Foundation tablet

This stone foundation tablet marks the beginning of the first fixed crossing at Blackfriars, a 303-metre toll bridge opened in 1769. Designed by the young Scottish architect Robert Mylne, its semi-ellipitcal arches were daring for their day and sparked fierce debate. The tablet was laid by Joseph Dixon, the bridge's Master Mason, whose craft underpinned Mylne's bold Italianate design. Stone bridges relied on the steady hands and skill of men like Dixon.

Originally known as Pitt Bridge, after William Pitt the Elder, it soon became Blackfriars Bridge, in keeping with London's habit of naming crossings after their neighbourhoods. Celebrated for its beauty yet plagued by construction flaws, the bridge required heavy repairs in the 1830s and was eventually replaced in 1869.

Joseph Dixon (1732-1787) was one of London's leading masons: ambitious, prolific and everywhere at once. From Piccadilly passages to grand houses in St James's, his work shaped Georgian London. Dixon's career rose, fell and rose again, ending as Senior Bridgemaster of London Bridge.