Pengam, Fleur de Lys Workingmen’s Library and Institute was constructed in 1911 by the Rhumney Iron and Coal Company for the communities of Pengam and district. The original philosophy of the workingmen’s institute was to promote self-improvement through opportunities for self-education, community participation and cultural activities. In general the Institute was the hub of community life and it has contributed to enhancing the lives of local people in significant ways. World champion snooker legends Doug Mountjoy and Ray Reardon practiced their game at the Institute, along with amateur champions Cliff Wilson and Alwyn Lloyd.
The Institute also hosted Fleur de Lys Amateur Boxing Club, which was resident on the second floor. The club presented five world champion boxers including Nathan Cleverly, Robbie Regan, Andrew Gerrard and Steve (Cinderella) Robinson. The Institute also hosted the local football club and saw members go on to play for the major clubs of the day including; Braily Reynolds and Gareth Williams for Cardiff City and Wayne Cilinski for Tottenham Hotspur and later as captain of Wrexham. The local pigeon club also met at the Institute along with the Women’s institute, Buffs and other local groups and organisations. From 1970 to 1985 the Institute was home to Fleur de Lys Rugby Club.
Somewhere during the late 1980’s to early 1990’s the Institute was ravaged by fire and water from the fire hoses. This caused considerable damage to the fabric of the building, including blown render and lost internal plaster work. The building was never fully restored. Instead a make do and mend approach was adopted that covered up the worst of the problems. Post fire a local friendly society ran a bar trade from the building, but fell victim to economic circumstance and ended up having to close their doors in 2009. It is at this point in time when Fleur de Lys Institute, the Charity that now owns and manages the building was inaugurated. They have struggled to keep this