An Architectural Dynasty that surrounds us
Today's blog pays tribute to a Master of Architecture whose name has been forgotten somewhat in the pages of time. Many of his creations still stand proudly. JOHN FRANCIS HENNESSY (SNR) John was born on the 21st of April 1853 in Leeds England, the son of Bryan Hennessy and his wife, Ellen who had moved to Leeds from Cork in Ireland. The family were relatively well off as they could boast a domestic servant in a subsequent census. After passing the Oxford senior local examination in 1868, John was articulated to William Perkin & Son, architects and surveyors of Leeds. He completed his articles in 1875 and won a three-year studentship at the Royal Institute of British Architects which allowed him to study in London under the tutorage of many distinguished architects of the day. William Burges, a leading figure in Gothic revival, was obviously a strong influence as that style became Hennessy's trademark. After six month's study in Spain, he worked in leading archit...