Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Isambard Kingdom Brunel

Besides having an epic name, this architect from the mid-1800s made himself quite famous in London and beyond.

The first work of his that I saw in Ealing was the very large and impressive Wharncliffe Viaduct, which is still used today as a bridge for trains.

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Brunel also worked under his Dad, Marc Isambard Brunel, in the beginning of his career and both worked on the Thames Tunnel which was, according to the Brunel Museum, the first tunnel under a navigable river.  The tunnel now forms part of the London Overground train system.  In 1828 there was an accident and the tunnel flooded, killing six men, and Brunel himself narrowly escaped drowning.  He recuperated in Bristol, where he heard about the Clifton Suspension Bridge competition.

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The Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.  
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The Royal Albert Bridge between Plymouth and Saltash.
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And finally, my favourite, the work of Brunel that is closest to my house: "Three Bridges" or "Windmill Bridge."  It's incredible.  The lower level is rail, the middle is the canal, and on top is Windmill Lane.  Three levels!

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I would love to now go and see the Brunel Museum in Southwark.  Maybe I can drag some people to go with me?