Until Westminster Bridge was constructed in the 1740’s, the sole means of crossing the Thames on foot was London Bridge, which was later remodeled and finally replaced in the 1820’s. The piers supporting the 19 arches of the original stone structure greatly impeded the flow of the river. As a result, during the 600 years or so of the bridge’s existence, the Thames was frozen over at least eight times. When this happened, great “frost fairs” were set up on the ice, where many sporting events took place. Oxen were roasted, and royalty could be seen eating there. Books and toys labeled “bought on the Thames” were soon snapped up. Newssheets and even copies of the Lord’s Prayer were printed on presses erected on the frozen river!

[Picture on page 25]

London Bridge, made of stone, 1756

[Credit Line]

From the book Old and New London: A Narrative of Its History, Its People, and Its Places (Vol. II)