Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Bridges > Blackfriars Bridge
Commencement of the Thames Embankment: driving the first pile... 1862. Creator: Unknown
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Commencement of the Thames Embankment: driving the first pile... 1862. Creator: Unknown
Commencement of the Thames Embankment: driving the first pile in front of the Duke of Buccleuch's mansion, [London], 1862. An...important work was very nearly spoiled, and for some time interrupted, not by the Sovereign, but by a Duke, who had possessed himself of some Government leases, and the battle of the "Thames Embankment, " memorable for the mistakes of a Secretary of State and the imperturbable good humour and pluck of the Prime Minister, was fought out with considerable skill and much acerbity. The popular side gained; and the Duke of Buccleuch, if he should ever inhabit his new house, will have the mortification of seeing omnibuses and waggons pass along the road between his ducal presence and the silent highway. We must own, however, that the Duke, when he could no longer withstand, yielded with a good grace...when the embankment is finished, running as it will from Pimlico to Blackfriars-bridge, and beyond it, the relief to the crowded Strand and Fleet-street will be enormous. A commencement has been made with this important undertaking...several barges were moored in the river, immediately opposite the mansion, and gangs of labourers have since been busily employed in driving piles into the bed of the river'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 35126905
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
City Of Westminster London England Controversial Controversy Ladder Legal System Machine Machinery Montagu House Piles Thames Embankment Thoroughfare Westminster London England Working Man Workman Workmen Earl Of Dalkeith Pile Driver Pile Driving
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Muridae
> House Mouse
> Animals
> Mammals
> Muridae
> Water Mouse
> Arts
> Landscape paintings
> Waterfall and river artworks
> River artworks
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Pop art
> Fine arts
> Arts
> Modern art pieces
> Pop art
> Street art
> Arts
> Portraits
> Pop art gallery
> Street art portraits
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> City of Westminster
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Bridges
> Blackfriars Bridge
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Bridges
> London Bridge
EDITORS COMMENTS
Commencement of the Thames Embankment: Driving the First Pile, 1862" is an intriguing photograph capturing a significant moment in the history of London's infrastructure development. The image shows the ceremonial driving of the first pile into the bed of the River Thames, marking the beginning of the construction of the Thames Embankment. The location is in front of the Duke of Buccleuch's mansion, near the present-day site of the Tate Britain art museum. The Thames Embankment was an essential project aimed at reducing the risk of flooding and improving the city's sanitation. However, its progress was not without challenges. A dispute between the government and the Duke of Buccleuch, who held some leased lands in the area, nearly halted the project. The disagreement led to a heated battle, with the popular side ultimately prevailing. The Duke, despite his initial resistance, eventually conceded, ensuring the continuation of the embankment construction. The embankment, which would run from Pimlico to Blackfriars Bridge, was expected to bring substantial relief to the crowded Strand and Fleet Street. Construction had already begun with several barges moored in the river and laborers driving piles into the riverbed. This photograph is a testament to the determination and resilience of the people involved in bringing this vital project to life. The Thames Embankment, completed in 1870, revolutionized London's urban landscape and remains an essential part of the city's infrastructure. This photograph, taken during its early stages, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and the challenges faced during the construction process.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
