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Up for sale a RARE! "Bridge Builder" George Dodd 1.5X4 Clipped Signature.
ES-5011E
Waterloo Bridge. - To the spirited
exertions and unceasing perseverance of the late Mr. George Dodd, an active,
enterprising, and skilful engineer, the public are indebted for the erection of
this distinguished ornament of the metropolis which was commenced by him, but
completed by Mr. Rennie. The first stone was laid on the 11th October, 1811,
and the bridge was opened for passengers on the 18th of June 1817, the
anniversary of the battle of Waterloo; the Prince Regent, and the Duke of
Wellington being present at the ceremony, which was of a splendid description.
This is, perhaps, the most august structure of the kind in the world, and it
differs from all the other bridges in having a completely level road-way. The
general style of the architecture is plain but the uniform extent and wide span
of its arches give it an appearance of uncommon grandeur. It consists of nine
semi-elliptical arches of equal size and elevation, the spans of each being 120
feet, though the thickness of each pier is but twenty feet, a clear water-way
is thus left of 1080 feet. Its length, within the abutments, is 1240 feet, and
its width, within the balustrades, is 42 feet, seven of which, on each side,
are appropriated to foot passengers. The whole is built of Cornish granite,
except the balustrades, which are of Aberdeen granite. The views from this
edifice are extensive and beautiful, and are much enlivened by the perpetual
passage of steam boats and other vessels, that, in the summer season,
considerably heighten the panoramic beauties of this delightful promenade.