Charles Manthorpe

Rev. Charles Manthorpe (31 March 1836 – 6 December 1898) was a Congregationalist minister remembered for his 36-year pastorate in Glenelg, South Australia.

History Manthorpe was born and grew up in Norwich, East Anglia, and began his working life as a teacher in nearby Peafield, and was engaged as a lay preacher in nearby villages. Encouraged and guided by his pastor, Rev Mr. Alexander, he studied for the Christian ministry and after a few years was appointed to the Congregational Church at Long Stretton, then in 1856 was called to Newport, Essex, where he was ordained and succeeded the old Rev. Mr. Hopkins.

This was at a time when missionaries were competing to develop churches in the farthest reaches of the British Empire, and at Rev. J. L. Poore's urging, Manthorpe accepted a call to South Australia in 1858. On arrival he was posted to the churches of Happy Valley and Morphett Vale, whose incumbent, the Rev. A. R. Philps had been transferred to Truro.

Manthorpe commenced at Glenelg in May 1862, and immediately had the church interior finished and made more attractive. His second was undertaken in 1891 as a delegate to the International Council of Congregational Churches in London. Shortly after his return he resigned, leaving in 1892, Manthorpe attended several services in the new building before his death. The ornate memorial may be viewed here.

Family Charles Manthorpe (31 March 1836 – 6 December 1898) married Harriet Whitridge Baker ( –1920) on 20 October 1859. Harriet was the eldest daughter of Rev. E Baker, of Morphett Vale. Their large family included: Charles Edward Manthorpe (1860– 1922) married Edith Margaret Preston (1862–1940) on 20 April 1886.

Emma Sarah Manthorpe (1863–1944) married Tullie Comthwaite Wollaston in 1886 Ruth Agnes Manthorpe (1865–1901) married Ralph James Beckwith in 1888

Florence Manthorpe (1868– 1939) Elinor Manthorpe (1869– 1884)

Marion Manthorpe (1872–1897) married Sidney Herbert Hambridge in 1896

Percy Wayte Manthorpe (1876– 1923) Eva Alice Manthorpe (1879–1972) married George Percival Howie in 1910