RARE "Bridge Builder" George Dodd 1.5X4 Cut Signature For Sale

Up for sale a RARE! "Bridge Builder" George Dodd 1.5X4 Clipped Signature. 

ES-5011E

Waterloo Bridge. - To the spirited

exertions and unceasing perseverance of the late Mr. George Dodd, an active,

enterprising, and skilful engineer, the public are indebted for the erection of

this distinguished ornament of the metropolis which was commenced by him, but

completed by Mr. Rennie. The first stone was laid on the 11th October, 1811,

and the bridge was opened for passengers on the 18th of June 1817, the

anniversary of the battle of Waterloo; the Prince Regent, and the Duke of

Wellington being present at the ceremony, which was of a splendid description.

This is, perhaps, the most august structure of the kind in the world, and it

differs from all the other bridges in having a completely level road-way. The

general style of the architecture is plain but the uniform extent and wide span

of its arches give it an appearance of uncommon grandeur. It consists of nine

semi-elliptical arches of equal size and elevation, the spans of each being 120

feet, though the thickness of each pier is but twenty feet, a clear water-way

is thus left of 1080 feet. Its length, within the abutments, is 1240 feet, and

its width, within the balustrades, is 42 feet, seven of which, on each side,

are appropriated to foot passengers. The whole is built of Cornish granite,

except the balustrades, which are of Aberdeen granite. The views from this

edifice are extensive and beautiful, and are much enlivened by the perpetual

passage of steam boats and other vessels, that, in the summer season,

considerably heighten the panoramic beauties of this delightful promenade.