The view from the front of the tunneling shield taken on the 1st July 1897. These were incredible people indeed who toiled in such conditions inside the shield. It was heavy physical work in cramped claustrophobic conditions. The chamber was subjected to increased atmospheric pressure generated by an air compressor installed above ground and intended to create an environment where water ingress was reduced. However, this internal pressure increased the possibility of a sudden catastrophic blow out. The hydraulic mechanisms to move the shield forward may be seen at the left and right hand sides (there probably about six hydraulic cylinders in total situated around the periphery of the shield) and the control valves are laid out on the bulkhead (wall) around the airtight door.
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