John Smeaton

John Smeaton (1724-1792) was an English civil engineer, born near Leeds. He began his life as a mathematical instrument-maker. He made improvements in mill-work, and gained the Copley Medal in 1758. He visited the principal engineering works in Holland and Belgium. When Eddystone Lighthouse was burnt down in 1755, he was entrusted with the rebuilding of the structure, which he finished in 1759. He did other engineering works in the construction of canals, harbours, and mills, rising to the summit of his profession.

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