In 1835 the Swansea Philosophical and Literary Society was formed by a group of local businessmen, industrialists and scientists, with the purpose of promoting interest in Literature, the Arts, Science and Local History. In 1838, it was granted a Royal Charter and the name changed to The Royal Institution of South Wales.

The Royal Institution of South Wales commisioned the building of Swansea Museum as a showcase for its collections, with a library, laboratory, and lecture theatre . The early public lectures focused on scientific subjects, whilst the museum catered for a broader audience.

The mourning notepaper of the The Royal Institution of South Wales demonstrates the strength of public feeling towards Queen Victoria, who died in 1901 following a reign of 63 years. Her reign had represented a proud and distinguished era for Britain, with unprecedented developments in science, industry, medicine and social welfare, as well as a burgeoning Empire.