Established in 1857, the Sandbach Literary Institute building was commissioned with the objective of "improving the conditions of life for the inhabitants”.
1857
The Literary Institute was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and built by Samuel Faram of nearby Wheelock. Built for £2,500 the newspapers reported that £2,100 has been raised by public subscription.
The building was divided into three. One portion given to the Sandbach Literary and Scientific Institute, the second to be used as a reading room and library administered by the Institute, and the third to be the Corn Exchange.
The building was administered in part by the Sandbach Literary and Scientific Institute and in part by a board of Trustees.
1872
The building was used for public events and speakers. Campaigner for women's suffrage Elizabeth Wolstenholme and her partner, Benjamin Elmy spoke here in 1872.
1889
A new Town Hall was built in Sandbach to provide a covered market area and included a large ballroom for events. Many of the events previously held at the Institute began to be moved over to the Town Hall.
1890
Newspaper account of the Institute Meeting of 24 December records some animosity between the Institute Committee and the Trustees of the building. Proposals were put forward to covert the room into what it was intended for as ‘a proper literary and scientific Institute’. After some discussion it was decided not to pursue the matter.
1914-18
The Nantwich Guardian of Friday 10 March 1916 recorded that an American Whist drive and dance was held at the Institute on Tuesday. The decline in use of the building was having a negative impact on the Institute and they required funds to maintain it. Further drives were held during the War years.
1955
Brass plaque presented to the Institute by the Sandbach Chamber of Commerce to commemorate their coming of age (1934-1955)
1974
The Sandbach Town Council was created from the Unitary District and held public meetings and events at the Literary Institute.
2001
The charitable trust converted to a charitable scheme on 11 December 2001. Thereafter for the avoidance of future doubt, the correct name is THE LITERARY INSTITUTION, SANDBACH. Charity number 510666. The scheme replaced the previous trust deed as the governing document.
2005
The ground floor accommodation became the official council offices for The Sandbach Town Council in 2005 until they moved out in 2020.
2021
The ground floor accommodation is now rented to organisations who provide services to the residents of Sandbach.