Mechanics hosted famed Tom Thumb (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Mechanics hosted famed Tom Thumb

5:49pm Friday 5th June 2009 in

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BURNLEY Mechanics has been a backbone of arts and entertainment in the town for more than 150 years.

Designed by architect James Green, of Todmorden, the building was opened back in 1855 by Sir Charles Towneley.

It was built as an example of the wider Mechanics Institute Movement, which flourished in industrial areas during the early 19th century and aimed to provide a better standard of education and skills among the local workforce.

The original building, in Manchester Road, became a social, cultural and educational centre for the local community, with people able to enjoy classes in the arts, science and technology.Concerts, variety shows and theatre productions were also held there, and one of the entertainers who appeared on stage in 1859 was the celebrated Tom Thumb, who achieved fame under circus pioneer P T Barnum.

The Mechanics also hosted the London Philharmonic in 1941, while school prize givings and music festivals were also regularly staged there.

The institute flourished until changing social and economic patterns resulted in its closure in 1959. By 1963 it had become the New Empress night spot, and later a bingo hall.