Waterford Bridge, Pendleton
No longer extant.
1858 'On Saturday afternoon, Mr. J. P. Fitzgerald, of Castle Irwell, laid the foundation stone of new bridge across the Irwell, near Douglas Mills. It will be called Waterford Bridge, and will be built entirely at the expense of Mr. Fitzgerald.'[1]. Fitzgerald (1803-1879) was a son of John Purcell Fitzgerald.
1858 'New Bridge over the Irwell at Broughton.
On Saturday J. Purcell Fitzgerald, Esq , of Castle Irwell, laid the first stone of a new bridge over the river Irwell, for the purpose of connecting his estates in Broughton, Pendleton, and Agecroft. The ceremony took place soon after noon, in the presence of a number of spectators, friends, and dependants, of Mr. Fitzgerald, who was introduced by Mr. Higson, his agent, who has been connected with the property for 40 years. The road hitherto across the river has been by a ford, near Douglas Mills, and this is the site selected for the bridge. Mr. Fitzgerald selected as its name "Waterford Bridge," in remembrance of his estates in the sister country, and as appropriate for a structure that was to serve the purpose of the "ford" over the "water." The bridge will be of stone and iron, and will consist of two arches of about 50 feet span each, to be crossed by flat cast iron girders. The piers will be of stone, 15 feet wide, and the roadway 12 feet clear. It will be constructed to carry 30 tons. At present the bridge will be a private one, but eventually it will made public. The structure will be raised at the sole cost of Mr. Fitzgerald. Messrs. Statham and Son have contracted for the bridge; Messrs. Galloway supplying the iron work. Mr. Fitzgerald gave a treat to his workpeople after the ceremony.'[2]
See here[3] for photographs of the bridge and the surviving pillar. Cast iron beams supported by brick-faced abutments and a central brick pier. Ornamental iron railings, with spikes.
For a great deal of information about Castle Irwell, the Fitzgeralds, and the broader context, see here[4]