Sarah Hengler facts for kids

Sarah Hengler (around 1765 – 9 October 1845) was a clever British businesswoman. She was also a talented artist who created amazing firework displays.

About Sarah Hengler

Sarah Hengler was born in Surrey, England. She was married to John Michael Hengler, who was a circus performer. They had three children together. One of their children, Henry Michael Hengler, born in 1784, became a famous circus rope walker.

Her Firework Art

Sarah was known for her incredible firework shows. She designed and put on displays for many popular places. These included Vauxhall Gardens and Astley's Royal Amphitheatre. She also created shows for the Royal Circus and the Surrey Theatre.

Running Her Business

After her husband John Michael Hengler passed away in 1802, Sarah continued her work. She remarried in 1808. Sarah kept creating firework displays and managed her own business.

Her business was run from a building in London. It was located at 4 Asylum Buildings, near Westminster Bridge. This property had a showroom on the ground floor. There were also workshops for making and packing fireworks. Sarah lived there with her staff and family.

Later Life and Legacy

Working with fireworks could be dangerous. In August 1818, there were some accidents at her workshop. By October 1845, Sarah had retired. Her family was running the business. Sadly, she died in a fire at the same property that month.

In 1839, a famous poet named Thomas Hood wrote a poem. It was called Ode to Madame Hengler, honoring her work.