Sallyport Primitive Methodist Chapel (1823)
Gilbert being superintendent. With North Shields, Newcastle, and Morpeth (a branch of the former) as bases, a magnificent work was carried on amongst the pitmen and keelmen. The preaching of the earnest missionaries was accompanied by an extensive revival of religion, and hundreds of the most profligate were converted. "Deep emotions, loud responses, and sometimes faintings and convulsions, attended the preaching and other religious services among the pitmen." But the genuineness of the work was proved by its fruits, for a general reformation of manners was witnessed; and when one of the coal owners was applied to for aid towards the erection of a chapel, he replied: "Oh, yes; I will help you, for your preachers have done so much good amongst our men that we have much less to subscribe for policemen and for trials for misconduct." Preaching rooms were opened, societies formed, and Sunday Schools instituted with amazing rapidity.
From the Butchers Hall Newcastle society moved in April 1824, to an old chapel in Sallyport, previously occupied by the Presbyterians, and capable of accommodating 500 or 600 persons. The next step was the securing of a chapel, vacated by the Independents, in Silver Street, which street had not even then the best reputation. For twelve years this was the circuit chapel, and many sterling men and women were born in it.
‘Northern Primitive Methodism’ by W M Patterson, published 1909, page 310.
Additional Information
The work of the Primitive Methodists began in 1823 in the Butcher's Hall and then they moved in April 1824 to the old Presbyterian Chapel at the Sallyport Gate, near to the marker on the map.
The building to the left of the photo is the Sallyport Gate.