Elgin
Elgin refers to several notable places and entities:
Elgin, Illinois
Elgin, Illinois, is a city located in Kane County and Cook County, with portions extending into McHenry County. Here are some key points:
- Population: As of the 2020 census, Elgin has a population of approximately 114,797, making it the eighth-largest city in Illinois.
- History: Originally settled in 1835 by James T. Gifford and Hezekiah Gifford, Elgin was named after the Scottish city of Elgin. It was incorporated in 1854. The city's growth was significantly influenced by the Chicago and North Western Railway, which played a crucial role in its industrial development.
- Economy: Historically known for its watch-making industry, with the Elgin National Watch Company being a major employer. Today, Elgin has a diverse economic base, including manufacturing, healthcare, and education.
- Culture: The city hosts several festivals and events, like the Elgin Festival of the Arts, and is home to the Elgin Public Museum and the Hemmens Cultural Center.
Elgin, Scotland
Elgin, Scotland, is a town located in Moray on the North Sea coast:
Elgin Marbles
The Elgin Marbles are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures, inscriptions, and architectural members from the Parthenon and other buildings on the Acropolis of Athens:
- Acquisition: These artifacts were acquired by Thomas Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin, the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire from 1799 to 1803. He removed them with the controversial permission of the Ottoman authorities.
- Controversy: Their removal has been a source of dispute between Greece and the United Kingdom for centuries, with Greece arguing for their return, while the British Museum, where they are housed, claims legal ownership.
- Significance: The marbles are considered one of the greatest treasures of ancient art and provide invaluable insight into Classical Greek Sculpture.
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