George Dance the Elder
George Dance the Elder was a noted architect from England who lived during the 18th century. Born in the year 1695 (the exact date of his birth is unknown) Dance would also serve the City of London as chief surveyor and architect. He held this position beginning in 1735 and would continue to do so until his death in 1768.
George Dance was involved in the design of many public structures in the City of London but perhaps his greatest claim to fame is the mansion House that he designed in the Neo-Palladian style. He began work on this building in 1739 and would not complete it until 1752.
Dance would also leave his distinctive mark upon many of the country's finest churches among them St Leonard's in Shoreditch, St Botolph-without-Aldersgate in Aldgate and St Matthew's Church which was in Bethnal Green.
George Dance often went to church, and in fact was later buried in St Luke's Church at Old Street, and because of this many have mistakenly credited him with the church's design. In all likelihood however, the building was probably the work of John James and Nicholas Hawksmoor.
George Dance fathered five sons, the last of which would follow him in his chosen profession as George Dance the Younger.
George Dance the Elder died on February 8th, 1768.
Original Authors: Doods Pangburn
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 16/05/2008
