In June 1936, several companies on the Trading Estate set up a social fund to raise money to build a social centre for workers on The Trading Estate - a place they could relax after a hard day at work.
The Social Centre was opened
in April 1937. The building cost £45,000 and was one of the
first of its kind in Britain. King George and his wife Queen Elizabeth
visited the Centre on 17th December 1937 where they saw demonstrations
of all the activities that happened at the Centre.
Slough Social Centre, Farnham Road - Visit by HM Queen Mary - 26th
April 1937 circa 1937 © The Greville Organisation Ltd
Lots of
Activities
The Social Centre was a place to go and do things, not just to go and
sit! The aim was activity and members were encouraged to start their
own clubs. Cricket, boxing, swimming, football, chess, photography and
roller-skating were just a few of the activities people could take part
in. It was very popular with young people as the cost of activities was
very low. The Social Centre was a place for everyone. Its motto was
'People of every creed and every walk of life are welcomed as members.'
Slough Social Centre, Farnham Road - Drama Group circa 1955 ©
The Greville Organisation Ltd
