Harper Bridges

Nairn, R. Nairn, 1887


Jubilee Bridge (Photo © Elgin Museum)
After 1876, John Jnr took an increasing role and became managing director, probably when Harper's Limited was set up in 1885. He was still heavily dependent on the advice of his father as correspondence in 1887 about the Nairn and the Cromdale Bridge illustrate. He was particularly interested in photographing the various bridges and publishing brochures to advertise the firm. In the late 1880's he frequently asked his father 'would very much like to know at once when Louis' time is up (with Jenkins & Marr) as bridge pushing arrangements hinge a good deal on that'.   He clearly thought that Louis might start his time with the family firm by taking on the editing and development of publicity and advertising.


The Jubilee Bridge at Nairn (NH886562), over the river of the same name, was a first for Louis Harper, who had joined the company that year on completing his apprenticeship. At Nairn, he stayed with a Mrs Shepherd of Almhurst Villa in Cawdor Street, for the two weeks that were required to prepare and build the bridge. However, he seemed to be running a little late so his father came up the weekend before the opening to complete the latticework of the deck - "a tedious stage".