I was in Portcullis House today (the building above Westminster Tube Station that serves as MPs offices by Parliament), for a meeting, and came across a short exhibition of the history of Big Ben, which is now celebrating its 150th year. Looking through the exhibits, I couldn't help be struck by the sheer heroism, determination and human genius of those who were determined to ensure that the great clock was built and in full working order. What is even more amazing, is that the clock makers, Denison and Dent's mechanistic inventions were subsequently used the world over. Dent in particular became a great clock company which supplied the Royal Family (Winston Churchill's first watch was a Dent), and distinguished places like the Carlton Club. Dent, as a company has recently been reborn and now makes famous mechanical watches in the style of Big Ben.
Another thing I also learnt from today, was why the Clock got its name. The first Commissioner of Works, Sir Benjamin Hall MP's name was inscribed on the Bell. There is another view that it was named after a famous boxer Ben Caunt, who was a heavyweight boxer (the Mohammed Ali of the 1850s).
I feel very proud that Big Ben is one of our most famous landmarks, and that as a country, we are capable of producing such wonders that other peoples from around the world marvel at.
You can read more about Big Ben, HERE, from the excellent Parliamentary website.
Another thing I also learnt from today, was why the Clock got its name. The first Commissioner of Works, Sir Benjamin Hall MP's name was inscribed on the Bell. There is another view that it was named after a famous boxer Ben Caunt, who was a heavyweight boxer (the Mohammed Ali of the 1850s).
I feel very proud that Big Ben is one of our most famous landmarks, and that as a country, we are capable of producing such wonders that other peoples from around the world marvel at.
You can read more about Big Ben, HERE, from the excellent Parliamentary website.
What a nice photo!!
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