Wrexham Heritage Trail

Argyle Arch

Commissioned by Scottish-born Engineer, William Low.  The archway cost around £6,000 and was built in the High Victorian Gothic style.

You can still see some of the Gothic style pilasters that decorated the shop fronts as well as ornamental ironwork, which is still visible under the arches.

William Low was a civil engineer who developed the first serious designs for a channel tunnel to France.  Some of the tunnel was actually constructed until the government pulled out for fear of a French invasion!

Low’s involvement in the forefront of engineering made his building an appropriate entrance way to the “Art Treasures & Industrial Exhibition of North Wales,” held in 1876.   It showcased industrial innovation as well as artwork.

There were turnstiles under the arch which led to a large temporary glass and iron structure, which was removed at the close of the exhibition.

The arch in October 2014

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