The New River Wharf on the West Bank of the Usk, Newport 1914


Photo reference number: 1299

From "The Alexandra Docks, Newport" 1914:

"On the west bank of the Usk, adjoining the entrance to the Alexandra North Dock, a wharf of the Hennebique ferro concrete system was constructed under the powers obtained by the Company in 1904. It is 403 feet long, and will accommodate vessels up to 6,000 tons cargo. It is equipped with four hydraulic cranes of two tons lifting capacity. The average depth of water at H.W.O.S.T. is 31 feet 9 inches, and H.W.O.N.T., 21 feet 9 inches.
"The great rise and fall in the tide of the river has for many years been availed of by the small craft engaged in the coasting trade and in carrying pitwood from, and coal to, the French Bay ports. These vessels often come in just after the tide has begun to flow. While the tide is rising, and for some time after it has begun to ebb, they are busy loading or discharging, and then just before low water they slip their cables and sail for their destinations. The berth is, however, frequently used for the discharge of iron ore and steel bars."