St George's Bridge facts for kids
St George's Bridge was an old bridge in Shrewsbury, England. It crossed the River Severn. The bridge got its name because it was near a medieval hospital called St. George's Hospital. It connected an old part of town called Frankwell to the town centre. This connection was made through a street called Mardol.
The bridge had a gate on the town side called Mardol Gate. This gate was located where the Mardol Quay Gardens are now. On the other side, towards Wales, there was another gate called Welsh Gate or St George's Gate. This historic bridge, sometimes known as the Old Welsh Bridge, was taken down in 1795. A new bridge, the Welsh Bridge, was built to replace it.
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Discovering St George's Bridge
People believe that St George's Bridge was built around the year 1262. It was a very important way to get into Shrewsbury.
What Was St George's Bridge Like?
In 1539, a writer named John Leland described the bridge. He said it was the biggest and most beautiful bridge over the river. It had six large stone arches. It was called the Welsh Bridge because it was the main path from the town into Wales.
Leland also mentioned that the bridge had a strong gate on the town side. This gate helped people enter Shrewsbury. On the side towards Wales, there was a powerful tower. This tower was there to stop enemies from crossing the bridge.
A Look Back in Time
Over the years, the bridge had different names. In 1336, it was called Walshebrugge. Later, in 1351, it was known as Walshemanne's brigge. Around 1496, a public restroom was even built on the bridge!
Part of the bridge was a wooden drawbridge. This type of bridge can be lifted to let boats pass underneath. Several shops were also built near the middle of the bridge. One of its towers remained standing almost until the bridge was demolished. There was a statue of Richard Plantagenet above the main tower. This statue was removed in 1791.
The New Welsh Bridge
The Welsh Bridge was built about 73 meters (80 yards) further downstream. This new bridge connected Barker Street to Frankwell. The Welsh Bridge is still standing today. It continues to carry cars and people over the River Severn. The part of Barker Street near the new bridge has been called Bridge Street ever since it was built.
What's Left Today?
In 2004, the local council put up an information board. This board tells the story of the old bridge and the Mardol area. You can find it at the bottom of Mardol, near where the bridge used to be.
Only one part of the old St George's Bridge remains today. It is a dry arch on the Frankwell side. This arch was found when the Theatre Severn was being built in the late 2000s. It is now protected within the theatre's foundations.
Saint George and Shrewsbury
Saint George is a very important figure in England. He is known as the patron saint of the country. There is also a Church of England church in Frankwell named after Saint George. This church is a short walk from where the Welsh Bridge and the old St George's Bridge site are located.
