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Mechanics Institute, 1933
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Mechanics Institute, 1933
This view of the Mechanics Institute shows the entrance to The Playhouse Theatre. The fly tower for the theatre can be seen in the centre of the building. This was built when a fire destroyed the old stage in December 1930.
The Institute provided a library, theatre and games rooms for GWR employees and their families. It was built in 1854 and stood in the heart of the Railway Village
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 510578
© STEAM Picture Library 2007 - All Rights Reserved
Mechanic Swindon Village Playhouse
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken in 1933, showcases the grand entrance to The Playhouse Theatre at the Mechanics Institute in Swindon. The Institute, established in 1854, was a vital hub for employees and their families of the Great Western Railway (GWR). Nestled in the heart of the Railway Village, it offered an array of facilities including a library, theatre, and games rooms, providing an essential space for relaxation and community engagement. The central focus of this image is the fly tower for The Playhouse Theatre, which was constructed following a devastating fire that destroyed the old stage in December 1930. The fly tower was an essential component of the theatre, allowing for the smooth operation of scenery and stage equipment. The Mechanics Institute, with its impressive architecture, stood as a testament to the commitment of the GWR to the wellbeing and leisure of its workforce. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the history and charm of Swindon's Railway Village and its vibrant community.
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