History of Former Freeland Church

280 years on the way

Freeland Church : History

The history of Freeland Church in Bridge of Weir has been described as one of the most interesting in the West of Scotland, as it reflects national events in the Church of Scotland from the early 18th Century up to the present. It includes many of the various schisms and reconciliations in the church throughout that time. It has been affiliated to different denominations. Major historical events have taken place during the lifetime of the congregation, from the Jacobite Rebellion and the Battle of Culloden in the earlier years to the two World Wars in the 20th Century.

It has been a long and testing journey which started in 1737, when there were only a few scattered farms in the area of Renfrewshire which we recognise today as Bridge of Weir. The original name was ‘Port o Weir’ which implied a place of crossing. This crossing was believed in fact to be a salmon weir located next to the very spot where the original ‘Burgher’ manse was built in 1826 on the south bank of the River Gryffe.

In 1826, it had become apparent that because of falling numbers, mainly as a result of the three way split in 1792, Johnstone, Lochwinnoch and Burntshields congregations. No future expansion of the congregation at Burntshields was likely and it was therefore decided to relocate the remaining congregation to a nearby growing community and Bridge of Weir was chosen as the most suitable place for this new venture. It had grown considerably as the cotton trade had expanded in the area and had seven works employing a total of nearly 700 people.

The last sermon at Burntshields was preached on 7th May 1826 and on the following Sunday, the new church opened in Bridge of Weir.

On the anniversary of Freeland Church’s 275 year a book was published which gives the history in more detail. If you would like a copy of this please do not hesitate to contact us via our website.

Our current Minister Kenneth Gray has just celebrated his 30th year with us. His ministry has been characterised by a great love for the Lord, a commitment to sharing His Word, a great love for the people of the church and parish.

Church Affiliations since                1738

The Killochries Community          1737 – 1738

The Associate Presbytery             1738 - 1746

The Burgher Church                      1746 - 1806

The Auld Licht Burghers                1806 - 1839

The Church of Scotland                1839 - 1843

The Free Church                             1843 - 1900

The United Free Church                1900 - 1929

The Church of Scotland                1929 to this day