Trevecka College

Heritage listing

Reason for designation: Listed Grade II* for the remarkable survival of Gothick work, for the exceptional interior rooms, and on account of its celebrated historical associations with the early history of nonconformism. History: The farm of Trevecka fawr was the home of Howel Harris, (1714 - 1773) who was schooled in Talgarth, and at the dissenting academy at Llwyn-llwyd. As a result of an overwhelming spiritual experience at Talgarth in 1735 under the influence of the Rev. Pryce Davies, he was converted to missionary work. He set up at Trevecka fach his teulu as a model of Christian life and co-operation, and began a life dedicated to preaching in Wales, setting up further seiat , the first being at Y Wernos, Llandyfalle. His success drew the attention of John Wesley, whom he met in Bristol in 1739 and agreed separate areas of prozletising, and also of Selina Hastings, the Countess of Huntingdon, whose influence on Harris from late 1739 was significant to his further work. He drew many supporters and followers, including George Whitefield (from 1739), William Williams, Pantycelyn, teacher at Llwyn llwyd, and Peter Williams. Harris and Daniel Rowlands underwent a public schism at Llandiloes in 1750, partly due to Harris being inspired by the Moravians after a visit to Fulbeck, and he returned home to Trefeca. He received a donation from Madam Sidney Griffith of Cefnamlwch of 900 in 1752 for the enlargement of the house, and for the building of community buildings, a chapel, infirmary, bathhouse, dovecote and a fishpond. Building apparently commenced forthwith in a Kentian Modern Gothick style , then being newly promoted by Sanderson Miller at Lacock, and by Bateman, under the influence of Walpole, at Shobdon, Herefordshire, although further enlightenment on Harris s cho

From Cadw under OGL v3.