Knutsford Historical Society welcomed David Hill to its recent meeting. His talk was entitled Crystal Palace and the Great Exhibition.

The idea of a great exhibition was inspired by Prince Albert. It was officially known as The Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations and was seen by six million visitors.

It housed a variety of exhibits including a GWR locomotive, marine engines, machine tools, surgical instruments and pipe organs.  

Sir Joseph Paxton was appointed head gardener by the Duke of Devonshire. He redesigned the gardens and erected a glass house, the great Conservatory. He submitted his design for the new exhibition hall on a grand scale – 500m long by 140m wide. 

When the exhibition closed, Sir Joseph sought another site for his palace. It was reassembled at Penge Place Estate at Sydenham and became a winter park and garden under glass. It could be described as the first theme park.

Crystal Palace survived until 1936 when it was destroyed by fire. It remains, however in its Hyde Park days a wonderful achievement, a salute to this country and the industrial revolution.

David was an inspiring speaker, due mainly to his infectious enthusiasm and lovingly chosen slides.

December will be party time so the next speaker meeting will be on January 15 with Brian Hallworth and his talk entitled Every time I pass a Church – Tiny Chapel to mighty Cathedral.

Start time is 8pm, please come early for refreshments. Back entrance to the Methodist Church on Princess St, visitors £2.

Mary Lipyeat