The Iron Bridge

The Severn gorge is rich in raw materials, with good coastal access, and was destined to become an important industrial area once the production of iron using coke, rather than expensive charcoal, had been developed.

By the mid 18th century industry was thriving, but crossing the river could often be slow and problematic dependent on the depth and flow of the river. The proposal for a bridge was only a matter of time, and Abraham Darby III was commissioned to build it. Contrary to popular belief, the 'Iron Bridge' was designed by Thomas Pritchard, who enlisted the help of John Wilkinson, a keen iron enthusiast. In 1775 he proposed the construction of a single span bridge with no river piers, to eliminate any obstructions to river traffic, at an estimated cost of £3,200.

Work commenced on the bridge in November 1777, but tragically Thomas Pritchard died in the same year, never to see his design come to fruition. This bridge would be the first in the world to use cast iron in its construction. It is not known for certain where the iron was cast, and subsequently how it was transported to the site in the deep gorge, but it must have been a considerable feat to have raised these huge structures. Darby, rather rashly, agreed to cover any additional costs incurred over the original estimate. Because of this, he was to remain in debt for the rest of his life, as the bridge's final cost was well over £6,000. Charging its first toll, the completed Iron Bridge opened on New Years Day 1781, but only three years later cracks had started to appear in the ironwork, caused by movement in the gorge. In 1802 the masonry abutments were removed and replaced by timber, which stood for a further 19 years until the two cast iron arches, seen today, superseded them.

Demolition of the bridge was considered in 1926 due to continued concerns over its stability, but it survived. However, in 1934 it was closed to vehicular traffic, and listed as an historical monument. Tolls ceased in 1950 when the ownership passed to Shropshire County Council. During the 1970s the bridge underwent a considerable restoration programme which ensured its future stability. Today, the bridge is the central focus of the Iron Bridge Gorge Museum, which was created to preserve the industrial heritage of the area. Attractions include the Museum of the river, and visitor centre, Museum of iron, Darby Furness and Elton gallery, Blists Hill open air museum, Coalport china museum, and Jackfield tile museum. For anyone interested in our industrial heritage, this living museum should be an absolute must, but allow plenty of time because the museums are spread over several miles.