Fairfield Moravian Church, nestled in the serene suburb of Droylsden, Lancashire, is a hidden gem of historical and architectural significance. Founded in 1785 by Benjamin La Trobe, this church and its surrounding settlement were established as a hub for the Moravian Church’s evangelistic work in the Manchester area. The Fairfield Moravian Church is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich heritage and enduring spirit of the Moravian community.
The story of Fairfield Moravian Church begins in the mid-18th century when the Moravians, a Protestant denomination with roots in the early 15th century, sought to expand their mission work in Northern England. Initially setting up a base in Lightcliffe, near Halifax, the Moravians soon moved to the Manchester area at the behest of local supporters James Taylor and John Wood. In 1751, a congregation was established in Dukinfield, Cheshire, but the limited scope for expansion prompted the search for a new site. In 1783, the Moravians purchased sixty acres of land in Droylsden, marking the birth of the Fairfield settlement.
The architect of this new settlement was Brother John Lees, a dedicated member of the Moravian Church from Clarksfield, Oldham. Funding for the construction came from various Moravian congregations across England, Germany, and America, amounting to a total cost of £6,000. On June 9, 1784, the foundation stones for the chapel and choir houses were laid, with a heartfelt declaration by the settlers expressing their desire to live a life separated from worldly seductions and to serve the propagation of the Gospel.
The chapel was privately consecrated on July 15, 1785, with a public opening following two days later. The opening ceremony was a grand affair, attracting around 1,500 attendees. The service featured a musical ode performed on the new organ by Brother Christian La Trobe, accompanied by brass bands from Fulneck and Fairfield, adding a unique Moravian touch to the event. The chapel’s significance was further highlighted by the sermon delivered by Benjamin La Trobe, the Provincial Helper overseeing Moravian work in the UK.
By 1785, the Fairfield community had grown to 110 members, with the settlement organized into three choirs or communities: married couples, single brothers, and single sisters. The single brethren and sisters lived in shared accommodations and worked within the settlement. The community was overseen by an elders conference, which managed the settlement’s economic activities, including weaving, baking, saddlery, farming, laundry, and needlework.
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The Fairfield Moravian Church is an architectural marvel, reflecting the simplicity and functionality characteristic of Moravian buildings. The chapel, initially referred to as the hall, was unlit and unheated, with hard benches surrounding a central pulpit and communion table. The seating arrangement adhered to the choir system, with sisters sitting on the east side and brethren on the west. The gallery opposite the pulpit housed an organ and a musical choir, enhancing the worship experience.
One of the unique aspects of the Fairfield congregation was the use of the Lot for decision-making. This practice involved drawing one of three slips of paper marked ‘Yes,’ ‘No,’ and blank after prayer, reflecting the Moravian belief in Christ as the active head of the Church. Although the use of the Lot began to wane by 1815, it remained a significant part of the community’s decision-making process for many years.
Adjacent to the church lies ‘God’s Acre,’ a burial ground symbolizing the equality of all brothers and sisters. The graves are marked by small, uniform gravestones bearing only the name and age of the departed. The Moravian tradition of not encouraging mourning is evident here, with corpses led to their graves by a choir of brass instruments and the minister. The sunrise service on Easter Sunday, celebrating the Resurrection, remains a cherished custom.
Fairfield also became a center for education with the establishment of a boarding school for girls in 1796 and another for boys in 1802. Although the boys’ school closed in 1891 and the girls’ in 1919, the legacy of these institutions continues through Fairfield High School.
The Moravian Church’s impulse to evangelize extended beyond the local community. Fairfield supported missionary work overseas, with members serving in places like Labrador, Jamaica, India, and Tanzania. The congregation also sought to establish new congregations in nearby areas, with varying degrees of success. The Fairfield community’s generosity was evident in their support for these missions, contributing significantly to their establishment and maintenance.
By the 1860s, the settlement life began to change, but the spirit of community and service remained strong. Today, Fairfield Moravian Church stands as a beacon of the Moravian faith and a testament to the enduring legacy of its founders. The church and its settlement offer a glimpse into a unique way of life, making it a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, and the rich tapestry of the Moravian heritage.
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