The CROSSNESS PUMPING STATION, a sewage pumping station, was constructed between 1859-1865 as part of the London sewage system. Prince Albert was instrumental in the design and initial construction before his early death. The pumping station is located at Crossness, southeast London, at the eastern end of the Southern Outfall Sewer. The sewage was pumped up into a 27 million gallon reservoir and was released into the Thames at high tide. Yikes!
The Station contains 4 original pumping engines which are thought to be the largest remaining beam engines in the world. The engines are named PRINCE ALBERT, VICTORIA, ALBERT EDWARD, and ALEXANDRA. Obviously, this great invention was very supported by the Prince Consort who was involved in numerous scientific experiments. The multi-talented Prince Consort was on the cutting edge of the Industrial Revolution of the early 19th century.
The PRINCE CONSORT pumping engine was returned to steam in 2003 and now runs on Trust Open Days.
The Pumping Station was officially opened by Edward, Prince of Wales in April 1865, after the Prince Consort’s unfortunate early death.
The building features SPECTACULAR ORNAMENTAL CAST IRONWORK- a masterpiece of engineering, a Victorian Cathedral of ironwork.
To see the PRINCE CONSORT PUMP is a must, but to enjoy the magnificent Victorian ironwork is a unique experience. This is on my itinerary for my August visit. I am eager for this visit. Come join me. Very interesting. Enjoy these images of the fabulous ironwork:
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
