Mechanics Institute

Dr George Birkbeck, (1776-1841) was born in Settle, Yorkshire but practised medicine in London. In 1823 together with two colleagues, they were concerned with the lack of education for the working men of London. They established the first Mechanics Institute in the capital to improve the situation. Many industrial towns soon established their own 'Institutes' with similar aims and by 1841, more than 200 institutes existed nationwide. Over the years, many evolved or merged into art schools or colleges. In 1866, the first London-based 'Institute' was renamed the Birkbeck Literary and Scientific Institution, now known as Birkbeck College, part of London University.