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Excavating the Rotherhithe Tunnel BB99_06818
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Excavating the Rotherhithe Tunnel BB99_06818
ROTHERHITHE TUNNEL, London. The construction of the Rotherhithe road tunnel under the Thames between Rotherhithe and Shadwell was begun in 1904 under the direction of Sir Maurice Fitzmaurice, and completed in 1908. It was excavated using two Greathead-Moir shields, one of which is being dismantled here. Photographed in August 1907
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 1766205
© Historic England
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph from the Historic England Archive, we witness the intricate process of excavating the Rotherhithe Tunnel in London during its construction in 1907. The Rotherhithe Tunnel, which connects Rotherhithe and Shadwell across the River Thames, was initiated in 1904 under the supervision of Sir Maurice Fitzmaurice. By August 1907, significant progress had been made, as evidenced by the dismantling of one of the two Greathead-Moir shields. The shields, essential tools for tunnel excavation, were used to dig out the soil and rock from the tunnel's path, creating a continuous tunnel bore. The image captures a moment in time as the shield is being disassembled, revealing the inner workings of this engineering marvel. The workers in the photograph, dressed in protective gear and working in close proximity to each other, demonstrate the collaborative effort required to complete such a monumental project. The Rotherhithe Tunnel's construction marked a significant milestone in London's transportation history. It was completed in 1908, providing a much-needed alternative to the congested London Bridge and offering a more efficient means of travel between the south and north banks of the Thames. This photograph serves as a testament to the ingenuity, determination, and hard work of the engineers and laborers who brought this vision to life. The intricate process of excavating the Rotherhithe Tunnel using the Greathead-Moir shields is a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the remarkable engineering achievements of the early 20th century. This photograph is an invaluable addition to the Historic England Archive, preserving a piece of London's rich history for future generations to explore and learn from.
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