The Social Context of an Educational Movement: A Revisionist Approach to the English Mechanics’ Institutes, 1820‐1850

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Abstract
“The large room of the Crown and Anchor Tavern, one of the very largest in the Metropolis, was engaged for the occasion, and at the time appointed for taking the chair, it was completely filled. It is said to hold 2,500 persons; certainly more than 2,000 were present. We were glad to perceive that they consisted chiefly of that class for whose good the institution is intended, namely, working mechanics; and that they showed, by their conduct and demeanor, that they comprehended fully the serious magnitude of the object for which they were assembled, and came to the consideration of it with minds warmed apparently to enthusiasm in its support; yet keenly intent on examining and scrutinizing well the means by which they were to be invited to realize the promised good. It was a meeting of men resolved both to think and act for themselves.... The earnest, discriminating, and orderly attention with which they listened to the whole of the proceedings, exceeded anything we had ever before witnessed in so numerous an assembly . . .” 1 1. Mechanics' Magazine, 15 November 1823, p. 177. View all notes

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