In this episode of Danny Hurst´s Bridge History Series, he shares the history of Richmond Bridge. Explaining why despite there being a dire need for a permanent crossing in the area, locals initially objected to the plans drawn up in 1772 and how that was overcome. The way the bridge was funded is also quite unusual, Danny explains why and how the cash to build it was raised.

He also shares the connection with The Beatles, John Constable, JMW Turner, a yacht crash and a heron sanctuary. 

If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled and fact-packed history-related videos.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Richmond Bridge is the oldest of the Thames crossings that hasn't been replaced in London.

• The first building to be built in the area, in the 13th century, was Henry 7th Palace, who was the Earl of Richmond.

• Because the hill at Richmond was too steep for laden carriages to tackle, they had to cross at Kingston Bridge.

• There is still a warning sign on the bridge that states that anyone caught vandalising Richmond Bridge will be punished by transportation.

• In 1937 the bridge was widened to accommodate the heavy traffic that used the area.

• In 1952, Richmond Bridge became grade one listed.

BEST MOMENTS

“The bridges in Richmond are actually a bit of an anomaly on the Thames.”

“Richmond Bridge is the last Bridge on the stretch as the river meanders back westwards.”

 From above, it doesn't look as confusing as it sounds, but by the bridges on this stretch, nobody actually knows which side they're on.”

“Upon her death, all the tolls were abolished.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk

Tontine funding explained - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/tontine.asp

HOST BIO

Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.

CONTACT AND SOCIALS

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