Thames Tunnel opens to pedestrians (1843)

The Thames Tunnel, constructed beneath the River Thames in London, opened to pedestrians on 25 March 1843. Built by Marc Isambard Brunel and his son Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it is recognized as the first tunnel successfully constructed under a navigable river. The project utilized a tunnelling shield invented by Marc Brunel and Thomas Cochrane, overcoming significant challenges including major floods and financial difficulties before its public opening.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Marc Isambard Brunel proposed a tunnel between Rotherhithe and Wapping in 1823, utilizing his newly invented tunnelling shield. Financing was secured through private investors, leading to the formation of the Thames Tunnel Company in 1824. Construction began in February 1825 with the sinking of a large shaft on the south bank at Rotherhithe, setting the stage for the ambitious underwater excavation.

Construction Challenges. The project faced severe setbacks, including a major flood in May 1827 that required repairs via diving bells. Another flood in January 1828 resulted in six deaths and halted work until funding was raised in 1834. Further floods and gas leaks impeded progress until tunnelling was completed in November 1841, after which the tunnel was fitted with lighting and roadways.

Opening and Legacy. The tunnel officially opened to the public on 25 March 1843, becoming a notable attraction described as the 'eighth wonder of the world'. Marc Brunel was knighted in 1841 in anticipation of its completion. The tunnel's success demonstrated the viability of the tunnelling shield, influencing subsequent underground construction methods in London.

People involved

Sources

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