Trefeca

Trefeca is a place in Powys, Wales, historically associated with a significant religious revival in the 18th century. It is primarily known for its connection to Howell Harris and the establishment of a Calvinistic Methodist community there.

History:

• Howell Harris: Trefeca became central to the ministry of Howell Harris, a key figure in the Welsh Methodist revival. Harris established a religious community at Trefeca in 1752.

• The Family: The community, often referred to as "The Family" at Trefeca, was a residential establishment that housed hundreds of people. It operated on a communal basis, with members sharing resources and dedicating their lives to religious devotion and service. It included individuals from diverse backgrounds, including laborers, farmers, and preachers.

• Trefeca College: In 1768, Howell Harris founded Trefeca College (Coleg Trefeca), also known as Trevecca College, at the site. This college was intended to train ministers for the Calvinistic Methodist denomination.

• Legacy: After Harris's death in 1773, the community gradually declined, but Trefeca College continued to operate. It remained a significant institution for the training of ministers within the Presbyterian Church of Wales until its relocation to Aberystwyth in 1905. The buildings and grounds at Trefeca still stand and are a notable historical site.

Significance:

Trefeca holds a significant place in Welsh religious history due to its association with the Welsh Methodist revival, Howell Harris, and the establishment of Trefeca College. It represents a unique experiment in communal living based on religious principles and played a crucial role in shaping Welsh religious and cultural life. The site continues to be a point of interest for those studying the history of Methodism and the religious landscape of Wales.