Arthur Elvin, who rose from humble beginnings to acquire Wembley Stadium, is emblematic of determination and entrepreneurial spirit. After a diverse job history, including time in the armed forces and various trades, he found himself at a tobacco kiosk in Wembley. Recognized for his contributions, he ultimately owned the stadium for 30 years, earning a knighthood in the process. Elvinâs efforts not only preserved Wembley for future generations but also established it as a cornerstone of English sporting history, according to architectural historian Simon Inglis.
"He saved it," architectural historian Simon Inglis told a new BBC Sounds series about Elvin's life. "It is entirely possible that it would have gone without him."
Elvin's work earned him a knighthood, but he came from humble beginnings. Born and raised in a small terraced house in Norwich, he left school at 14 to work.
After the jam factory, Elvin's odd jobs included working in a boot factory, a grocer's, and with a wine merchant, before moving to London.
An ex-officers' association found him a job at the British Empire Exhibition. This was a huge two-year propaganda extravaganza - designed to promote the idea of the British Empire.
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