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Image Licensing : Demolition of Waterloo Bridge CXP01_01_095
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Demolition of Waterloo Bridge CXP01_01_095
WATERLOO BRIDGE, LAMBETH, GREATER LONDON. Two men working beneath a girder during the demolition of the old Waterloo Bridge.
The Waterloo Bridge, which is shown during its demolition, was designed by John Rennie and opened in 1817. The demolition of the bridge took place in the 1930s and the two men shown in the photograph appear to be using a pneumatic tool to dismantle a temporary steel framework which had been erected in 1925. The bridge was later replaced with another in the 1940s. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England Archive
Media ID 22201783
Filename: cxp01_01_095.jpg
Size: 6537 x 4875 (4.6MB)
Date: 20th August 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
Job Title: Photographer
1930s Demolition Georgian Labourers People At Work Road Bridge Workmen
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the history of London's iconic Waterloo Bridge. Designed by John Rennie and opened to the public in 1817, this Georgian road bridge stood as a testament to engineering brilliance for over a century. However, as progress marched on, it was time for change. Taken during the demolition process in the 1930s, this image showcases two brave men working diligently beneath a towering girder. Their task? Dismantling a temporary steel framework that had been erected back in 1925. With their trusty pneumatic tool in hand, they skillfully deconstruct piece by piece. The demolition of Waterloo Bridge marked an end of an era but paved the way for something new. In the following decade, another bridge would rise from its ashes to take its place and continue serving as a vital link across River Thames. Charles William Prickett expertly captured this scene with his camera lens, freezing this fleeting moment forever. The photograph not only documents physical labor but also symbolizes progress and evolution within our ever-changing urban landscape. As we gaze upon this historical artifact today, we are reminded of both the ingenuity that brought Waterloo Bridge into existence and the determination required to tear it down. It serves as a visual reminder of how our built environment is constantly evolving and adapting to meet society's needs throughout different eras.