Routes, Networks, Connections

The Old Meeting House Unitarian Chapel in the centre of Mansfield invites you to their Heritage Open Days on Saturday and Sunday, 14-15 September, 10am – 4pm. The two days programme will feature talks, exhibitions, a quiz, self-guided tour, children`s corner, refreshments - a good time for all the family.
This year`s topic of Routes-Networks-Connections offers an opportunity to find out more about the history of the chapel, of our fascinating town, of how our community has been shaped over time by the people who came to settle here.
 Featured on the HOD Thirty Year Anniversary Gallery, the Old Meeting House Unitarian Chapel was built in 1702 and is the oldest nonconformist place of worship still in existence in Nottinghamshire.  It has a Victorian interior featuring spectacular stained glass windows, three by the William Morris Co as well as fascinating memorials to noteworthy people like William Hollins and John Harrop-White.
Through the 2024 theme ' Looking Back to Look Forward ', you are invited to hear about the various groups of people who followed differing routes to settle in Mansfield over the years, like the dissenting clergy ejected from their ministries in the 1660s and migrants from Eastern and Central Europe who helped found communities after WWII which enriched and diversified the networks and make-up of the town. Discover how in turn, links and connections were made to offer the hand of friendship across the Atlantic Ocean through the Sister Cities programme and how assistance in times of need was given to Europe. Find out more about the Grade 2 listed War Memorial and the moving stories of the men from WWI and WWII who are remembered on it. Learn about the history that lies behind some of the street names and take a self-guided tour around our interesting town to discover how many of the heritage buildings have an association with the Chapel. Enjoy a warm welcome and refreshments in this „Hidden Gem" of a place tucked away in its peaceful garden in the very centre of town.