Commemorative plaques

Sir Daniel Gooch, who lived in Clewer Park, Windsor, was born in 1816 and died in 1889. He was a locomotive engineer who was employed by world famous railway engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Sir Daniel’s achievements included his instrumental work in laying the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable, using the SS Great Eastern. He was the first superintendent of locomotive engines for Great Western Railway and later its chairman.

He was also a magistrate in Windsor, deputy lieutenant of Berkshire, MP for Cricklade and pro grand master of Berks and Bucks Masons.

Sir Daniel was nominated for the plaque by Malcolm Lock, chairman of the Friends of Windsor & Royal Borough Museum.

Mr Lock said: “As chairman of the Friends of Windsor & Royal Borough Museum and a railway enthusiast, I felt the need for some form of recognition for Daniel Gooch as the bicentenary of his birth approached. Although an eminent engineer of his age, his name does not readily spring to mind.

“A blue plaque seemed appropriate and as his home at Clewer Park has long been demolished, I felt the old GWR station building would make an ideal site. “My thanks go to all those involved in this project who have ensured its success. Sir Daniel now has a permanent memorial in his adopted town.”

The plaque was unveiled 15 October 2015 situated next to the post box at: