Dover Baptist Church (Salem)
Reverend William Kirk and his wife Marie
Temple Ewell Baptist Church
As mentioned, Dover Baptist Church consists of two fellowships. The larger, Salem, was founded in 1839. It was originally known as Salem Baptist Church. It was formed by sixteen members of Pentside Baptist Church, which closed in 1909. Salem's Chapel was in Biggin Street on the site of what is now Boots the Chemist. In 1970 plans were drawn up for a new building in Maison Dieu Road.
At one time Salem had responsibility for several mission chapels. They were at St. Margaret's at Cliffe, Ewell Minnis, Temple Ewell and Capel-Le-Ferne. The first two are now closed, Capel is cared for by Folkestone Baptist Church.
The last, Temple Ewell is our second fellowship. It has an independent history going back to 1805. The two fellowships came together in 1893, and as mentioned on the home page we have a shared membership, currently 65.
If you are interested in the Baptist history, Pam Godden, a member at Salem has written and had published a book giving a fascinating account of Salem's history. It is available from "The Weigh Inn", Worthington Street, Dover; "The Vine Bookshop", Folkestone and direct from the church. Cost £7.50, with notes and references also available for 50p.
