Talk on the History of Mechanics Institute

There has been a Mechanics’ Institute in Galway for almost 200 years. Since the 1840s, it has occupied its present headquarters in Middle Street. In this talk for Heritage Week, Dr John Cunningham of the University of Galway will discuss the local importance of the Institute, and trace its changing priorities over the decades: from artisan education and local improvement to workers’ rights; from moral reform to sociability and sport. No booking required.