Isambard Kingdom Brunel

Isambard Kingdom Brunel (April 9, 1806 – September 15, 1859) was a British engineer. An important figure in the history of engineering, he was noted for the creation of the Great Western Railway, a series of famous steamships, and important bridges. Though they were not always successful, his projects often contained innovative solutions to longstanding engineering problems. He generated much publicity for his endeavours and his achievements are still widely celebrated today.

Commemorating Brunel

A major programme of events celebrating the life and work of Brunel is planned for the bicentennary of his birth under the name Brunel 200.

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There is an anecdote which states that Box Tunnel on the Great Western railway line is placed such that the sun shines all the way through it on Brunel's birthday. For more information, see the entry on the tunnel.

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Many of Brunel's original papers and designs are now held in the Brunel collection at the University of Bristol.

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In 1975, noted British animator Bob Godfrey was awarded an Oscar for his short Great, an irreverent look at Brunel and his times.

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Brunel was included in the top 10 of the 100 Greatest Britons poll conducted by the BBC and voted for by the public. Each of the finalists in the poll was featured in an hour-long documentary. An admiring Jeremy Clarkson wrote and presented the programme about Brunel. In the second round of voting, which concluded on November 24 2002, Brunel placed second behind Winston Churchill. There are many monuments and memorials commemorating his achievements in the GWR area, including a statue at Paddington station, and a collection of streets around St David's station in Exeter, giving access to student residences of the University of Exeter, that bear his names — Isambard Terrace, Kingdom Mews, and Brunel Close. A road and school in his home town of Portsmouth are named in his honour, as is Brunel University in West London.

Related Topics:
100 Greatest Britons - BBC - Jeremy Clarkson - November 24 - 2002 - Winston Churchill - Paddington station - Exeter - University of Exeter - Brunel University

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