Since 1849, Wesleyan Reformers have maintained their witness as a separate body among the Free churches. "Wesleyan Reformers" who date their origin from the unhappy experiences of 1849, when expulsions and secessions from Wesleyan Methodism followed a long period of agitation for reform, had their roots deep in Methodist soil. From it they drew their missionary urge and evangelical zeal, in the proclaiming of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Taking fresh root when the separation came, they have now, for one hundred and fifty years, maintained their own distinctive witness.

The point of difference with Wesleyan Methodism was that of church polity, an autonomous form of government being desired in which each church has the right of administering its own affairs. There are three names that will ever be linked with the agitation for reform, Revs. J Everett, S Dunn and W Griffiths. Because of the agitation, the three ministers, and many others, seceded or were expelled from Wesleyan Methodism.

Many churches, and in some areas whole circuits, showed their sympathy and banded themselves together to form a new Connexion.