1777 JOHN WESLEY. Pen Made from Wood Pillars Gifted by King George to John Wesley!

Up until 1778, the Methodists in London had been meeting at The Foundry. The building was old, in constant need of repair, and not purposed for an actual church. At long last, Wesley obtained a parcel of land directly across from the fabled Bunhill Fields, where non-conformist divines from all throughout England's history are buried. 

During the building process, and as a great testament to the social and cultural influence of the work of Wesley, the Methodist movement, and the Great Awakening more generally, King George reclaimed what many believe was American timber from the masts of some of his fleet and donated them to Wesley to be used as the main supporting pillars of what became City Road Chapel, or Wesley's Chapel. King George believed that the Methodists had played a vital role in stabilizing and preserving England during the volatile 18th century, and saw their movement of enough worth to support it.

During renovations done during the late 1870's and early 1880's, the pillars were replaced. I obtained a small piece given as a memento in the early 20th century and had some pens made to present to some wonderful donors who helped with a project I was involved with. We presented them with the prayer that just as the culture around Wesley saw evidence of the blessing of God so clearly that they affirmed His goodness through them, may this be a reminder for us to live up to the same standard; may our work be so evidently good, that the people of our community see His goodness through us as well.

There was enough of the wood section to create a few extras, which are offered here. 

Solid 1777 wood, the original gifted by King George, with newer pen housing, engraved with the name of John Wesley in the wood. A delight to use, putting a real sense of history in the hand, or gift. The original brass presentation piece not included.