1901

Numbers gradually increased to 47,298 this year, with the Institute attracting an average attendance of 166 per day. The Institute attributed much of its popularity to the high standard of entertainment provided, particularly by local amateurs, who kindly gave their services by offering good, wholesome entertainment for the working classes of the Dingle. 

The gymnasium continued to make good progress, with high demand for musical drills and gymnasia, and the second-place success of the Seniors at the Liverpool and District Gymnasia League final.

The 1st October saw the introduction of a tastefully decorated new Reading Room, officially opened by the Bishop of Liverpool, with special thanks to Mr Warr and friends for their financial backing. The Florence Institutes Hon Secretary emphasised ‘the room is intended for more or less serious study, and while a certain number of newspapers and periodicals will always be in it, we want especially to give every opportunity for quiet and systematic reading to those of our members so inclined’. 

The two remaining football teams, Florence and Florence Albion had continued success in their respective leagues, plus E Hyder won the club championship for swimming. As a result of this success the committee urged members of the Institute to learn to swim, so even at this early stage in The Florence Institute’s history, sports and physical fitness already played a major role.