Lanyon behind historic buildings

The role of a well-known Victorian architect in designing some of Carrick’s most historic buildings was highlighted during an event last week.
Downshire School pupils and teacher Mrs Redmond pictured with Beth Frazer and guest speaker Rosie Hickey.  Also pictured are Shiels residents Ruth Hickey and Ann Wilson.  INCT 42-730-CONDownshire School pupils and teacher Mrs Redmond pictured with Beth Frazer and guest speaker Rosie Hickey.  Also pictured are Shiels residents Ruth Hickey and Ann Wilson.  INCT 42-730-CON
Downshire School pupils and teacher Mrs Redmond pictured with Beth Frazer and guest speaker Rosie Hickey. Also pictured are Shiels residents Ruth Hickey and Ann Wilson. INCT 42-730-CON

Sir Charles Lanyon (1813 –1889) was behind a range of building projects across the province, from the main building at Queen’s University Belfast to the Antrim Coast Road.

Locally, he was involved with the design of both Gill’s and Sheils’ Almshouses.

Sheils’ Almshouses were built in 1868 as a charity endeavour, aiming to provide rent-free housing.

The event, taking place last Tuesday, was organised by the Charles Sheils Community and Beth Frazer, community engagement co-ordinator from Built Heritage – A Sense of Place.

During the session, pupils from Downshire School demonstrated their own architectural drawing skills, handing over their interpretation of Lanyon architecture with paintings of the Sheils Houses to residents. Architecture student Rosie Hickey also gave a talk on Lanyon.

Known as a Renaissance Man because of his many talents, the widely travelled Lanyon finally settled in County Antrim.

Among his many accomplishments was Glendun viaduct, built when he was only 24 years old.

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