200 years ago, in November 1824, a public meeting was held in the Ipswich Council Chamber to establish a Mechanic’s Institute, a membership society to spread knowledge to those who had little or no formal education. 200 years later The Ipswich Institute, as it is now known, continues to offer courses, talks, day trips and more, to almost 2,000 members.
In celebration of the anniversary, there are a number of activities, free and open to all starting at the end of July. These include a Q&A session with best-selling author Rory Clements, a talk from the Ipswich Town Football Federation, an interactive history of hats and guided walks with tea and cake by the Ipswich Tourist Guides and a drop-in historical food demonstration with food historian Monica Askay.
Tickets are available to book online at www.ipswichinstitute.org.uk or in person at the Institute at 15 Tavern Street, Ipswich. Spaces are going fast!
On the 3 September, the Institute will be hosting a free taster day at Admiral’s House in Tower Street, with goodie bags, showcasing the Institute’s courses and activities. Anyone can attend and have a go at some of the subjects on offer such as art and music. There is no need to book, and visitors can drop in from 10am-3pm. All the free activities are possible due to generous funding from the The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
You can also join us for a fashion show on the 30 May with fashion from Cake & Catwalk, The Elvish Tailor, Preloved Chica, and Puzzle. Tickets are £12, with a complimentary glass of Prosecco on arrival, a cash bar, and a raffle.
If you fancy testing your general knowledge there will be a quiz on the 18 of July. Tickets are £10 with a prize of £50 for the winning team, a cash bar, and a raffle. Teams of up to four people are welcome or people can join a team on the night.
You can find out more about all our 200th anniversary events on our website along with information about the Institute’s wide range of courses and how to become a member. The daytime courses are open to members only (just £65 a year for an Individual Membership) but our evening programme is open to all.
For more information get in touch: 01473 253992, library@ipswichinstitute.org.uk or pop in to have a look around and find out more, we are open Monday-Saturday 9am-4pm.