Wakefield Mechanics 2. The Wakefield Mechanics Institute

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In the Victorian period, Mechanics' Institutes were educational establishments designed to provide adult education, particularly in technical subjects, for working class men. These institutes were often funded by local industrialists in the hope that they would benefit from having a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce, whilst also providing their employees with an alternative pastime to gambling and drinking in public houses.

The Wakefield Mechanic's Institute was formed in 1841. During its first year, working men met in rooms in today's Mandela Square, holding events and classes in different rooms across the town. The Institute began to lease the Music Saloon and its Anteroom in 1842, and in 1850, the High Court of the Ancient Order of Foresters met for a week in the Music Saloon, with around 100 representatives attending from all over the country. In 1855, the Music Saloon building was put up for sale by auction, and since the newly established Wakefield Corporation had no Town Hall, the Town Council considered purchasing the building. However, the Mechanics' Institution outbid the Council and purchased the building, which became their base for the following century.