Introduction

One day, way back in 1989, Kenneth Beanland and I went to examine the Quaker Archives in Leeds University under the watchful and very helpful eye of Russell Mortimer. We were trying to find out what previous building work had been done at Rawdon, so that a more accurate assessment of how to restore the Meeting House could be made.
So, as the 300^th Anniversary loomed, I longed to peruse the Archives again, in the hope of writing a history booklet.
On reflection, I was moved to invite members of Rawdon Meeting to compile essays on various topics and how wonderfully they responded!
We have all learnt a great deal about the Meeting’s history and I have learnt that a full history will take longer…

"Thank you" to all the authors; to the artists, David Griffiths and Kenneth Beanland, to the photographer Enid Sheldon, who also helped me translate the B1 minute book, to Tabitha Driver at Friends House Library, to Mr. & Mrs. Martin, to Mr. & Mrs. Lawson, to Judith Wood, to William Matchell, and to the Custodians of the Quaker records deposited in the Special Archives, Brotherton Library, University of Leeds, to Jean and Russell Mortimer for their help with translation, history and a lot else besides and to everyone else who has contributed and supported this work.

"Thank you", also to those past Quakers who will have to wait for another book, the Hirds, the Franklands , the Marshalls, the Coopers, the Whalleys and so many others.

Our present day "Advices and Queries", includes these words;

"Take heed, dear Friends, to the promptings of love and truth in your hearts. Trust them as the leadings of God whose Light shows us our darkness and brings us to new life."

Happy 300^th Anniversary, Rawdon Meeting House and every blessing for your next three centuries.