Ingenieurs et Scientifiques de France British Section: The Bridgemasters of London - 850 years of engineering, ceremony and scandal

The Ingenieurs et Scientifiques de France British Section presents an evening lecture by Sue Threader, one of the two elected Bridgemasters of London. The talk explores the long history of the Bridgemaster role, which began in 1176 to oversee the construction of Old London Bridge and manage its properties, accounts and ceremonies.

The lecture traces how the office developed over the centuries, including periods marked by financial fraud, election manipulation and negligence. It offers an insight into one of the oldest appointments in civic society and bridge engineering, combining historical context with stories of scandal and controversy.

The session also looks at the modern role of the Bridgemasters in supporting the charitable work of the City Bridge Foundation. All are welcome to attend the free lecture, with a drinks reception and dinner available afterwards for members and invited guests, and for non-members through the registration process.