Old London Bridge, one of the most significant historical structures in the medieval history of London. The bridge, completed in 1209, was not merely a crossing point over the River Thames but a bustling, vibrant thoroughfare with its own unique ecosystem. For over 600 years, until it was dismantled in the 19th century, it stood as a symbol of London’s ambition and engineering prowess.
This bridge was distinct for being adorned with buildings—ranging from shops and houses to churches and gatehouses. The bridge’s 138 structures made it more than a way to cross the river; it was, in essence, a linear town, teeming with life and commerce. The close-packed buildings, often several stories high, jutted out over the sides, giving the bridge a jagged appearance when viewed from the river. Shops lined the bridge, selling all manner of goods to the thousands who crossed daily, and residents of the bridge formed their own unique community.
The engineering behind the bridge was a marvel for its time. Its structure had to support not only the weight and traffic of pedestrians and carts but also the substantial weight of the buildings constructed upon it. The bridge's piers were sunk deep into the riverbed, and the starlings—protective wooden barriers around the base of the piers—were crucial to its endurance.
However, life on Old London Bridge was not without its challenges. The flow of the river was partially obstructed by the bridge, which could cause freezing in winter and flooding in other seasons. The narrowness of the arches also resulted in the "shooting the arches" phenomenon, where boatmen had to navigate the treacherous currents that sped through these narrow channels.
The bridge not only served a practical purpose but also played a symbolic role. The southern gatehouse became notorious as the place where the heads of traitors, dipped in tar to preserve them, were displayed on pikes.
Over time, as the structures aged and the bridge deteriorated, it became apparent that a replacement was necessary. By the time it was dismantled to make way for a new bridge in the 19th century, Old London Bridge had served as a commercial hub, a residence, a place of worship, and a stark warning to those who would defy the crown. It lives on in art, literature, and history as one of the great wonders of its time.
President / Owner - Funk's Moving & Storage and Companies
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