A Practical Memorial
The Caerwys Memorial Institute was established in 1922, in the years following the First World War, as a lasting tribute to those from the town who had died during the conflict. Rather than create a purely symbolic monument, the people of Caerwys chose to build something that would serve a practical role in local life. A key figure in this effort was Sir John Herbert Lewis, a respected local statesman, who generously donated the land on which the Institute was built.
A Hub for Local Activities
From the start, the building was designed to be a place where people could gather, learn, and take part in a wide range of events. Over the years, it has hosted everything from community meetings and social clubs to performances and exhibitions. Its role has naturally evolved with the times, but it has always remained a welcoming and adaptable space at the heart of Caerwys life.
Honouring the Past, Supporting the Present
While the Institute has undergone various updates to meet modern needs, its original purpose still guides its role today. It continues to be a place that brings people together, reflecting the values of shared experience and civic connection. Just as it was intended, the building stands not only as a reminder of those who were lost, but also as a lasting benefit to the community they came from.
The original proposed design
Sir John Herbert Lewis at the opening of the Institute
The Institute in 1970
The Institute today