Former GWR Mechanics' Institution Branch Reading Rooms, Rodbourne Road, Swindon

The Great Western Railway Mechanics' Institution was formed in 1844. Its purpose was to educate and entertain the workers of the Great Western Railway Works in Swindon. The Institution's main building was situtated within the railway village. Demand was such that this branch was built in 1904. It comprised a reading room, hall and games room.

When this photograph was taken, the building was occupied by the North Wiltshire branch of the St John's Ambulance Brigade.

Historic England Archive AA059229