[Finishing Touches]

Original lithograph untitled on the plate, from the best series of images of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge began in December, 1926. The foundations, which are 12 metres deep, are set in sandstone, anchoring tunnels are 36 metres long and dug into rock at each end. Construction of the arch began in November, 1929 and was built in halves with steel cable restraints initially supporting each side. The arch spans 503 metres and supports the weight of the bridge deck, with hinges at either end bearing the bridge’s full weight and spreading the load to the foundations. By October, 1930, the two arch halves had met and work then began on the deck which is 59 metres above sea level. The total cost of the Bridge was approximately 6.25 million Australian pounds ($A13.5 million).
The Bridge was officially opened on 19 March 1932.

References:
Curtis, R.E. The Bridge. Sydney 1981.

Collections:
National Library Australia: Bib ID 868255
State Library New South Wales: Call Number: F93/10
State Library Victoria: Record ID 992904323607636
National Gallery Australia: LEGACY ID 82188
University of Queensland: NC825.B7 C847 1981