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Commencement of the Thames Embankment works near Westminster Bridge, 1864. Creator: Unknown
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Commencement of the Thames Embankment works near Westminster Bridge, 1864. Creator: Unknown
Commencement of the Thames Embankment works near Westminster Bridge, 1864. View of '...piles being driven in, and scaffolding of an extensive character being erected to support and carry the heavy cranes to be used in sinking caissons. This work is preparatory to forming a cofferdam, and thereafter proceeding with excavations for a solid foundation, which must necessarily be laid very deep...The caissons are twelve feet by seven, and the coffer-dams...are remarkable for being constructed, not of timber...but of iron, which, it is thought, will afford great advantages over the old-fashioned material...the chief attention of the contractor is at present confined to...its so-called "special" works for a handsome steam-boat landing-stage...Mr. Furness...has undertaken the contract with the Metropolitan Board of Works...for the sum of £520,000. The works comprise, beside the open roadway and the approaches to the river, two distinct subterranean features - a subway immediately below the road in which gas and water pipes and telegraph wires will be laid, so as to avoid the necessity of breaking up the road whenever repairs of these are needed; and beneath the subway a great sewer, forming part of the system of low-level drainage lately planned'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864
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Media ID 38073515
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the commencement of the Thames Embankment works near Westminster Bridge in 1864, showcasing the intricate process of building a solid foundation for this monumental project. The image reveals piles being driven in and scaffolding being erected to support heavy cranes used in sinking caissons, with meticulous attention to detail evident in every aspect of construction.
The description provided sheds light on the innovative techniques employed during this time, such as using iron instead of timber for constructing cofferdams. The contractor, Mr. Furness, has taken on the ambitious task with the Metropolitan Board of Works for a substantial sum of £520,000.
What makes this photo even more fascinating is the mention of additional features like a steam-boat landing stage and subterranean structures including a subway and sewer system. These elements highlight the complexity and foresight involved in planning such large-scale infrastructure projects.
Overall, this historical snapshot not only captures a significant moment in London's development but also serves as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess during the Victorian era. It is truly a remarkable glimpse into the past that continues to inspire awe and admiration for those who worked tirelessly to shape our modern world.
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