The Swarthmore Educational Settlement was founded in Leeds in 1909. Since then thousands of adult learners have benefited from its combinations of liberal, vocational and creative arts programmes, homely atmosphere and commitment to fellowship in learning. It has remained an independent centre, running its own affairs through its own council and eventually playing an exemplary role in Leeds City Council's overall adult education provision, while attracting a considerable reputation, nationally. As with all adult education, funding changes over the years have required Swarthmore frequently to tailor its programme but it has demonstrably retained its identity as a weathervane for innovatory reform with a focus on the social purpose of adult education and as a centre for the creative arts. In this article, the author reflects on an experiment that has endured against the odds.