Clifton Suspension Bridge opens, 8 December 1864 (1864)

The Clifton Suspension Bridge opened to traffic on 8 December 1864, spanning the River Avon at Bristol. Completed as a memorial to Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the structure was built to a revised design by Barlow and Hawkshaw based on Brunel's earlier plans. The ceremonial opening featured electric arc lamps, magnesium flares, and limelights, marking the completion of a project halted by riots in 1831.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. The bridge spans the Avon Gorge and River Avon, linking Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods. Construction began in 1831 but was halted by the Bristol riots. The revised version of Brunel's designs was built after his death and completed in 1864. The bridge was built to a design by William Henry Barlow and John Hawkshaw, based on an earlier design by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Opening Ceremony. On 8 December 1864, the bridge was lit by a combination of four electric arc lamps, magnesium flares, and limelights for its ceremonial opening ceremony. Since opening in 1864, it has been a toll bridge, the income from which provides funds for its maintenance.

Memorial Context. Isambard Kingdom Brunel died on 15 September 1859. Work on the Clifton Suspension Bridge recommenced in 1862, three years after Brunel's death, and was completed in 1864. The bridge is completed as a memorial to him, based on his earlier designs.

People involved

Sources

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