The first Methodist services in Sowerby were held in the home of Mr & Mrs John Rennison, which adjoined the village poor house. It was registered for worship in April 1816. Historical documents speak of the worshippers being pelted with bricks and stones but it only strengthened their faith. The leader of the mob then drowned in the Swale whilst out hunting! His son became a local preacher and a good servant of the church his father had so violently opposed. In 1820 the services moved to another house – 'Nanny Atkinson's parlour' – believed to be near the grassy area known as The Flatts.
The next move was in 18541, to a building in Back Lane which was set to hold 140 worshippers. Soon after, Sowerby appeared on the Thirsk Circuit Plan but it was becoming apparent that the premises were inadequate for the church's activities and the money was raised to build the current church. The year was 1865, the lease was for 2000 years, the plot cost £120 and the building £825. In the Methodist Recorder it was described as 'a beautiful little Gothic chapel in the pleasant village of Sowerby'.
Soon there was a need for more space and a schoolroom was built on the back, the land costing £19 and the building £145. This was further extended in 1925. The organ installation was completed in 1867 and it was said to give performer and listener 'the greatest satisfaction' – it cost £55! A newer instrument was installed in the 1890s. Across the back of the church is a gallery, paid for by the friends of William Sinclair in his memory. The heating and lighting of the premises have been improved at intervals from 1903 to 1959 – from a stove in the corner to new-fangled central heating.
In 1962, major alterations were undertaken, rewiring, better lighting and updating of the kitchen and toilets. By 1975, an upstairs room had been constructed, comfortably furnished, in which smaller meetings can be held.
These alterations served well until the 1990s. Some embarrassing moments with coffins having to be upended to get round tight corners in the entrance, heating pipes of enormous diameter and steps in the aisles to trip up the unwary led to the pews being removed, the floor being levelled and carpet being laid throughout.
The Pulpit was reduced in size and superior lighting and heating installed. The rededication of the church was in November 1997. Once the church renovation was completed, attention turned to modernising the rest of the premises. A larger vestry was made – the other was virtually a cupboard under the stairs – and a well equipped kitchen provided. The toilet facilities were updated to comply with current regulations. The Denman organ also had a major overhaul.
Church website
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