Richmond Bridge

The Richmond Bridge is the oldest stone span bridge in Australia, located in Richmond, Tasmania.

Constructed from 1823-1825 using convict labor, it bridges the Coal River. Originally named Bigge's Bridge, it has a remarkable history and was added to the Australian National Heritage List in 2005.

The bridge was constructed using sandstone quarried from Butchers Hill and hauled to the site by convicts using hand carts. It consists of four main arches with precise structure and a honed finish, showcasing early 19th-century engineering.

Extensive research has been conducted on the bridge's history and environment. Descendants of William Hartley Wilson, the superintendent of stonemasons for the bridge construction, documented the natural fauna and flora surrounding the bridge during its construction. The Richmond Bridge has received recognition for its historical significance and engineering excellence. It has been awarded a Historic Engineering Marker from Engineers Australia and played a crucial role in developing Tasmania's transportation infrastructure.

Today, the Richmond Bridge is a popular tourist attraction and heritage site. Visitors can take self-guided tours to learn about its construction, restoration, and modification over time. It is a must-see for those interested in Tasmania's history and early 19th-century engineering marvels.