Established in 1921 Wesley House stands proudly in Jesus Lane Cambridge. It began as a Methodist theological college. Its founder was Michael Gutteridge a generous Methodist businessman from Naples. He was renowned for his philanthropy in Italy. Gutteridge’s vision was ambitious. He wanted a college in Cambridge. This would allow Methodist students to experience university life. They would also live in a community of prayer and scholarship.
Wesley House initially occupied a different location. After four years it moved to its present site. This site was purchased from Jesus College. The move happened in 1925. The principal’s house was finished in 1929. The chapel followed in 1930. The buildings reflect a Tudor revival style. Maurice Webb designed them. The gardens were the work of Sir Aston Webb. The original chapel paintings were by Harold Speed.
The first principal Dr Henry Maldwyn Hughes shaped the college significantly. He served from 1921 to 1937. He wrote extensively on Christian belief. His successor was Reverend Robert Newton Flew. Flew also served as a professor. He held the position until 1955. He played a pivotal role in establishing the World Council of Churches. Among the early students was Donald Soper. Bolaji Idowu another notable alumnus later led the Methodist Church in Nigeria.
In 1973 a new building was added. It provided flats for married students and a lecture theatre. This building is no longer part of Wesley House. A major change occurred in 2014. The college sold its Jesus Lane site back to Jesus College. The trustees then secured a long lease on the eastern part. The principal’s house and chapel remained. A new gatehouse was constructed. This houses the library dining hall and teaching rooms. Student accommodation was also built. Prince Edward an alumnus of the neighboring Jesus College officially opened the new buildings in 2016-2017.
Today Wesley House thrives. It offers various degrees from BTh to PhD. It is a vibrant center for theological study. Students come from around the world. It publishes the academic journal Holiness. Wesley House also partners with institutions globally. These include Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary in South Africa. Others include Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington DC. The Kenya Methodist University and Candler School of Theology in Atlanta are also part of its network. Wesley House continues to build upon its rich history. It remains a beacon of theological scholarship and community. It serves the global Methodist tradition.