This undertaking was opened on Monday for the first time on the Wapping side of the river, and upwards of 500 visitors of all nations passed through the tunnel as far as the shaft on the Rotherhithe shore. The High-street, Wapping, was thronged with people, who were allowed to view the shafts and the double staircase for foot passengers. The descent to the tunnel is now easy and convenient, and the western arch is very dry and comfortable. At mid-day there were upwards of 100 visitors promenading in the tunnel, and upon an inspection of the visitors’ book, the names and residences of more than 30 Americans from different parts of the United States were found to be entered, together with those of persons from all parts of Europe, and many from Asia. One-half of the visitors were foreigners. The erection of the circular staircases in the shaft on the Surrey side, now closed to the public, will be commenced forthwith by the contractors, Messrs. Peto and Grissell, who have completed the staircases on the Middlesex shore. The time allowed for the performance of the contract is three months, when the tunnel will be opened as a thoroughfare for foot passengers; and the toll to be charged is, we understand, to be 1d. each person.
The Illustrated London News, London, England, Week Ending August 6, 1842
