Prahran Mechanics' Institute
(1854-present)

MIV Historical Plaques Program #0011

Prahran Mechanics' Institute (est. 1854) Formed Prahran Technical School of this site in 1915. The Mechanics' Institute movement began in British urban industrial centres in the early 1800s. A "mechanic" was a person applying skills and technology. During the 19th century, most towns in Victoria established a Mechanics' Institute or Athenaeum with a library and meeting hall. Common objects were the "spread of useful knowledge" and provision for "rational recreation" in the community. This plaque, No. 11 in the MIV series, was unveiled on 8 October 2005 to mark the 90th anniversary of the opening ceremony of this building.

140 High Street, Prahran, Victoria, Australia where it sited

Prahran Mechanics' Institute. The Institute was founded in 1854 for "the mental and moral improvement and the rational amusement" of its members. The Institute moved to High Street in 1915 in order to expand their School of Design, which later developed as the Prahran Technical School.

140 High Street, Prahran, Victoria, Australia where it sited

Prahran Mechanics' Institute is registered by the Heritage Council of Victoria. This Institute was established in Chapel Street in 1854 to provide education for working class men. This Federation Free Classical style building, designed by Ernest Horatio Willis, was built in 1915 to accommodate the Institute's expansion. Victorian Heritage Register Number H0400

140 High Street, Prahran, Victoria, Australia where it sited