Monument record BRD 113 - Ram Hotel Bridge & causeway

Site of Brandon Ferry from the Ram Inn to Ferry Street (the present High Street), replaced(?) around 1500 by bridge (and linking causeway?). In 1511 Henry VIII leased (for 40 years) to William Dwyte, Mayor of Thetford, "The toll of Brandon Ferry and other bridges on condition .... he was to repair the bridges". This is first indication that a second bridge (also see BRD 112) existed in Brandon (although see BRD 094). A further lease for bridge/s is granted (for 30 years) by Edward VI. A claim for bridge tolls at Brandon also exists for circa 1554. In 1574 tolls granted by Elizabeth I to Duchy of Thetford Corporation forever.
"In 1615 the bridge was getting the worse for wear (it was probably wooden) because letters were sent by the Lords of the Council about the repair of the bridge .... In 1640 it was again repaired at the cost of 40 pounds." In 1670 an Act was passed to make the river navigable. "It would appear that the bridge was in disrepair and would not allow the river vessels to pass and it was decided to build a new bridge" (see BRD 014). For Chapel associated with Med bridge (this one or BRD 112?), see BRD 094.