Originally a branch of the Rothwell, Northants., Independent Church, the Kimbolton church became independent peaceably in 1692. It remained Independent during the 18th century but later became Baptist. My transcript of the first Kimbolton Church Book from 1692-1764, with a summary of later entries to 1823, is with the Church Book itself in the County Record Office at Huntingdon (with a copy in the County Record Office, Bedford). Only early entries of Bedfordshire interest are given here.

At a sollemne Church Meeting of the Church of Christ of Kimbolton….. 11th day of the Second month….. 1692/3….. Ann Staggers of Riseley and Elizabeth Garratt of Dean accepted. Susana Pentlow of Little Staughton defferred.

At a Church Meeting of the Church of Christ at Kimbolton being the 10th day of the third month 1693 then the Church proceeded to open the gates of Zion’s gates and there offered herself Elizabeth Johnson of Keysoe. Admitted.

The fourth day of the fourth month, being the Lord’s Day a letter was read which came from some freinds in and about Bedford, to request messengers from this Church of Christ to see their embodying together on the 23d day of the 4th month. Brother Rowlatt, brother Gurry, brother Marlin are apointed to go to Bedford….. to see their embodying together.

At a Church Meeting at Kimbolton the 20th day of the second month 1693, after some time solemnly spent in prayer and singing the Church proceeded to open the gates of Zion for the receiving of such as might offer themselves, and there offered themselves…..John Clapham, Pertenhall.

At a Church Meeting the 20th February 1697/98 Elizabeth Dawson, alias Thurgood, came to the Church and acckoledged her repentance for the wiked action she was cutt off from the Church for, and the Church was in some measure sattisfied with her, only agreed to send to the church at Bedford to enquire of her conversation.

At a Church Meeting the 30th day of the 10th moneth 1698 ….. Sister Flawn of Bonist being guilty of the breach of the Sabboth, brother Gurry and brother Sadington and appointed messengers to her to require her to be here the next Church meeting to answer to what is charged, or may be charged, against her.