Lot 1354 , Lewis, William Bourne (civil engineer, 1831-1902). Manuscript Diaries, 9 various volumes (1873-1902, relating to time in England); some 2,200pp. in a closely written but clear hand; mostly half leather and marbled boards

° Lewis, William Bourne (civil engineer, 1831-1902). Manuscript Diaries, 9 various volumes (1873-1902, relating to time in England); some 2,200pp. in a closely written but clear hand; mostly half leather and marbled boards, med. 8vo.; some with his home address - W.B. Lewis, 32 Lee Park, Blackheath, S.E. at front. * a leading civil engineer (initially working under Brunel) with a large practice in Britain and abroad (the Saltash Bridge, railways in Ireland and Wales, Melbourne Graning Dock machinery, the East Bengal Railway, etc., etc.). These are certainly not his 'office' diaries; very much concerns a busy family and social life - holidays (some abroad) and many visits, Blackheath being convenient for the Kent coast and countryside; London, with the Institution of Civil Engineers meetings and lunches, gallery visits, etc. He was much involved with the sea defence works at Bexhill; whilst other professional matters occur intermittently (especially his Irish visits). A great deal of time was spent as a deacon of the local (?Boone Street) Congregational Chapel, with its school and all other committees; whilst other local endeavours included the 'Improved Industrial Dwellings' and the establishment of a coffee tavern (temperance). A fascinating insight into a life combining business and pleasure, whilst emphasising the great impact of the railways facilitating convenience and speed of travel across the length and breadth of the country
£300-400

Condition:
Good condition, some light wear, but bindings holding firm; none of the 'foreign' diaries present.