The Grace Baptist Church in Warboys, a small village in Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom, is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its congregation. This church, with its rich history dating back to the 17th century, continues to serve as a beacon of hope and a place of worship for the local community.
© Evan Tringham 2014
Grace Baptist as it is today.
© Evan Tringham 2008
Grace Baptist Church in 2008. Notice the difference in the door.
The Founding Years
The origins of the Grace Baptist Church can be traced back to 1644, when the Puritan preacher, Henry Denn, baptised the first five Warboys men: William Dunn, John Ward, John Richards, John Kidson, and William Askew. William Dunn went on to become the first pastor of Warboys, marking the beginning of the church’s journey.
From Miscellaneos photos/documents in Huntingdon Library. Not an Archive photo
Baptist Chapel as it was in the late 1800s before the new front was built at about 1900.
From a photo collection by C Johnson
Inside the Baptist Chapel early 1900s with Pastor Lamborne present,
The Baptist Chapel
In 1831, the Baptist Chapel was completed, providing a dedicated space for the congregation to gather and worship. The chapel, with its simple yet elegant architecture, stands as a symbol of the community’s shared faith and commitment.
Photo courtesy of Michael Kennelly
Baptisms at the Weir
In the early years, baptisms were conducted in the Weir, a local water body. The Baptisms in the Weir were popular as seen by the photos of those watching in 1908. This actual Baptism was being undertaken by Pastor H. Acland, minister of the Strict Baptist Church.
This practice continued until the early 1900s, reflecting the church’s adherence to the tradition of full immersion baptism. On one such occasion in 1901 it was witnessed by more than 2000 people.
Photo from the collection of Christine Clarke
The British School
In 1869, the church decided to establish a British School in Warboys. The school was opened in 1870 and was given over to the government in 1902. This initiative underscores the church’s commitment to education and its role in shaping the future of the community.