Extensive Archive Collection of Forth Bridge (Forth Railway Bridge) Ephemera

The Forth Railway Bridge – completed in 1890 – is one of the greatest feats of late-Victorian engineering and remains a defining symbol of Scotland’s industrial heritage. Spanning more than 1.5 miles across the Firth of Forth, its monumental cantilever design by Sir John Fowler and Sir Benjamin Baker represented both cutting-edge engineering and national pride. From its construction through to the present day, the bridge has been a source of inspiration for photographers, publishers and enthusiasts, and has become one of the most recognisable structures in the world.

This remarkable archive, compiled by a dedicated Scottish enthusiast, brings together a wealth of visual and printed material on the Forth Bridge, presenting a unique resource for researchers and collectors.

Here we offer an extensive collection of ephemeral archive material comprising 2 large ringbinders packed full of hundreds of items of fascinating material on the Forth Bridge (Forth Railway Bridge). 

Binder One – Postcards & Photographs

The first large ring-binder is devoted primarily to postcard images, mounted in clear corner sleeves so they remain removable. The content spans images of the bridge under construction, through to 20th-century lithographed and chromolitho postcards, and more modern photographic issues. Approximately 70 leaves (both sides used), holding around 240 postcards, with additional photographs and printed illustrations interleaved. Together they trace the visual history of the bridge from its construction phase through to its later role as an icon of Scottish identity.

Binder Two – Ephemera, Clippings & Prints

The second binder contains a diverse body of material: newspaper and magazine clippings, publicity leaflets, visitor information, mounted prints, and miscellaneous items of visual ephemera, all arranged on c. 52 leaves with some additional loose items. These provide rich contextual detail on the bridge’s cultural reception, anniversaries, and its place in railway and Scottish history.

An extensive and unique collection.

Dimensions: Each folder approximately 312mm high x 252mm wide x c. 65mm deep.

Approximate weight: 4.4kg (unpacked)