Church history is brought to life

CHURCH chronicle . . . Barry G Whitehead (left) with the minister, Pastor Frank Wroe and the new book

New book chronicles 200 years

SOME 200 years of history has been squeezed into a fascinating new book which tells the story of a famous church.

“The Ebenezer Chronicle” is all about Ebenezer Congregational Church in Uppermill.

It has been written by church member Barry G Whitehead. He began writing during the church’s bicentenary in 2007. Chapters were printed in the church magazine.

However, as more information poured in from records, archives and church members, Mr Whitehead’s work soon became a paperback book — 100 copies have already been sold.

Mr Whitehead (59), a private maths teacher, said: “I very much enjoyed writing it.

“I was determined to make it interesting and readable. I wanted to put it into context with the history of Saddleworth from Napoleonic times, through the First World War and right up to the present day. I had some church records and a lot of information from the Congregational Federation libraries based in London, as well as church members.

“They also had more information in their lofts — pictures as well.

“I started out doing a chapter every two months, then more information would come back from a variety of sources.

“All in all, it took me around 20 months to write.”

Ebenezer minister, Pastor Frank Wroe, said: “It’s fantastic. The way it links into world events really puts it into context.”


The limited edition 154-page volume is on sale at £7.99. To purchase a copy, contact Mr Whitehead on 01457-874 656.