Baptist Chapel, Corsley
In 1783 there was a small Baptist congregation meeting in a cottage at Whitbourne. They were joined by Richard Parsons from the church at Chapmanslade and it was to these two men that Mrs. Mears from Frome gave a piece of land in the locality to build a chapel which was opened in 1811. However, she died soon after and it was discovered she only had a life interest in the land. Her son demanded money for the freehold, which along with other costs, resulted in a bill of £700 for the chapel. Richard Parsons was an exceptional man and raised the money himself, walking as far as Bristol and London to collect donations. He remained pastor for 42 years. After his death in 1853 the chapel was served by visiting preachers, as it still is today.
Externally the walls are of rubble with a brick front, and the roof is slate. There is an external baptistery at the rear. It is circular, eleven feet in diameter with brick sides. In the mid 19th century the whole chapel was raised several feet. It was also extended to the rear and a two-storeyed schoolroom wing added. Three galleries were also fitted. In 1882 the interior was renewed and seating for 200 provided. In 1851 three services were held each Sunday. The average attendance in the morning was 130 and the Sunday School had 60 members. The regular congregation today is mainly people from outside Corsley.
Externally the walls are of rubble with a brick front, and the roof is slate. There is an external baptistery at the rear. It is circular, eleven feet in diameter with brick sides. In the mid 19th century the whole chapel was raised several feet. It was also extended to the rear and a two-storeyed schoolroom wing added. Three galleries were also fitted. In 1882 the interior was renewed and seating for 200 provided. In 1851 three services were held each Sunday. The average attendance in the morning was 130 and the Sunday School had 60 members. The regular congregation today is mainly people from outside Corsley.