Sir William Arrol Exhibition at Rozelle

This is an archived article from 9 March 2023. 

You may not be familiar with his name, but Sir William Arrol built some of the finest steel structures the world has ever seen.

In the late 19th and early 20th century, his company built the impressive Forth Rail Bridge as well as the iconic Tower Bridge in London.

Sir William was a pioneering genius in steel production, and he also lived in Ayr! Arrol built Seafield House in the town and stayed there until he died in 1913.

South Ayrshire Council's Museums and Galleries team in association with the Friends of Seafield House are retelling the story of Sir William Arrol's achievements in an exhibition at Rozelle.

The 'Spanning the Centuries' exhibition runs until the middle of April. This a chance to learn about the man who has inspired engineers and artists for over 100 years.

The exhibition includes three large-scale Meccano models, an immersive projected re-creation of Seafield House, and lots of other fascinating items including invitations to the openings of the bridges, and detailed architect's blueprints.

There's a dedicated room for young artists and engineers to create their own bridge building designs and they can even dress up like a Forth Rail Bridge builder!

Councillor Alec Clark, Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "This exhibition is a fascinating insight into the life of a man who still inspires engineers across the world. He was a pioneer, and it is testimony to his hard work and ingenuity that so many of his structures are still standing. The exhibition has something for everyone and who knows, it could inspire the next generation to similar feats."