Rights Managed > Historic England > Transport > Docks and shipping
Manouevring a concrete caisson JLP01_01_064_48
Filename: jlp01_01_064_48.jpg
Size: 6553 x 5423 (4.5MB)
Date: 17th December 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: A© Historic England Archive. Joh
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Manouevring a concrete caisson JLP01_01_064_48
TILBURY DOCKS, CHADWELL ST MARY, THURROCK, ESSEX. A view from a boat showing the cooling water intake caisson for Coryton Oil Refinery leaving Tilbury Docks, with people on the side of the lock using ropes to guide the structure.
During the Second World War, John Laing & Son Ltd had built some of the floating caissons for the Mulberry harbour which were used in the D-day landings. This 4, 200 ton concrete water intake caisson was built along the lines of the Mulberry harbour and was towed 8 miles down the Thames from Tilbury Dock to be installed as part of Coryton Oil Refinery in March 1952. It was built between 1951 and 1952
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24180670
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1950s Concrete People River Transport Water Transport Work Caisson
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a historic moment at Tilbury Docks in Chadwell St Mary, Thurrock, Essex. The image showcases the impressive sight of a 4,200-ton concrete water intake caisson being maneuvered out of the docks with the help of dedicated workers and ropes. The significance of this structure becomes even more remarkable when we delve into its history. During World War II, John Laing & Son Ltd played a crucial role in constructing floating caissons for the Mulberry harbours used during the D-day landings. This particular caisson was built following similar principles and design as those used in that pivotal military operation. In March 1952, after being meticulously constructed between 1951 and 1952, this colossal caisson embarked on an eight-mile journey down the Thames River from Tilbury Dock to Coryton Oil Refinery where it would serve as part of their infrastructure. The photograph not only captures a momentous transportation feat but also highlights the dedication and expertise required to guide such an immense structure through narrow waterways. It is a testament to human ingenuity and teamwork. A© Historic England Archive has preserved this snapshot from the past, allowing us to appreciate both its historical significance and aesthetic appeal today. As we gaze upon this image, we are transported back to a time when innovation met practicality in shaping our industrial landscape.
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