UK - South Yorkshire Branch

Thomas Bouch is generally remembered for the failure of the Tay Railway Bridge, an event that rocked the Victorian establishment. But the construction of what was then the longest bridge in the world was not entrusted to an insignificant engineer, far from it. The talk aims to correct an imbalance of repute by explaining some of his background and history that led up to his winning the Tay Bridge contract. Whilst the speaker does recognise that he was not without fault in connection with that tragic incident, he considers that Bouch was not as blameworthy as the Court of Enquiry conclusion stated. The talk does not derive from original research but draws on various existing resources. When they are analysed carefully one may or may not be persuaded that he was harshly judged, but at the least people should be made aware of his successes. Bill Jagger is Newcomen Member and a semi-retired Chartered Accountant who is currently working in the engineering industry. He has a lifelong interest in transport in general and railways in particular. In exploring the Pennine railway lines he came across Thomas Bouch's name and became interested to find out more about him. A conversation at a meeting of the engineers’ society of which he is a member-led to a challenge to give a talk: "you seem to know a lot about him and we are looking for speakers! Please Note:- This is an in-person only talk and will not be available online. Kelham Island Museum has advised that although no social distancing restrictions will be in place for the meeting, we will need to keep a detailed register of attendees. A group of members and guests will be meeting for a pre-talk meal and if you wish to join us please let me know so that I can advise them of the probable numbers.

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