Includes index.

Bibliography: p. [236] - 240.

Includes index.

"Bridges are a significant part of our heritage, marking the paths of communication on which Australian society has developed. A study of bridges, and the roads and railways they carry, is also a study of people and their achievements.
In 'Spanning Two Centuries', Colin O'Connor provides a definitive history of bridges in Australia, particularly those which still stand and which were built prior to 1900. More than five hundred bridges are covered, and the extensive illustrations include photographs and pen-and-ink drawings by the author.
The historical narrative is blended with important technical details of the bridges, and the examination of the development of roads and railways affords a unique view of Australia's expanding transportation network. There are concise biographies of eminent Australian engineers including David Lennox, our first true bridge engineer; John Whitton, who built the railways of New South Wales; Sir John Monash, better known as a soldier; and Alfred Barton Brady, who built one of the world's first reinforced concrete bridges.
Interesting historical anecdotes, such as the history of the stones of the uniquely carved bridge at Ross in Tasmania, add piquancy to the text. The accompanying illustrations reveal than many historic bridges are in settings of great beauty.
This book introduces a new awareness of a part of Australia's history which previously has been sadly neglected." -- Inside cover

Also available online (as at 3/10/2011) at: http://www.textqueensland.com.au/item/book/c5ce24e24be2e39b0d762174723610d2.