British Methodist Buildings (BMB) brings together several photographic collections to create an unparalleled visual gallery of Methodist buildings in Britain.

This project was originally inspired by the labours of two hobbyists: Keith Guyler and Bill Smith. Operating between the 1970s and 2000s, these two amateur photographers travelled the country documenting many buildings which have since been altered, demolished, or otherwise lost. Their pictures have since been complimented by further additions from Bill Brinkley, and the Methodist Home Mission department.

British Methodist Buildings needs YOU! We encourage our users to add their personal experiences and recollections. Do you know something of their history? Do you recall a community or family event at a particular building? If so, please ‘comment’ these on the images.

If you have images you'd like to contribute to the BMB Community, please contact us at bmb.ocmch@brookes.ac.uk.

Quick start guide: ocmch.files.wordpress.com/2019/01/bmb-quick-start-guide.pdf

Terms of use: ocmch.files.wordpress.com/2019/01/bmb-terms-of-use-tc.pdf

Email: bmb.ocmch@brookes.ac.uk

"British Methodist Buildings is an invaluable source for those interested in Methodism and the history of its built environment. The photographs included in this online resource provide a fantastic insight into the architectural variety of the denomination, how it has changed over time and how its use of different architectural styles has particular geographies. Much more than this these photographs of – often long lost or greatly altered – buildings provide insights into the changing uses of Methodist spaces and the way in which Methodist heritage - although now sometimes hidden - is still integral to Britain’s built environment. Furthermore, the maps, occasional internal photographs and broader urban and rural scenes captured in these photographs also emphasise how Methodist chapels were and are spaces, which gain their meaning through how they are used and in relationship with the broader geographical contexts in which they are embedded."

 

Dr Ruth Slatter

Institute of Historical Research