A Genealogically Led History of Methodism in North Dorset (176 pages)

John and Charles Wesley founded the Methodist movement in the 18th century, sparking a religious transformation that spread across England and beyond. While tracing my maternal ancestry - deeply rooted in the North Dorset towns of Shaftesbury, Motcombe, and Gillingham - the author uncovered a recurring and influential theme: Methodism. This faith was not only central to my family’s history but also played a crucial role in shaping the local community. The intermarriage of Methodist families emerged as a key factor in the movement’s expansion in North Dorset. This paper explores both the genealogical lineage of Methodism in the region and the author’s personal connection to this enduring spiritual heritage, shedding light on Dorset’s broader contribution to the growth of the Methodist tradition.