The Crystal Palace story: A landmark that shaped an era Written by Pam Preedy. The Great Exhibition of 1851 was the brainchild of Prince Albert and Henry Cole. For Prince Albert, the role of consort was a difficult one to navigate at a time when men traditionally dominated the family. He felt constrained, with no significant power or responsibilities. Within a year Victoria gave north to her first child; she needed help. Albert took over some of her work; becoming the power behind the throne. Ultimately, he became influential in…
Tag: Crystal Palace
End of a Giant: Death of the North Tower
On the 30th November 1936 a catastrophic fire took hold at the World famous Crystal Palace. Within hours, the Palace was destroyed. All that was left standing after were the two water towers. Their final fate came at the beginning of World War 2 amidst fears that they would serve as landmarks for German bombers on their way to bomb Central London. The South Tower was taken down first; dismantled due to its close proximity to houses and shops, but the North Tower was demolished with explosions on the 16th…