エピソード
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In this episode of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he reaches Hammersmith Bridge, one of London´s more colourful and impressive bridges. Despite being London´s weakest bridge it has not been rebuilt, since 1887. Danny explains why the riverside beneath it is prone to flooding and why keeping it from falling to pieces requires a staggering amount of maintenance. He also busts several urban myths about the bridge, including one that connects it to Harrods.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled, and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
At the time it was built it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. The bridge was a target for different factions of the IRA on 3 occasions. Currently, the bridge is closed to road traffic. The origins of the name Hammersmith is debated and remains a mystery.BEST MOMENTS
“Hammersmith Bridge is seemingly closed more often than it is open, a continuing thorn in the side of motorists and pedestrians alike.”
“Tierney Clark would later go on to design the Széchenyi Chain Bridge across the Danube in Budapest. .”
“Unlike most of the Thames bridges, its owners made a profit selling it, as well as on the tolls.”
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction, and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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For this episode of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, you get two bridges for the price of one as Danny shares the intriguing history of both Fulham Railway Bridge and Putney Bridge. The story includes the boat race, numerous name changes, Isambard Kingdom Brunel´s assistant, William Jacomb, Fredrick Simms, Gottleib Daimler, Shelley, The Omen and busting several urban legends.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Putney Bridge was the second bridge to be built in London and was originally called Fulham Bridge. The original Putney Bridge had 26 arches. Mary Wollstonecraft attempted suicide on the bridge. Nearby Putney Heath was a popular spot for duelling, including one that involved a prime minister. Craven Cottage is the only football stadium to be located on the Thames.BEST MOMENTS
“One of only three combined pedestrian and railway bridges in London.”
“The ferryman either didn´t hear him or pretended not to.”
“Putney Bridge is the only bridge in the UK to have churches at either end..”
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction, and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, it is the turn of Wandsworth Bridge. Something that sounds like a bit of a dry subject, but don´t worry Danny has found some surprisingly interesting things to say about it. Including, where its name and colour scheme comes from came from, why it is Putney Bridge's poorer cousin and its connection to A Clockwork Orange.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Eight of London´s bridges fall within the boundaries of Wandsworth. It was one of the last toll bridges to be built in London. A nearby manor house, now demolished, was once called the "Jew's House". The bridge marks the point where the speed limit on The Thames changes.BEST MOMENTS
“The unimpressive-looking Wandsworth bridge is probably the most boring bridge of all.”
“A large roundabout … very much a product of its time, like many other concrete crop circles that appeared during the 60s.”
“There were helicopters taking off and landing at all hours.”
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction, and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he shares the details of one of London´s lesser-known bridges – Battersea Railway Bridge, which confusingly is also known by two other names. Even more confusing is the naming of all of the stations the railway takes you to, it´s like the Twilight Zone. Fortunately, Danny unpicks it all and reveals the area´s connection with hot air balloons, tightrope walkers, ladies of the night and Whistler.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled, and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Battersea Railway Bridge is also known as the Cremorne Bridge. Danny explains why in the episode. It was the first London Bridge to be built in wrought iron. It is the only bridge that doesn't cross the Thames at right angles. There are two train speed limits on the bridge. Having never been replaced, this is the oldest original bridge in Central London.BEST MOMENTS
“It´s the only railway bridge across The Thames that runs to multiple destinations.”
“Mind you, if it was called Harlesden Junction, nobody would want to get off there.”
“The bridge was damaged in the early 1990s and then again in 2003.”
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction, and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he reaches Battersea Bridge. A bridge that many argue is located in the wrong place, to the point where Londonist.com describes it as – “The equivalent of a zebra crossing on a hairpin bend.” A lot of river users crash into it.
Danny explains how it ended up being built there and shares its connection between the sewage system, Princess Diana’s family, a whale, Richard III and why the bridge is considered unlucky.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It is London´s narrowest road bridge and has claimed the lives of many cyclists. It was the 1st bridge to be lit at night. After one accident only the tram lines were left holding the bridge together. The only medieval city merchant´s house is located nearby.BEST MOMENTS
“Despite the accidents and casualties, this bridge was something of a muse to several artists.”
“Calls for its demolition were loud.”
“Cycling across it is not advised.”
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://londonist.com/2015/07/battersea-bridge-125-years-of-collisions
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction, and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode, of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories London Bridge Series, he shares the fascinating history of Albert Bridge, which, when it first opened was known as “The Trembling Lady.” Danny explains why that was, why it looks like a fairground ride and shares its connection to The Pogues, John Betjeman and A Clockwork Orange. He also shares why the area is bristling with blue plaques and memorials.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled, and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
There is still a sign on Albert Bridge telling troops to break step when marching over it. Only 11 years after opening the bridge had to be reinforced. For decades, the bridge was only one-way. The number of dogs crossing the bridge each day is causing it to rot.BEST MOMENTS
‘Albert Bridge suffered from a phenomenon known as vertical excitation ´
‘Twelve layers of paint had to be stripped back.’
‘Making the bridge a hybrid of suspension cable-stayed and now also a beam bridge.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode, of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he reaches Chelsea Bridge which has a longer history than you might expect. He explains why it was opened by the Canadian PM instead of a British dignitary, its connection to biker culture, the Chelsea Pensioners, The Sex Pistols, Sloane Rangers, the 1st official football match and the awful Glasgow smile injury.
Danny also covers the gentrification of Chelsea, its counterculture scene, and the King´s Road.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled, and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The bridge was originally called the Victoria Bridge. But its shoddy design meant that it had to be quickly renamed. The current version of the bridge is the only self-supporting suspension bridge in London. Unusually, it is the roadway that absorbs the stress, not the suspension cables. It was built with the help of the tide.BEST MOMENTS
‘Resulted in one of the Essex Nomads being shot dead and 20 bikers being locked up. ´
‘Londoners objected to having to pay for fresh air.’
‘Chelsea fans were outraged that the bridge had been painted in Arsenal’s colours.’
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he shares the fascinating history of one of London´s lesser-known bridges - Grosvenor Bridge. Weirdly, it is actually 10 connected bridges.
He also shares some of the history of historic buildings in the area, including the Battersea Power Station which delayed the launch of BBC2. At some point, Danny also mentions an inflatable pink pig.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled, and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It is also known as the Victoria Railway Bridge. The bridge has been expanded 3 times. It is the widest of London´s bridges. Battersea power station is still the biggest brick building in Europe.BEST MOMENTS
‘Despite its relative anonymity Grosvenor Bridge is actually one of the most important. ´
‘Technically it isn´t one bridge, but 10 that are connected.’
‘Scott is also famous for designing the iconic red telephone box that tourists go mad over.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
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In this episode, of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he arrives at Vauxhall Bridge. There is evidence of a bridge near this site which dates back to around 4000 BC. As a result, some people argue that this is the oldest bridge in the capital, instead of London Bridge.
Danny takes you for a spin through its fascinating history. Including, its connection to knights, a green giant, James Bond, pleasure gardens, Royal Dalton, the statues few people notice, and a London farm that is still working.
If you can´t, get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled, and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The first bridge was built using flint tools. The bridge is named after a knight. The Vauxhall car company was founded here. One of the temporary bridges now spans the Zambezi. South London’s oldest gay venue is located near the bridge.BEST MOMENTS
‘For around 200 years The Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens were one of the leading entertainment venues in London. ´
‘A temporary bridge had to be installed to keep the traffic moving.’
‘All of these are female and extremely accomplished in detail.’
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode, of Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he explores the fascinating stories surrounding Lambeth Bridge. He shares the origins of its name, why the bridge was built at that location and why at first it was only used by pedestrians. As well as sharing the bridge´s connection to Harry Potter, it's tentative link to pineapples as well as the teen novel The Enemy.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The bridge is thought to have gotten its name from the fact that the area was a landing place for lambs. Oliver Cromwell nearly drowned on this stretch of the river. Today´s version of the bridge opened in 1932. MI5´s headquarters are located next to the bridge.BEST MOMENTS
‘Boats often sank or became stuck in the mud. ´
‘Painted predominantly red to match the seats in the House of Lords.’
‘It features a sign with the number of the Samaritans on it saying talk to us we'll listen.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
https://gardenmuseum.org.uk/
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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In this episode of the Bridge Series, Danny Hurst reaches Westminster Bridge, Central London's second-oldest bridge. Danny explains why at certain times of the day, the shadows cast by the bridge look like huge phallic symbols, why many paintings of the bridge are not accurate and why 12 nightwatchmen had to be stationed on the bridge.
He also explains why it is painted green, what that little hut on the edge of Westminster Pier is used for and its connection with the Daleks, Blofeld and Danny Boyle.
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled and fact-packed history-related videos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Pressure from the Archbishop of Canterbury and the ferrymen meant that Westminster Bridge nearly did not get built. Many of the early paintings of the bridge include architectural features that the bridge does not have. The design of the bridge made it a dream location for muggers and pickpockets.BEST MOMENTS
‘This poem can be found on a plaque halfway across the bridge. ´
‘These are among the few remaining gas lamps in the UK and are maintained by a specialist team.’
‘Boudicca has been inaccurately represented as an English hero for generations.’
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
-
In this episode, which is the 7th in Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he reaches Charing Cross Bridge, another of London´s railway bridges along with walkways either side. You will learn how parts of the original bridge are being used today in London and Bristol, the bridge's connection with the UK´s first ice cream shop, cabman shelters, the sewage system, a factory Charles Dickens worked in and Muhammed Ali (probably not the one you are thinking of though).
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The buttresses from the suspension footbridge built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel form part of the current railway bridge. Charing Cross is London´s most central railway station. It is one of only 3 bridges in London that combine pedestrian walkways with a railway line. The obelisk in the area was nearly not erected because the British government were reluctant to pay the shipping fee.BEST MOMENTS
‘Altogether we've got about six different names for this bridge and different parts of it. ´
‘This is a popular venue and has hosted performers as diverse as David Bowie, Tom Jones and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.’
‘An ancient Egyptian obelisk that dates back to around 1450 BC, long before any of the Cleopatras were around.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
-
In this episode, which is the 6th in Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he shares some fascinating stories about London´s Waterloo Bridge. The location of an a highly unusual assassination, an accidental hanging, a cardboard city and a book market which are all part of its rich history.
Also learn about Waterloo stations Only Fools and Horses connection, why the bridge was mostly built by women and more.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Markoff assassination did not happen in the way everyone thinks. The impressive Waterloo Bridge helmet dates back to between 150 and 50BC. Monet painted the bridge 41 times. The bridge is self-cleaning. The bridge was not finished until 3 years after its official opening. The play Waterloo Bridge has been turned into a film 3 times.BEST MOMENTS
‘As a result, the bridge made an enormous loss. ´
‘The original Waterloo Bridge was thought by many to be the most beautiful bridge in the world.’
‘It does have some of the best acoustic qualities in the world.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
The Strand episode of Unusual Histories podcast - https://omny.fm/shows/unusual-histories/015-uh?in_playlist=podcast
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
If you can´t get enough of these podcasts, head to https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access my exclusive, member-only, fun-filled and fact-packed history-related videos.
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
-
In this episode, the 5th in Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he reaches Blackfriars. Today, you get the history of 3 bridges for the price of one.
Danny tells you about the connection the bridge has with monks, theatre, the River Fleet, David Bowie, solar power, the Mafia, and the voice of Queen Victoria.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
You can still see the columns that supported the old Blackfriars Bridge. They played an important role in constructing the present-day one. The bridge is named after an order of Dominican monks who lived in the area. The decoration on the piers is particularly interesting and clever. It was the London, Chatham and Dover railway that first took trains across the river at this point. A 2nd railway bridge had to be built to ease congestion. Blackfriars is the only station to span the River Thames. Originally users had to pay a toll.BEST MOMENTS
‘This monastic influence is reflected in the piers of the road bridge. ´
‘The old Blackfriars Bridge was once known as the Alexandra Bridge.’
‘Both the station and the bridge were renamed in 1937 to avoid confusion with St. Paul's underground station.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
Visit https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access exclusive videos available only for members.
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
-
In this episode, the 5th in Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he gets to the newest of London's bridges, the Millennium Bridge. Danny explains why a design fault led to excitation and how the issue was fixed. Unusually, a sculptor was involved in its design as well as an architect.
This relatively new addition to London´s cityscape still has some fascinating stories to tell. Danny also shares some of the history of the buildings surrounding the bridge, including revealing that there has been 5 St Paul´s cathedrals, yet the one everyone knows is only the 3rd to sit on that site. That sounds confusing, but all is explained during the episode.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The beginning of Harry Potter – The Half-Blood Prince features the Millennium Bridge collapsing. Danny explains why during the episode. Londoners call it the Wobbly Bridge. As the name indicates it was built for the Millennium but opened 2 years late. It was London´s first new bridge in over 100 years. It is not, as many people think, the only "pedestrian only" bridge in London.BEST MOMENTS
‘The bridge was closed on the same day it opened. ´
‘Like most of London's famous structures, it was the result of a competition.’
‘There have actually been 5 St Paul´s cathedrals.’
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
Visit https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access exclusive videos available only for members.
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you… -
In this episode, which is the 4th in Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he gets to Southwark. Starting by explaining the slightly weird origins of its name and the history around it. He explains why Shakespeare built his theatre The Globe in the area despite it being ridden with rats, bad smells, and huge mosquitos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The area around the bridge is the oldest residential part of London. Southwark was a very dicey area in medieval and early-modern times. The Puritans are the reason the original Globe Theatre was built there. Danny explains why. Today´s bridge is the 2nd one to be built on the site. The original one appears in two Charles Dickens novels. The old bridge had the longest cast iron span ever made. The lighting on the bridge dates back to the original bridge. It is known as the Lonely Bridge, Danny explains why. One of the most famous pubs in London is located near here.BEST MOMENTS
‘The name actually has no connection with walking or even the south. ´
‘You had to have your wits about you if you went because you were likely to be mugged, or pickpocketed.’
‘The original contractors went bankrupt.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
Visit https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access exclusive videos available only for members.
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
-
In this episode, which is the 3rd in Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories Bridge Series, he takes a look at one of the city's lesser-known bridges – Cannon Street Railway Bridge, one side of which was first built in a medieval steelyard, (not what you think it is). Danny also shares the connection between the oldest known monument in London, Alfred the Great, Shakespeare, candle-makers, and Oswald Mosely.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Cannon Street was the first street to run through the City of London. The name Cannon Street has nothing to do with armaments. The area was especially important during Roman times. It is the site of the London Stone, which possibly dates back to Druid times. The London Stone is said by some to be the stone Arthur drew Excalibur from. The railway station hotel is where both the Congress of the Communist Party of Great Britain and the New Party, which became British Union of Fascists were founded.BEST MOMENTS
‘In Roman times, Cannon Street was the heart of ancient Londinium. ´
‘London will flourish as long as the stone remains in the city.’
‘As a result, his head was mounted on London Bridge afterwards.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
https://www.citybridgefoundation.org.uk/
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
Visit https://www.patreon.com/DannyHurst to access exclusive videos available only for members.
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
-
In this episode, which is the 2nd in Danny Hurst´s Unusual Histories The Bridges of London Series, he looks at the incredibly long and surprising history of London Bridge. The bridge has been disappointing tourists for decades who are expecting to see the far more aesthetically pleasing Tower Bridge.
The history of London Bridge is the history of London itself, so you don´t want to miss this episode. Danny shares who built the first version, and why it was left to become a ruin, torn down, hit by a boat, burned down several times and was the site of a terrorist attack. He also looks at the origins of the famous children´s song and a nursery rhyme, while busting several London Bridge-related myths.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The first bridges in the area were built in the bronze age. The Romans built the first proper London Bridge. That original bridge along with the city of Londinium became a ruin when the Romans left. The centre of the bridge was once the starting point for a pilgrimage. The great water wheels on the bridge that were used by firefighters failed during The Great Fire of London. Shooting the rapids that ran under an older version of the bridge was a popular sport. Severed heads were displayed on the bridge. The way the old bridge impacted the flow of water is why the Thames sometimes froze. The current bridge was opened on 17th March 1973.BEST MOMENTS
‘People come from all over the world to be disappointed by it. ´
‘The 1970s was not the golden age of British architecture, or indeed the golden age of anything in Britain.’
‘The number of the bridge supports created dangerous rapids between the piers at high tide.’
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
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In this episode, Danny launches his new Unusual Histories series during which he will share details of the long and fascinating history of each of London´s bridges, starting with the iconic Tower Bridge. He is joined by Dirk Bennett, the Exhibition Development Manager for Tower Bridge and Monument who is organising events to celebrate the bridge's 130th anniversary.
Listen in to find out if a bus really did jump the gap when the bridge was opened as it crossed, what happened to Bill Clinton on the bridge, and its engineering and construction. Dirk provides an insider's view of the bridge’s history, how things work now and busts several urban myths in the process.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Like so many important London landmarks, the iconic Tower Bridge was created as a result of a competition. The bridge was built at no cost to the taxpayer. Dirk explains how that was possible. The bridge is actually made up of 4 different types of bridges. Tower Bridge truly is an iconic landmark which is recognised across the world. The bridge opens 800 to 1000 times a year. There is a bridge lift timetable, but provided sailors book ahead and meet certain criteria they can have the bridge opened just for them. Originally the bridge master lived in an apartment above the bridge 140,000 people turned up to the public opening. The exhibition that will celebrate the 130th anniversary is free and includes the use of augmented reality and innovative animation.BEST MOMENTS
‘When you cross Tower Bridge you get 4 bridges in one.’‘Spike Milligan wrote a song “Oh Tower Bridge”.’
‘I looked inside the envelope, and my hair stood up.’
EPISODE RESOURCESExhibition details - https://www.thecityofldn.com/event/heritage-gallery-exhibition-tower-bridge/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-bennett-63b54a15
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2rqyGuhcuDDed97O-ZtxRA
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638
https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
Danny continues his Unusual Histories podcast with the Bridge Series, remaining in London travelling east to west to look at the bridges which span the Thames. He looks at their design, construction and history, along with the history of the areas in which they're located on both sides of the river. This series kicks off with an exclusive interview with Dirk Bennett of the City Bridge Foundation, the organisation which looks after London's bridges. Tower Bridge is marking its 130th anniversary this month and Dirk talks to Danny about the history of the bridge as well as the new exhibition that is opening for it.
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In this episode, which is the last of Danny Hurst´s London Monopoly History podcast series we reach the Mayfair square. In this entertaining episode, he explains how this famous London area went from being known for its prostitution and crime to becoming one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in the world.
Danny explains how events in Mayfair inspired hits for both The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. He also shares the area´s connection to classical music, Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth II, the co-founder of Rolls Royce, the first telephone call and tells you more about the street´s high-end hotels and shops.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The tradition of high-class prostitutes dates back to a festival that was first held in 1272. Statistically Mayfair is rarely landed on. There is no longer an official dress code at Claridge's, but anything less than smart casual is frowned upon. Mayfair has a strong connection to the long-lasting fashion trend of wearing tuxedos. The area once had an Underground station.BEST MOMENTS
‘A hangover from earlier times as the festival would attract sex workers. ´
‘The Grosvenor Square riots were pretty insignificant. However, they did inspire two classic songs.’
‘Hence dinner jackets in the USA became known as tuxedos.’
EPISODE RESOURCES
Shop for all official versions of Monopoly here - https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/page/785DC233-0A69-4DF8-98E9-4F50CC50A59E
HOST BIO
Historian, performer, and mentor Danny Hurst has been engaging audiences for many years, whether as a lecturer, stand-up comic or intervention teacher with young offenders and excluded secondary students. Having worked with some of the most difficult people in the UK, he is a natural storyteller and entertainer, whilst purveying the most fascinating information that you didn't know you didn't know. A writer and host of pub quizzes across London, he has travelled extensively and speaks several languages. He has been a consultant for exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum and Natural History Museum in London as well as presenting accelerated learning seminars across the UK. With a wide range of knowledge ranging from motor mechanics to opera to breeding carnivorous plants, he believes learning is the most effective when it's fun. Uniquely delivered, this is history without the boring bits, told the way only Danny Hurst can.
CONTACT AND SOCIALS
https://instagram.com/dannyjhurst
facebook.com/danny.hurst.9638https://twitter.com/dannyhurst
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-hurst-19574720
Podcast Description
"History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." James Joyce.
That was me at school as well. Ironically, I ended up becoming a historian. The Unusual Histories podcast is all about the history you don't learn at school, nor indeed anywhere else. Discover things that you didn't know that you didn't know, fascinating historical luminaries and their vices and addictions, and the other numerous sides of every story.
We start with the Monopoly Series, in which we explore how the game came to be, the real-life connection between the cheapest and most expensive properties, the history of each location, how proportionate the values were then and are today, what the hell a "community chest" is and whether free parking really does exist anywhere in London.
If you love history; or indeed if you hate history, this is the podcast for you…
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