit, entered the Homeland on Wednesday, September 23rd, in his 90th year. Our brother was born at Little Bedwyn in the Hungerford Circuit. In early life he befriended our pioneer ministers during a time of great persecution—allowing them the use of his land and afterwards of his house to preach. In this house he himself was converted. He soon began to preach and for many years was also a class leader.

He came to Swindon about eighteen years ago, but on account of his advanced age and increasing infirmities was unable to do much service, but for a considerable part of the fifty-five years or more that he was a preacher he did strenuous work—was a powerful preacher and saw many souls added to the Kingdom. To the end his deep interest in the work of God continued. His departure was somewhat unexpected at last but was very peaceful.

The first part of the burial service was conducted in the Regent Street Church, Revs. George Hunter, J.T. Evans and H.W. Smith taking part. Mr. Hunter, a very old friend of our departed brother, in his address gave an interesting account of his earlier life and labours. The remains were interred in Swindon Cemetery. For his devoted Christian life and arduous Christian labours we give thanks to God.

Family

James was born in 1819 at Little Bedwyn, Wiltshire, to parents James, a labourer, and Sarah. He was baptised on 17 October 1819 at Little Bedwyn.

Census return identify the following occupations for James.

  • 1851 agricultural labourer
  • 1861 agricultural labourer
  • 1871 labourer on G.W.R.& PM local preacher 
  • 1881 agricultural labourer
  • 1891 living on own means
  • 1901 no occupation – living with Thomas in Swindon

He married Amy Meadham (1807-1888) on 12 January 1843 at Little Bedwyn, Wiltshire. Amy had a daughter, Jane (b abt1837), from a previous relationship. Census returns identify two children.

  • Mary Sarah (b1843)
  • Thomas (1846-1919) – a railway boilersmith’s assistant (1901)

James died on 23 September 1908 at Swindon, Wiltshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1909/74

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers

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