Redberth Chapel
The foundation of the chapel arose in the main from 2 circumstances: the arrival in the area of John Ashley - a Wesleyan preacher and the neglect of the church building and its ministry. John Ashley, a Cornishman, settled in the village following his marriage to Jane Phelps, daughter of Harry Phelps Esq. of Norchard in the parish of Jeffreyston.
The chapel
He and his wife worked to improve the moral condition of the locality and religious meetings were held, in the Lodge and elsewhere, at which they preached. In 1822 a cottage and garden owned by Ashley were turned into a chapel. In 1837 the Ashleys moved to Tenby. She died aged 70 in 1842, and he in 1857 (aged 86). They were buried in Redberth Churchyard. Amongst the early enthusiasts was Thomas Howell, who led the Society after the Ashleys moved. His son, Harry Howell (born at Croft Farm in 1835) was a local preacher in the Pembroke Circuit.
During the 20th century the chapel continued to contribute to the spiritual life of the area, and local inhabitants recall the flourishing Sunday School of the pre-war years. Sunday School outings to Saundersfoot, Pendine, Ferryside and Llansteffan are remembered. At Saundersfoot food was prepared by the grown-ups ‘and we had the use of a garden of Burgess Bakery leading on to the beach’. Unfortunately the chapel was closed on 12th May 1985 and is now a dwelling house.
