Suspension Bridges of Pennsylvania (1-100 of 120)


This is a list of bridges 1 through 100 (of 120 total) from the suspension bridge inventory for Pennsylvania in USA. Wherever you see a Bridgemeister ID number click it to isolate the bridge on its own page.

Related Lists:

1801: Jacob's Creek

Iron Bridge, Mount Pleasant vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Jacob's Creek
Bridgemeister ID:3 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1801
Name:Jacob's Creek
Also Known As:Iron Bridge, Chain Bridge
Location:Iron Bridge, Mount Pleasant vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Jacob's Creek
Coordinates:40.112598 N 79.553186 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Judge James Finley
References:AAJ, ASB, BBR, BOB, BPL, CAB, DSE20000116, HBE, LAB, PTS2
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed, 1833
Main Cables:Chain (iron)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 21.3 meters (70 feet)
Deck width:12.5 feet

Notes:

  • In an email dated January 16, 2000, Don Sayenga provided information about the location of this bridge. Generally attributed to Uniontown (the seat of Fayette County, PA), Mr. Sayenga offers some clues about the bridge's true location. "[James Finley] stated that he built it near the home of his friend Meason which implies a connection for the iron as Meason was making iron. Meason's home has survived by the way, a beautiful place. Finley stated it was a combination contract with the cost split between two counties, and he stated it was built over Jacob's Creek which is the county boundary. He also makes it clear it was on the road to Greensburg. The only place the old road crossed Jacob's Creek is just south of Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania. On the geodetic survey maps this spot is marked "Iron Bridge" but there is no town there. The last time I was there I saw a sign that said 'Iron Bridge' on an automobile scrap yard. I found absolutely no trace of the bridge, but it was not very big, so there was no need for a huge abutment."
  • First suspension bridge with a rigid level deck, often considered the world's first modern suspension bridge.
  • Coordinates are for the likely location of the bridge, where present-day (2020) Pennsylvania route 3105 crosses Jacob's Creek.

External Links:


1809: (suspension bridge)

Brownsville vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Bridgemeister ID:8 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1809
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Brownsville vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
References:AAJ, CAB, DSE20000203, HBE
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)

1809: (suspension bridge)

Brownsville, Pennsylvania, USA - Dunlap's Creek
Bridgemeister ID:7 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1809
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Brownsville, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Dunlap's Creek
Principals:John Templeman
References:AAJ, BCW, CAB, DSE20000118, DSE20000203, HBE
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)

External Links:

  • Dunlap's Creek Bridge (link reported not working). "The first recorded bridge across Dunlap's Creek was a wooden structure constructed prior to 1774. It was repaired in 1801, but was destroyed during a spring storm in 1808. A chain-link suspension bridge was built on the site in 1809; it collapsed under the weight of snow and a heavily laden wagon in 1820. A third bridge, another wooden structure, built in 1821 also failed. The present bridge is thus the fourth bridge at the site."
  • Structurae - Structure ID 20008055

1809: Schuylkill Falls

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA - Schuylkill River
Bridgemeister ID:9 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1809
Name:Schuylkill Falls
Location:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Schuylkill River
Principals:John Templeman
References:AAJ, BBR, BPL, CAB, DSE20000118, HBE, PTS2
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)
Suspended Spans:2
Main Spans:2 x 46.6 meters (153 feet)
Deck width:18 feet

Notes:

  • Failed 1811, 1816. HBE notes the 1811 was due to weight of cattle. The 1816 failure was due to weight of ice and snow.

External Links:


1810: (suspension bridge)

Paulings Ford, Pennsylvania, USA - Schuylkill River
Bridgemeister ID:11 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1810
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Paulings Ford, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Schuylkill River
References:CAB
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)

External Links:


1810: (suspension bridge)

Reading, Pennsylvania, USA - Schuykill River
Bridgemeister ID:12 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1810
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Schuykill River
Principals:Ulrich Kissinger
References:CAB
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)

External Links:


1810: (suspension bridge)

Wrightstown, Pennsylvania, USA - Neshaminy River
Bridgemeister ID:13 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1810
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Wrightstown, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Neshaminy River
Principals:John Parker
References:AAJ, CAB, DSE20000403
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)
Main Spans:2 x 30.5 meters (100 feet)

External Links:


1811: (suspension bridge)

Juniata Crossing, Pennsylvania, USA - Juniata River
Bridgemeister ID:15 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1811
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Juniata Crossing, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Juniata River
References:CAB, DSE20000403
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)

External Links:


1811: Third Street

Easton, Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:18 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1811
Name:Third Street
Location:Easton, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
Principals:Jacob Blumer (?)
References:CAB, DSE20000203
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)

External Links:


1814: Hamilton Street

Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:19 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1814
Name:Hamilton Street
Location:Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
Principals:Jacob Blumer
References:AAJ, CAB, DSE20000203, PTS2
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)
Suspended Spans:4
Main Spans:2
Side Spans:2

External Links:


1816: Spider

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA - Schuylkill River
Bridgemeister ID:20 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1816
Name:Spider
Location:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Schuylkill River
Principals:Josiah White, Erskine Hazard
References:AAJ, BOB, BPL, GHD, HBE, LAB, PTS2
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Main Span:1 x 120 meters (393.75 feet)

Notes:

  • Narrow footbridge. First wire bridge in North America. HBE notes "first wire suspension bridge in any country."
  • Often described as having collapsed under the weight of ice and snow, Don Sayenga notes that no contemporary sources confirm this demise. Since the nearby chain bridge did fail under weight of ice and snow, he believes this fate has been misattributed to the White and Hazard footbridge. Don believes the bridge was just dismantled at some point after June, 1816.
  • Al Zagofsky also wrote to explain there was no evidence of this bridge collapsing under weight of ice and snow. Al writes: "According to an original source Captain Joshua Rowley Watson, who inspected the bridge on June 15, 1816: '...There was a bridge, but which by the weight of ice and snow, has been carried away.' This refers to the previous bridge that the cable bridge was temporarily replacing. I did not see any cause for failure of the wire rope bridge. My guess is that it was removed when the regular bridge was repaired. The same article shows a sketch that he made, showing the main span to be 407 feet. I am looking at the Canal History and Technology Proceedings Vol 5, March 22, 1986."

1824: Biery's

Biery's Port (Catasauqua), Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:21 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1824
Name:Biery's
Location:Biery's Port (Catasauqua), Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
Principals:Jacob Blumer, George Deily (?)
References:CAB, DSE20000203
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Chain (iron)

1824: Lehigh Gap

Lehigh Gap, Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:22 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1824
Name:Lehigh Gap
Also Known As:Palmerton
Location:Lehigh Gap, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
Principals:Jacob Blumer
References:AAJ, CAB, DSE20000203, WHSB
Use:Vehicular
Status:Replaced, 1933
Main Cables:Chain (iron)
Suspended Spans:3

Notes:

  • Finley patent bridge.

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1842: Fairmount

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA - Schuylkill River
Bridgemeister ID:24 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1842
Name:Fairmount
Also Known As:Callowhill Street, Upper Ferry
Location:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Schuylkill River
Principals:Charles Ellet
References:BBR, BOB, BPL, HBE, LAB, PTS2, WHSB
Use:Vehicular
Status:Replaced, 1875
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 104.2 meters (342 feet)

Notes:

  • BBR and BOB say the bridge was completed in 1841.
Stereoview, collection of David Denenberg

1845: Pittsburgh Aqueduct

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:27 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1845
Name:Pittsburgh Aqueduct
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Principals:John A. Roebling
References:BOB, BOP, BPL, HBE, ONF, PTS2, RDH, SJR
Use:Aqueduct
Status:Removed, 1861
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:7
Main Spans:7 x 49.4 meters (162 feet)

Notes:

  • In use until 1860.

External Links:


1846: Monongahela

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Monongahela River
Bridgemeister ID:28 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1846
Name:Monongahela
Also Known As:Smithfield Street
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Monongahela River
Coordinates:40.435444 N 80.001778 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John A. Roebling
References:BOB, BOP, BPL, HBE, ONF, PBR, PTS2
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed, 1882
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:8
Main Spans:8 x 57.3 meters (188 feet)
Deck width:20 feet

External Links:


1848: Delaware Aqueduct

Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania and Minisink Ford, New York, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:30 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1848
Name:Delaware Aqueduct
Also Known As:Roebling Aqueduct
Location:Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania and Minisink Ford, New York, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.48262 N 74.98461 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John A. Roebling
References:AAJ, BDR, BOB, BPL, GBD, LAB, LACE, RDH, SJR
Use:Aqueduct and Vehicular (one-lane), with walkway
Status:In use (last checked: 2006)
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:4
Main Spans:1 x 43.3 meters (142 feet),
3 x 39.9 meters (131 feet)

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Andy Warren Photo courtesy National Park Service Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

1849: Lackawaxen Aqueduct

Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania, USA - Lackawaxen River
Bridgemeister ID:31 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1849
Name:Lackawaxen Aqueduct
Location:Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lackawaxen River
Coordinates:41.485528 N 74.995250 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John A. Roebling
References:AAJ, BOB, BPL, RDH, SJR
Use:Aqueduct
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:2
Main Spans:2 x 34.9 meters (114.37 feet)

Notes:

External Links:


1855: Shohola

Barryville, New York and Shohola, Pennsylvania, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:41 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1855
Name:Shohola
Also Known As:Barryville-Shohola, Shohola-Barryville
Location:Barryville, New York and Shohola, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.477000 N 74.919000 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Chauncy Thomas, John A. Roebling
References:BDR, SHO
Use:Vehicular
Status:Dismantled, 1941
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • BDR: Built 1856, severely damaged 1859, rebuilt, collapsed Jan. 1st 1865, rebuilt 1866. Dale writes: "A respected historian, John Willard Johnston, who knew Chauncey Thomas personally and visited the area during his ownership of the toll bridge, insisted that Thomas, as the builder, was grossly incompetent."
  • Originally constructed with one main span, the center pier was added during the 1866 reconstruction.
  • Don Sayenga's research leads him to conclude the bridge was completed in the fall of 1855. He notes an article from the Pike County Democrat (June 21, 1872) stating the bridge was completed in 1855. The article also notes the 1859 collapse occurred on July 2, 1859. Don's interest in this bridge is piqued by the connection to John Roebling, "...this bridge seems to be the only John Roebling bridge that failed in service..." Roebling prepared plans, for the original bridge, for Chauncy Thomas (who, by Dale's account was inexperienced).
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle Photo courtesy of Kevin Lacy

1857: Change

Glendon, Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:56 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1857
Name:Change
Also Known As:Chain, Lehigh Canal Swinging, Wire Towing Path at Pool No. 8
Location:Glendon, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
Coordinates:40.65382 N 75.24774 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Lehigh Coal and Navigation Co., E.A. Douglas
References:HAERPA461, HBP
Use:Footbridge and Change
Status:Derelict (last checked: 2007)
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:2
Main Spans:2

Notes:

  • Often mistakenly called a "chain" bridge, this is a "change" bridge.

External Links:

  • Aldrich Change Bridge. Dale Oswald explains (in the context of the Aldrich Change Bridge, a non-suspension bridge in Palmyra, New York): "A change bridge is one with low railings and an underpass that allowed draft teams to move from one side of the canal to the other without unhitching, cloverleaf-style."
Photo by David Denenberg

1860: Allegheny River

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:59 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1860
Name:Allegheny River
Also Known As:Sixth Street, St. Clair
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:40.445028 N 80.003028 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John A. Roebling
References:BOB, BOP, BPL, HBE, PBR, PTS2, SJR
Use:Vehicular, with walkway
Status:Replaced, 1892
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:4
Main Spans:2 x 104.9 meters (344 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 52.1 meters (171 feet)
Deck width:40 feet

Notes:

External Links:

Stereoview, collection of David Denenberg

1861: Connellsville

Connellsville and New Haven, Pennsylvania, USA - Youghiogheny River
Bridgemeister ID:278 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1861
Name:Connellsville
Location:Connellsville and New Haven, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Youghiogheny River
Coordinates:40.017528 N 79.592722 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Replaced, 1898
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1864: Franklin

Franklin, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:3186 (added 2019-11-09)
Year Completed:1864
Name:Franklin
Location:Franklin, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Principals:John Murphy
References:AAJ
Status:Destroyed, 1870

Notes:

  • 1870: Cable ends caught fire precipitating collapse, killing two.

1865: Market Street

Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA - Susquehanna River
Bridgemeister ID:64 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1865
Name:Market Street
Location:Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Susquehanna River
Coordinates:41.237556 N 76.997861 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Alfred P. Boller
References:AAJ, JFI186604
Use:Vehicular
Status:Destroyed, June 1, 1889
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:5
Main Spans:5 x 61 meters (200 feet)

Notes:

Stereoview, collection of David Denenberg

1869: Lordville

Lordville, New York and Equinunk, Pennsylvania, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:71 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1869
Name:Lordville
Location:Lordville, New York and Equinunk, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.867938 N 75.213785 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:E.F. Farrington
References:BDR, BOL, PTS2
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Destroyed, 1903
Main Cables:Wire (iron)

Notes:

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1869: Swinging

Warren and Glade, Pennsylvania, USA - Conewango Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1623 (added 2005-02-27)
Year Completed:1869
Name:Swinging
Location:Warren and Glade, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Conewango Creek
Coordinates:41.847389 N 79.141000 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Replaced, 1904
Main Cables:Wire (iron)

Notes:

  • Coordinates indicate approximate original location of the bridge.
  • Destroyed by storm soon after completion and rebuilt.
  • Images of America: Warren by Jodi L. Brandon shows an image of this bridge with a caption stating the bridge was moved to Kelletville (in Forest County, Pennsylvania) in 1906.
Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1870: Chehocton

Hancock, New York and Wayne County, Pennsylvania, USA - East Branch Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:284 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Chehocton
Location:Hancock, New York and Wayne County, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:East Branch Delaware River
Coordinates:41.952583 N 75.278167 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:E.F. Farrington, John A. Roebling's Sons Co.
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed, 1937
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 144.8 meters (475 feet) estimated

Notes:

  • Crossed the East Branch Delaware River on an alignment indicated by the current Old Bridge Street, between the rail crossing and the current (2020s) Stockport Road bridge.
  • Replaced 1937.
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1871: Warren

Warren, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:75 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Warren
Also Known As:Hickory Street
Location:Warren, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:41.844056 N 79.149722 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:George W. Fishler
References:AAJ, EOV, HAERPA461, HBE, PTS2
Use:Vehicular, with walkway
Status:Replaced, 1918
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 143.3 meters (470 feet)
Deck width:29 feet

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Stereoview, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1872: Barrett

Port Jervis, New York and Matamoras, Pennsylvania, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:76 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Barrett
Location:Port Jervis, New York and Matamoras, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.371917 N 74.697000 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:BDR
Use:Vehicular
Status:Destroyed, October 11, 1903
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:2
Main Spans:2

Notes:

  • BDR: Destroyed by ice March 17, 1875, rebuilt, destroyed by flood October 11, 1903.
Stereoview, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

Bridgemeister ID:353 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1873
Name:South Street
Also Known As:Wire
Location:Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh Valley Railroad and North Branch Canal
Coordinates:41.239328 N 75.884643 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed, c. 1925
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

  • In use until 1910, possibly longer. Replacement opened 1925.
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1876: Petroleum Street

Oil City, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:83 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Petroleum Street
Also Known As:Oil City
Location:Oil City, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:41.430083 N 79.712833 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Charles Roebling
References:AAJ, HAERPA461, HBE, PTS2, TRS
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 152.4 meters (500 feet)
Side Spans:2

Notes:

  • AAJ: Rebuilt, 1884, 1905.

1876: Point

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Monongahela River
Bridgemeister ID:84 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Point
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Monongahela River
Coordinates:40.441000 N 80.014000 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Edward Hemberle
References:AAJ, BOP, BPL, HBE, IEA, ONF, PBR, PTS2, SA19000106
Use:Vehicular and Rail (streetcar)
Status:Demolished, 1927
Main Cables:Eyebar
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 243.8 meters (800 feet)
Deck width:34 feet

Notes:

  • Partial floor collapse requiring extensive repairs, December 24, 1903. Repaired, 1904. Demolished 1927.

External Links:

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1878: Maynard Street

Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA - Susquehanna River
Bridgemeister ID:2140 (added 2006-10-31)
Year Completed:1878
Name:Maynard Street
Location:Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Susquehanna River
Coordinates:41.229083 N 77.019083 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:


1884: McKeesport-Reynoldton

McKeesport, Pennsylvania, USA - Youghiogheny River
Bridgemeister ID:90 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1884
Name:McKeesport-Reynoldton
Also Known As:Third Avenue
Location:McKeesport, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Youghiogheny River
Coordinates:40.352359 N 79.870561 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:McKeesport and Reynoldton Bridge Co.
References:AAJ, HAERPA461
Use:Rail (streetcar) and Vehicular
Status:Dismantled, 1961
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 97.5 meters (320 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 48.8 meters (160 feet)

Notes:

  • 1896: Reconstructed by Hermann Laub

1884: North Side

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:91 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1884
Name:North Side
Also Known As:Seventh Street
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:40.445972 N 80.001361 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Gustav Lindenthal
References:AAJ, BPL, HBE, PBR, PTS2
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed, 1924
Main Cables:Eyebar
Suspended Spans:4
Main Spans:2 x 97.5 meters (320 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 50.3 meters (165 feet)
Deck width:42 feet

Notes:

External Links:


1886: Lower

Easton, Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:813 (added 2003-05-29)
Year Completed:1886
Name:Lower
Location:Easton, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
References:DSL20030414, WGE20030513
Use:Footbridge
Status:Demolished, 1951
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

  • Damaged by windstorm 1950.
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

Bridgemeister ID:92 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1887
Name:Swinging
Location:Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Philadelphia and Reading Railroad tracks
Coordinates:40.3405 N 75.923638 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:William Hildenbrand, John A. Roebling's Sons Co.
Use:Footbridge
Status:Dismantled, 1983
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Dismantled 1983. One tower used in extant (2007) Workers Memorial Tower at Reading, PA.
  • The coordinates provided are for the original location of the bridge. The memorial is located at N 40.3245 W 75.9263.

External Links:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by David Denenberg

1888: Tidewater Pipeline

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:1527 (added 2004-10-24)
Year Completed:1888
Name:Tidewater Pipeline
Location:Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
Coordinates:40.90714 N 75.748544 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:William Hildenbrand
References:AAJ, HBE
Use:Pipeline
Status:Extant (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire
Main Span:1 x 109.7 meters (360 feet)

Notes:

  • The town was named "Mauch Chunk" at the time the pipeline was built.
Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

1889: Market Street

Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA - Susquehanna River
Bridgemeister ID:2134 (added 2006-10-27)
Year Completed:1889
Name:Market Street
Location:Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Susquehanna River
Coordinates:41.237333 N 76.997611 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:5
Main Spans:5 x 61 meters (200 feet)

Notes:

Stereoview image, courtesy of Robert Vogel

1890: Kellams

Kellams, New York and Stalker, Pennsylvania, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:7595 (added 2023-05-07)
Year Completed:1890
Name:Kellams
Also Known As:Little Equinunk, Kellams-Stalker, Kellam
Location:Kellams, New York and Stalker, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.823641 N 75.113282 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:David Kellam
Use:Vehicular
Status:Replaced
Main Cables:Wire
Main Span:1

Notes:

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1891: Lower

English Center Borough, Pennsylvania, USA - Little Pine Creek
Bridgemeister ID:99 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1891
Name:Lower
Location:English Center Borough, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Little Pine Creek
Coordinates:41.4349 N 77.28887 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Dean & Westbrook
References:HAERPA461, HHP, SSB
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:In use (last checked: 2023)
Main Cables:Eyebar (steel)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 91.4 meters (300 feet)

Notes:

Annotated Citations:

  • Crossley, Pat. "Historic bridge on the list to be rehabbed." Williamsport Sun-Gazette, 9 Mar. 2023, https://www.sungazette.com/news/top-news/2023/03/historic-bridge-on-the-list-to-be-rehabbed/

    $12 million rehabilitation project planned. "According to Maggie Baker, a spokesperson with PennDOT… 'After traffic is switched to the temporary bridge, the existing bridge will be carefully dismantled. The existing structural components of the bridge will be shipped to a fabricator to be cleaned and painted. Remedies for damaged components will be coordinated with the onsite cultural resource representative. Abutments will be carefully dismantled and reconstructed.'"

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

1891: Upper

English Center Borough, Pennsylvania, USA - Little Pine Creek
Bridgemeister ID:100 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1891
Name:Upper
Location:English Center Borough, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Little Pine Creek
Principals:Dean & Westbrook
References:HAERPA461
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Removed, 1932
Main Cables:Eyebar (steel)

Notes:


1897: Rochester-Monaca

Rochester and Monaca, Pennsylvania, USA - Ohio River
Bridgemeister ID:104 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1897
Name:Rochester-Monaca
Location:Rochester and Monaca, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Ohio River
Coordinates:40.696833 N 80.280806 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Edwin Kirtland Morse
References:AAJ, BPL, HBE, PTS2
Use:Vehicular, with walkway
Status:Replaced, 1930
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 243.8 meters (800 feet)
Side Spans:1 x 121.9 meters (400 feet),
1 x 126.8 meters (416 feet)
Deck width:28 feet

External Links:

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1900: Upper

Easton, Pennsylvania, USA - Lehigh River
Bridgemeister ID:366 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1900
Name:Upper
Location:Easton, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lehigh River
Principals:Henry G. Tyrell, John McNeal
References:AAJ, DSL20030414, EN19001122, HBE, PTS2, WGE20030513
Use:Footbridge
Status:Demolished, 1955
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Spans:2 x 85 meters (279 feet)
Side Span:1 x 33.5 meters (110 feet)

Notes:

  • According to Tyrell, "[It] joins Dock Street on the lower side of the river with Glendon Avenue on the upper side, 90 feet above it. To overcome this difference in elevation of the two ends without incurring excessive expense for approach, the bridge floor was made to descend on a grade of 7.2 per cent from the upper bank to meet stairs rising from Dock Street..."
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1904: Lordville-Equinunk

Lordville, New York and Equinunk, Pennsylvania, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:112 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1904
Name:Lordville-Equinunk
Location:Lordville, New York and Equinunk, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.867745 N 75.213789 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Owego Bridge Company
References:BDR, BOL, BPL, HHP
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Demolished, 1986
Main Cables:Eyebar (steel)
Suspended Spans:2
Main Span:1 x 105.8 meters (347 feet)
Side Span:1 x 17.1 meters (56 feet)

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg

1904: Riegelsville

Riegelsville, Pennsylvania and Riegelsville, New Jersey, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:113 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1904
Name:Riegelsville
Location:Riegelsville, Pennsylvania and Riegelsville, New Jersey, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:40.59427 N 75.19062 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John A. Roebling's Sons Co., S. A. Cooney
References:BDR, BPL, SSS
Use:Vehicular (two-lane), with walkway
Status:In use (last checked: 2024)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Spans:3 x 58 meters (190.3 feet) estimated

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1907: (footbridge)

Hooversville, Pennsylvania, USA - Stony Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1569 (added 2004-12-05)
Year Completed:1907
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Hooversville, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Stony Creek
Coordinates:40.147818 N 78.913939 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Destroyed, 1996
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:


1920: Bridge of Smiles

Marlborough Township, Pennsylvania, USA - Unami Creek
Bridgemeister ID:8794 (added 2024-09-14)
Year Completed:1920
Name:Bridge of Smiles
Location:Marlborough Township, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Unami Creek
At or Near Feature:Camp Delmont, Musser Scout Reservation
Use:Footbridge
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Located on the grounds of Camp Delmont which is now part of the Musser Scout Reservation. Presumably no longer in existence.

External Links:

  • Facebook. Image and history of the bridge.

1920: Hyde Park Walking

Hyde Park and Leechburg, Pennsylvania, USA - Kiskiminetas River
Bridgemeister ID:5842 (added 2021-05-13)
Year Completed:1920
Name:Hyde Park Walking
Location:Hyde Park and Leechburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Kiskiminetas River
Coordinates:40.627771 N 79.597369 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John A. Roebling's Sons
Use:Footbridge
Status:Destroyed, March 17, 1936
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Spans:3

Notes:


1920: Swinging

Millersburg, Pennsylvania, USA - Wiconisco Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1924 (added 2005-10-23)
Year Completed:1920
Name:Swinging
Location:Millersburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Wiconisco Creek
Use:Footbridge
Status:Destroyed, 1972

Notes:


1926: Andy Warhol

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:148 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1926
Name:Andy Warhol
Also Known As:Seventh Street
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:40.44626 N 80.00145 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Vernon R. Covell, T.J. Wilkerson, A.D. Nutter, H.E. Dodge, Stanley L. Roush
References:AAJ, BOP, BPL, PBR, PTS2, USS
Use:Vehicular (four-lane), with walkway
Status:In use (last checked: 2014)
Main Cables:Eyebar (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 134.7 meters (442 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 67.4 meters (221 feet)
Deck width:62 feet
Characteristics:Self-anchored

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1926: Benjamin Franklin

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Camden, New Jersey, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:145 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1926
Name:Benjamin Franklin
Also Known As:Philadelphia-Camden
Location:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Camden, New Jersey, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:39.95333 N 75.135 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Modjeski, Webster, Ball, Moiseff
References:AAJ, BBR, BFL, BONJ, BPL, DRB, GBD, PTL, PTS2, USS
Use:Vehicular (major highway) and Rail (subway), with walkway
Status:In use (last checked: 2007)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 533.4 meters (1,750 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 219.3 meters (719.5 feet)
Deck width:125.5 feet

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by Bill Campbell Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1927: Rachel Carson

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:150 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1927
Name:Rachel Carson
Also Known As:Ninth Street
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:40.44669 N 79.99980 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Vernon R. Covell, T.J. Wilkerson, A.D. Nutter, H.E. Dodge, Stanley L. Roush
References:AAJ, BOP, BPL, PBR, PTS2, USS
Use:Vehicular (four-lane), with walkway
Status:In use (last checked: 2014)
Main Cables:Eyebar (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 131.1 meters (430 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 65.5 meters (215 feet)
Characteristics:Self-anchored

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1928: Roberto Clemente

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:158 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1928
Name:Roberto Clemente
Also Known As:Sixth Street
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:40.44558 N 80.00332 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Vernon R. Covell, T.J. Wilkerson, A.D. Nutter, H.E. Dodge, Stanley L. Roush
References:AAJ, BOP, BPL, PBR, PTS2, SSS, USS
Use:Vehicular (four-lane), with walkway
Status:In use (last checked: 2014)
Main Cables:Eyebar (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 131.1 meters (430 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 65.5 meters (215 feet)
Characteristics:Self-anchored

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1931: South Tenth Street

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA - Monongahela River
Bridgemeister ID:173 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1931
Name:South Tenth Street
Also Known As:South Side, Tenth Street, Philip Murray
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Monongahela River
Coordinates:40.43166 N 79.989 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Sydney A. Shubin
References:AAJ, BOP, BPL, PBR, SSS, USS
Use:Vehicular (four-lane), with walkway
Status:In use (last checked: 2019)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 228.6 meters (750 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 83.8 meters (275 feet)
Deck width:54 feet

External Links:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by David Denenberg

1936: Kellams

Kellams, New York and Stalker, Pennsylvania, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:97 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1936
Name:Kellams
Also Known As:Little Equinunk, Kellams-Stalker, Kellam
Location:Kellams, New York and Stalker, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.82333 N 75.11333 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:BDR, HHP, PTS2
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:In use (last checked: 2019)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 117 meters (384 feet)
Characteristics:Partially underspanned

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

1937: Corbin's

Huntingdon vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Raystown Branch Juniata River
Bridgemeister ID:187 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1937
Name:Corbin's
Location:Huntingdon vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Raystown Branch Juniata River
Coordinates:40.455 N 77.98333 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:In use (last checked: 2021)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

1937: Hyde Park Walking

Hyde Park and Leechburg, Pennsylvania, USA - Kiskiminetas River
Bridgemeister ID:5843 (added 2021-05-13)
Year Completed:1937
Name:Hyde Park Walking
Location:Hyde Park and Leechburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Kiskiminetas River
Coordinates:40.627834 N 79.596774 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed, c. 1948-1950
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Spans:3

Notes:


1937: Lenape Park I

Perkasie, Pennsylvania, USA - East Branch Perkiomen Creek
Bridgemeister ID:189 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1937
Name:Lenape Park I
Location:Perkasie, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:East Branch Perkiomen Creek
Coordinates:40.36658 N 75.29908 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:WPA
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2003)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by David Denenberg

1937: Lenape Park II

Perkasie, Pennsylvania, USA - East Branch Perkiomen Creek
Bridgemeister ID:190 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1937
Name:Lenape Park II
Location:Perkasie, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:East Branch Perkiomen Creek
Coordinates:40.36691 N 75.29920 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:WPA
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2003)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by David Denenberg

1937: Swinging

Red Hill vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Perkiomen Creek
Bridgemeister ID:7367 (added 2022-11-04)
Year Completed:1937
Name:Swinging
Location:Red Hill vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Perkiomen Creek
Coordinates:40.353622 N 75.503263 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed, Early 1950s
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Replaced a much less substantial swinging bridge that was destroyed by flood in 1935.
  • The site of this bridge was inundated with the creation of the Green Lane Reservoir in the 1950s. The coordinates indicate the approximate location of the bridge which would have been near the current end of Swinging Bridge Rd.

1947: Lumberville-Raven Rock

Lumberville, Pennsylvania and Bulls Island State Park, New Jersey, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:204 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1947
Name:Lumberville-Raven Rock
Also Known As:Bulls Island
Location:Lumberville, Pennsylvania and Bulls Island State Park, New Jersey, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:40.407017 N 75.038183 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John A. Roebling's Sons Co.
References:BDR, BONJ, SSB
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2007)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:5
Main Spans:5
Characteristics:Braced (trussed) chain/cable,
Hinged cables

Notes:

  • SSB has an old picture of the bridge from a "Roebling publication". The original caption inside the picture says: "Practical application of Roebling Bridge research is the Lumberville footbridge which spans the Delaware River about twenty miles above Trenton. Pictured below, it utilizes four slabs of Roebling prestressed concrete and the Roebling-developed cable stiffening principle for the first time in the Western Hemisphere." and the authors of SSB go on to describe it asa "two-hinged braced cable suspension footbridge."

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by David Denenberg

1950: Hyde Park

Hyde Park and Leechburg, Pennsylvania, USA - Kiskiminetas River
Bridgemeister ID:776 (added 2003-03-15)
Year Completed:1950
Name:Hyde Park
Also Known As:Walking
Location:Hyde Park and Leechburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Kiskiminetas River
Coordinates:40.627633 N 79.59835 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:VND20050116
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2021)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Spans:1 x 47.5 meters (156 feet) estimated,
1 x 48.8 meters (160 feet) estimated,
1 x 47.9 meters (157 feet) estimated

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by Guy Learn Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz Photo by David Denenberg

1955: (footbridge)

Jersey Shore vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Pine Creek
Bridgemeister ID:591 (added 2003-01-05)
Year Completed:1955
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Jersey Shore vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Pine Creek
At or Near Feature:Boy Scouts Camp Kline
Coordinates:41.273683 N 77.323883 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Williamsport Technical Institute students
Use:Footbridge
Status:Destroyed, 1972
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

  • The postcard (postmarked 1961) showing the bridge says, "The largest foot-suspension bridge in the East crosses Pine Creek at the Boy Scouts' Camp Kline, north of Jersey Shore, Pa. Built in 1955 by Williamsport Technical Institute students with materials donated by area industries. Valued over $25,000, the 409-foot span has concrete anchors and a 14-ton capacity. For 35 years previous, boats were used to reach the popular 360-acre camp-site, donated to the Scouts in 1920 by James N. Kline, a Williamsport merchant." It's doubtful this was anywhere close to being a 409-foot bridge.
  • The message written on the postcard is amusing (though unrelated to the bridge): "Hi Mom and Dad, I had a fine time up here. I went on a boat trip Monday around the island. We got half way around and Tiny tiped [sic] his boat then we tiped ours. I didn't get to sleep until 2:00 Monday night. I am going to try to swim a mile today. I don't do nothing but lay in my bunk and listen to records. Ken."
  • Patrick O'Donnell is familiar with this area and notes that the bridge is gone, but the concrete footings are still visible. He suspects 1972's Hurricane Agnes brought down this bridge. Denny Keller confirms Patrick's suspicion with a firsthand account of Hurricane Agnes' impact on this bridge: "21 June 1972 is a date that I will never forget. I along with 340+ kids and adults were at Camp Kline during our yearly 4-H camp. I was the very last (along with the National Guard that performed the rescue) to leave and walk across the bridge that once stood at 11PM on the evening of June 21st. I along with two other senior 4-H counselors. I can remember the last trip across the bridge while mobile homes, trees, and all type of debris were floating down the creek and hitting the bridge underneath."
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

1957: Walt Whitman

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Camden, New Jersey, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:211 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1957
Name:Walt Whitman
Location:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Camden, New Jersey, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:39.905 N 75.13 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Othmar Ammann
References:BFL
Use:Vehicular (major highway)
Status:In use (last checked: 2022)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 610 meters (2,001.3 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 234.7 meters (770 feet)
Deck width:83 feet

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1984: Margaret Baker Memorial

Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, USA - Pickering Creek
Bridgemeister ID:7371 (added 2022-11-06)
Year Completed:1984
Name:Margaret Baker Memorial
Location:Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Pickering Creek
At or Near Feature:Phoenixville YMCA
Coordinates:40.108065 N 75.519473 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Derelict, since September, 2021
Main Cables:Chain (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • 2021, September: Damaged by Hurricane Ida.
Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

1995: (footbridge)

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Bridgemeister ID:2533 (added 2011-12-25)
Year Completed:1995
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
At or Near Feature:Pittsburgh Zoo
Coordinates:40.481856 N 79.919181 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:American Bridge Co.
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2010)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1

Photo by David Denenberg

1996: (footbridge)

Hooversville, Pennsylvania, USA - Stony Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1302 (added 2004-04-03)
Year Completed:1996
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Hooversville, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Stony Creek
Coordinates:40.147959 N 78.914295 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Closed, July 2024
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 42.1 meters (138 feet) estimated

Notes:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

1996: Swinging

Millersburg, Pennsylvania, USA - Wiconisco Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1533 (added 2004-10-30)
Year Completed:1996
Name:Swinging
Location:Millersburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Wiconisco Creek
Coordinates:40.53588 N 76.96490 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2014)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 56.7 meters (186 feet) estimated

Notes:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

1998: Lyman Run

Galeton vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Lyman Run
Bridgemeister ID:2400 (added 2007-12-02)
Year Completed:1998
Name:Lyman Run
Location:Galeton vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lyman Run
At or Near Feature:Lyman Run State Park
Coordinates:41.72169 N 77.78674 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Susquehannock Trail Club
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

2001: Cross Fork

Cross Fork vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Cross Fork Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2401 (added 2007-12-08)
Year Completed:2001
Name:Cross Fork
Location:Cross Fork vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Cross Fork Creek
Coordinates:41.57235 N 77.78174 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Potter County Trailblazers, Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

2006: (footbridge)

Green Lane, Pennsylvania, USA - Unami Creek
Bridgemeister ID:4831 (added 2020-07-05)
Year Completed:2006
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Green Lane, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Unami Creek
Coordinates:40.340001 N 75.438839 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Frank Neeld, Hart Mechanical
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2023)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

2007: Rock Cut Farm

Baoba, Pennsylvania, USA - Lackawaxen River
Bridgemeister ID:3794 (added 2020-03-01)
Year Completed:2007
Name:Rock Cut Farm
Also Known As:Baoba
Location:Baoba, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Lackawaxen River
Coordinates:41.479214 N 75.093931 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2007)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)

Notes:

Photo by Glenn Snowden

(conveyor bridge)

Starbrick, Pennsylvania, USA - Allegheny River
Bridgemeister ID:1951 (added 2005-11-04)
Name:(conveyor bridge)
Location:Starbrick, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Allegheny River
Coordinates:41.837083 N 79.20475 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Conveyor
Status:Removed (last checked: 2008)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 115.8 meters (380 feet) estimated

Notes:

  • Crossed a portion of the Allegheny River to Mead Island.
  • Appears to have been removed 2006-2008. Jason Oliphant writes in early 2009: "The north shore suspension supports still exist but the bridge doesn't. I have no idea when it was taken down but I can say that it wasn't there in summer 2008."
Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Akron and Rothsville, Pennsylvania, USA - Cocalico Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2393 (added 2007-12-02)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Akron and Rothsville, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Cocalico Creek
Coordinates:40.14121 N 76.21860 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Derelict (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Appears to have been damaged by flood in the 2018-2019 time frame.
Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

(footbridge)

Ansonia, Pennsylvania, USA - Pine Creek
Bridgemeister ID:4830 (added 2020-07-05)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Ansonia, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Pine Creek
Coordinates:41.712839 N 77.456030 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Main Span:1

Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

(footbridge)

Antes Fort vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Antes Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1689 (added 2005-03-27)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Antes Fort vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Antes Creek
Coordinates:41.179603 N 77.226050 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 30.8 meters (101 feet) estimated

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

(footbridge)

Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, USA - Spring Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1622 (added 2005-02-27)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Spring Creek
At or Near Feature:Talleyrand Park
Coordinates:40.910683 N 77.781517 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2007)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA - Monocacy Creek
Bridgemeister ID:805 (added 2003-03-30)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Monocacy Creek
At or Near Feature:Monocacy Park
Coordinates:40.64248 N 75.38225 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2021)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • 2004: Damaged by flooding during Hurricane Ivan. Remained closed through 2005.
  • Built in 1920s.

External Links:

Photo by David Denenberg Photo, collection of David Denenberg Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

(footbridge)

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA - Saucon Creek
Bridgemeister ID:1495 (added 2004-09-24)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Saucon Creek
At or Near Feature:Saucon Park
Coordinates:40.603255 N 75.346362 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2021)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Don Sayenga Photo by David Denenberg Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

(footbridge)

Brookville, Pennsylvania, USA - North Fork Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2084 (added 2006-06-18)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Brookville, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:North Fork Creek
At or Near Feature:Dr. Walter Dick Memorial Park
Coordinates:41.168117 N 79.074767 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Closed, February, 2021 (last checked: July, 2022)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 54.3 meters (178 feet) estimated

Notes:

  • 2021, February: Closed indefinitely after failing a safety inspection.
  • 2023, October: Brookville awarded grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for the replacement of the bridge. Work expected to commence in mid-2024.

Annotated Citations:

  • Nelson, Alex. "Good news for the swinging bridge." Jeffersonian Democrat, 14, Apr. 2021, http://www.thecourierexpress.com/jeffersonian_democrat/good-news-for-the-swinging-bridge/article_6a72a49c-7ed2-538d-a154-d719a7650c48.html

    "Borough Manager Dana Rooney provided a positive update to the swinging bridge at the Walter Dick Memorial Park, saying there is a way for council to repair the existing bridge during last Tuesday’s meeting." Article discusses the council's plan to repair the bridge, rather than replace it, and their progress engaging an engineer to approve the repairs.

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Cherry Grove vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Tionesta Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2726 (added 2019-06-22)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Cherry Grove vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Tionesta Creek
At or Near Feature:Chapman State Park
Coordinates:41.744371 N 79.182978 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2018)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

(footbridge)

Cooksburg, Pennsylvania, USA - Toms Run
Bridgemeister ID:2366 (added 2007-09-08)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Cooksburg, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Toms Run
At or Near Feature:Cook Forest State Park
Coordinates:41.34104 N 79.21433 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Farragut, Pennsylvania, USA - Mill Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2402 (added 2007-12-22)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Farragut, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Mill Creek
Coordinates:41.27277 N 76.91025 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Grantham, Pennsylvania, USA - Yellow Breeches Creek
Bridgemeister ID:256 (added before 2003)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Grantham, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Yellow Breeches Creek
At or Near Feature:Messiah College
Coordinates:40.155317 N 76.988383 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2005)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Photo courtesy of Messiah College

(footbridge)

Holtwood, Pennsylvania, USA - Susquehanna River
Bridgemeister ID:3331 (added 2019-12-07)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Holtwood, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Susquehanna River
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire (steel)

Scan of a slide, collection of David Denenberg

(footbridge)

Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, USA - Standing Stone Creek
Bridgemeister ID:6979 (added 2022-03-27)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Standing Stone Creek
Coordinates:40.555069 N 77.944703 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Extant (last checked: 2020)
Main Span:1

(footbridge)

Jenkins Corner vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Octoraro Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2021 (added 2006-01-22)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Jenkins Corner vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Octoraro Creek
At or Near Feature:Camp Horseshoe and Camp Ware
Coordinates:39.7268 N 76.125 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Jenkins Corner vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Octoraro Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2022 (added 2006-01-22)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Jenkins Corner vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Octoraro Creek
At or Near Feature:Camp Horseshoe
Coordinates:39.7225 N 76.1276 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Rush Wickes writes: "It collapsed once during the mid-1980s due to being overloaded by mischievous Scout campers. It was subsequently rebuilt, explaining the mismatched steel and wood tower combination. The "W" in the tower may very well refer to the phrase, 'Wimachtendienk, Wingolauchsik, Witahemui', or WWW, a motto of the Order of the Arrow honor group. The Octararo lodge of the honor group has its ceremonial fire pit just beyond the steel tower."
  • Near (footbridge) - Jenkins Corner vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA.
Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA - Dennison Run
Bridgemeister ID:2396 (added 2007-12-02)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Dennison Run
At or Near Feature:Kittanning State Forest
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA - Dennison Run
Bridgemeister ID:2397 (added 2007-12-02)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Dennison Run
At or Near Feature:Kittanning State Forest
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA - Dennison Run
Bridgemeister ID:2398 (added 2007-12-02)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Dennison Run
At or Near Feature:Kittanning State Forest
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA - Dennison Run
Bridgemeister ID:2399 (added 2007-12-02)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Kennerdell, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Dennison Run
At or Near Feature:Kittanning State Forest
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Lewisburg vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Buffalo Creek
Bridgemeister ID:4829 (added 2020-07-05)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Lewisburg vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Buffalo Creek
Coordinates:40.981093 N 76.951261 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Wayne Grodkiewicz

(footbridge)

Mammoth, Pennsylvania, USA - Welty Run
Bridgemeister ID:2085 (added 2006-06-24)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Mammoth, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Welty Run
At or Near Feature:Mammoth Park
Coordinates:40.212267 N 79.458667 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Only towers remain (last checked: 2006)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Oil City vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA - Read Run
Bridgemeister ID:2395 (added 2007-12-02)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Oil City vicinity, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Read Run
At or Near Feature:Camp Singing Hills
Coordinates:41.45763 N 79.75185 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2002)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Pughtown, Pennsylvania, USA - French Creek
Bridgemeister ID:2450 (added 2008-06-22)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Pughtown, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:French Creek
At or Near Feature:Camp Sankanac
Coordinates:40.15698 N 75.65073 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2004)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • James Boxmeyer writes: "I was involved in a small way in the bridge's construction... Here are a few details about the design. I think it was constructed in the late 1990's or maybe 2000-2001. The camp director said it was designed by people who are familiar with construction of similar bridges by Christian missionaries in other countries where resources are limited and suspension bridges are easier to construct. I used to work for an elevator company. I gave the cable to Camp Sankanac that they said would be used in the main suspension cables as well as the vertical cables that support the walking surface. I think they might have also used some of the cable I donated to hold up the walking surface, but have not seen the bridge in person, so cannot verify that. The main suspension cables had been used in an elevator. They are called traction steel 1/2 inch diameter hoist cables 8x19 construction with a fiber core. Tensile strength of each cable is about 14,500 pounds. The vertical cables are 3/8 inch (without a fiber core) and had been used in a construction hoist."
Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(footbridge)

Worrell, Pennsylvania, USA - Springton Lake
Bridgemeister ID:847 (added 2003-06-28)
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Worrell, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Springton Lake
Coordinates:39.95421 N 75.39321 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 45.7 meters (150 feet) estimated

Notes:

  • Connects the roadway to an intake tower in the Springton reservoir.
Photo by Patrick S. O'Donnell

(pipeline bridge)

Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA
Bridgemeister ID:4827 (added 2020-07-05)
Name:(pipeline bridge)
Location:Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA
Coordinates:41.967963 N 78.625340 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Pipeline
Status:Extant (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1

(pipeline bridge)

Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA - Tunungwant Creek
Bridgemeister ID:4828 (added 2020-07-05)
Name:(pipeline bridge)
Location:Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Tunungwant Creek
Coordinates:41.967349 N 78.629287 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Pipeline
Status:Extant (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire (steel)
Suspended Spans:1


Do you have any information or photos for these bridges that you would like to share? Please email david.denenberg@bridgemeister.com.


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