RSA History: The first LSE lectures

The prestigious London School of Economics was founded in 1895, but they weren't always based on Aldwych...

In 1895, the LSE held its very first lectures in the RSA's Great Room (known back then as just the Society of Arts). The LSE's first office was just opposite at 9 John Street (now John Adam Street), so the RSA was an obvious venue. 

But because the LSE was founded by members of the socialist Fabian Society, they first had to reassure the RSA's Secretary that they would not use its lectures there for political propaganda!