John Elder, like Robert Napier, was truly one of the fathers of modern shipbuilding. I t was his development of the compound steam engine (every bit as important as James Watt's condenser) that gave the River Clyde and Randolph, Elder and Co. the technological edge which led to the Clyde being at the forefront of the world shipbuilding industry.
He encouraged his workers to attend evening classes and even paid the fees of those who could not afford them.
His influence was such that most businesses in Govan closed as an expression of respect at the news of his death.
TAKE ME BACK TO THE GOVAN HERITAGE TRAIL INDEX PLEASE.
TAKE ME BACK TO THE LANDMARKS INDEX PLEASE.
Take me back
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