UK, Civil Engineer Records, 1820-1930

This collection contains documents relating to membership in the Institution of Civil Engineers, 1820–1930.

Historical Background

A group of young civil engineers met in 1818 to found a professional organization to “foster and promote the art and science of civil engineering.” That organization, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), received a royal charter in 1828, and by the end of the 19th century had become both an educational and a qualifying body as it introduced examinations for civil engineers. Today, the ICE is a worldwide organization with more than 80,000 members.

Engineering records from the late 19th century document a particularly important era in UK history. Records like these can tie into occupations in the census, railway records, and trade union records, as well as revealing biographical details and work patterns over time.

What You May Find in These Records

This database contains records created as people sought membership in the ICE. Documents include certificates of admission, proposals to admit new members, certificates conferring a status change (i.e., from associate member to member), training certificates, correspondence relating to applicants or members, and similar documents.

Documents may include the following details:

• name
• birth date
• residence
• nationality
• date of application or correspondence
• summary of education, experience, or training that would qualify the applicant for membership