On 11 April 1896, Sir JWH Riddell opened the Institute as a reading and recreation room and 130 years later, on 11 April 2026, we will be celebrating the anniversary of Wylam Institute opening as a community building for the residents of Wylam and surrounding area.
When it opened in 1896 the Institute had a large hall for public lectures, bazaars, meetings, tea parties and balls, while the reading room had the desired north light. A billiards table was installed and the Institute had two reclining baths with hot and cold water. Although we don't have the baths or the billiards table now, the Institute still offers the same great spaces for celebrating occasions, bringing people together, and enjoying a variety of activities.
The 130 celebrations take place over the weekend 10-12 April and we're looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the events planned:
Friday 10 April at 2pm: Opening of exhibition displaying the history and people of Wylam Institute from 1896 to the present day. The exhibition runs until Sunday evening.
Saturday 11 April, 10.00am-12.00 noon: Coffee morning, raffle, cake stall and plant sale.
Saturday 11 April, 7pm: Film night in collaboration with Wylam Community Cinema. Film to be confirmed. Film starts at 7.30pm. Refreshments served.
More information to follow soon.
Pop the date in your diary and we hope to see you over the weekend.