The Friendly Gatherings of the choirs of the various places of Worship belonging to the particular or strict baptist society, commenced in 1891. They began in this way. One Saturday afternoon in August 1891, Mr. William Whittaker of Stubbins, had invited the Manchester choir, and the “Rehoboth” (Goodshawfold) to meet him at the Ramsbottom Railway Station. When all had arrived, he took us through the grounds of Nuttall Hall (by permission). after which, we sang several hymns in front of the Hall, then we went up Jacob’s ladder, on our way to Grant’s Gower, the day being pleasant and beautiful, made more impression on our visit, a thing to.be remembered. Arrived at our destination, both choirs united and sang several Psalm runes and choruses, from the great masters. Then we had an excellent tea, afterwards a little more singing, but before parting, a meeting next year was decided on and about the same date. It was also decided to fix next year's meeting to be on Holcombe Hill, which is across the valley, directly opposite to where we were then.