LaborArts


Photograph

Item no. 28165
1996
Occupation: Building and construction trades
Collection: Other

The first bridge in the world to use iron as the basic construction material was built in 1779 in Shropshire, England.


Built by Abraham Darby, it crosses the Severn at Coalbrookdale, with a span of about 100 feet and a height of 50 feet.


For more information about the bridge see:
Wonders of the World Databank
Secrets of the Past

Photo courtesy of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers.

Item image not found

View other items in the thematic set 1990s