The Church

In the early days of the village, meeting-rooms and lay-preachers were made available for those that required them. Gaelic services for the descendants of Highland workers were held in the meeting-room underneath the Bell Tower on the top floor of the New Buildings. However, the Company later paid for the services of a Church Minister who came regularly to conduct religious meetings in the Hall (Gallery Room in the Institute).

By the end of the 19th. century, it was clearly felt that a purpose built place of worship was desirable and hence the building of the Church took place.
The Church dates from 1898. The construction was paid for by the villagers of New Lanark themselves by means of a public subscription. The Church, attached to the parish of St. Nicholas, was built to serve the needs of all those living in the village and continued to do so until the mills ceased production in 1968. In 1974, it was sold to the New Lanark Association for £150. It is now used for meetings, community social events and is commonly referred to today as the Village Hall.

ACTIVITY

1. What provision for Church services was made available in the early days of the village?

2. When was the Church built and where did the money come from to pay for its construction?

3. For what purposes is the Church used today?