- Beaumont Cut
. It was opened in 1832 but fell into disuse and was closed at some time in the 1930s.
History
Archaeological studies suggest that the first canal on the site was built by the Romans, possibly in connection with salt extraction in the area. The nineteenth century canal was constructed to serve the extensive coastal traffic between the agricultural hinterland of Essex and London, with produce and animal fodder being carried into the capital and manure for the fields as cargo for the return trip. The proprietors of the venture were the governors of Guy’s Hospital, who owned agricultural estates in the area. They were granted supplies of stone from
Old London Bridge (demolished in 1831) for the purpose. Two vessels, the Thames barges "Beaumont Belle" and "The Gleaner", both owned by the tenant of one of the estates, were initially based on the canal, but general trade was accepted.Beaumont Quay features in the novel "
Secret Water " byArthur Ransome .urviving structures
The line of the canal remains watered and is easily traceable. The quay at the western end of the canal, together with a disused barn and a
lime kiln , was made a scheduled ancient monument and is now under the care of the parks department of Essex County Council.ee also
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Canals of Great Britain
*History of the British canal system External links
* [http://beaumontparish.co.uk/history.htm Beaumont-cum-Moze parish history]
* [http://www.essexcc.gov.uk/vip8/ecc/ECCWebsite/dis/guc.jsp?channelOid=17089&guideOid=15423&guideContentOid=15419 Essex County Council local history page]
* [http://www.pbase.com/mtf_foto_studies/image/40207638&exif=Y Image of restored west end of canal, from Pbase online image forum]
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