1877 Wesley’s Hymns Methodist Hymnal with Tunes by Rev. John Wesley

Item Description

Title: A Collection of Hymns, for the Use of the People Called Methodists
Author: Rev. John Wesley, M.A.
Edition: With a New Supplement – Edition with Tunes
Publisher: Wesleyan Conference Office, London
Year: 1877
Binding: Original black cloth with gilt spine lettering
Printed in: England

This is an authentic 19th-century Wesleyan Methodist hymnal, complete with musical notation, published in 1877. It is a well-used but complete copy, showing honest age and wear consistent with church or devotional use.

Historical Background of the Book

This hymnal is part of the official Methodist tradition established in the 18th century and carried forward into the Victorian era. The original Collection of Hymns was first issued in 1780 and became one of the most influential hymn books in Protestant Christianity.

The “Edition with Tunes” reflects an important development in Methodist worship: the inclusion of printed musical settings rather than lyrics alone. By the late 19th century, congregational singing had become central to Methodist identity, and this format helped standardize worship across chapels in Britain and abroad.

This 1877 edition represents the mature form of Wesleyan hymnody during the height of Methodism’s influence in Victorian England.

About John Wesley (1703–1791)

John Wesley was the founder of the Methodist movement and one of the most significant figures in Christian history. An Anglican priest and Oxford scholar, Wesley emphasized:

• Personal faith and spiritual discipline

• Social reform and charity

• Congregational singing as a means of teaching theology

Although many hymns were written by his brother Charles Wesley, John Wesley carefully edited and compiled hymn collections, believing hymns were essential tools for spreading doctrine and devotion. His hymnals shaped Protestant worship worldwide and remain influential today.

Physical Description & Condition

• Original black cloth binding with gilt title on spine “WESLEY’S HYMNS”

• Pages include both lyrics and musical notation

• Typical wear for age:

  • Edge wear and scuffing to covers

  • Spine and inner hinges show cracking

  • Some page gutter tears and age toning

• Complete and intact (1 page is almost loose)

Please review all photos carefully.

Why This Book Is Special

Genuine 19th-century Methodist hymnal
Includes printed musical scores
Published during the Victorian era
Important artefact of English religious and musical history
Ideal for collectors of:

• Antique religious books

• Methodist or church history

• Hymnals and sacred music