This book chronicles the enduring legacy of the Working Men's College, an institution founded in 1854 that has served as London's oldest adult educational institute for a century. The college, a self-governing and self-financing entity, represents a significant contribution to London's social history and stands as a testament to Victorian voluntary social service. It has maintained its core principles while adapting to the evolving needs of each generation of students, consistently finding dedicated, unpaid teachers to uphold its tradition.

Originally published in 1954, this work provides the first comprehensive historical account of the Working Men's College. The book details the institution's century of operation, highlighting its significance as London's oldest adult educational institute. It emphasizes the college's enduring Victorian principles and its successful adaptation to contemporary student needs and generational changes. The narrative underscores the vital role of voluntary social service and unpaid educators in maintaining the college's unique tradition.