The Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers, was founded in 1652 by George Fox.
A small group of Quakers began meeting in Saffron Walden in the middle of the 17th century, before non-conformist religions were tolerated. Magistrates initially persecuted the Quakers and they were heavily fined for meeting openly.
In 1676, the quakers purchased a cottage in Cucking Stool End Street (now the High Street) and a backroom became the Friends’ Meeting House, thus establishing a permanent meeting place, and their influence has quietly shaped the Town ever since. They were still persecuted and on at least two occasions Magistrates ordered the Meeting House doors to be nailed up. The Meeting House was extended in 1791 and extensively rebuilt in 1879 to accommodate pupils from the Friends’ School. Prominent 18th and 19th century Quaker families in Saffron Walden included the Gibsons, the Frys, the Tukes, the Wyatts, and the Day Green family.
A spokesperson for Saffron Walden Quaker Meeting said: “350 is an extraordinary span of time. Saffron Walden has changed enormously since those early Quakers faced persecution for meeting together, but the Religious Society of Friends has remained part of the life of the town throughout that history. We want this anniversary to be more than a look back. It is an opportunity to open our doors, share something of that history and invite people to discover for themselves what the Quaker tradition of simplicity, equality, peace and a space for quiet reflection might have to offer in today’s busy world.”
To mark the anniversary, several public events are planned. For more information on their proposed programme see Saffron Walden Reporter or visit saffronquakers.org.uk/350
Important Notice
On September 23rd 2026 our Society will be hosting a talk in the Meeting House, focussing on the women in the Farmer family, one of the Quaker families from Saffron Walden. Feet Forward.
All are welcome, visitors £2.00 entry. Click here for full details.