Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust Archives
We have records created by the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust and its predecessors. These date from c. 1828 to the present day and include papers, photographs and drawings.
Many of our technical records were created by consultant engineering firm, Howard Humphreys, and its successors. Dating from 1910 to 2006, these documents are an important record of the work carried out on the bridge. The Trust’s records also show how the bridge has been managed, documenting changes from the Victorian era to modern times.
Social History
Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of Bristol’s most important tourist attractions. We hold souvenirs, photographs, guide books and postcards dating from 1864 to the early 20th century. Some commemorate events on the bridge, including its opening.
Unique Treasures
We also have acquired collections that have been either bought or given to the Trust. We have unique objects such as a piece of Brunel’s iron bar used for a suspended traveller and a rare sketch showing the construction of the abutments.
Adrian Andrews Collection
Adrian Andrews was an expert in the history of Clifton Suspension Bridge. His collection was gifted to the Trust in 2017, and contains a treasure trove of resources. The collection includes:
- Photographs dated c. 1858-1930
- Medallions commemorating Iron Bridge, London Bridge and the Thames Tunnel
- Original prints of various bridges
- Extracts from nineteenth-century publications featuring bridges, such as the London Illustrated News
- A small number of artworks
Next Steps
If you have a question about our collections, or would like to view any of our records, please contact:
Verity Jones, Bridge Archivist
Our Collections
Our collections demonstrate the enduring renown of Bristol’s most iconic landmark. You can search our collection archive below: