History
West End Methodism: The Story of Hinde Street was published to mark Hinde Street’s 200th anniversary and 250 years of Methodism in the West End of London. It explores the rich history of one of Britain’s best-known Methodist churches.
In the early years crowds flocked to hear the foremost orators of the day, and thousands of children in the church’s Sunday School were taught reading and writing skills before universal education was introduced.
Author Alan Brooks tells of episodes of tragic internal strife, of personal sacrifice and of the devastation of war. But he also recalls a high tradition of public worship and music and the excitement of building a magnificent new chapel. Thousands of children in the church’s Sunday School were taught reading and writing skills before universal education was introduced and the church continues to adapt to support its changing inner-city constituency.
In the early years crowds flocked to the church to hear the foremost orators of the day. Fascinating details of Hinde Street’s connections with many of Methodism’s great leaders over more than two centuries are revealed, including its long-term relationship with Donald Soper and with the West London Mission whose ambitious social welfare outreach continues to this day.
“Social historians will find a treasure trove of insights.” Methodist Recorder
“A fine example of local history… Alan Brooks is to be congratulated for producing a model account of the ‘cathedral of Methodism in the West End’.”Wesley and Methodist Studies
“A definitive church history… I am sure you will not be disappointed by your purchase!” The Chapel Society Newsletter
“A superbly researched, delightfully written and exciting account of the 200 years of this very important church. It is well illustrated… a pleasure to handle, but its greatest rewards come from its reading.” Methodist Newsletter
To order a copy of West End Methodism: The History of Hinde Street, email the church office.
Hardback, 400 pages with illustrations
Alan Brooks (above, signing copies of his book) has been a member at Hinde Street for over 40 years and has filled various roles, including chair of the church’s property committee. He had a career in local government with three London councils and was a qualified town planner, though for most of that time he specialised in research.
You can also read a summary of Hinde Street’s history on the Methodist Heritage website.
In the early years crowds flocked to hear the foremost orators of the day, and thousands of children in the church’s Sunday School were taught reading and writing skills before universal education was introduced.
Author Alan Brooks tells of episodes of tragic internal strife, of personal sacrifice and of the devastation of war. But he also recalls a high tradition of public worship and music and the excitement of building a magnificent new chapel. Thousands of children in the church’s Sunday School were taught reading and writing skills before universal education was introduced and the church continues to adapt to support its changing inner-city constituency.
In the early years crowds flocked to the church to hear the foremost orators of the day. Fascinating details of Hinde Street’s connections with many of Methodism’s great leaders over more than two centuries are revealed, including its long-term relationship with Donald Soper and with the West London Mission whose ambitious social welfare outreach continues to this day.
“Social historians will find a treasure trove of insights.” Methodist Recorder
“A fine example of local history… Alan Brooks is to be congratulated for producing a model account of the ‘cathedral of Methodism in the West End’.”Wesley and Methodist Studies
“A definitive church history… I am sure you will not be disappointed by your purchase!” The Chapel Society Newsletter
“A superbly researched, delightfully written and exciting account of the 200 years of this very important church. It is well illustrated… a pleasure to handle, but its greatest rewards come from its reading.” Methodist Newsletter
To order a copy of West End Methodism: The History of Hinde Street, email the church office.
Hardback, 400 pages with illustrations
Alan Brooks (above, signing copies of his book) has been a member at Hinde Street for over 40 years and has filled various roles, including chair of the church’s property committee. He had a career in local government with three London councils and was a qualified town planner, though for most of that time he specialised in research.
You can also read a summary of Hinde Street’s history on the Methodist Heritage website.