Ironbridge

Ironbridge is a settlement beside the River Severn in the parish of Madeley, Shropshire, England. It is a few kilometers south of Telford.

Related Topics:
River Severn - Madeley - Shropshire - England - Telford

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The town grew up beside, and takes its name from, The Iron Bridge, a 30 metre (100 foot) cast iron bridge that was built across the river there in 1779.

Related Topics:
The Iron Bridge - Cast iron - 1779

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The area around the town is often described as 'The Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution', because it was here that Abraham Darby I perfected the technique of smelting iron with coke, allowing much cheaper production of iron. The grandson of the first Abraham Darby, Abraham Darby III built the famous bridge in 1779, and since then the town has grown.

Related Topics:
Abraham Darby I - Abraham Darby III - 1779

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By the ninteenth century, the town had had many well-known visitors including Benjamin Disraeli, but by the twentieth century the town was in decline. Recently though, the town has become part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has become a tourist attraction. Most industries in the town are now tourist related, however the Merrythought Teddy Bear company (established in 1931) is still manufacturing in Ironbridge.

Related Topics:
Ninteenth century - Benjamin Disraeli - Twentieth century - UNESCO - World Heritage Site - 1931

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An Annual Coracle Regatta is held in August on the River Severn at Ironbridge, along with many other events throughout the year.

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