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Godalming Friends Meeting House

Godalming Friends Meeting House Godalming

Godalming Friends Meeting House

In the picturesque town of Godalming, nestled within the verdant landscapes of Surrey, lies a hidden gem of historical and spiritual significance: the Godalming Friends Meeting House. This quaint and unassuming building, with its red brick façade and serene garden, has been a cornerstone of the local Quaker community for centuries. It offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Nonconformist religious history in England.

The Origins of Godalming Friends Meeting House

The roots of the Godalming Friends Meeting House stretch back to the turbulent times of the mid-17th century, following the English Civil War. During this period, Godalming was predominantly Puritan, and the local Church of England parish church was at odds with many of the town's residents. This discord led to the rise of Nonconformist groups, including the Quakers, who found a strong foothold in the community.

One of the earliest Quaker gatherings in the area took place at Binscombe Manor, the home of Thomas Patching. Inspired by the preaching of George Fox, the founder of the Quaker movement, Patching converted to Quakerism and began hosting meetings in a barn on his estate. Despite facing persecution and legal challenges, the Quaker community in Godalming thrived, with meetings later moving to the home of Ezra Gill in Eashing.

The Birth of the Meeting House

The present Friends Meeting House in Godalming owes its existence to Caleb Woods, a local man who purchased the Mill House on Mill Lane in 1698. Over the next few years, Woods acquired adjacent properties and converted them into a place of worship. By 1714, the buildings were already in use as a meeting house, evidenced by a carved piece of wood inscribed with Friends Meeting House 1714.

While sources vary on the exact date of the current building's construction, it is generally accepted that the meeting house was either built or extensively remodeled in 1748. The building's red brick, Bargate stone, and lattice windows suggest an 18th-century origin, though some architectural features hint at an even earlier date.

A Place of Worship and Reflection

The Godalming Friends Meeting House has served as a spiritual haven for the local Quaker community for centuries. Despite periods of decline and even a temporary cessation of worship in the late 19th century, the meeting house has always found a way to rejuvenate and continue its mission. In 1926, the building was reacquired by the Quakers, and regular meetings resumed, marking the beginning of an unbroken history of worship that continues to this day.

The meeting house's simple yet elegant architecture reflects the Quaker principles of simplicity and humility. The red brick walls, laid in the Flemish bond pattern, are complemented by vitrified brickwork and a tiled hipped roof. The centrally placed eight-panelled door, recessed into a doorway below a hood mould, welcomes visitors into a space that exudes tranquility and reverence.

The Burial Grounds

Behind the meeting house lies a burial ground established in 1752, replacing the earlier graveyard at Binscombe. This sacred space serves as the final resting place for many local Quakers, including some of the community's earliest members. The burial ground, with its modest gravestones and peaceful ambiance, offers a poignant reminder of the generations of Quakers who have found solace and fellowship within the walls of the meeting house.

Architectural Significance

The Godalming Friends Meeting House is not only a place of worship but also a building of considerable architectural and historical importance. Designated a Grade II listed building in 1947, it is recognized as a structure of national significance and special interest. Its architectural style is reminiscent of other historic meeting houses in Surrey, such as those in Capel, Guildford, Esher, and Dorking.

The meeting house's red brick construction, Bargate stone accents, and lattice windows create a harmonious blend of materials and textures. The simplicity of the design, with its galleted lower courses of brickwork and hipped roof, embodies the Quaker ethos of modesty and functionality.

A Living Legacy

Today, the Godalming Friends Meeting House continues to be a vibrant center of Quaker worship and community activities. The building is licensed for worship under the Places of Worship Registration Act 1855, and its doors are open to all who seek a place of reflection and spiritual growth. The meeting house hosts regular Sunday meetings, where members of the Quaker community gather to worship in silent contemplation and share their experiences.

Visitors to the Godalming Friends Meeting House can explore the rich history of the Quaker movement in Surrey, from its early beginnings in the 17th century to its enduring presence in the 21st century. The meeting house stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Quaker community, offering a peaceful retreat for those who wish to connect with their spiritual heritage and find inspiration in the simplicity and beauty of this historic building.

In conclusion, the Godalming Friends Meeting House is a cherished landmark that embodies the spirit of Quakerism and the enduring legacy of Nonconformist worship in England. Its walls, steeped in history, continue to echo the voices of those who have sought solace and fellowship within its embrace, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich cultural heritage of Godalming and beyond.

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