Edward Joseph Hansom was an accomplished British architect and designer, renowned for his pioneering work during the Victorian era. Born on November 26, 1842, in York, England, Hansom was the son of Charles Francis Hansom, a notable architect, and the younger brother of Joseph Aloysius Hansom, the inventor of the Hansom cab.
Edward Joseph Hansom's architectural journey began under the tutelage of his father and brother, where he gained foundational knowledge and skills. He later enrolled at the Royal Academy Schools in London, further honing his craft and architectural expertise. and was taken into partnership in 1867 when the practice was based in Bristol. He moved to Newcastle upon Tyne in 1871 to enter into partnership with Archibald Matthias Dunn (1832–1917), practising under the name of Dunn and Hansom.
Hansom's career flourished as he established himself as a versatile architect, showcasing an eclectic style blending Victorian and Gothic architectural elements. His notable works include ecclesiastical buildings, country houses, and public structures. One of his significant contributions was the design and construction of several Roman Catholic churches across England, each reflecting his mastery of Gothic Revival architecture.
Among his celebrated creations is the Church of St. Wilfrid in Cotton, Staffordshire, admired for its intricate detailing and structural elegance,the transepts, representing the first phase of building, to Downside Abbey, Somerset (1882); St Bede’s College, Alexandra Park, Manchester; Our Lady Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church, North Berwick (1879); St Mary’s RC Cathedral, military memorial, Edinburgh (1889); and the baptistery to St John’s Church, Bath (1871). Hansom's architectural prowess extended beyond ecclesiastical projects; he also ventured into designing schools and residences, leaving an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of his time.
Hansom's innovative approach to design and his ability to fuse traditional styles with contemporary elements earned him recognition within the architectural community. His commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail set a standard for aspiring architects.
Hansom was admitted ARIBA in 1868 and FRIBA in 1881. He served as President of the Northern Architects’ Association in 1889–90 and was the first to represent the region on the RIBA Council.
After a long period of ill-health, Hansom suffered from depression such that he was unable to work. He shot himself at his office and died on 27 May 1900.
References:
- "Edward Joseph Hansom" - The Victorian Web - www.victorianweb.org
- "The Hansom Cab: An Ingenious Idea That Became A Byword For Danger" - Historic UK - www.historic-uk.com
- "Edward Joseph Hansom (1842-1917)" - Art UK - www.artuk.org
- "Gothic Revival Architecture" - Encyclopedia Britannica - www.britannica.com
- "Edward Joseph Hansom (1842-1917)" - Hansom of York - www.hansomofyork.co.uk