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View of the Ponsanooth viaduct, Cornwall. Early 1900s
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Royal Cornwall Museum
View of the Ponsanooth viaduct, Cornwall. Early 1900s
On the advice of the Victorian railway engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, river crossings for the new Cornish railway line built by the Cornwall Railway Company (1859 to 1889) took the form of wooden viaducts, 42 in total, consisting of timber deck spans supported by fans of timber bracing built on masonry piers. This unusual method of construction substantially reduced the first cost of construction compared to an all-masonry structure, but at the cost of more expensive maintenance. The Ponsanooth viaduct crossed the River Kennall 2 miles north of Penryn. A Class B viaduct 139 feet (42 m) high and 645 feet (197 m) long on 9 piers. It was replaced by a new stone viaduct on 7 September 1930. This is the tallest viaduct west of Truro. In the foreground can be seen Wheal Maudlin (Magdalen) works (former Perran foundry boiler works). Photographer: Unknown
Royal Cornwall Museum is the UK's Greatest Museum For Cornish Life & Culture
TRURI : RYpst.5
Media ID 12387045
© From the collection of the RIC
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the magnificent Ponsanooth viaduct in Cornwall during the early 1900s. Designed under the guidance of esteemed Victorian railway engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this wooden viaduct was one of 42 river crossings constructed for the new Cornish railway line by the Cornwall Railway Company. Standing tall at a height of 139 feet (42 m) and stretching over 645 feet (197 m) on nine sturdy piers, this Class B viaduct spanned across the River Kennall, located just two miles north of Penryn. Its unique construction method involved timber deck spans supported by intricate fans of timber bracing built upon solid masonry foundations. This innovative approach significantly reduced initial construction costs compared to an all-masonry structure but required more expensive maintenance throughout its lifespan. In this remarkable image, we also catch a glimpse of Wheal Maudlin works in the foreground – formerly known as Perran foundry boiler works. The photographer behind this stunning composition remains unknown but has masterfully captured both engineering marvel and industrial heritage within a single frame. Although replaced by a new stone viaduct on September 7th, 1930, Ponsanooth Viaduct proudly held its title as the tallest viaduct west of Truro until then. This historic photograph serves as a testament to human ingenuity and reminds us of our rich architectural legacy that continues to shape our landscapes today.
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