Hebden Suspension Bridge
Crosses the River Wharfe near Hebden, east of Grassington.
Every expense was spared when this bridge was constructed by a local blacksmith, William Bell. Officially opened on 26th September 1885. The cast iron columns are probably recycled water pipes from a local mine's pumped drainage system.
There's more to the bridge than meets the eye - literally: beneath the wooden deck is a pair of cables, as for a rope or catenary bridge (Fig. 4). These cables support a number of transverse iron or steel bars. These bars are also supported by the suspender rods which are hung from the 'normal' suspension cables. The bars support wooden beams which in turn support the transverse wooden decking planks, and serve to attach the lattice railings.
Another unusual feature is the stabilising cables (wind guys) connecting the deck and the river banks (see Fig. 2).
See here for an excellent account of the bridge [1]. This source includes an old photo showing a prop at mid span, comprising two cast iron pipes bolted together. The lower one remains, embedded in the river bed. (See Fig. 8).
The bridge has been repaired, rebuilt and refurbished several times, most recently in 2014, funded by a donation from Eileen King.
Comparison with the old photos in the above reference reveals a number of changes. The masonry blocks for the iron columns have been replaced by, or encased in concrete. The suspension cables originally went through slots in the columns, but they now pass over grooved saddles (Fig. 6), the slots being filled in.
Note: William Bell also built Netherside Hall Suspension Bridge.