Coal was vital to the economy and industry of Great Britain and the Newbridge miners wanted to improve themselves in a world where the labour force was becoming more and more important.

[2] A Workmen's institute was necessary to create greater social cohesion and other educational and leisure activities and the committee secured the freehold site for £300.

[2] In October 1914 the British Army entered the First World War and Newbridge delivered on front line coal and soldiers.

[3] They narrowly missed winning the final but received assistance from the Heritage Lottery Fund to begin the long process of raising money to restore both buildings.

Artistes included Mrs. Clara Novello Davies, Webster Booth, Anne Ziegler, Owen Brannigan, John Hargraves and accompanist Gerald Moore, Joe Loss.

Bands included Iron Maiden, Dave Edmunds, Dire Straits (25 June 1978; Dire Straits tour),[5] The Stranglers, The Cars, Motörhead, Whitesnake, Vinegar Joe, Red Hot Pokers, Paul Young, Mickey Gee, Paul King, The Groundhogs, Shakin Stevens, Dr. Feelgood, Tom Robinson Band, Marillion.