Considering Mary Fletcher, what comes to your mind? This Mary Fletcher Plaque marks a site of significance. It commemorates the place where Mary Fletcher once lived. Let’s delve into the story of this remarkable woman.
The Mary Fletcher Plaque designates the former location of “The Cedars”. Mary Fletcher, born Mary Bosanquet, resided here from 1763 to 1768. The L.U.D.R.A. erected this plaque in 1909 to honor her memory.
Mary Bosanquet Fletcher was born in 1739. She became an influential English preacher. She is often credited with convincing John Wesley to allow women to preach publicly. Mary came from an affluent family. However, she rejected her luxurious lifestyle after converting to Methodism. She dedicated her life to charity.
In 1763, Mary and Sarah Ryan moved to The Cedars. This was one of the Fletcher family’s properties in Leytonstone. They envisioned a school and orphanage similar to John Wesley’s Kingswood School. They wanted to help others. Over time, other Methodist women joined their cause. These included Sarah Crosby and Mary Clark.
The women at The Cedars welcomed the poor from London. They also took in those who had strayed from their faith. The residents wore dark purple cotton uniforms. They learned manners, reading and religion. Writing, nursing and domestic skills were also taught.
Mary Fletcher managed the orphanage. She planned worship and managed finances. She taught the children and led meetings. She also nursed the sick. The Cedars soon became a center of Methodism in Leytonstone.
Villagers initially opposed the work at The Cedars. They threw dirt and yelled at residents. But Mary’s kindness eventually won them over. The orphanage supported 35 children and 34 adults during its five years. John Wesley praised the women’s efforts.
In 1768, the school moved to Cross Hall in Yorkshire. The goal was to reduce costs and improve health. However, Sarah Ryan died shortly after their arrival. Mary continued her charitable work despite criticism.
Mary Fletcher’s influence extended beyond her charitable work. She defended women’s right to preach. She argued that women should preach when God called them. John Wesley accepted this idea. He formally allowed women to preach in Methodism in 1771.
In 1781, Mary married John Fletcher. They started a joint ministry in Madeley, Shropshire. They were considered the first clergy couple among the Methodists. The residents were captivated by their preaching. After John Fletcher’s death in 1785, Mary continued her ministry. She preached in Madeley and nearby villages.
Mary Fletcher died in 1815. She was buried with her husband. Her legacy lived on. Her biography was reprinted many times. Agnes Cotton opened a home for girls in Leytonstone in 1895. She purchased The Cedars and renamed it The Pastures.
Standing before this Mary Fletcher Plaque we remember a woman of deep faith. She was a champion for the disadvantaged. She paved the way for women in ministry. Her story serves as an inspiration. It reminds us of the power of compassion and dedication.