Saltford Lock facts for kids
Saltford Lock is a special kind of gate on the River Avon. It's located near the village of Saltford, which is between the cities of Bristol and Bath in England. Locks like this help boats travel up and down rivers where the water level changes.
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Saltford Lock: A Journey Through Time
What is a Canal Lock?
A lock is like a water elevator for boats! It's a chamber with gates at both ends. When a boat wants to go up or down the river, it enters the lock. Water is then either added or removed from the lock. This changes the water level inside. Once the water level matches the next part of the river, the other gate opens. This allows the boat to continue its journey.
The River Avon wasn't always easy for boats to travel on. To make it better for transport, a special project was started. This project was called the Bristol Avon Navigation. It stretches for about 15 miles (24 km) (24 km). It goes from the Kennet and Avon Canal at Hanham Lock all the way to the Bristol Channel at Avonmouth.
Work on this navigation happened between 1724 and 1727. It was allowed by laws passed by Queen Anne. A group of business owners, called proprietors, funded the work. The main engineer for the project was John Hore from Newbury. The very first cargo of goods, including wood, lead, and grain, arrived in Bath in December 1727. Today, the navigation is managed by the Canal & River Trust. They look after many waterways in England and Wales.
Saltford Lock's Story
Saltford Lock was first opened in 1727. It was an important part of the new river navigation. However, just eleven years later, in 1738, the lock was damaged. It was likely destroyed by people who didn't want the river used for transporting goods. They probably wanted to stop boats from using the river.
Right next to the lock is the Jolly Sailor pub. This pub was built in 1726. It was made especially for the people who worked on the barges, the boats that used the river. The pub's garden even stretches over the lock itself. Inside the pub, there's a wooden fireplace. It has small holes made by hot metal pokers. These holes were made by newly promoted barge captains. It was a tradition to mark their achievement!
Nearby History: Kelston Brass Mill
The lock and the nearby weir (a small dam) are overlooked by the old Kelston Brass Mill. This mill made brass products. It was in use until 1925. The remains of the mill are now a grade II listed building. This means it's an important historical building that is protected.
