Sir George Charles Vincent Holmes

Born in 1848, this Irish-born engineer studied at Cambridge, won a Whitworth engineering scholarship in 1871, and trained in mechanical engineering at the London and North Western Railway works at Crewe. Early in his career he also worked on the great rotunda built for the Vienna International Exhibition of 1873.

He became best known in professional circles as Secretary to the Institution of Naval Architects, a role he held until 1901. He later served as Chairman of the Board of Public Works in Ireland, and his public service was recognized with honors including K.C.V.O. and K.C.B.

As a writer, he brought technical subjects within reach of serious readers and students. His books include The Steam Engine, Marine Engines and Boilers, and Ancient and Modern Ships, works that reflect both his engineering expertise and his interest in explaining how machines and shipbuilding evolved over time.