William Benson, born around 1682, was a notable figure in the early 18th century, not only as an amateur architect but also as a Whig politician. His architectural contributions are particularly remembered for Wilbury House, a pioneering example of neo-Palladianism in England. Benson's design for Wilbury House, which he built for himself on his property in Newton Tony, Wiltshire, was featured in Colen Campbell's 'Vitruvius Britannicus', signifying its importance in the architectural landscape of the time. His political career was marked by his tenure in the House of Commons from 1715 to 1719, and his controversial displacement of Sir Christopher Wren as Surveyor of the King's Works in 1718. Despite his short-lived success in this position, his impact on the architectural field was significant. Benson's interests extended beyond architecture to hydraulics, and he was credited with a project to bring piped water to Shaftesbury, although it was later revealed that the invention was actually Mr. Holland's, the curate of Shaftesbury. His life, intertwined with politics and architecture, reflects the dynamic nature of the period, and his legacy, particularly in the realm of architecture, continues to be studied and appreciated. William Benson passed away on the 2nd February 1754, leaving behind a legacy that is captured in the annals of British architectural history.
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https://www.historyofparliamentonline.org/volume/1715-1754/member/benson-william-1682-1754
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Burial: 9 Feb 1754
William Benson, born around 1682, was a notable figure in the early 18th century, not only as an amateur architect but also as a Whig politician. His architectural contributions are particularly remembered for Wilbury House, a pioneering example of neo-Palladianism in England. Benson's design for Wilbury House, which he built for himself on his property in Newton Tony, Wiltshire, was featured in Colen Campbell's 'Vitruvius Britannicus', signifying its importance in the architectural landscape of the time. His political career was marked by his tenure in the House of Commons from 1715 to 1719, and his controversial displacement of Sir Christopher Wren as Surveyor of the King's Works in 1718. Despite his short-lived success in this position, his impact on the architectural field was significant. Benson's interests extended beyond architecture to hydraulics, and he was credited with a project to bring piped water to Shaftesbury, although it was later revealed that the invention was actually Mr. Holland's, the curate of Shaftesbury. His life, intertwined with politics and architecture, reflects the dynamic nature of the period, and his legacy, particularly in the realm of architecture, continues to be studied and appreciated. William Benson passed away on the 2nd February 1754, leaving behind a legacy that is captured in the annals of British architectural history.
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https://www.historyofparliamentonline.org/volume/1715-1754/member/benson-william-1682-1754
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Burial: 9 Feb 1754
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