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Break from the Grind May 31, 2011
TRIVIAL PURSUITS: Who Was "Big Ben" Named After?
May 31, 2011 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - "Big Ben" is the nickname for the great bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England.
Reported by Nevin E. Adams
The iconic landmark began operating on this day in 1859, its 13-ton bell chiming out the time.
But who/what was “Big Ben” named after?
Answer:
While its origins are less-than-crystal clear, Big Ben was most likely named after Sir Benjamin Hall, First Commissioner for Works, whose name is inscribed on the bell.
Another theory is it was named after Ben Caunt, a champion heavyweight boxer.