Product Description
The Bridgewater Canal is distinguished as England's first canal and its development marked the beginning of a transport revolution that provided a crucial foundation for industrial and commercial development in England. Since its completion in 1765, the canal has been regularly used by commercial and passenger traffic; it was one of the major routes of the NorthWest that helped Manchester to develop as a centre of trade and industry in the nineteenth century. The canal features the remarkable Barton Swing Aqueduct, an engineering masterpiece that carries the Bridgewater Canal over the Irwell section of the Manchester Ship Canal. The original aqueduct, built by James Brindley, was equally impressive as one of the wonders of the age and earned the nickname, 'Castle in the Air'. In "The Duke's Cut: The Bridgewater Canal", Cyril J. Wood recounts the fascinating history of the Bridgewater Canal, from its conception and construction to its subsequent successes, including its use as a leisure waterway today. His detailed commentary is complemented by his descriptive guide to cruising the canal and valuable navigational information. Illustrated with over 150 images, this comprehensive history and guide will appeal to local historians and canal enthusiasts alike.