Image Licensing : Royal Albert Bridge, under construction c1858

EDITORS COMMENTS

This photograph captures the Royal Albert Bridge under construction in the year 1858. Located in Saltash, Cornwall, England, the bridge spans the Tamar River and connects Devon and Cornwall. Designed by the renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the bridge was built between 1852 and 1859 to carry the Great Western Railway (GWR) across the river. The image reveals the intricate details of the bridge's impressive engineering, with its distinctive wrought-iron lattice towers and suspension cables. Workers can be seen high above the river, constructing the towers and laying the tracks on the bridge deck. The Tamar River, with its tranquil waters, provides a serene backdrop to the bustling construction site. The Royal Albert Bridge was a marvel of engineering during its time, and its completion marked a significant milestone in the development of the railway network in the UK. The bridge's opening in 1859 allowed for easier transportation of goods and people between Devon and Cornwall, and it remains an essential transport link to this day. This photograph is a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a unique perspective on the construction process of one of the most iconic structures in the history of railway engineering. The Royal Albert Bridge stands as a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the engineers and workers who brought Brunel's vision to life.