Oleg Kerensky facts for kids

Oleg Aleksandrovich Kerensky (born April 16, 1905 – died June 25, 1984) was a brilliant Russian civil engineer. He became one of the most important bridge designers of his time. He was known for creating strong and amazing structures.

Oleg Kerensky, the Bridge Builder

Oleg Kerensky was born in St. Petersburg, which was then part of the Russian Empire. His father, Alexander Kerensky, later became a very important leader, like a prime minister, in Russia. After a big conflict called the Russian Civil War, Oleg's family moved to Paris in 1918.

Early Life and Engineering Start

Oleg and his younger brother, Gleb, both studied hard and became engineers in 1927. They both decided to live and work in the United Kingdom. This is where Oleg's amazing career in bridge building began.

Amazing Bridges and Structures

Oleg Kerensky worked with a company called Dorman Long. He helped with the design of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932. This bridge is a huge landmark in Australia.

Later, he joined a firm called Freeman Fox & Partners. There, he became a key designer. He created many important road bridges across Britain. He also designed other special structures. One famous project was the temporary Dome of Discovery in London in 1951. At the time, it was the largest dome in the world!

Awards and Recognition

Oleg Kerensky was highly respected for his work. He was the president of the Institution of Structural Engineers from 1970 to 1971. This is a very important group for engineers. In 1977, he won their Gold Medal, which is a top award for engineers.

He also received other special honors. In 1964, he was made a CBE. This means he was recognized for his great service to the country. In 1970, he was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very high honor for scientists and engineers in the UK.

After he passed away in London in 1984, the Institution of Structural Engineers started special meetings called the Kerensky Memorial Conferences. These began in 1988 to remember his important contributions.

Family Connections

Oleg Kerensky had a son also named Oleg. Oleg Junior (1930–1993) became a well-known dance critic. Interestingly, Oleg Junior even acted in a movie called Reds in 1981. In the film, he played his own grandfather, Alexander Kerensky, who was the head of the Russian Provisional Government.