Pugin S Builder

George Myers was one of the great Master Builders of the Victorian Age. Born in 'Hull in 1803, he gained renown as 'Pugin's Builder' and - from his workshops in Hull and then in London - directed a nationwide contracting business. Myers executed many of Pugin's buildings, such as cathedrals in Newcastle, Birmingham, Nottingham and Southwark and the Medieval Court for the Great Exhibition of 1851. In fact Myers undertook work for nearly 100 other architects. This included the original camp at Aldershot, military hospitals and the Staff College, Broadmoor Hospital and restoration work at the Guildhall, the Towers of London, Windsor Castle and extensive work for the Rothschilds. He died in London in 1875. This book, based on original research, provides a fascinating account of mid-19th century England and some of its most interesting figures. It contains hitherto unpublished drawings by Pugin.

The importance of A. W. N. Pugin (1812-52) in the history of the Gothic Revival, in the development of ecclesiology, in the origins of the Arts and Crafts movement, and in architectural theory is incontestable. A leading British architect who was also a designer of furniture, silver,textiles, stained glass, and jewellery, he is one of the most significant figures of the mid-nineteenth century and one of the greatest designers.His correspondence is important because it provides more insight into the man and more information about his work than any other source. It cuts a cross-section through early Victorian society: his correspondents range from earls and bishops to painters and tradesmen. The letters illuminate majorpublic events like the Oxford Movement, the (Roman) Catholic revival, and the Great Exhibition of 1851. They are vigorous, direct, often witty and provide an invaluable source for architectural and religio-historical research. Dr Belcher's very thorough research generally transforms what has oftenbeen a blank area, drawing together many sources. By 1842, when this volume ends, Pugin is established in his career. He has written books, designed buildings, found his faith, and made himself known.

Pub. for Bard Grad. Ctr. for Studies in Decorative Arts, NY, Exhibition catalog.

"George Myers (1803-1875) was one of the mid-nineteenth century's great master builders. From his workshops, first in his native Hull and later in London, he directed a nation wide business executing many large and important contracts, as builder, stone mason and woodcarver. These ranged from churches and cathedrals to the new army camp at Aldershot, military hospitals, asylums, workhouses, banks and other commercial premises, country houses and restorations of historic buildings including the Tower of London." --Book Jacket.