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Wrecks of the Mersey flats
The wrecks of these Mersey Flats just upstream from Widnes Dock at Spike Island, taken 1n 1982. The remains of the wooden barges can still be seen here after 100 years or more. The barges date back to the days when Widnes was at the centre of transporting raw materials by water. During the First World War the barges became redundant and were left at Spike Island to decay.
Eustace Carey,The Mercantile navy list of registered sailing vessels, 1919.
Mersey Flat Rudder
A tow of barges on the River Mersey, 1920's.
Shrimping vessels moored at Widnes Warf, 1990's
Once sited at the edge of the River Mersey, east of the railway dock entrance. The rudder stands 11 feet(3.35m) tall, and weighs 22 cwt. (1117 kg). The timbers are bound together with wrought iron strapping.
A Mersey Flat waiting to enter Widnes Lock's at high tide, fully laden with cargo from Liverpool, 1890's.
(AI generated image)
Spring tide on the River Mersey, 2026.
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