26/10/2026
This week we take a trip back to 1965 to see road widening underway at the intersection of Lower North East Road and George Street, Paradise. In the distance you can see Martha Street and the bridge crossing the River Torrens. Did you know this is actually the third bridge to span this stretch of river?
The story begins with the original MacDonnell Bridge - a charming three-span structure made from laminated timber. It was officially opened on Thursday, 13 August 1857, by Governor Sir Richard Graves MacDonnell.
The Governor arrived on horseback, accompanied by a cavalcade of dignitaries, to witness Arthur Hardy, Superintending Surveyor, christen the new bridge by breaking a bottle of ch*****ne on the hand railing, and naming it the "The MacDonnell Bridge.".
Built at a cost of £6,300 by C.A. Perry and Jacob Pitman (brother of phonographer Sir Isaac Pitman), the bridge was made with timber from land owned by Alexander F. Boord. Contractor Mr. Pitman called it “one of the handsomest and most picturesque” bridges in the colony.
By 1881, the elements had taken their toll. Reports of timber rot and even drays dropping through the decking led to calls for urgent repairs. The bridge was replaced in 1883 by a new two-span iron girder "bow-string" bridge. The second bridge stood for more than 70 years before collapsing in 1956.
The bridge we know today is locally known as Paradise Bridge and is the third bridge to occupy this historic crossing.
Do you have memories or family stories connected with this part of Paradise? We’d love to hear from you.
