Timber to Reading

Time and Place: NarrowBoat, Spring 2016

Christopher M Jones

Chris M. Jones examines rare, detailed photographs showing barge traffic on the River Kennet in the late 19th century.

Taken on Saturday 23rd July 1888, these two photographs provide a fascinating insight into river transport between London and Reading during the period. The location is William Ridley & Sons’ timber yard at Abbey Wharf, Reading, which was situated on a bend in the Kennet between Blakes Bridge and Crown Bridge, on land either side of the river. Access to both sides was via an iron bridge on brick abutments, wide enough for a cart to pass.…

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