Edward J. Gillin. The Victorian Palace of Science: Scientific Knowledge and the Building of the Houses of Parliament.

A devastating fire in 1834 destroyed much of the Palace of Westminster, including its medieval timber and plaster structure. This catastrophe provided an opportunity for a significant architectural and scientific transformation. Edward J. Gillin's work, 'The Victorian Palace of Science,' explores how this rebuilding process integrated scientific knowledge into the construction of the Houses of Parliament. The study highlights the role of scientific advancements during the Victorian era in shaping the new edifice, including innovative materials and techniques that ensured durability and resilience against future fires. By analyzing historical records and architectural plans, Gillin reveals how this period marked a pivotal moment in the intersection of science and architecture.

Gooday, G. (2020). Edward J. Gillin. The Victorian Palace of Science: Scientific Knowledge and the Building of the Houses of Parliament. The American Historical Review, 125(1), 304–306. https://doi.org/10.1093/ahr/rhz654