The collection includes architect’s drawings of the New Wesleyan Methodist Chapel at Bridport by James Wilson of Belmont, Bath, together with estimates, specifications and contracts of the builder, Charles Galpin, 1838. The Grade II former Wesleyan Chapel in Bridport, an important civic building, now houses the town’s arts centre. The drawings and other material provide superb visual and technical data for the building, and complement the records of the Wesleyan Methodists and Bridport Borough held by the DHC.
It also includes letters and documents relating to the business affairs of Thomas and William Colfox of Bridport. The still-prominent Colfox family was politically and economically significant in the history of the borough. This acquisition is particularly welcome as much of the Colfox family archive is already held by the Dorset History Centre.