William Gadsby

William Gadsby (1773-1844) was the key founder of the Reformed Baptist denomination known as the Strict and Particular Baptist movement in England.

Along with other ministers such as the former Anglican, JC Philpot and his son, John Gadsby, he brought the Strict Baptist denomination into prominence during the 19th century. They would also later create a magazine known as the "Gospel Standard", which is still in print today and after which the largest organisation of Reformed Baptists in England is named.

Gadsby was also known for his social activism, hymn writing and nature-centred form of Christian socialism.

Early life

Gadsby's early life was filled with hardship. He was one of the eldest in a very poor family of 14. He grew up in Attleborough, Warwickshire and started work at 13. Despite a brief education at a Church school in Nuneaton, he soon forgot how to read.

After a dramatic conversion experience, he decided to give his life up to Christ and began to preach at a barn in the Town of Hinckley, where he was systematically harassed by thugs. On one occasion, they stole his pulpit and attempted to sink it in a nearby by river but could not even after they had filled it with rocks. Eventually they exclaimed that the devil must be in it for they couldn't sink the man or his pulpit.

Later life

After leaving the barn in Hinckley, Gadsby became a pastor in Manchester, where he expanded the Strict Baptist movement, founded over 40 chapels, and championed social justice. He was a prominent figure in Christian socialism and a vocal critic of the established Church, influencing both theology and politics through his activism and preaching.