Dalkeith Working Lads' Institute
The Disruption of 1843 led to the creation of the Dalkeith Academy (or Back Street School) by the secessionists. The building was designed by a Mr Mitchell, and opened in 1846. It was closed in 1903, and re-opened three years later as the Working Lads' Institute.
By the end of 1906 the institute had 192 members, many being attracted by the gymnasium, lecture hall, reading room, library and workshop. Subscriptions from were between 1s and 2s, which also entitled members to attend numerous lectures. Many such lectures were on world geography.
The first working man's institute emerged in 1858 in Salford. The idea mushroomed when Henry Solly, who wanted to promote temperance, sociability, education and fraternity on a national level, helped set up the 'Working Men's Club and Institute Union'. Although the temperance ideal was abandoned in 1863, the other aims were met by introducing libraries, sports and entertainment.
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