200 Years of Methodism in Stratton
Check out the photos from our celebration weekend (no audio)
A celebration poem by Helen Kinnett
Stratton Methodist Church, in Ermin Street, hosted celebrations from April 24 to 26 to commemorate two centuries since Methodist preaching first began in the area in the 1820s.
The anniversary saw former ministers and their families returning, alongside local residents, for a programme of activities including concerts, workshops and a special Sunday service.
Among those taking part was organist Christopher Hill, whose family has been connected with the church for generations, continuing a long tradition of music at the chapel.
The church building itself reflects its deep roots in the town’s history, with a stone bearing the name of Levi Lapper Morse, a prominent local figure who went on to become mayor of Swindon.
Deacon Stephen Roe said the milestone was an opportunity to celebrate both the church’s heritage and its ongoing role in the community.
He said: “This church has been part of people’s lives in Stratton for generations. We wanted this weekend to bring people together, not just to look back at the past, but to celebrate the community we are part of today.”
As well as worship, the church continues to run activities for local residents, including its Connections Group, which provides a welcoming space for people to meet, and an Art Group open to all.
The anniversary weekend featured a concert on Saturday evening with performances from the Good Afternoon Choir and Swindon’s Big Sing Thing, alongside organ music from Mr Hill.
Other events included family activities, craft workshops, cream teas and a historical display showcasing photographs and memories from across the church’s history.
Methodism in Stratton dates back to the mid-1820s, when early worshippers gathered in a room above a wheelwright’s shop before a chapel was built in 1830. The current building, opened in 1883, has served generations of local families and remains a focal point for community life.
Residents, past members and anyone with a connection to the church were invited to attend the celebrations across the weekend.