The Opening of London Bridge by William IV, August 1st

A new London Bridge was constructed between 1824 and 1831 to the design of John Rennie. The building work itself was supervised by Rennie’s son, also named John. The new bridge was built in stone and incorporated a series of five semi-elliptical arches.

This view is taken from the middle of the river looking towards the north bank. King William and Queen Adelaide arrive in the state barge being escorted up river from Somerset House with livery barges. Over half a million spectators lined the river banks to watch their arrival.

Presented by Lady Wakefield, 1943...