WELCOME TO OUR SITE DEVOTED TO THE DOCKLANDS

ABOUT THIS TYPE OF BRIDGE

Author

ABOUT THIS TYPE OF BRIDGE

The Scherzer Bridges of North Wall Quay

Location: Spanning the entrances to George's Dock and Custom House Dock respectively, on North Wall Quay in the Dublin Docklands.

Design: Scherzer Rolling Lift Bridges, named after their inventor, American engineer William Donald Scherzer. Patented in 1893, their unique design makes them both visually striking and functionally effective.

Construction: Installed in 1911-1912 for the Dublin Port and Docks Board to replace an earlier drawbridge. Built with steelwork supplied by Spencer and Company of Melksham, Wiltshire.

How Scherzer Bridges Work

  1. Bascule Principle: Scherzer bridges are a type of bascule bridge, meaning they have a counterweighted section that lifts to allow passage.
  2. Rolling Lift: The unique element is how they lift. The bridge deck is built on a curved track with a "rocking chair" like base. To open, the deck rolls backward, simultaneously counterbalancing itself for a smooth lift.
  3. Advantages:
    • Compact: Requires less space than traditional pivot-based bascule bridges.
    • Stable: The rolling movement offers stability even in windy conditions.

Other Scherzer Bridges Around the World

* USA: Numerous examples across the Great Lakes and Chicago River. * Canada: Burlington Canal Lift Bridge (Ontario) * Egypt: El Ferdan Railway Bridge (Suez Canal)

What Makes the Dublin Bridges Unique

* Paired: It's relatively unusual to find two Scherzer Rolling Lift Bridges side-by-side. This makes the North Wall Quay a fascinating spot for bridge enthusiasts. * Historical: Built over 100 years ago, they offer a tangible link to Dublin's maritime and industrial past within a rapidly redeveloping area. * Inoperable Yet Iconic: While no longer functional (due to removal of engines and fixed roadway), the Dublin bridges stand as sculptural reminders of an innovative design.

Resources

* Buildings of Ireland: https://www.buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/50010009/scherzer-bridges-north-wall-quay-guild-street-dublin-1-dublin-city * Canals of Dublin: http://canalsofdublin.com/royal-canal-interactive-walk/502-2/