3-021-522 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Guards' Institute, Carlisle-Place, Pimlico, [London], 1868. 'This new building which is situated near the Victoria railway station, was erected partly by subscriptions, raised among the officers of the brigade of Guards and their friends, and assisted by a grant of £3000 from the War Office, [the object being] the improvement of the moral and social condition of the British soldier...The institution has been established for the purpose of affording the conveniences and social recreations of a club to the non-commissioned officers and privates of the Army in general...The second or attic floor is entirely occupied by one large room...It will be used for lectures and concerts, or as a work-room...The building is lighted throughout with gas. Beer, porter, and provisions are provided at a moderate tariff...Externally, the building is ornamental and substantial looking. Its decoration is simple and effective, being chiefly executed in terra-cotta; and although the walls are built of common bricks, they are preserved from meanness by the introduction of beaded bricks at all their external angles; a simple and inexpensive ornament, which fully answers its purpose. The building was designed and erected under the direction of Mr. Darbishire'. From "Illustrated London News", 1868.