Catalogue

Property schedules, 1938 - 1957

Quarterly Meetings minutes, 1935 - 1957

Missionary accounts, 1936 - 1967

Rough plan of unspecified church, n.d

Methodist Youth Department Charters, n.d

Education Department, New Code of Privy Council Regulations, 1882

Methodist Home Missions Department posters, n.d., post 1932

Circuit plans, July - September 1886, October - December 1916, April - July 1917, January 1918 - September 1921, January 1922 - June 1924, October - December 1925, January - July 1932

Circuit reports, property schedules, Sunday School schedules, resolution for District Synod and related papers, 1910 - 1925

Baptisms register, 1831 - 1872

Quarterly Meetings and Circuit Committee minutes, 1903 - 1925 Accounts, 1923 - 1924, infolded

Quarterly Meetings and Circuit Committee minutes, 1925 - 1935

Accounts of 'the moneys and members, 1854 - 1877, infolded are missionary accounts, 1864

Specification for installing an organ in Barnard Castle Primitive Methodist Church by H. J. Nelson & Co., Durham, 1915

Notebooks of Jacob Rowell, local itinerant reacher. These manuscript volumes contain sermon texts, hymns, details of the strength of various societies in the Dales and Yarm circuits respectively, places where he preached (range from Whitehaven and Cockermouth and Wigton to Scarborough, Thirsk and Rotherham) and recipes (e.g. 'a safe and certain recept for the sciatick', recipes for 'scurbatick disorder', 'balsamack dropps', 'nirves disorder', 'for a consumption or Nasmatick' Gives also 'the names of places and the number of each society in the Sheffield area', 1764 names of the places and numbers of each society in Staffordshire', 1763, and his own biographical and genealogical details. Also lists of preachers on trial (including those in Ireland and America, n.d., c.1774), 1752 - 1777

Certificate from Durham Quarter Sessions that 'Jacob Rowell of Barnard Castle [...] preacher to the people commonly called Methodists [...] did take repeat and subscribe the oaths of Allegiance, Supremacy and Abjuration [...], 11 January 1758

Will (14 May 1774) of Jacob Rowell, 'Preacher of the Gospel in connection with the Rev. Mr. John Wesley' of Whitehaven, Cumberland, (deals merely with bequests to family) Pasted on the same piece of paper as the will is 'an elegy on the death of the late Mr. Jacob Rowell, who died 27 December 1783' (printed; author not given) Note: Rev. F. F. Bretherton states that Rowell's 'obituary in the Minutes of Conference reads - "Jacob Rowell, a faithfull old soldier, fairly worn out in his Master's service". George Jackson's history of " Wesleyan Methodism in the Darlington Circuit ..." (1850) states that Jacob Rowell was converted by Christopher Hopper. "He was either going to, or returning from a cock-fight, when he espied a crowd surrounding the apostolic Hopper, who was delivering his message in the open air. Attracted by the unusual sight, he drew near to the skirts of the congregation, and standing with his bag thrown over his shoulder, an arrow of conviction pierced his heart. It is said that such was the absorbing attention with which he heard, that his hand gradually relaxed its hold of the bag containing the game-cock and it fell at his feet. This was the turning-point in his life; and in 1749 he was called into the work of the ministry and died in 1784".

Methodism in Barnard Castle and some of the Dales adjoinin g, Compiled by A. Steele, 1830 (mss copy) Note: The Dales Circuit is mentioned as a circuit in the Conference minutes of 1749 (the first record of circuits). Christopher Hopper [ See: The Lives of the Early Methodist Preachers edited by Thomas Jackson. Volume 1, pp.179-239 (1871)], Jacob Rowell, Joseph Cheeseborough (a Leeds shoemaker), Thomas Hanby (later President of Conference) and Joseph Garnet were among the early preachers. The first time Barnard Castle occurs in the Minutes of Conference is in 1766, when it was granted £10 from the Contingency Fund. But this was towards the expenses of the Barnard Castle Society not the circuit. Aldstone, Swaledale, Allendale and Teesdale applied for help in the same year and £5 was given to Allendale and £4 to Teesdale. George Jackson ( Weslean Methodism in the Darlington Circuit , 1850) writes "Barnard Castle, however, made early and notable efforts for Methodism". Of the Weardale society in 1772, Mr. Wesley says, in two respects, this society has always been peculiarly remarkable: the one, they have been liberal in providing everything needful for the preachers: the other, they have been careful to marry with each other, and that not for the sake of money, but virtue. Hence they assisted each other in bringing up their children: and God has eminently blessed them therein. For in most of their families, the greatest part of their children above ten years old, are converted to God. It was observed too, that the leaders were upright men and truly alive to God. And even when they had no preacher with them, they met every night for singing and prayer" ( Ecclesiastical History Vol.4, p.269)

History of Methodism in Barnard Castle and the principal places in the Dales Circuit , by Anthony Steele, 1857 (printed but not a copy of the previous volume)

Wesleyan Methodism in the Darlington Circuit: with an introduction and appendix, containing notices of Mr. Wesley ' s earliest visits to the contiguous circuits and several of his original letters , by George Jackson, Wesleyan Minister, Darlington, Printed and sold by J. Manley, 41 High Row; sold also by J. Mason, 66 Pater Noster Row, London, 1850 The first page is inscribed 'From the author to Anthony Steele, Esq. as a memento of affection and gratitude for the valuable assistance afforded in the composition of this pamphlet.' The preface states that 'the author of the following pages has often felt sincere regret, that the interesting traditions and anecdotes of Wesleyan Methodism are being so fast consigned to oblivion, by the deaths of the pious and honoured contemporaries of Wesley; and that these have not been more frequently collected, and combined with such notices as the primitive writers on Methodism have left, and as circuit documents supply, so as to form for each of the more important circuits, a kind of local history'. The author describes Wesleyan Methodism as 'that system of agencies and means by which, for the last century, God has been reviving religion in our nation and the world, and saving myriads of immortal souls. With His Honour the Vice-Chancellor, in the introduction to his decision in the Chancery suit of 1835, he must say, 'I do not think that any question can be deemed of a trifling nature which concerns the well-being - I may say the existence - of a body such as that which is composed of Wesleyan Methodism. It is my firm belief, that to that body we are indebted for a large proportion of the religious feeling which exists among the general body of the community not only of this country, but throughout a great proportion of the civilized world besides...'

Manuscript book of hymns. Front page inscribed 'Benjamin Garnet 1701', at end of volume are scriptural notes, n.d

A discourse delivered at the New Chapel in the City Road on the ninth of March 1791, at the funeral of the late Rev. Mr. John Wesley by John Whitehead, M.D. Second edition. (Incomplete) London. Printed by G. Paramore, North-Green, Worship Street, 1791 Note by author that 'the following discourse was delivered extempore, and a copy of it taken in shorthand by a nephew of Mr. Marsom, bookseller, in High Holborn. This copy I procured and in some places have taken the liberty to add a sentence or two where the subject would easily admit of farther illustration. As the Discourse extended to a considerable length, I have been obliged to omit the exhortation delivered at the end of it' Dr. Whitehead states that 'When we consider the public character of the late Rev. Mr. Wesley, and the various opinions which have been entertained concerning him: when we consider the extent of his labours, the influence which he has had over a large body of people, and the prevalence of his sentiments, not only in these, but even in other nations, it becomes a matter of some importance to enquire into the leading features of his character, both as a Man and as a Minister of the Gospel. This I mean to do in this present Discourse

Printed account of the last days and death of John Wesley, 8 March 1791 'As many friends have desired an immediate account of the circumstances relative to the departure of the late Rev. Mr. Wesley, the following short but authentic narrative has been drawn up in compliance with their request... The executors of the late Rev. J. Wesley think it necessary to caution his numerous friends and the public against receiving any spurious or hasty account of his life; as three gentlemen, to whom he has bequeathed his manuscripts and other valuable papers, will publish an authentic narrative as soon as it can be prepared for the press. N.B. The true account will be signed by Mr. Wesley's executors. Envelope endorsed 'John Wesley's Death. Miss Ritchie's printed account'.

John Wesley - Photographs and Engravings (1) Engraving of 'The Remains of John Wesley M.A. as he lay previous to interment' by Ridley, n.d. On the back is pasted a newscutting giving a letter from Charles Wesley to his wife Sally Moorfields, 28 June. Continued at Hackney, Thursday afternoon, n.d (1 paper) (2) Photograph of 'An Event in the life of Wesley' (healing sick man). A note on the back states that 'this photograph is a copy of an oil painting measuring 54" x 42", the property of Mr. W. Castle, St. Ronans, 126 Stondon Park, Forest Hill, which formerly belonged to a family at Selby in the West (sic) Riding of Yorkshire and is supposed to have been painted by a very skilful artist about the end of the eighteenth century' (1 paper) (3) Engraving by Consitt & Goodwill of Hull of 'Rev. James Hamilton, M.D.; Revd. John Wesley, M.A.; Revd. Joseph Cole. As they were seen walking on the street at Edinburgh in the year 1790, taken by an original genius who was expert in sketching with great correctness the figure of every eminent person that appeared publicly in that city' On the top is inscribed 'Eighty seven years have I sojourned on this earth endeavouring to do good. John Wesley' (1 paper) (4) Engraving of John Wesley, n.d

Sacred Harmony A set of tunes collected by the late Revd. John Wesley, M.A. for the use of the congregations in his Connexion. An edition carefully revised and corrected by his nephew, Charles Wesley, Esq. Organist to His Majesty . Printed and sold by T. Blanshard, 14 City Road, and 66 Pater Noster Row, London, 1822 Rev. F. F. Bretherton records: 'The following is from young Charles Wesley's Diary:-"18 March 1822, Mr. Blanshard called with £10 from the Committee for my editing the new Hymn Book". This new edition was advertised in the Methodist Magazine towards the end of 1821. The Rev. Richard Watson wrote a long historical introduction in which he complained that "the rage for new tunes deluged the Connexion with base, dissonant, unscientific and tasteless compositions". Young Charles Wesley showed remarkable restraint as a tune-book editor, for he only introduced one original tune of his own, 550 in 1904 tune book. Unfortunately it has been dropped. The only other alterations made by young Charles Wesley were the omission of 'York' and 'Burford' which were in the 1789 Sacred Harmony." "Mr. J. T. Lightwood, recently editor of the Choir, writes, 'This book was an up-to-date edition of the Sacred Harmony of 1789(?)"'.

'A Pocket Hymn Book' of Wesley's hymns, 1786 Inscribed 'Ann Stephenson's book'

Free Enquiry, Mutual Deliberation, and Liberty of Conscience, proved to be the only bonds of lasting union amongst the Methodists. Exemplified from the avowed sentiments of the most respectable preachers, and leading friends in our connextion published in near fifty pamphlets and circular letters, since the death of the Rev. Mr. Wesley . Bristol. Printed and sold by R. Edwards, Union Street; sold also by other booksellers in town and country. 1796 Inscribed 'The "Kilhamite" Papers sent into the Dales Circuit to cause disruption'. The Preface states that 'The Methodists have given the inhabitants of these nations irresistible evidence of their regard to the revealed will of God... Availing ourselves of this invaluable blessing, we have endeavoured to read with an unprejudiced mind, most of the letters and pamphlets which have been published amongst us since the death of Mr. Wesley... In every contest of this nature we have always found much wood, hay and stubble, among gold, silver and precious stones. Men will mingle their own opinions and errors with the truth they contend for... Many circumstances in the connextion wear a threatening appearance. The hitherto unfailing corrupters of religious society, ease, affluence and debate are opening their batteries upon us.' Alexander Kilham was the founder of the Methodist New Connexion. Their main complaint was the increasing power of Conference at the expense of the Districts and Circuits. 'Hitherto we have been, since the death of Mr. Wesley, the most perfect aristocracy existing perhaps upon earth. The people have had no power... should no effectual intercourse be opened between Circuits and District Meetings or Conference; should assistants continue to exercise a power independently of the people; should the Conference refuse to form rules to oblige assistants to deliberate with the people, and to open an intercourse between the circuits and themselves, on subjects which effect (sic) the whole - an intercourse which cannot be violated by the ignorance, art, or inattention of individuals; should this be deferred another year we are very apprehensive that, in many places, the circuits will take the matter into their own hands and act on principles which we deprecate.'

The Legality of Delegate-Meetings, among "The People called Methodists" maintained. Report of the trial and evidence of Mr. John Coultas, Methodist Local Preacher, York, for attending a meeting of Wesleyan Delegates held in London, 12 March 1850, with notes, explanatory and illustrative. To which is appended the decision of the Rev. Alexander Bell in the case of Messrs. Taylor, Hirstwood and Coultas, and their protest against his iudgement . York: Printed and sold by J. Coultas, Ouse-Bridge, Low Ousegate, 1850

Wesleyan Discipline - First London Circuit. Report of the trial of Mr. John Williams, Leader, and Secretary to the Radnor Street Sunday Schools for alleged breach of discipline. Containing the protest of the Circuit Steward, J. W. Gabriel, Esq., and the remonstrances of the teacher of the Sunday Schools and of the members of Mr. Williams ' classes, 1850

The Conference: A speech delivered in the Athenaeum, Sheffield, on Monday evening, 8 December 1851, by the Rev. James Bromley of Bath Inscribed 'Anthony Steele', n.d Protest about the undue power of the Wesleyan Conference. 'The conflict now raging in the Wesleyan community, a conflict on our part for our religious liberties and rights, is no new thing even in the Methodist world. Speedily after the death of Wesley the exactions, spiritual and financial, of his Preachers, became a burden intolerable to be borne; so much so, that, in the years 1795 and 1797, the Societies were much agitated, and their representatives assembled in great force in the towns where the Conferences of those years respectively assembled. Those Representatives, or "Delegates" as they were then termed, appear to have been simple God-fearing men, having a strong feeling respecting their Church rights and privileges; though not, perhaps, a very dear perception of their nature... Now, whether it was that Conference of those years were less besotted with the baleful draughts of despotic authority...those of 1795 and 1797 entered into negotiation with the Meeting of Representatives, various diplomatic proceedings took place, and the result was a solemn compact...entitled 'Articles of Pacification'. It 'provided, amidst other things, that the Leaders, Stewards, and Trustees of a circuit, should have jurisdiction in reference to the ministerial morality or competency of the Preachers stationed on that circuit, that no Preacher should be suspended or removed from his circuit but in concurrence with the like jurisdiction; that Leaders' Meetings should be judges respecting candidates for membership; and that no person should be expelled from the Society, even for immorality, but in conjunction with the Leaders' Meeting... So agreable were these Articles of Pacification to the Societies that they regarded them as a sort of Bill of Rights, or Magna Carta of their religious privileges. Conference, however, in 1851 denied the validity of Delegate Meetings and that they had ever been entered in the Journal of Conference. The pamphlet was printed for the General Wesleyan Reform Committee.

Mediation Movement. Alphabetical list of places, Declaration of Wesleyan Methodist Officers and Members on the state of the Connexion , 1852 'At a meeting of officers and members of the Wesleyan Methodist Society, voluntarily assembled from various parts of the kingdom, in the Committee Room of the Town Hall, Birmingham, on Wednesday, 10 December 1851, for the purpose of conferring in friendly and brotherly conversation on the present disastrous state of Methodism, and the measures necessary for its remedy...the following Declaration was unanimously adopted: (1) That we regard the dissensions and afflections of our Connexion with extreme grief and anxiety, and do most ardently desire that the harmony and happiness that once distinguished the body may be restored. (2) That in our calm and deliberate judgement, our existing disasters are mainly attributable to the great changes that have been made in our connexional policy during the last thirty years, by which the balance of power in the Connexion has been deranged; many important functions committed to the local courts by the 'Constitution of Methodism as settled by the regulations of 1795 and 1797' having been resumed by the Conference. (3) That while we acknowledge the divine institution of the Christian Ministry... we do conscientiously believe that their claim to an exclusive government of the church by virtue of rights inherent in their office, is destitute of a scriptural basis, and repugnant to the spirit and letter of our constitution... That looking to the fact of many persons having left our societies in distress and despair, consequent on their having lost all hope of a satisfactory adjustment of our connexional difficulties, and it having been further ascertained that others are contemplating the same step; we deem it the imperative duty of all who desire the prosperity of our Connexion to unite in promoting reconciliation between hostile parties, with a view to the restoration of general peace and harmony.

'A list of the Wesleyan Conferences, when and where held', 1744 - 1846 (ms)

The Case of the New Chapel at Westminster (Appeal for funds by Conference), 1869

Volume of sermons viz: (1) 'The Almost Christian. A Sermon preached at St. Mary's, Oxford, before the University, on 25 July 1741, by John Wesley, M.A. Fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford.' Bristol. Printed by William Pine in Wine Street, 1770 (12 edition) (2) 'Reflections upon the conduct of human life; with reference to learning and knowledge'. Extracted from Mr. Norris. 3rd Edition. London. Printed by H. Cock and sold by the Foundery, Upper Moor-Fields, 1755 (3) 'AnimadVersions upon a pamphlet entitled An Affectionate and Earnest Address to the People called Methodists in a letter to a friend'. Newcastle. Printed by T. Saint, 1770 (4) 'The Plain Man's Epistle to every Child of Adam: or, the voice of earth to his brother dust'. Newcastle upon Tyne. Printed by J. White and T. Saint, 1776 (5) Mr. T. A.'s Confession of Faith. One page only. Rest missing. Inscribed 'Dorothy Pinkney'. (6) 'A true and faithful account of the manner of Christ coming to Judgement on the last Day'. York. Printed at the New Printing Office (in form of a catechism). At the back, pasted in, are Dorothy Pinkney's Class tickets, February 1774, March and December 1780, March 1781, December 1788 and n.d

Typescript (MS) of 'Hymns on the expected invasion 1759'

Proceedings of the Wesley Historical Society , Vol. XX Part.December 1936 contains article on Old Records at Barnard Castle by the Rev. F. F. Bretherton, B.A.)

'A letter containing an account of the Shakers concerning Mr. Ralph Hodgshon and his wife written by John Blades in America to the Kiplings', 1807 (copy) 'You may inform Mr. & Mrs. Brown here is a people called Shakers only 9 miles from this city. They live principally together in a few families, they do not marry. The men and wives that join them loudly exclaim against marriage as the greatest sin in the world, and their men and women live apart. Children are also taken from their parents and the elders of that people manage them as they please. Their worship consists in dancing 2 or 3 single and (as) all (the) rest dance they have sung Black Jack, Yankey Doodle or any tune that came into their minds. But no words at all, till very lately, I hear they have begun to use some words. Mr. & Mrs. Hodsson have joined them and they have treated them as they treat the rest that join them. We have cause to think Mrs. Hodgson is dissatisfied with her situation but cannot get from them for the Shakers are so artful it is almost impossible for any, especially of the women, to get away from them, but it is probable if you should send for them they would come home and (it) might (te) better for time and eternity. Their girls are also with the Shakers. The boys did join them but have left them again. John is in Canada, George is married and lives at Cornwall near the place they went to from New York. He is a sensible industrious young man but in straitened circumstances. If you would help him speedily it would be very seasonable and might make him and (his) family comfortable all their days. - This is all that is in the latter about Mr. & Mrs Hodgshon. - Albany. 6 December 1807'

People I have met and Places I have seen. Some Memories of Agnes E. Slack . Compiled by Mr. Ernest Winterton, 1942. (Total abstainer, social reformer etc.) Inscribed 'F. Franklin, Market Place, Barnard Castle'

Replies to invitations by Rev. J.W. Hawkins of Gordon House, Barnard Castle to attend a Fraternal meeting and lectures at Barnard Castle School, 15 April - 3 June 1926 Henry Lonsdale of Gainford; Walter Hibbert of West Blackburn, South Hetton; H. Marsden of Victoria Terrace, Barnard Castle; W.M. Wykes of Winston Rectory, Gainford; H. C. Pescott of Middleton in Teesdale Rectory; Rev. R.A. Bidwell of Gainford; M. Collins of Hutton Magna vicarage [originally enclosed with M/BC 111]

Baptisms register, 1837-57

Baptisms register, 1854 - 1869

Baptisms register, 1869 - 1879

Baptisms register, 1880 - 1894

Baptisms register, 1894 - 1919

Baptisms register, 1892 - 1920

Two Wesley letters viz:- Bradford, Sept. 9. 1777 My Dear Brethren, It is certain our preachers have a right to preach our doctrines, as my Lady's have to preach theirs. None can blame him for this. But I blame all, even that speak the truth otherwise than in love. Keeness of spirit and tartness of language are never to be commended. It is only in meekness that we are to instruct those who oppose themselves. But we are not allowed upon any account whatever to return evil for evil or railing for railing. I have desired Mr. Boardman to be in Dublin as soon as possible. I believe you know his spirit. He is a loving peaceable man. Meantime in your patience possess ye your souls. I am, My dear brethren, Your affectionate brother John Wesley To Mr. Alex Clark, In Chancery Lane, Dublin Manchester, May 19, 1781 My Dear Brother, Two days and two nights we were buffeting the waves with the furious wind right ahead. We then with difficulty got into Holyhead Harbour, and finding the wind continued as it was, we saw Providence was against us, and turned back to England. I am now going to the Isle of Man, and may very possibly slip over from thence to Ulster. You should continue electricity as often as you have opportunity and use as frequently as possible the diet drink in the primitive physic under that title 'For Scarbrick's Sons' I believe it will dry up that humour quickly and very safely. If Providence brings me to Ireland I shall not fail to let you know as soon as I am landed. I am, Yours affectionately, J. Wesley To Mr. Bredin, At Mr. Daniel Keeling's, In Athlone, Ireland Rev. F. F. Bretherton states that he has every reason to believe 'that these letters are reproductions. They are both published in Standard Letters' (Proceedings of the Wesley Historical Society , Vol.XX, Part 8, December 1936)

Barnard Castle Ministers' Fraternal (all denominations) Minutes, 1912 - 1926

Property schedules, 1879 - 1916

Miscellaneous papers (mainly correspondence with the Wesleyan Chapel Committee) viz. :- returns of accommocation to the Committee, 1881, 1891 & 1911; new church at Stainton and the sale of the old church, 1897 - 1898; grants to Barnard Castle, Bowes, Winston and Woodland Churches, 1902, 1908; new church at Winston, 1902 - 1903; grant to Cotherstone Day School (incl. plan, 1905), 1903 - 1905; grant to Barnard Castle Wesleyan Day School and its transfer to Durham County Council, 1904 - 1906; new church at Marwood, 1907; and the building of a minister's house at Barnard Castle, 1881 - 1907

Certificates and counterfoils of removals from the circuit, 1914 - 1933

List of circuit records made by the Rev. Frank F. Bretherton, General Secretary of the Wesley Historical Society, 1936

Dales circuit accounts (collections and disbursements), 1765 - 1791 The first entries in the earliest book show that collections for the Christmas Quarter 1765 were from: Barnard Castle; Barningham; Richmond; Hudswell; Blade; Reeth; Arkindale; Tisdale ;Weardale; Alston; Mellerby West Allendale; East Allendale Holhouse Whittington; Darwin; Wolsingham; Grange; Darlington; Stainmore and Lune By 1785 (Lady Day) collections were from :Barnard Castle; Newsham; Barningham; Pondergill; Baldersdale Cotherstone; Teasdale; Stainmore; Brough; Winton; Orton; Ravenstonedale; Appelby; Long Martin; Gamblesby; Alston; Greenly Clouth; Keenly; Allan Town; Thorgrafton; Lilswood; Slaley; Syndrop; Hexham; Weardale; Garrigill; Nenthead; Stanhope; Wolsingham; Thornley; Billerowe; Staindrop; Penrith; Asby and Kirbefuer By 1791 the circuit had grown still further. Membership included: Weardale; Nenthead; Galigill; Garrigill; Alstone; Mount Pleasant; Keenley; Alendale; Thorngrafton; Wark; Hallings; Wittington; Hexham; Slealy; Lilswood; Rookhope; Stanhope; Wolsingham; Thornley; Billy Row; Barnard Castle; Dumbyhill; Tempelsowerby; Gamsleby; Kirkhousal; Kirbyfure; Longmarnton; Godgillrow; Kendale; Asby or Ravensdale; Appleby; Winton; Brough; Boldersdale; Newbigin; Middleton; Eggleston; Cothers tone; Staindrop; Newsham; Barningham and Scargill

Volume containing: (1) A list of the names in the Dales Circuit, 1791 (arranged in fives) (2) Numbers and Collections of Barnard Castle Circuit, 16 July 1792 (3) A list of 'subscribers for the family Bible', 1810 (4) A list of the names in the Barnard Castle Circuit, 1796~ (5) Numbers and collections in the circuit, 1796 (6) Preachers Fund for 1797 (7) Collections and numbers in circuit, 1798, 1799 (8) Subscribers for Dr. Clarke's Biblet, n.d. (9) Numbers in societies and collections, 1800 (10) Subscribers for the magazines in Barnard Castle, 1800 (11) Subscribers for Dr. Coke's Numbers 1800 (12) Subscribers for the Magazines, 1802 (13) Lists of members, n.d. (divided by societies) (14) A list of subscribers for the family Bible commencing May 1810, John Mercer (15 Note 22 July 1801, Books unsold £16. 2s.9d., Robert Harrison (16) Subscribers for magazines, 1802 (17) Subscribers for magazines, 1802 (18) List of societies and numbers, 1802 (19) Collections, 1802 (20) Subscribers for the magazines, 1803 (21) Subscribers for Dr. Coke's Commentary, 1803 (22) Subscribers for the magazines, 1804 (23) Subscribers to the Preachers Fund in 1805 (24) Numbers in societies and collections, n.d. (25) Subscribers to Dr. Coke's Num(ber?), n.d. (26) Subscribers for magazines, 1805 (27) Names of the members in Barnard Castle Circuit, 1805 (arranged in fives) (28) Subscribers for magazines, 1806 (29) Subscribers for Dr. Coke's Commentary, 1806 (30) Numbers and collections in Barnard Castle Circuit, 1806 (31) Names of the members in Barnard Castle Circuit, 1806 (arranged in fives) (32) Names of the subscribers to the Preachers Fund, n.d (33) Subscriptions for magazines, 1807 (34) Names of places and collections, 1807 (35) Subscribers for magazines, n.d. (36) Names of the subscribers to the Preachers Fund, 1807 Note: 'To my successor I have had only one person to put out of Society for wickedness these last two years viz (name erased) a local reacher. The charges brought against him and proved were: (1) Fracturing the characters of the preachers in every company where he came (2) Endeavouring to make divisions amongst the people (3) Neglecting his family and business (4) Getting into debt without a probability of paying the same (5) For making several attempts (erased) He should never be admitted again! (37) Subscribers to the magazines, 1808 (38) Subscribers to the magazines for 1809 (39) Numbers and collections, 1809 (40) Stock of Books on hand at Barnard Castle taken 21 July 1806 (gives prices) (41) Sundry Collections made in Barnard Castle Circuit in 1809 and 1810 by J. Mercer etc. (42) Number in Society June 1810 (gives each church) (43 Sundry Collections made in Barnard Castle Circuit in 1810 and 1811 by John Mercer and colleagues1 (44) Stockton Hand (Bibles and Hymn books), 24 July 1811 (45) An account of the collection toward the funeral expenses of L S's "most wretched bill 1811" (46) Expenses in Barnard Castle Circuit on account of L S's Bill, 1811 (47) A list of subscribers to the Fund of Mercy, n.d. (48) Collections made in Barnard Castle Circuit in 1811 and 1812 by J. Robbins and colleagues (49) Sundry collections made in 1811 and 1812 (50) Preachers Fund subscriptions, 1812 (51) Stock of books August 18th 1812 (52) Names of members of circuit, 1813 (53 Books in stock at Barnard Castle, 1813 (54) Collections in 1813 (55) Collections made in Barnard Castle Circuit, 1813 a,nd 1814 by Thomas Garbutt and colleagues (56) Subscribed for the missions in Asia 1813 and 1814 (57) Preachers Fund, n.d. (58) Collections 1816 (59) Numbers in Barnard Castle Circuit, 1814 (60) Collections made by Thomas Garbutt and colleagues in Barnard Castle Circuit, 1814 and 1815 (61) Numbers of members in Barnard Castle Circuit, 1815 (62) Book Stock at Barnard Castle, July 1815 (63) Book Stock on hand Barnard Castle July 1816 (64) Subscription list, n.d. (? Class money) (65) Notes of subscribers The Revd. Doctor Coak's notes on the Old and New Testament, n.d., c.1800 (66) Notes of stock of books July 1822 and books for my self 1822 (67) Notes of whereabouts of trust deeds

Marriages register (marriages at Barnard Castle Chapel,but covers the circuit), 1849 - 1882

Circuit plans, original and photograph of 'The Sabbath-Day's Plan for the Travelling and Local Preachers in Barnard Castle Circuit', November 1807 - April 1808 This plan shows the following churches in the Circuit at this time: Barnard Castle; Bowes; Newsham; Scargill; Mickleton and Eggleston; Cotherston; Staindrop; Evenwood; Bishop Auckland; Newbiggin and Middleton; High-house; Westgate; Eastgate; Rookhope; Stanhope; Frosterley; Wolsingham; Thornley and Crook

Circuit plans: (1) Circuit plan, October 1839 - April 1840 (1 plan) (2) Circuit plan, November 1844 - April 1845 (1 plan) (3-4) Circuit plans, May 1846 - February 1847 (2 plans) (5) Circuit plan, July - October 1847 (1 plan) (6) Circuit plan, August - November 1848 (1 plan) (7-8) Circuit plans, May 1849 - January 1850 (2 plans) (9) Circuit plan, June - October 1850 (1 plan) (10) Circuit plan, March - July 1851 (1 plan) (11) Circuit plan, December 1851 - February 1852 (1 plan) (12) Circuit plan, August - October 1852 (1 plan) (13) Circuit plan, March - July 1853 (1 plan) (14) Circuit plan, November 1853 - January 1854 (1 plan) (15) Circuit plan, June and July 1854 (fragmentary) (1 plan) (16) Circuit plan, February - May 1855 (1 plan) (17) Circuit plan, October 1855 - January 1856 (1 plan) (18) Circuit plan, February - May 1857 (1 plan) (19-20) Circuit plans, September 1857 - May 1858 (2 plans) (21) Circuit plan, February- June 1859 (1 plan) (22-23) Circuit plan, October 1859 - June 1860 (2 plans) (24-25) Circuit plans, November 1861 - June 1862 (2 plans) (26) Circuit plan, November 1862 - February 1863 (1 plan) (27-28) Circuit plans, July 1864 - February 1865 (2 plans) (29) Circuit plan, March - June 1866 (1 plan) (30) Circuit plan, May - July 1870 (1 plan) (31-32) Circuit plans, October 1870 - July 1871 (2 plans) (33) Circuit plan, January - April 1872 (1 plan) (34-35) Circuit plans, November 1872 - June 1873 (2 plans) (36-37) Circuit plans, July 1874 - January 1875 (2 plans) (38-40) Circuit plans, August 1875 - April 1876 (3 plans) (41-138) Circuit plans, October 1900 - July 1913; January 1948 - September 1959 (less April - June 1948) and October 1970 - January 1971

Circuit schedules, 1836 - 1837

Circuit schedules, 1839 - 1847

Circuit schedules, 1848 - 1859

Circuit schedules, 1860 - 1874

Circuit schedules, 1874 - 1882

Circuit schedules, 1882 - 1894

Circuit schedules, 1894 - 1907

Circuit schedules, 1907 - 1919

Plans of 'The Wesleyan Methodist Prayer-Leaders, Barnard Castle' (1) July - December 1838 (1 plan) (2) July - December 1839 (endorsed 'Party 3') (1 plan) (3) January - June 1840 (endorsed 'No.3 Party Plans 5. Mr. J. Smith') (1 plan) (4) July - December 1840 (endorsed 'Mr. J. Smith and Party') (1 plan) (5) July - December 1841 (1 plan) (6) January - June 1842 (1 plan) (7) July - December 1842 (1 plan) (8) July - December 1843 (endorsed '4 plans') (1 plan) (9) July - December 1844 (1 plan) (10) January - June 1845 (1 plan) (11) July - December 1846 (1 plan) (12) January - June 1847 (1 plan) (13) July - December 1847 (1 plan) (14) January - June 1848 (1 plan) (15) July - December 1848 (1 plan) (16) January - June 1849 (1 plan) (17) July - December 1850 (1 plan) (18) July - December 1856 (1 plan)

Rules of 'The Methodist Missionary Society for the Barnard Castle and Weardale Circuit', 21 January 1815. Written inside is a letter concerning this Society from Joshua Monkhouse, Barnard Castle, to the Superintendent, 16 February 1815, with missionary posters, 1826, 1833

A defence of the "Declaration of certain of the officers in the Barnard Castle Circuit". Occasioned by a letter addressed to them under the signature of "A. Steele" . Barnard Castle, Sold by Henry Atkinson, Market Place, 1835

A letter addressed to certain of the officers of the Wesleyan Societies in the Barnard Castle circuit, in reply to their declaration by a brother officer . Barnard Castle, Printed at John Atkinson's Office, 1835

Details of stock of books in circuit (drawn up by order of Conference), November 1869, July 1874

Circuit Ladies' Sewing Meeting minutes, 1887 - 1919 (described as the Ladies' Committee from 1893)

Circuit Stewards' accounts, 1859 - 1880

Quarterly Meetings minutes, 1858 - 1890

Resolutions adopted at a special Leaders' Meeting held at Barnard Castle, 7 January 1835: (1) That this meeting takes this opportunity of expressing its continued and unabated love to Wesleyan Methodism, and its unwavering confidence in its judicious discipline and well tried constitution: and that notwithstanding those unjust reflections which have of late been cast upon that excellent body of Christian ministers with whom it stands connected, it still maintains the strongest confidence in their integrity and fidelity and desires "to esteem them highly in love for their works sake" (2) That whilst we recognise the right of every individual to exercise his private judgement on any of the decisions of Conference yet, as Officers of the Wesleyan Methodist Society, we do not deem it either just or expedient to engage in any factious opposition to the body. We are not insensible for our obligations to Methodism, and have no desire to meddle with them who are given to change; but on the contrary we avow our determination to maintain amongst us "the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" and we pledge ourselves in the fear of God to exert our influence in preserving the peace of our Societies as far as we can. (3) That this meeting earnestly and respectfully entreats the cordial co- operation of the official members of our societies throughout the circuit in preserving that harmony and brotherly affection which have so long and happily prevailed amongst us; and ardently hopes that they will unite with us in making a firm and decisive stand against all dangerous innovations in Methodism." (Signed by the Leader and "official members of the Wesleyan Methodist Society in the Barnard Castle Circuit")

Circuit plan, January - April 1906

Circuit plans, May - October 1907

Insurance policy with the Yorkshire Fire and Life Insurance Company, 20 April 1870

Copy trust deed for £1,600. 3.5% annuities invested by Mr. John Todd, gent, Barningham, in the names of trustees for the purpose of maintaining a resident preacher at Barningham, 20 March 1835, with abstract of this deed, n.d.

Baptisms register, 1872 - 1917

Stewards' accounts, 1896 - 1944, with related papers infolded

Leaders' Meetings minutes, 1937 - 1944

Accounts, 1940 - 1962

Sunday School Teachers Meetings minutes, 1830 - 1837

Sunday School Teachers Meetings minutes, 1871 - c.1904

Pulpit notices book, 1934 - 1936

Counterfoils of marriage certificates, 1959 - 1961

Stewards' accounts, 1852 - 1872

Stewards' accounts, 1904 - 1827

Missionary accounts, 1868 - 1932

Accounts of class money, 1871 - 1913

Accounts, 1874 - 1899, includes accounts for alterations and improvements to the church, 1872 - 1873

Trust accounts, 1900 - 1920

Seat rents accounts, 1878 - 1918

Collection journal, 1907 - 1913

Miscellaneous bills and related papers, 1913 - 1921 Include also accounts for building and furnishing the church, 1893 - 1894, notice of opening services, 1894 (church opened 30 March 1894), and form of service at 70th Anniversary, 4 and 5 July 1964

Pulpit notices book, 1911 - 1914

An account of the furniture in the preaching house, 4 September 1784 Endorsed: list of goods wanted, with infolded note stating that it is fully understood that in case either side of this circuit see cause to divide from the other, the Weardale side shall receive half of the furniture which has been purchased since its union with Barnard Castle - and that the horses be equally divided'

Stewards' accounts, including details of days when class meetings were held, 1797 - 1813

Barnard Castle Wesleyan Day Schools, accounts of income and expenditure, 1904, with related papers, 1904 - 1911 Includes subscription books for money collected by Messrs. Burn and Reay and by Messrs. Dixon and Illsley respectively, n.d. c .1904, A notice pasted in front of these 2 subscription books (April 1904) states that 'the Trustees and Managers have recently received a communication from the Durham County Council to the effect that before the Schools can be taken over by the Authority, certain alterations and improvements, including a new class-room and cloakroom, must be made. It is estimated that the cost of the alterations will not be less than £350. The Managers feel that an institution which has held such a prominent place in the educational life of the town for over seventy years, ought not to suffer for lack of funds... The Wesleyan Education Committee has sanctioned the scheme and promised considerable help. It is also expected that a substantial grant will be received from the Twentieth Century Fund. There will remain, however, a large sum to be raised locally'

Yorkshire Penny Bank, Barnard Castle Branch, bank book for Tea Account, 1936 - 1946

Annual sale of work financial statements, 1936 - 1948, with related papers

Balance sheets, 31 August 1987- 31 August 2001 [Acc.: 7745] Originally enclosed in M/BC 167

Receipts and disbursements of the Wesleyan Chapel, Barnard Castle', 1842 - 1865

Receipts and disbursements of the stewards of the Wesleyan Methodist Society, Barnard Castle, 1855 - 1913

Lists of subscriptions, purpose unknown, March - May 1817

Miscellaneous papers relating to the chapel and its property, 1789 - 1882 Includes subscriptions for the purchase of ground and erection of a Methodist Chapel in Barnard Castle', 1822; worship certificates, 14 February 1823 and 4 February 1854; and accounts of the treasurer of the Fund for the reduction of the Debt on the Wesleyan Chapel, Barnard Castle', n.d. (1857 watermark) and bills and receipts for alterations at the chapel, 1872 - 1873

Register of seat rents, 1902 - 1921

Barnard Castle Wesleyan Chapel Leaders' Meetings minutes, 1883 - 1915

Minutes of Building Committee for the minister's house in Raby Avenue with related papers, (bills and correspondence) 1907 - 1908 Includes a plan of a pair of villas (including the minister's house) in Barnard Castle by W. J. Morley & Son, architects, Bradford and London, February 1907 Scale: 8 feet to 1 inch [1:96]

Finance Committee minutes, 1930 - 1948, with related papers

Church council minutes, 27 November 1986- 11 May 2003 [Acc.: 7745]

List of members, n.d., pre. 1941, post 1948

Notice advertising the opening of the New Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Barnard Castle, 23 January 1823, and of services 26 January 1823 Pasted on the back is an obituary for Joshua Monkhouse from The Teesdale Mercury , 21 October 1868, and his class tickets 1800, 1801(3), 1822 and 1868

Church newsletter, Spring 1998

Church newsletter, Spring 1999

Church newsletter, Spring 2000

Church newsletter, Spring 2001

Church newsletter, Spring 2002

Church newsletter, Spring 2003

Sunday School accounts, 1882 - 1916, and Teachers Meetings minutes, 1887 - 1917

Sunday School attendance registers, 1889, 1904, 1940

Accounts, 1900 - 1938 Include minutes of Sunday School Teachers Meeting, 13 January 1903

Details of church services and functions, with accounts, 1924 - 1962, with related papers infolded

Bills, receipts and related papers, 1901 - 1960

Correspondence concerning the sale of the church, 1897 - 1899

Trustees' & Committee Meetings minutes, 1880 - 1918

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the chapel, 9 February 1854

Bill from Mr. Benjamin Thomas Sharpe, solicitor, Norwich, to the trustees, 1858

Letter from the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the Superintendent concerning the renewal of the trust, 22 February 1871

Letter to the Superintendent from the Wesleyan Chapel Committee stating that the application for a grant to reduce the debt on the Chapel has been postponed till after the Conference, 16 June 1881

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the chapel, 9 February 1854

Agreement between George Walton, Oakhill, Cotherstone, and the trustees to sell a cottage and land belonging to build a chapel, 17 February 1871, with related paper, 1871

Letter from the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the Superintendent concerning the enrolment of Cotherstone Old Chapel deeds, 23 May 1871

Bills from James P. Dalston, stone merchant, for work done at the chapel, with related papers, 1872

Letter from the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the Superintendent stating that the chapel has not been settled on trustees for the Connexion and as it has been built without consent there can be no grant from the Committee, 9 September 1869

Letter from W. T. Scarth, Raby Castle, to the Superintendent concerning the discussion of a possible site for a chapel in Langleydale as the Duke of Cleveland would not provide a site as he considered a chapel unnecessary and had increased the stipend of the clergyman, 13 November 1877

Insurance policy with the Yorkshire Fire and Life Assurance Company, 20 April 1870

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the chapel, 9 February 1854

Insurance policy with the Yorkshire Fire and Life Assurance Company, 20 April 1870

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the chapel, 29 July 1809

Agreement between Mark Armstrong, mining agent, Middleton-in-Teesdale and James Hindmarsh, ibid., gent, to sell a cottage in Middleton, 12 May 1845

Consent of the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the erection of a new chapel (2 June 1870) with modified terms (7 July 1870) and related papers, 1869 - 1870

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the new chapel, 27 July 1871

Charity Commissioners' order relating to the Old Chapel and trust property, 11 May 1877, with related papers, 1877

Stewards' accounts, 1911 - 1919

Consent of the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the erection of a chapel, 16 June 1881, with related papers (mainly bills), 1880 - 1883

Letter from the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the Superintendent concerning the Chapel's financial difficulties, 11 October 1882

Agreement between John Langstaff, smelter, Romaldkirk, and the trustees to sell a cow house with a coalhouse behind it and land belonging to build a chapel, 26 June 1869, with related papers (include agreement with Joseph Walton, contractor, of Bowes, to build the chapel, 30 June 1869), 1869 - 1871

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the chapel, 9 November 1869

Insurance policy with the Yorkshire Fire and Life Insurance Company, 20 April 1870

Consent of the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the erection of a chapel, 9 April 1869, with related papers, 1868 - 1871

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the chapel, 4 February 1870

Insurance policy with the Manchester Fire Assurance Company (5 February 1870)

Will (20 February 1867), (proved 18 May 1868), of Robert Cruddass, retired farmer of Stainton; abstract of title (1839) (covers but documents undated) of Thomas Cruddass to a house and premises at Stainton sold to the trustees of Stainton Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, who were to convert the house into a chapel, with related papers, 1868-70 (include Thomas Cruddass's agreement to sell to the trustees, 22 April 1869)

Agreement between John Taylor, cabinet maker, Staindrop, and the trustees to allow a wall on the east side of the chapel to be built adjoining his property, 6 May 1869

Certificate authorising public worship to take place in the chapel, 27 September 1869

Plan of Services, 5 July 1964

Stewards' accounts, 1898 - 1956

Stewards' accounts, 1911 - 1919

Consent of the Wesleyan Chapel Committee to the enlargement of the chapel, 11 June 1867, with related papers, 1867 - 1869

Bills, receipts, and related papers concerning Yeadon Day School and the building of the Sunday School, 1868 - 1874