Three hundred years ago in the Rusland Valley, the Quaker Meeting House was completed as a place to hold meetings for a movement which has deep roots in Cumbria.
Just a few miles away, Swarthmoor Hall is known as ‘the cradle of Quakerism’ and three centuries on, Rookhow in Rusland is still very much in use.
The Quaker charity is a favourite venue for schools and community organisations and has subsidised over 70 groups to stay there in the last few years under its Retreat Away scheme.
The scheme aims to support groups who would not otherwise be able to access such a venue and beneficiaries have included people dealing with domestic abuse, alcohol and drug recovery, youth groups, homeless people, families on low incomes and mental health groups.
Built in 1725 as a place for Quaker business meetings, it still serves as a place of worship.
The charity holds events as well as providing holiday, retreat and group accommodation with its 16-bed bunk barn and 12 acres of woodland.
Quakers’ Wood has recently attracted interest as an example of a temperate rainforest with its biodiversity and abundance of lichen and mosses.
It has been part of Rainforest Revival Project in the Rusland Valley.
“We’re really excited to be celebrating Rookhow’s 300th anniversary as a valuable community resource in South Lakes and it’s wonderful to share it,” Sue Nicholls, Rookhow development manager said.
On June 7, a 300th anniversary event will be held with visitors encouraged to arrive by foot and bike in the spirit of people gathering together from the outlying areas of South Cumbria in the early 18th century.
There will be a Quaker Meeting at noon followed by speakers, activities for young people and refreshments.
Speakers will include Quaker historian Rex Ambler and Hannah Larn from the Rose Castle Foundation who will talk about Rookhow’s history and its vision for the future.
To learn more about the 300th anniversary celebrations visit the Rookhow website or contact Sue via econtactrookhow@gmail.com Tel 07377 971783
