The age of communication dawns - # 143
In 1782 there were no bridges across the Thames between London Bridge and Kingston. So we must set off to discover the ferry point. Karl mentions seeing the many "fine houses" of upper class gentlemen along the way out of Hammersmith so I started on the narrow road close to the river.
As well as the many "fine houses" (which you we will see later) I discovered this amazing plaque on a wall of one such house. At this spot in 1816 the very first electric telegraph was opened and the line ran for 8 miles - no doubt into the centre of London. I had not idea that the electric telegraph started so early.
Even more amazing is the fact that by 1880 Britain had laid 97,568 miles of cable, nearly all underwater, to link it with India, Canada, Australia, Africa, America, the Middle East, China, and the Pacific.
And, how could you read it at that height?! I enlarged the photo to see it and could read it then. Great find! I also like the architecture.
ReplyDeleteYour travelling around with Karl is getting really fascinating. I guess it was for you and it certainly is for us! So will you find where the ferry crossing took place (no bridge, no swimming...)?
ReplyDeleteDelightfully intriguing journey but no bridges across the Thames between London Bridge and Kingston in 1782? What about Richmond Bridge, which is usually dated at 1777? Or was it not open by 1782?
ReplyDeleteMick, we're talking about a journey from Hammersmith to Richmond. Richmond Bridge, brand new in 1777/8 was not an option. The geography is wrong. It's not on the Hammersmith road. I think it's unlikely for several reasons.
ReplyDeleteAgreed, but i was just pointing out the fact that you state 'there were no bridges between London Bridge and Kingston in 1782'. Feel free to thrash me if I'm being overly pedantic.
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