Picture a postcard dated 1921. It shows the Purley Quaker Meeting House. This unassuming building holds stories of faith and community. Today we explore the history and unique features of the Purley Quaker Meeting House.
The Purley Quaker Meeting House was built in 1909. The construction cost was around £1600. The Friend magazine advertised for estimates from ‘any friend able’. Pepler and Allen were the appointed architects. George Pepler of that team was educated at a Quaker school in York. The builders were called Marsh.
Look closely at the walls of Purley Quaker Meeting House. You can see flint walls. These walls are a distinctive feature of this area. A lorry once damaged some frontal flint walls. They were mended as well as possible.
Notice the figure on the path in the postcard. He has a distinctive Quaker beard. This beard was worn without a moustache. He was likely an Elder or a Clerk of the Meeting.
It’s believed the Meeting House was originally planned for the town centre. However it was difficult to get permission. The Ecumenical Commission may have felt Friends were not in line with established churches. The land where the Purley Quaker Meeting House stands was purchased for £400.
One quirk is that the rear access road is called Friends Road. Yet, the houses along it were mainly built in 1908. This is a year before the Meeting House itself.
The Purley Quaker Meeting House exemplifies Arts and Crafts architecture. Its sweeping mansard roof and high windows stand out. The interior hall’s timbered construction is based on an English Guild Hall. This is interesting considering the hall’s purpose. It was built for worship and related activities. George Pepler’s education at Bootham may have influenced the design. He would have seen and admired the Guildhall at York.
One unique feature once graced the Purley Quaker Meeting House. It had commemorative boards in the porch. These boards honoured Friends who had lived and died as members. These boards have been moved to the Adult School Hall in Croydon.
Purley Quaker Meeting has laid itself down. You are welcome to join either of the nearest meetings. These are Croydon or Sutton. They meet every Sunday morning at 10:30. You can attend in person or via Zoom.
The Purley Quaker Meeting House reflects the Quaker values. These values include peace, equality, and community. The Religious Society of Friends seeks peace and righteousness. They deny bloody principles and outward wars. This testimony to the whole world guides them. The spirit of Christ leads them into all Truth. It will never move them to fight against anyone with outward weapons.
As you stand here remember the history. Remember the people who found solace and community within these walls. The Purley Quaker Meeting House stands as a testament to enduring faith. It reflects the commitment to peace. Although Purley Friends meet elsewhere this building remains. It stands as a reminder of their presence in the community.