Neatishead Baptist Norfolk
Serving God in the heart of the Norfolk Broads
Our Past
Founded in 1811 the Church, now a Grade 2 Listed building, was erected outside the village, not far from the windmill. A two storey extension, incorporating an addition to the sanctuary plus living accommodation, was added in 1857. Probably first the pastor and then the caretaker lived there. Unusually the three Galleries, the original two of which include box pews, are not inter-connected.
Two of the founder members were William Cubitt, who died aged 53 in 1814, three years after the church was built and Martha, his wife. Their memorial stone records "Their earnest efforts to do good led to the erection of this place of worship." Another member of the same family, William Quincy Cubitt, of Ivy Farm, Neatishead who died in 1872 is recorded as being "a generous supporter of this chapel."
The first pastor, William Spurgeon, "sustained this office well for nearly 47 years" dying in 1861 aged 74. [A correspondent from the USA, who has researched the family of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the famous Baptist preacher and pastor, believes our first pastor is unlikely to have been a relative of CHS.]
The Graveyard, (see Pictures) originally at the front of the church, was extended to the back, where burials still take place. Stables, which contain the original tethering rings, were built alongside the church, together with two Sunday School Rooms and an outside toilet. A Manse (the minister's house) and a caretaker’s cottage (both since sold), plus land at both ends of the site, completed the complex. The kitchen and indoor toilets were added later.
Around 15 years ago the downstairs pews were removed (with permission) and replaced by chairs. We now have a flexible and comfortable suite of rooms. Replacing the roof battens, felting and then relaying the existing black glazed was completed in 2007. This will help ensure that we hand on a well-cared-for building to future congregations.
Seeking Ancestors
We regularly receive contacts about our church records. The most recent enquiries have related to one of the early pastors, one of the founder members and - from the USA - about a couple who were married at the church in the 1860s. We are glad to help people with their family history where we can.
We praise God for his faithfulness and look forward to celebrating our 200th birthday in 2011
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Office Address:
Chapel Road
Neatishead
Norwich
Norfolk
NR12 8YF