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Guarding the Elan Aqueduct BB046202
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Guarding the Elan Aqueduct BB046202
Elan Aqueduct, Hawkbatch, Trimpley, Upper Arley, Wyre Forest, Worcestershire. The view looking east across the Elan Aqueduct showing members of the Church Lads Brigade, guarding the pipeline as it crosses the River Severn near Trimpley.
The Elan Aqueduct is 73 miles long and carries drinking water to Birmingham from the Elan Valley Reservoirs in Wales. Work on the aqueduct began in June 1896 under the governance of Birmingham Corporation Water Department. It opened in 1906. As the primary water supply for the inhabitants of Birmingham it would have been a strategic target. The Church Lads Brigade provided a grounding in military service for young men in preparation for joining the army. The CLB members seen here may have been on a training exercise or perhaps guarding the aqueduct against threats from Irish republicans during the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921)
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 27968758
© Historic England Archive
Edwardian Engineering Military Protection Water Supply Aqueduct Water Pipe
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history, showcasing the Church Lads Brigade standing guard over the Elan Aqueduct. The image offers a glimpse into the past, as members of this military organization protect the vital pipeline that crosses the River Severn near Trimpley. The Elan Aqueduct itself is an impressive feat of engineering, stretching 73 miles to transport drinking water from the Elan Valley Reservoirs in Wales to Birmingham. Constructed under the watchful eye of Birmingham Corporation Water Department, it became operational in 1906 and served as a lifeline for Birmingham's residents. Given its importance as a primary water supply, it was no surprise that safeguarding this aqueduct was crucial. The Church Lads Brigade played a pivotal role in providing young men with military training before joining the army. In this photograph, we see them stationed at their post - perhaps on a routine exercise or protecting against potential threats during Ireland's War of Independence (1919-1921). As we admire this snapshot frozen in time, we are reminded not only of the significance of infrastructure like aqueducts but also of how communities came together to ensure their safety and well-being. This print by J W Evans serves as both an homage to our engineering achievements and a testament to human resilience and dedication.
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