The bridgetender was needed to open the swing bridge when canal boats came through, then close it to allow traffic to cross over the canal. From approximately 1900 to 1934, the bridgetender was John Arrowsmith.
The bridge operator played a crucial part in managing the flow of traffic across the canal, opening and closing the swing bridge as needed for both boat and vehicle passage. From approximately 1900 to 1934, John Arrowsmith fulfilled this role.