Theodore Jacobsen facts for kids
Theodore Jacobsen was an important English merchant and architect who lived a long time ago. He was known for designing several famous buildings in London and other places during the 1700s.
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About Theodore Jacobsen
Theodore Jacobsen was born in London. His family were merchants, which means they bought and sold goods, often from other countries. His father, Sir Jacob Jacobsen, came from a German family that had strong connections to the Hanseatic League. This was a powerful group of trading cities in northern Europe.
In 1735, Theodore took over his family's business in London. Their main office was in a place called the Steelyard, which was the Hanseatic League's base in London.
Designing Important Buildings
Even though he was a merchant, Theodore Jacobsen also became a skilled architect. He helped design and rebuild several important buildings.
East India House
Between 1726 and 1729, Jacobsen helped rebuild the East India House in London. This building was very important for trade with places like India. He used a classical style called the Doric order. The architect John James helped with this project.
The Foundling Hospital
One of Jacobsen's most famous designs was the Foundling Hospital. This hospital was a special place for children who had been abandoned or whose parents couldn't care for them. The plan for the hospital was approved in 1742. Jacobsen became a governor of the hospital, which meant he helped manage it. Another architect, Henry Keene, also worked on the hospital under Jacobsen's guidance.
Royal Hospital Haslar
Jacobsen also designed the Royal Hospital Haslar. This was a large hospital built for sailors in the navy.
Trinity College, Dublin
In the 1750s, Jacobsen's plans were used for the West Front and Parliament Square at Trinity College, Dublin in Ireland. These plans were carried out by Henry Keene and John Sanderson.
His Later Life and Legacy
Theodore Jacobsen was a respected member of several important groups. He became a Fellow of the Royal Society, which is a famous group for scientists. He was also a member of the Society of Antiquaries of London and the Society of Arts.
Theodore Jacobsen passed away on May 25, 1772. He was buried in All Hallows Church in London. He never married. His designs left a lasting mark on many important buildings.