The Pearce institute is known locally as the PI. The Pearce Institute was designed by Sir Rowand Anderson. Construction of the PI began in 1902, was completed in 1906, and designed in the style of a large 17th century town house. The PI was intended to be a social centre for the community, offering the working men and women of Govan reading rooms and clubs, a library, a gymnasium, cooking and laundry facilities, and a retiring room. In addition, the organ, stage, and gallery in the McLeod Hall made it a popular venue for dances and social gatherings.  

The PI was gifted to the working men and women of Govan by Lady Dinah Pearce in memory of her late husband Sir Willam Pearce MP. Sir William Pearce MP was the first member of parliament for Govan and manager of the Fairfield shipyards. 

On the wall at the entrance to the building is the greeting: 

"This is a House of Friendship. This is a House of Service. For Families, For Lonely Folk. For the People of Govan. For the Strangers of the World. Welcome." 

The Pearce Institute is a category “A” listed building in recognition of its national and international architectural and historic importance.