A pioneering sculptor and zoologist who created life-sized dinosaur models for the Crystal Palace Park in London, revolutionizing the public's understanding of prehistoric life.
Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins is renowned for his groundbreaking work on life-size models of dinosaurs, which created a sensation in the mid-19th century. His accurate and detailed sculptures, made using the latest scientific knowledge of the time, can still be found in Crystal Palace Park in south London, mesmerizing visitors to this day.
Hawkins was born on February 8, 1807, in Bloomsbury, London, to Thomas Hawkins, an artist, and Louisa Anne Waterhouse, from a Jamaica plantation family with Catholic sympathies. He studied at St. Aloysius College and later learned sculpture from William Behnes. Hawkins' fascination with natural history and geology began at the age of 20, which would eventually shape his career.
In the 1840s, Hawkins produced studies of living animals in Knowsley Park, near Liverpool, for Edward Stanley, 13th Earl of Derby. His work was later published with John Edward Gray's text as Gleanings from the Menagerie at Knowsley. During this period, Hawkins exhibited four sculptures at the Royal Academy between 1847 and 1849, earning him recognition and respect in the art world.
In 1846, he was elected a member of the Society of Arts, followed by a fellowship in the Linnean Society in 1847, and the Geological Society of London in 1854. These prestigious affiliations solidified his position as a respected artist and naturalist.
Hawkins' involvement in the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London marked a significant turning point in his career. His subsequent appointment by the Crystal Palace company to create life-size concrete models of extinct dinosaurs for the south London park catapulted him to fame. This monumental project, which took three years to complete, saw Hawkins collaborating with Sir Richard Owen and other leading scientific figures of the time.
The resulting 33 models, including the iconic Iguanodon and Megalosaurus, were a marvel of their time, showcasing Hawkins' mastery of sculpture and his dedication to scientific accuracy. The dinosaur models not only thrilled the public but also played a crucial role in shaping the understanding of these prehistoric creatures.
Hawkins was also a noted lecturer on zoological topics, sharing his knowledge with audiences across the country. His contributions to the field of natural history were extensive, including illustrations for The Zoology of the Voyage of HMS Beagle.
Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins' pioneering work on dinosaur models has left an indelible mark on the world of science, art, and popular culture. His legacy extends beyond the iconic Crystal Palace Park models, inspiring generations of scientists, artists, and enthusiasts. Today, Hawkins is celebrated as a true visionary, whose passion and dedication to his craft continue to captivate and educate people around the world.
Born in 1804
A pioneering figure in the fields of biology, anatomy, and paleontology, known for coining the term "Dinosauria" and making significant contributions to our understanding of vertebrate evolution.
Born in 1809
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Born in 1823
A pioneering naturalist who discovered evolution through natural selection, independently of Charles Darwin, and contributed significantly to the field of biogeography.
Born in 1825
A prominent figure in the scientific community, known for advocating Charles Darwin's theory of evolution and coining the term "agnostic" to describe his own religious views.
Born in 1803
A renowned English gardener and architect who designed the iconic Crystal Palace, a massive glass and iron structure that showcased British innovation and culture during the 1851 World's Fair.
Born in 1804
A pioneering ornithologist and illustrator who created vibrant, detailed drawings of birds, contributing significantly to the field of ornithology and inspiring future generations of naturalists.
Born in 1812
A celebrated creator of whimsical and humorous verse, known for inventing the modern limerick and illustrating his own fantastical stories with playful drawings.
Born in 1825
A British explorer who traveled to the Amazon rainforest and discovered over 8,000 species, including butterflies, beetles, and birds, and is known for his theory of mimicry in nature.
