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Academics, politicians and members of the public came together for a special centenary conference to commemorate the death of well-known politician Joseph Chamberlain.

The event, organised by Newman University, ran for two days and included guest speakers, debates and visits to various locations in Birmingham to showcase the different aspects of Chamberlain’s life.

David Mahony, chair of the JQDT (Jewellery Quarter Development Trust) and director of PCPT Architects, was inspired to conduct research into the relationship between the famous politician and the Jewellery Quarter after the event.

In David’s article, he discusses why Joseph Chamberlain has gone down in history as one of Birmingham’s most loved ‘sons’. He became Mayor of Birmingham in 1873 and during his three consecutive terms in office, he made a huge impact on the city.

The Artisans’ Dwelling Act of 1875 allowed him to rehouse slums and rebuild the city. It was during this time when he first became involved with Jewellery Quarter’s iconic Birmingham Assay Office.

 
To read David Mohony’s full article, download the PDF here.

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