Fascinating rare and previously unpublished images documenting the various crossings that span the River Thames.

Some of the most beautiful views of London are those from the many bridges which span the River Thames. Millions of people cross over the Thames every day but most are too concerned with reaching their destination to notice the structures they use, let alone consider their history or the risks taken in building them. Triumphs of architecture and engineering, London's bridges have inspired artists as diverse as Dickens and Monet. From the elegant Richmond Bridge to the Gothic, quintessentially British Tower Bridge, they have formed the backdrop to battles, rebellions, pageantry and mysteries for two millennia. Crossing the River tells these stories, including the assassination of a dissident with a poisoned umbrella on Waterloo Bridge; the apparent suicide of 'God's banker', an Italian financier with links to the Vatican, the Masons and the Mafia; and the Marchioness tragedy and its controversial aftermath. Featuring illustrations and photographs old and new, this book will undoubtedly increase the reader's knowledge and appreciation of the bridges and the people who built them, and thereby enhance the pleasure of seeing them, whether at leisure or stuck in a traffic jam.

Tower Bridge, close to the Tower of London, is one of the best-known and most recognizable bridges in the world. Opened on 30 June 1894, this combined suspension and bascule bridge was designed by architect Sir Horace Jones and engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry.This new book, published to mark the 125th anniversary of its opening, will explore the history of the bridge, set it into the context of the River Thames and its crossings, and will, above all, focus on its design and construction. Highly illustrated with old and new images, from material held in the London Metropolitan Archives to specially commissioned photographs, Tower Bridge: History * Engineering * Design is a major new illustrated study of a remarkable piece of architecture and engineering.

London Bridge lined with houses from end to end was one of the most extraordinary structures ever seen in London. It was home to over 500 people, perched above the rushing waters of the Thames, and was one of the city’s main shopping streets. It is among the most familiar images of London in the past, but little has previously been known about the houses and the people who lived and worked in them. This book uses plentiful newly-discovered evidence, including detailed descriptions of nearly every house, to tell the story of the bridge and its houses and inhabitants. With the new information it is possible to reconstruct the plan of the bridge and houses in the seventeenth century, to trace the history of each house back through rentals and a survey to 1358, revealing the original layout, to date most of the houses which appear in later views, and to show how the houses and their occupants changed during five and half centuries. The book describes what stopped the houses falling into the river, how the houses were gradually enlarged, what their layout was inside, what goods were sold on the bridge and how these changed over time, the extensive rebuilding in 1477-1548 and 1683-96, and the removal of the houses around 1760. There are many new discoveries - about the structure of the bridge, the width of the roadway, the original layout of the houses, how the houses were supported, the size and internal planning of the houses, the quality of their architecture, and the trades practised on the bridge. The book includes five newly-commissioned reconstruction drawings showing what we now know about the bridge and its houses.

Hilaire Belloc's 'Premium Collection' is a comprehensive anthology that showcases the diverse talents of the prolific writer. This compilation includes historical works, writings on economy, essays, and fiction, offering a panoramic view of Belloc's thought-provoking and engaging writing style. Belloc's unique blend of wit, insight, and storytelling shines through in each piece, making this collection a true testament to his literary prowess. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, Belloc's works provide valuable historical context and offer timeless reflections on society, politics, and human nature. The reader will be delighted by Belloc's ability to seamlessly navigate between genres and topics, making this collection a must-read for those interested in intellectual discourse and literary exploration. Hilaire Belloc, a renowned essayist, historian, and poet, possessed a keen intellect and a sharp wit, which are evident in his extensive body of work. His vast knowledge and unique perspective on various subjects are reflected in the depth and breadth of the 'Premium Collection,' demonstrating his enduring relevance in the world of literature. Belloc's multidisciplinary approach and captivating storytelling make this collection a valuable addition to any reader's library. I highly recommend Hilaire Belloc's 'Premium Collection' to anyone seeking a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating read. Belloc's impeccable writing style and insightful commentary are sure to captivate and inspire readers of all backgrounds. This anthology serves as a tribute to Belloc's enduring legacy as a literary giant and a masterful storyteller.

Musaicum Books presents to you this meticulously edited collection of Hilaire Bellocs most influential works: Nonfiction: History The Book of the Bayeux Tapestry The Path to Rome The Old Road The French Revolution Blenheim Tourcoing Crécy Waterloo Malplaquet Poitiers First and Last Europe and the Faith Survivals and New Arrivals: The Old and New Enemies of the Catholic Church The Jews The Historic Thames A Change in the Cabinet A General Sketch of the European War: The First Phase The Two Maps of Europe Economics Servile State Essays: Avril: Essays on the Poetry of the French Renaissance Hills and the Sea On Nothing and Kindred Subjects On Everything On Anything On Something This and That On The Free Press Fiction: Novels & Short Stories The Mercy of Allah The Green Overcoat Poetry: A Moral Alphabet Bad Child's Book of Beasts More Beasts For Worse Children The Modern Traveller Cautionary Tales for Children More Peers

The Collected Works of Hilaire Belloc showcases the literary talents of a prolific author known for his witty and insightful writings. Belloc's works encompass a wide range of genres, including essays, poetry, travelogue, and historical and political commentary, all imbued with his signature satirical and provocative style. His writing reflects the early 20th-century literary context, characterized by a blend of humor, deep reflection, and social commentary. Readers can expect to be engaged and entertained while gaining new perspectives on a variety of subjects. Belloc's unique voice and keen observations make this collection a valuable addition to any literary enthusiast's library. Hilaire Belloc, a versatile writer and thinker, delves into various topics with depth and nuance, drawing from his diverse experiences and keen intellect. His background in history, politics, and theology informs his writing, adding layers of complexity and insight to his works. Belloc's sharp wit and incisive analysis make his writings both accessible and thought-provoking, appealing to a wide range of readers seeking intellectual stimulation and entertainment. I highly recommend The Collected Works of Hilaire Belloc to readers interested in exploring the vast and varied writings of a talented author whose works continue to resonate with audiences today. This comprehensive collection offers a deep dive into Belloc's literary legacy, showcasing his enduring relevance and timeless appeal.

Sir Horace Jones (1819-1887) was the architect of Tower Bridge, designed in collaboration with John Wolfe Barry. But while some of his surviving buildings are world famous, Jones himself is relatively unknown. For over twenty years he was architect and surveyor to the City of London, during which time he designed and built Billingsgate, Leadenhall and Smithfield Markets, and from 1864 until his death completed many important buildings for the City of London. From 1882 to 1884 he was also president of the Royal Institute of British Architects. This is the first published biography of Jones and is fully illustrated with examples of his designs and finished works, including Smithfield Market, shortly to reopen as the new home for the Museum of London on the edge of the City.