Wakefield Mechanics 1. The Music Saloon of 1821

In 1820 there was heavy community demand to build Public Rooms in Wood Street. Subscriptions funded the building of Public Rooms with a grand Music Saloon above a subscription library, a newsroom and a savings bank.

Public baths were established in the basement of the building following a public meeting in March 1832. Although these baths, which included a steam bath, warm bath, plunge bath and shower, had a recreational element (families could attend together for 10s 6d) they were primarily provided for hygienic and medical purposes. 

The Music Saloon hosted numerous talks and concerts, including Wakefield’s premier social event, the annual charity ball founded in 1828. During the 1820’s and 1830’s, visiting showmen would bring panoramas (huge lengths of painted canvas, which were drawn from one roller to another) displaying scenes of battles or of natural wonders. 

After the opening of Wakefield’s Corn Exchange in Westgate in 1838, the Music Saloon quickly lost popularity and events like balls, bazaars, and even professional operas, took place in the much grander Corn Exchange assembly room.