Bethel Chapel, Ynysybwl
Bethel, Ynysybwl was a Calvinistic Methodist chapel in Rock Terrace, Ynysybwl, Glamorgan, Wales.
| Bethel, Ynysybwl | |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Congregationalist |
| History | |
| Status | Closed |
| Founded | 1786 |
| Architecture | |
| Years built | 1876 |
| Closed | 1970 |
Early history
The church at Bethel dated from the late 18th century, although the older buildings were converted into dwellings in 1876 when the new chapel was built.[1] It is claimed that Howel Harris preached in the area before the original cause was established.[1] John Wesley is claimed to have preached at Bethel in 1786.[1]
During the late 19th century, Bethel, like so many nonconformist chapels, played a wider role in the life of the community than in a purely religious sphere. Public lectures were very popular, such as that delivered by the renowned poet-preacher Evan Rees (Dyfed) in 1899 on "The Land of the Negros", a popular theme at the height of British colonial activity. The lecture was apparently appreciated by a full house.[2]
Twentieth century
The chapel remained open into the late 20th century, but closed in the 1970s.[1] The building was converted for domestic use in 1978.
References
- Jones. Chapels of the Cynon Valley. p. 3.
- "Ynysybwl". Glamorgan Free Press. 29 April 1899. Retrieved 18 May 2015.
Bibliography
- Jones, Alan Vernon (2004). Chapels of the Cynon Valley. Cynon Valley Historical Society. ISBN 0953107612.