
Old Dock played a significant role in shaping the city's economy and infrastructure. Its construction in 1826 was a major undertaking that required significant resources and labor.
The city's population grew rapidly during the 19th century, and Old Dock was a key factor in this expansion. It provided a vital link between the city and the rest of the world, facilitating trade and commerce.
The dock's strategic location on the river allowed for easy transportation of goods, making it an attractive location for businesses and industries. This, in turn, helped to establish the city as a major commercial center.
Old Dock's impact on the city's economy was significant, with many jobs and businesses relying on the dock's operations.
On a similar theme: Old City Harbour
History of Old Dock
The Old Dock was built at a cost of £12,000 and opened on 31 August 1715. Thomas Steers was the engineer responsible, with George Sorocold providing additional advice.
The dock was originally a tidal basin accessed directly from the river, but from 1737 access was via Canning Dock. This change improved the dock's functionality and efficiency.

The dock walls were constructed from brick laid directly on to sandstone bedrock, a robust and durable material choice. The dock gates would have allowed as much as 10% of the water out between high tides, resulting in a water level drop of several feet.
The Old Dock accommodated up to 100 ships, making it a significant contributor to Liverpool's growth as a major trading port. This growth was fueled by the dock's ability to serve ships involved in the Africa-America trade.
The Old Dock was a huge risk, but it paid off handsomely, paving the way for many decades of dock expansion on both sides of the river. This expansion led to Liverpool's establishment as the leading European port and subsequent world trading port.
The construction of the Old Dock was technically very difficult and cost £12,000, double its original estimate. The Liverpool Corporation was nearly bankrupted by the project, but its success encouraged further rapid increases in overseas trade through Liverpool.
Archaeologists excavated the site between 2001 and 2008, uncovering some extremely well-preserved contents, including the complete skeleton of a pony that used to work on the docks. These finds provide fascinating insights into 18th century life around the waterfront.
The Dock's Impact

The Old Dock was a major commercial hub, with over 50 warehouses and stores along its length, supporting a thriving economy in the 19th century.
It was a key transportation route, with ships coming and going at all hours of the day and night, carrying goods and people between the city and the rest of the world.
The dock's impact on the local community was significant, with many families relying on the dock for their livelihood.
In fact, it was estimated that over 1,000 people worked on the dock at its peak, making it a major employer in the area.
The dock's influence extended beyond the local community, with its growth and development having a ripple effect on the city's overall economy.
Engineering and Design
The engineering and design of the Old Dock were truly impressive feats of the time. The dock was designed by Thomas Steers and took five years to construct.
The finished dock was a massive structure, measuring about 660 feet long by 330 feet wide. It covered an area of 3.5 acres and could accommodate a staggering 100 ships.
Construction Timeline
Construction Timeline is a crucial aspect of any engineering project.
The planning stage typically takes around 6-12 months, during which time the project's scope, budget, and timeline are defined.
This stage is critical in ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and that the project is feasible.
The design phase usually follows and can last anywhere from 3-6 months, depending on the complexity of the project.
It's during this phase that engineers and designers work together to create detailed plans and specifications for the construction process.
The actual construction phase can take anywhere from 12-24 months, depending on the size and scope of the project.
This is the stage where the project really starts to take shape and where any issues or challenges arise.
A well-planned construction timeline helps to minimize delays and ensure that the project is completed on schedule.
Expensive Gamble
Taking a risk on a big project can be daunting, but sometimes it pays off. The construction of the Old Dock cost £12,000, which is equivalent to £3,000,000 today.

This massive undertaking was a high-risk commission for Liverpool, and if the dock wasn't successful, it would have led to bankruptcy for the city.
The city's gamble paid off, and the dock became a key catalyst for the growth of the city. It was a huge success, and Liverpool required more docks to keep up with the increased demand for trade.
Major Engineering Project
The Old Dock is a great example of a major engineering project. It was designed by Thomas Steers and took five years to construct.
This massive undertaking was completed in the 18th century and was a significant feat of engineering at the time. The dock was built to accommodate 100 ships within its 3.5 acres.
The finished dock was an impressive 660 feet long by 330 feet wide, making it a large and complex structure.
Worth a look: Morton Engineering and Dry Dock Company
Sill and Foundation
The sill and foundation of a building are crucial components that work together to provide a stable base for the structure. A sill is typically a horizontal beam that rests on the foundation and supports the walls of the building.

A well-designed sill can make or break the integrity of the foundation, as it helps to distribute the weight of the building evenly. This is especially important in areas prone to earthquakes or high winds.
In general, a sill is usually made of wood, steel, or concrete, and is designed to be at least as wide as the foundation it sits on. This helps to prevent water from seeping under the sill and into the foundation.
The type of sill used can also impact the overall cost and durability of the building. For example, a steel sill is often more expensive than a wooden one, but it can last longer and require less maintenance.
Location and Significance
The Old Dock is a significant location in the city, and its construction is quite literally the heart of the city.
It was built on the reddish bedrock of an old sea pool's inlet, which you can see on the tours.
The liver-coloured pool is believed to be the reason the city got its name.
Tours

The Old Dock tours are a must-try experience. They bring the 300-year-old time capsule to life in a fascinating way.
Our expert tour guides will regale you with stories and anecdotes that will leave you in awe. They'll share the history and secrets of the Old Dock, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
If you're looking to explore the Old Dock, booking a tour is the way to go. It's a great way to experience this historic site in a unique and engaging way.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Dock
- https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/stories/ten-fascinating-facts-about-liverpools-old-dock
- https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/whatson/maritime-museum/event/old-dock-tour
- https://news.yahoo.com/owner-wants-change-100-old-120000475.html
- https://patch.com/new-york/kingspark/old-dock-inn-is-ready-for-a-new-year
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