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Ceremony of opening of the Thames Tunnel 1843
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Ceremony of opening of the Thames Tunnel 1843
Rotherhithe entrance of the tunnel, connecting to Wapping.
25 March 1843
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Media ID 23266028
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1840s 1843 Archway Brunel Ceremony Jun19 Rotherhithe Tunnel Tunnels
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, published by the Illustrated London News Ltd in June 1843, commemorates the grand opening ceremony of the Thames Tunnel, an engineering marvel of the 19th century. Located at the Rotherhithe entrance in London, this tunnel, connecting Wapping and Rotherhithe, was the world's first underwater tunnel for road traffic. The ceremony took place on 25 March 1843, and was attended by an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, including Sir Isambard Brunel, the visionary engineer behind this groundbreaking project. Brunel, known for his innovative designs and engineering prowess, oversaw the construction of the tunnel from its inception in 1825 until its completion in 1843. The Thames Tunnel was a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the British people during the Industrial Revolution. The construction of the tunnel presented numerous challenges, including the need to keep the tunnel dry, which was achieved through the use of a unique system of ventilation shafts and a waterproof lining. The opening ceremony was a grand affair, with a procession of carriages and horse-drawn vehicles making their way through the newly opened tunnel, led by Sir Isambard Brunel and other dignitaries. The occasion was marked by speeches, music, and fireworks, reflecting the excitement and pride of the British people in their latest engineering achievement. This photograph provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and significance of the Thames Tunnel's opening ceremony. It serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and determination of the Victorian era and the role of engineering in shaping the modern world.
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