Thames Tunnel

Brunel prepares a plan for a tunnel between Rotherhithe and Wapping using his patented tunnelling shield.

Brunel works with his father on the shield system used for the Thames Tunnel.

The proposed Thames Tunnel Company is announced after Brunel presents his scheme to supporters and investors.

Parliament incorporates the Thames Tunnel Company and authorises construction of the river crossing.

Brunel joins the Thames Tunnel project after his father is appointed engineer for the crossing beneath the River Thames.

A large brick shaft is constructed and sunk under its own weight to create the working access for the Thames Tunnel.

Construction of the Thames Tunnel begins ceremonially and Brunel lays the second brick after his father.

Construction begins ceremonially on Brunel's tunnel beneath the River Thames.

Brunel takes over as resident engineer of the Thames Tunnel after John Armstrong resigns through illness.

Brunel becomes resident engineer after John Armstrong resigns because of illness and exhaustion.

Brunel assumes full responsibility for directing the engineering work inside the Thames Tunnel.

The River Thames breaks into the tunnel and Brunel helps evacuate the workers before directing repairs to the breach.

A banquet is held inside the Thames Tunnel to demonstrate confidence in the pioneering construction project.

Brunel leaves the Thames Tunnel project because his injuries prevent him from continuing as resident engineer.

A major tunnel flood kills six workers and seriously injures Brunel, forcing him to withdraw from the project.

A government loan provides the Thames Tunnel Company with funds needed to resume construction.

A larger improved shield is assembled so excavation of the Thames Tunnel can resume after the long suspension.

A larger improved tunnelling shield is assembled and excavation beneath the Thames resumes.

Queen Victoria knights Marc Isambard Brunel in recognition of his engineering work and the approaching completion of the Thames Tunnel.

Excavation reaches the Wapping side and the main tunnelling work beneath the Thames is completed.

The principal excavation beneath the Thames reaches completion, leaving finishing work before the pedestrian tunnel can open.

The Thames Tunnel opens to pedestrians after eighteen years of construction begun under Marc and Isambard Brunel.

The Thames Tunnel opens to the public as the first successful tunnel beneath a navigable river.