Henry Bridges

Henry Bridges (1697-1754) was an architect, builder, and clockmaker of Waltham Abbey, England. He was father of James Bridges, architect and engineer. Henry is famous as the builder of the giant clock, the Microcosm. About 1741 he offered the clock for sale 'being engaged in much Business at home' and willing to sell the clock. He is buried with his wife in the ruins of Waltham Abbey, the largest monument there, which was restored several years ago by a local clockmaker.

In his will of 1754 he left a number of properties in and around Waltham Cross, but the source of his wealth is uncertain. There is a similar mystery about his son' work history before his arrival in Bristol. Given James’s talent at producing fireworks displays, and the closeness of Waltham Abbey Gunpowder Works, it seems likely the Bridges family were involved in the very lucrative secretive business of gunpowder manufacture.