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.

Illnesses and death of Brunel

In 1843, while performing a conjuring trick for the amusement of his children, he accidentally swallowed a half-sovereign coin which became lodged in his windpipe. A special pair of forceps failed to remove it, as did a machine to shake it loose devised by Brunel himself. Eventually, at the suggestion of Sir Marc, Isambard was strapped to a board, turned upside-down, and the coin was jerked free.

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Brunel suffered a stroke in 1859, just before the Great Eastern made its first voyage to New York. He died ten days later at the age of 53, and was buried, like his father, at Kensal Green Cemetery in London. His son, Henri Marc Brunel, also enjoyed some success as a civil engineer.

Related Topics:
Stroke - 1859 - New York - Kensal Green Cemetery - Henri Marc Brunel

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