description John 'Iron-Mad' Wilkinson Overview
John Wilkinson, known as Iron-Mad Wilkinson, was an English ironmaster and industrialist active during the eighteenth century. He improved the precision boring of iron cylinders and used cast iron in products including cannons, helping expand the practical use of iron in machinery and construction. His work supported the wider industrial adoption of steam technology and contributed to the development of Britain's iron industry.
help John 'Iron-Mad' Wilkinson FAQ
Why was John Wilkinson nicknamed 'Iron-Mad'?
Contemporaries called him Iron-Mad because of his obsession with using cast iron for everything, from window frames and pulpits to an iron boat he launched in 1787. He even asked to be buried in an iron coffin, which he was.
What did John Wilkinson's boring machine do and why was it important?
In 1774 he patented a machine that could bore large iron cylinders with unprecedented precision. Those accurately bored cylinders made James Watt's steam engines far more efficient, and Wilkinson became a key supplier to Boulton & Watt.
Was John Wilkinson involved in building the famous Iron Bridge?
Yes, he was one of the promoters and financial backers of the cast-iron bridge across the River Severn at Coalbrookdale, the world's first major iron bridge, erected in 1779–1781 alongside the Darby ironmaking family. It remains the iconic landmark of the early iron industry.
Where were John Wilkinson's ironworks located?
His principal works were at Bersham near Wrexham in North Wales and at Bradley in Staffordshire. Bersham is now an heritage site where visitors can see remains of his ironworks.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
