Merchant Venturers' Technical College, Unity Street, Bristol: Restoration

The Society of Merchant Venturers have appointed Mr. A. W. S. Cross, M.A., FRIBA, of London, as architect for the restoration of the main building of the Merchant Venturers' Technical College in Unity Street, Bristol, gutted by fire a few months since. [Building News 19 April 1907 page 572]

Originally known as Bristol Merchant Venturers' School, and opened in 1885. Re-named the Merchant Venturers' Technical College. The building on, Unity Street was gutted by fire in 1906 and the following year work began on its restoration.  Following three years of discussion, the Technical College merged with the University College’s existing faculty as the new Faculty of Engineering, under the charter that created the University of Bristol in 1909. The Faculty taught a range of subjects, which included: applied mathematics, engineering subjects including drawing and design, workshop practice, theory of machines and machine design, theory of structures and structural design, strength and elasticity of materials, electrical technology, hydraulics, surveying, theory of heat engines, design of electrical machinery and apparatus, generation, transmission, and distribution of electric energy, motor car engineering, chemical engineering, magnetism and electricity, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and applied chemistry. The Technical College closed in 1950.

Reference           The Times. 27 July 1885. page 7 - "Bristol Merchant Venturers' School".
Reference           Building News 19 April 1907 page 572