3-082-924 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The "Black Flags'' in Formosa: constructing a bamboo bridge across the Lagoon, by which to retreat when the Japanese attack the forts, 1895. Sketch by Lieutenant A. W. Wylde, H.M.S. "Leander." 'a correspondent writes as follows: The fort on Saracen's Head is separated from the mainland by a large, shallow lagoon, about seven miles long and from one to three miles wide. Up till recently the garrison ran the risk of being completely cut off from any chance of retreat. General Lee, who is in command of the district, recognising the danger, ordered a bridge to be constructed across to the mainland. Stout bamboo trestles were driven in, and smaller bamboos laid along, and in less than three days the bridge, nearly one mile and a half long, was completed'. From "Illustrated London News", 1895.