1-158-664 - Oxford Science Archive/Heritage Images

Blackwall Tunnel, London, c1900. This tunnel, the older Western tunnel, connects the Essex and Kent sides of the Thames. Designed by the London County Council's chief engineer Alexander Binnie (1839-1917), it opened in 1897. The latest techniques were used in its construction, including the employment of James Henry Greathead's (1844-1896) tunnelling shield. The tunnel was lined with glazed white brick and lit by electric light. It had two lanes for wheeled traffic and footpaths for pedestrians. View of one of the entrances, of the river, and of traffic inside the tunnel. From Bubbles published by Dr Barnados Homes for Children. (London, c1900).