Volume Eleven - Pre-Victorian to the Present Day - some more aspects - The Growth of Wesleyan Methodism at Penarth . . .

The story of the development of the tidal harbour, basin and dock at Penarth through the late 1850's and 60's has been previously documented within this website and the social entertainment at 'Dagger Town', part of the 'Bowery' district of Penarth, included activities such as 'ale houses, “baccy”, gambling, prostitution, opium dens, along with the occasional murder or two.' The morals of the community were, to say the least, in need of guidance, reformation and both men and women were in need of spiritual guidance. The Wesleyan Methodist faith played its role in this respect.

The following report, highlighting the prevailing social depravation of the working classes at Penarth, was published in the Journal of the Rev. James Shearman January 5th, 1865.

He wrote : -

1865 - Penarth - (Cardiff) - Several who violently persecuted our members here, have been recently converted. One of the worst has just been subdued by the grace of God, and has joined one of our classes.

On her husband becoming seriously ill, the Methodists were sent for, and earnestly entreated to pray with him. They were soon at his bed-side ; and he was brought to deep repentance, found mercy, and died trusting in Christ for salvation. His widow is most attentive to our services, and is about to join us in Christian fellowship.

Our cottage meeting on the 11th of January, was crowded with persons, who, for the most part, had been neglecters of worship. The blessing of God was powerfully manifested in our midst. The tears of the unsaved flowed apace, and cries for mercy were heard. We were much encouraged with the results of this meeting, which was held in our most degraded neighbourhood.

Small-pox and fever are prevalent here, and cases have terminated fatally. Considering the way in which many of the inhabitants live, and the condition of some of the newly-formed streets, it is not to be wondered at that disease should abound.

Sanitary improvements are much needed, and cannot be safely delayed. Filth and vice are here associated. In some houses I find dirt, scarcely any furniture, and tattered garments ; though the men living in this manner are earning good wages.