William Henry Lynn The Victorian Rockstar of Architecture - Furness Whisper

William Henry Lynn (1829-1915) wasn’t just any architect; he was a Victorian-era rock star who left his mark on cities across Ireland and northern England. But Barrow-in-Furness? This bustling industrial town, nestled amidst the dramatic Cumbrian fells, really owes him a big thank you. why, you ask? Well, buckle up, dear reader, because the story of their town hall is one for the ages. #VictorianRockstar #WilliamHenryLynn #DramaQueen

Picture this: a Victorian town, smoke billowing from the shipyards where mighty vessels were built for a global empire. And amidst the industrial clamour, a magnificent building rises, its ornate silhouette contrasting with the utilitarian structures around it. This, my friends, is the Barrow-in-Furness Town Hall, a testament to the vision of one William Henry Lynn. But the tale of its creation? Oh, it’s a saga worthy of Sherlock Holmes…or maybe just a really good episode of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.” #GothicFairytale #VenetianVibes #HeKnowsHowToMakeAnEntrance

In 1877, the town council, in all their wisdom, decided they needed a new town hall. Naturally, they held a competition, because what better way to find the best architect than to pit them against each other in a battle of blueprints? The judges, a group we can only assume were sporting monocles and stroking their beards thoughtfully, meticulously reviewed each submission. Until, finally, they stumbled upon the one. “Eureka!” they cried (probably), “This design is so magnificent, it must have been crafted by an architect who dines with royalty and has a pet peacock!”

But here’s the twist: the genius behind this masterpiece forgot to put their name on it. Gasp! Can you imagine the chaos? The judges were beside themselves. “Who is this mysterious architect?” they lamented, “We must find them and shower them with accolades (and maybe a lifetime supply of tea and biscuits)!”

So, what did they do? They did what any sensible Victorian-era town council would do: they put an advert in the newspaper. “ATTENTION ARCHITECTURAL GENIUS!” it probably read, “Your design is so amazing, it made us spill our tea! Please come forward and claim your prize (and maybe help us clean up this mess)!”

And who should emerge from the shadows, clutching a set of blueprints and a smug grin? None other than William Henry Lynn, the architect who, it seems, knew a thing or two about making a grand entrance. With his flair for the dramatic and his unique blend of Venetian Gothic and Victorian styles, he stepped into the spotlight and claimed his rightful place as the creator of Barrow-in-Furness’s architectural masterpiece.

His buildings are like something out of a Gothic fairytale. Picture this: pointed arches, like those found in grand Venetian palazzos, soaring towards the sky; intricate tracery adorning the windows like delicate lace, catching the light of the setting sun; and grotesque gargoyles peering down from the rooftops, their stone faces weathered by the salty sea air. Think Venice meets Victorian England, with a touch of northern grit!

Lynn started out in Belfast designing impressive public buildings. His skills caught the attention of Barrow-in-Furness, a town booming with shipbuilding in the 1880s, who, after the competition, officially commissioned him to bring his winning design to life.

The Barrow-in-Furness Town Hall, finished in 1886, is arguably the crown jewel of Lynn’s career. This grand building, with its soaring clock tower and beautiful stained-glass windows, stands proudly in the town centre. Imagine the gas lamps illuminating its façade at dusk, casting long shadows across the cobbled streets. It serves as a venue for civic events and community gatherings, its grand halls echoing with the sounds of music and laughter. #BarrowinFurnessTownHall #VictorianArchitecture

But Barrow-in-Furness wasn’t his only love. Back in Belfast, he designed the Central Library and Campbell College, both with that same Venetian Gothic touch.

Sadly, Lynn passed away in 1915, but his buildings are like living history books. The Town Hall in Barrow-in-Furness is a constant reminder of the town’s impressive past and Lynn’s creativity.

So next time you’re in Barrow-in-Furness, take a moment to appreciate the Town Hall. It’s not just a building; it’s a piece of Victorian history designed by a true architect with a knack for the dramatic. Have you visited this stunning example of Victorian architecture? What are your favourite details? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! #LivingHistory #VictorianLegacy