Palace of the People : The Crystal Palace at Sydenham 1854-1936

by Jan Piggott

This book traces the rise and fall of what became known as 'The People's Palace', the Crystal Palace at Sydenham in South London.

230 pages, Paperback

First published January 30, 2004

Reviews

[David Hambling · Rating 5 out of 5]

A niche interest maybe, but this is THe definitive work -- especially on the artistry and architecture -- on what went into creating one of the great Victorian showpieces. Worth it for the sections on the waterworks and fireworks alone, but there is so much more that the dinosaurs are barely a footnote in this incredible pageant of 19th century wonders.

The struggle to educate and elevate vs vulgar popularism and making money continues. A surprise on every page, with a tragic soulful ending.