When was the tower bridge built

Overview

Tower Bridge is one of London's most iconic landmarks, a symbol of the city's rich engineering history and Victorian ambition. Its distinctive design, featuring two towers connected by high-level walkways and a lifting bascule section, has captivated visitors for over a century. The question of when this magnificent structure was built is central to understanding its place in London's development and the evolution of bridge engineering.

The Genesis of Tower Bridge: A Need for a New Crossing

By the late 19th century, the East End of London was experiencing significant growth, leading to increased traffic congestion. The existing London Bridge was no longer sufficient to handle the volume of pedestrians and vehicles. A new crossing was urgently needed east of London Bridge to facilitate commerce and movement. However, any new bridge had to allow tall-masted ships to pass upriver to the Pool of London, the busiest port in the world at the time. This presented a significant engineering challenge.

The Design Competition and Selection

In 1876, a Royal Commission was established to investigate the need for a new bridge. This led to a public competition for the design. Over 50 proposals were submitted, but many were deemed unsuitable. The chosen design, a hybrid style combining Gothic and Victorian aesthetics, was the work of Sir Horace Jones, the City Architect. His vision was for a combined bascule and suspension bridge, a groundbreaking concept for its time. The design was officially approved in 1885, setting the stage for construction.

Construction: A Monumental Undertaking

Construction of Tower Bridge commenced in 1886. The project was a massive undertaking, requiring innovative engineering solutions and a vast workforce. The bridge consists of two piers built into the riverbed, supporting suspension spans and the central bascule section. The bascules, or 'drawbridges', were designed to lift to allow ships to pass through. This was a complex mechanical feat, powered initially by hydraulic systems.

The construction involved:

• Foundations: Extensive work was done to create stable foundations for the piers in the Thames.
• Steel Framework: A steel framework was erected for the towers and walkways.
• Masonry Cladding: The steel structure was then clad in Cornish granite and Portland stone to give it its distinctive, imposing appearance.
• Hydraulic Power: The bascules were operated by a sophisticated hydraulic system using steam engines and accumulators housed in the bridge's engine rooms.

The construction process was not without its challenges, including the sheer scale of the project, the technical difficulties of the hydraulic system, and the need to maintain river traffic as much as possible. Over 432 construction workers were employed during the eight years of building.

Opening and Early Years

After eight years of construction, Tower Bridge was officially opened on June 30, 1894, by the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) and Princess Alexandra. The opening ceremony was a grand affair, marking the culmination of years of planning and hard work. The bridge immediately became a vital artery for London's transportation network and a tourist attraction.

In its early years, the bridge operated using its original steam-powered hydraulic system. The bascules would lift on demand for passing ships. The high-level walkways were initially intended for pedestrians to use when the bridge was raised, but they proved unpopular and were rarely used. They were eventually closed to the public in 1910.

Evolution and Modern Day

Over the decades, Tower Bridge has undergone several modifications. The original hydraulic system was replaced in 1976 with a modern electro-hydraulic system, which is still in use today. The high-level walkways were reopened in 1982 as part of the Tower Bridge Exhibition, allowing visitors to experience the stunning views and learn about the bridge's history and engineering. Despite its age, Tower Bridge continues to function as a vital part of London's infrastructure, lifting its bascules for passing vessels and serving as an enduring symbol of Victorian ingenuity.