|
Brief
description of the church
Bramhope Chapel, in Wharfedale, is also known locally
as the Puritan Chapel, and was built in 1649. It is no
longer in regular use and is therefore redundant.
Following the Dissolution of the Monasteries, Henry
VIII gave the surrounding area to the Earl of
Cumberland. Later in the 16th century the Dyneley
family moved into the area and acquired Bramhope Hall,
and in 1649 they built the Chapel near the Hall for
their own use, it being taken over a few years later
by the Church of England after the Restoration of
Charles II.
It is one of only a few chapels built during the
Commonwealth period, and is said never to have been
consecrated. This did not, however, prevent it being
used regularly for church services up until 1881-82.
It was at this time that it proved too small for the
congregation worshipping there, St Giles being built
in 1881 to accommodate the growing numbers.
It contains original furnishings, box-pews and a
three-decker pulpit.
|
