IES - The World’s First Civil Engineer! A celebration of Smeaton’s Engineering

4th June 2024 5:00 pm

June 2024 marks the 300th year since the birth of John Smeaton.

Prof. George Fleming FRENG, FRSE and recent president of the Smeatonian

Society will describe Smeaton’s work and why it is still relevant today.

John Smeaton, born 8th June 1724, is regarded as the father of civil engineering in

Britain. His work also led to improvements in the design of wind and water mills; in

the process he developed Smeaton’s Coefficient which allowed calculation of lift -

used by early aircraft designers. His work helped improve steam engines.

He pioneered an understanding of cement that eventually led to Portland Cement;

his hydraulic lime was able to set in water and used in the build of his Eddystone

Lighthouse. Harbours, bridges, piers and….the Forth and Clyde Canal followed.

Where and when

4th June at 5pm, Alan Rough Suite at Firhill Football Club, The Wyre Stadium at

Firhill, 80 Firhill Rd, Glasgow G20 7AL. In person only.

Why Firhill? The Alan Rough suite overlooks the Hamiltonhill Basin on the Port

Dundas branch of the Forth and Clyde Canal

Refreshments will be served on arrival,

Listed in IES Events, Featured

Cite Top