Consider the Cavenagh Bridge. It is more than just a way to cross the Singapore River. It embodies Singapore’s history.
This bridge, one of Singapore’s oldest, opened in 1869. It marked Singapore becoming a Crown colony of the Straits Settlements in 1867. Imagine a time when crossing the river meant a long detour or paying a duit for a boat ride.
Originally, it was named Edinburgh Bridge. This commemorated the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit. Later, it was renamed Cavenagh Bridge. It honored Major General Orfeur Cavenagh. He was the last India-appointed Governor of the Straits Settlements. You can still spot the Cavenagh family coat of arms on the bridge’s signage.
The Cavenagh Bridge boasts elaborate suspension struts. It was the third bridge built in Singapore. Its construction eased river crossings. Steel rivets were used. This reflects common steel casting methods of that era.
Designed by John Turnbull Thomson, it was built by P&W Maclellan. The Glasgow Engineers constructed it. It cost Straits $80,000. The bridge was tested in Glasgow. It could withstand four times its own weight. Shipped to Singapore, convicts reassembled it in 1869. It opened to traffic a year later.
Rickshaws and ox carts once used the Cavenagh Bridge. However, trade flourished. The bridge became overloaded in the late 1880s.
The government built the Anderson Bridge in 1910. This relieved the Cavenagh Bridge. It was spared from demolition. It became a pedestrian bridge. Road traffic shifted to the Anderson Bridge. A police notice was put up. It restricted vehicles over 3 cwt including cattle and horses.
Today, the Cavenagh Bridge is a pedestrian bridge. Lighting was added in 1990. This highlights its architectural features at night. It links the cultural district to the commercial district. It complements the Fullerton Hotel.
Look for the Singapura cat sculptures. These are near the southwest abutment. These cats are one of the smallest breeds in the world.
The Cavenagh Bridge was selected for conservation in 2008. It became a national monument. The historical police signboard is still here. Singaporeans have walked across this bridge for generations. The Cavenagh Bridge stands as a testament to Singapore’s past. It connects us to the stories of those who came before.