Many events are being staged this year to commemorate the tercentenary of Sir Christopher Wren’s death at the age of 90 in 1723

Naturally today Wren is remembered for his incomparable architectural achievements, particularly the rebuilding of St Paul’s and other City churches following the Great Fire of London in 1666.  But what of Wren before this time? Despite the serenity of his architecture, Wren grew up in a time of revolution, and his family were caught up in the troubles.  Nevertheless, the young Wren was quickly recognised as the genius he was, and his extraordinary breadth of interests and range of inventions has led to him being called “Britain’s Leonardo”.

Our Wren at 300 years talk by Bernard Winchester concentrates on the earlier part of his life, when he devoted himself to the applied sciences and astronomy.  We will look, with the aid of many illustrations, at his life, times, pursuits and discoveries and at the remarkable people who influenced him and helped to make him the man he became. 

To book a free place, please contact Central Library on 0207 884 5140 or email croydoncentrallibrary@croydon.gov.uk