Friends' Institute buildings facts for kids
The Friends Institute Buildings are a special group of buildings in Balsall Heath, Birmingham, England. They used to be a meeting place for a group called the Religious Society of Friends (also known as Quakers). These buildings also had many community spaces. Today, parts of them are used as an art therapy center. Another part is called the Moseley Road Community Centre. In 2014, these buildings were given a special protection status. This means they are very important and need to be preserved.
A Look Back: The History of the Friends Institute
The Friends Institute Buildings were finished in 1897. A local architect named Ewan Harper designed them. His younger brother, James, might have helped too. A famous local family, the Cadbury family, paid for the buildings. They were Quakers and known for their kindness. Richard Cadbury was the main person who funded this project.
The Quakers have a big yearly meeting. It is usually held in London. But in 1908 and 1954, this important meeting happened right here. It was held in the Friends Institute Buildings.
The main hall once had an organ. Later, a bigger organ replaced it. There is also a special memorial inside. It remembers people who served in wars.
The Dolobran Athletics Club used the basement. They had a gymnasium there. In March 1900, a big sports event took place. It was the first international athletics match. Athletes from England, Ireland, and Scotland competed there.
What Does It Look Like?
The building is made of red bricks. It has pretty terracotta decorations. It still looks much like it did when it was new. There are 37 classrooms inside. Some walls have been moved, but many are still there.
At the back, there is a very large hall. It can hold up to 2,000 people. When you enter, you walk into a central hallway. On either side, there is a reading room and a coffee room. Above these rooms, you can find a lecture room.
What's Happening There Now?
Today, the Birmingham Centre for Art Therapies (BCAT) uses part of the building. This center helps people through art. The rest of the building belongs to Birmingham City Council. It is used for many different community events and activities.
