Introduction (continued)

Estates in the north east of Scotland that were fenced by Harper & Co include the Glenfiddich and Glentannar Estates. In the latter Harpers gates and fences are still very much in evidence.

Abroad the most notable contract was for the Nagpour extension (about 200miles long) of the Great Indian & Peninsular Railway “and this enormous piece of work not only brought him much profit but much credit”

The earliest recorded bridges were in 1871, over the Aberdeenshire Dee near Aboyne, the Water of Tannar neaby and the Cheshire Dee at Socklach.  The earliest bridge design was probably the same as that still in use at Birkhall, resembling so strongly its fencing antecedent.  The 1871 bridges bore the Harpers Patent cable tensioners that had been developed from the fence stainer - as did others until the end of the century.

John Harper continued with his bridge interest along with his son John. until about 1887.  Then  his second son Louis developed the bridge business after that date.

This site is 'work in progress' and more information is invited on any of these bridges - history, present status, reminiscences - or other comments, via the contact page.

  Some bridges we have little information on and these are listed in the section 'Other Bridges'.