Survey Data
Reg No
40905802
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Scientific, Technical
Original Use
Bridge
In Use As
Bridge
Date
1785 - 1790
Coordinates
186814, 406457
Date Recorded
14/04/2014
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Double-arch bridge, built c.1786, crossing Abhainn Ghaoth Beara [Gweebarra River], comprising squared ashlar walls with dressed cut-stone voussoirs to segmental arches, projecting rusticated rubble abutments, and parapets with large field-stone copings. Ashlar piers with string course at springing level and large ashlar cut-water to the northeast with large projecting field-stone copings. Evidence for plug-and-feather technique of quarrying/stone-cutting to some stones.
Appraisal
This well-constructed road bridge has architectural and technical merit, and is also a picturesque feature in the local landscape. The parapets of large stones, the well-wrought stone voussoirs and pointed cut-water provide architectural interest and are a testament to skilled craftsmen. The bridge is an essential part of the local road infrastructure. The bridge, the first built over Abhainn Ghaoth Beara [Gweebarra River], was built by William Conyngham (1733-96) to facilitate travel to and from the fishery industry he established at Inis Mhic an Doirn [Rutland Island or Inishmacadurn]. He was the biggest landlord in the region at the time and carried out many improvements to local infrastructure. Prior to that, the only way of crossing Abhainn Ghaoth Beara [Gweebarra River] was by way of the two or three ferry services established in the area at the start of the seventeenth century.