Methodist Revivalism and Social Reform in the Paradise of Dissent 1838-1939

This study, based on meticulous scholarship, well-crafted examples and a mastery of existing scholarship, is written with crisp clarity with confidently presented conclusions that significantly advance our understanding of Methodism in South Australia in its first century. I commend it to the attention of scholars and general readers alike. Brian Dickey, formerly Associate Professor of History, Flinders University. Brian Chalmers explores for the first time in depth a central strand in the history of Methodism in South Australia. This invigorating work clearly demonstrates the importance of revivalism and the expectation of personal conversions as the main source of Methodist energy and numerical growth until the early twentieth century. Then the impetus faded. This is a significant contribution to the religious history of South Australia. David Hilliard OAM, formerly Associate Professor of History, Flinders University.