John Knowlson
John M. Knowlson (c1897-1964), chief engineer of E. S. and A. Robinson
1961 Bio Note [1]
Mr J. M. Knowlson, O.B.E., M.A. (Member), the new Chairman of the Western Branch, was educated at Clifton College and then he served with the Royal Garrison Artillery from 1916-18, first as a gunner and then later he obtained a commission. He went up to King's College, Cambridge, in 1919 and graduated in the Mechanical Sciences Tripos, with honours, in 1921. After serving a graduate apprenticeship with the English Electric Company, he worked in the Company's Traction Department.
In 1925 he was appointed factory engineer to E. S. and A. Robinson Ltd, Bristol.
He was released to the Admiralty in 1940 and for part of the period 1940-45 he was with the British Admiralty Delegation in Washington.
In 1945 he returned to E. S. and A. Robinson and since 1950 he has been the Company's Chief Engineer.
Mr Knowlson became a Member of the Institution in 1953.
1964 Obituary [2]
Mr John Knowlson, O.B.E., M.A. (Member), former Chairman of the Western Branch, died on 3rd April aged 67.
Mr Knowlson was educated at Clifton College and served with the Royal Artillery during the 1914-18 war. In 1921 he graduated from Cambridge with honours, subsequently serving an apprenticeship with the English Electric Company.
He joined E. S. and A. Robinson Ltd in 1925 finally becoming Chief Engineer in 1950. He was later awarded the O.B.E. for his wartime work as a principal experimental officer to the British Admiralty Delegation in Washington.
Mr Knowlson was a scientist who loved the Arts and he also took a keen interest in education. Last year he donated £20,000 to found a scheme for travel awards for Bristol University students. He belonged to a number of learned societies and was a Governor of Clifton College; of Badminton School, and of the West England College of Art.
A warm-hearted and friendly man, he will be much missed by his colleagues in the Western Branch.