18th century |
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In its turn the building was replaced in 1740 with another small church on the same site. At that time Charles Wesley (1707-1788) lived and worked in Marylebone. Wearing a blue coat and a broad hat he rode a white pony, and was a familiar figure in the byways of Marylebone. While riding his pony he composed many of his most famous hymns: "Jesus, Lover of my Soul", "Soldiers of Christ Arise", "Hark the Herald Angels Sing", "Love Divine all Loves Excelling". During his last illness Charles Wesley sent for the Rector of St Marylebone, The Revd John Harley (of the family after whom Harley Street is named), and said: "Sir, whatever the world may say of me, I have lived, and I die, a member of the Church of England. I pray you to bury me in your churchyard." He died on 29 March 1788 and his body was carried to St Marylebone Church by eight clergymen of the Church of England. A memorial stone to him stands in the gardens in the High Street, close to where he was buried. One of his sons was later organist of our present church. The poet Lord Byron (1788-1824) was baptised there in 1788. Admiral Lord Nelson (1758-1805) worshipped there and his daughter Horatia was baptised in that church. |
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L-R: Robert Browning, Admiral Lord Nelson, Charles Wesley, Lord Byron, Elizabeth Barrett Browning. |
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For enquiries on the history of St Marylebone Parish Church or genealogy, please contact our Verger who will try to assist |
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