Other 250 years ago today (7th June 1761): Birth of John Rennie, Scottish civil engineer, built bridges, canals, docks and harbours throughout Britain Posted by Russel Tarr on June 7, 2011May 28, 2011 250 years ago today (7th June 1761): Birth of John Rennie, Scottish civil engineer, built bridges, canals, docks and harbours throughout Britain. Related