Cragside was developed by William Armstrong (1810-1900) one of Britain's least-celebrated geniuses. He was a visionary inventor, engineer and businessman. He owned the Elswick Works in Newcastle, which employed more than 25,000 people in its heyday. It manufactured hydraulic cranes, ships and armaments. This was the orginal Eco-House, being lit by hydro electric power developed in the grounds in the middle of the 19th Century.
