Trinity bridge is a unique three way stone arch bridge that stands in the centre of Crowland, Lincolnshire, England. It once spanned the confluence of the river Welland and a tributary of the river Witham, the rivers have been re - routed and now the bridge spans nothing. The bridge dates to the 14th century, built between 1360 and 1390 and replaced previous wooden bridges. The earliest known mention of the bridge was by King Ethelbald of Mercia in 943. The bridge is now a scheduled monument and grade 1 listed. The bridge is built from Barnack stone, which was quarried about 16km to the west of Crowland and transported by boat on the Welland. The bridge has three stairways that converge at the top. The bridge was an unusual and economical solution to the crossing of two watercourses at their confluence, reducing the need for three separate bridges. This bridge is one of only a few bridges in the world that no longer spans any kind of physical obstacle.
The seated figure is thought to be that of Christ or of King Ethelbald and is possibly from the west front of Crowland Abbey.
Close up of the plaque on the bridge.
MOUNTING BLOCK.
Near the bridge is this mounting block which is for the assistance for mounting and dismounting a horse. They were especially useful for women riding sidesaddle. Mounting Blocks were usually made from stone, but sometimes you can come across wooden ones. They were very common prior to the era of motor cars.
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That is a neat bridge whether it is over some creeks or rivers or not. I think it was an ingenious idea to make it that way to save time in construction which during that time was rather lengthy to build most anything. Interesting on the mounting block. Never seen one out of any material. Great pix, my friend.
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