Suspension Bridges Completed 1870-1879

This is a list of all 72 bridges from the suspension bridge inventory completed in the decade 1870-1879. Wherever you see a Bridgemeister ID number click it to isolate the bridge on its own page.

Related Lists:

1870: (footbridge)

Rockford, Illinois, USA - Kent Creek
Bridgemeister ID:594 (added 2003-01-11)
Year Completed:1870
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Rockford, Illinois, USA
Crossing:Kent Creek
At or Near Feature:Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum
Principals:Robert Tinker
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed, 1976

Notes:


1870: Auzon

Auzon, Haute-Loire, France - Allier River
Bridgemeister ID:6936 (added 2022-01-22)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Auzon
Location:Auzon, Haute-Loire, France
Crossing:Allier River
Coordinates:45.385908 N 3.357088 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Removed, c. 1934
Main Cables:Wire
Main Span:1

Notes:

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1870: Big Flats

Big Flats, New York, USA
Bridgemeister ID:73 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Big Flats
Location:Big Flats, New York, USA
Status:Replaced, 1905
Main Cables:Wire (iron)

1870: Chehocton

Hancock, New York and Wayne County, Pennsylvania, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:284 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Chehocton
Location:Hancock, New York and Wayne County, Pennsylvania, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
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:

  • Replaced 1937.
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1870: Draht

Kassel, Hessen, Germany - Fulda River
Bridgemeister ID:7753 (added 2023-07-22)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Draht
Also Known As:Wire
Location:Kassel, Hessen, Germany
Crossing:Fulda River
Coordinates:51.312209 N 9.504177 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Status:Destroyed, 1940
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1870: Finck's

Little Falls, New York, USA - Mohawk River
Bridgemeister ID:328 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Finck's
Also Known As:Fink's
Location:Little Falls, New York, USA
Crossing:Mohawk River
Coordinates:43.034102 N 74.830185 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:ONC
Use:Vehicular
Status:Destroyed, 1917
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

  • Heavily damaged by fire, 1917.
  • Coordinates reflect where modern Fincks Basin Road meets the Mohawk River, likely approximate location of this bridge.
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1870: Gévrieux

Gévrieux, Ain, France - Ain River
Bridgemeister ID:7141 (added 2022-06-25)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Gévrieux
Location:Gévrieux, Ain, France
Crossing:Ain River
References:AGP
Use:Vehicular
Status:Replaced, 1908
Main Cables:Wire
Main Spans:2

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1870: Pond Eddy-Lumberland

Pond Eddy and Lumberland, New York, USA - Delaware River
Bridgemeister ID:297 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Pond Eddy-Lumberland
Also Known As:Decker's
Location:Pond Eddy and Lumberland, New York, USA
Crossing:Delaware River
Coordinates:41.439349 N 74.819723 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:James D. Decker
References:BDR
Use:Vehicular
Status:Destroyed, October 9, 1903
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:2
Main Spans:2
Deck width:12 feet

Notes:

  • Destroyed by flood.
  • Coordinates are for the replacement bridge. The suspension bridge would have been extremely close, if not on the same alignment as the replacement.
Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1870: Touzac

Touzac, Lot, France - Lot River
Bridgemeister ID:7962 (added 2023-11-23)
Year Completed:1870
Name:Touzac
Location:Touzac, Lot, France
Crossing:Lot River
Coordinates:44.496083 N 1.049472 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Closed, January 2022 (last checked: 2023)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 110 meters (360.9 feet) estimated

Notes:

  • 2022, January 21: Bridge is severely damaged by a 40-ton truck attempting to cross. The bridge had a weight restriction of 16 tons since 1932. The long truck was also unable to negotiate the turn at the far end of the bridge and damaged the pylons attempting to reverse.
  • 2023, June: Repair work is expected to start in September 2023 and complete in late 2024.
Postcards, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1871: (suspension bridge)

Washburn's Eddy, New York, USA - Hudson River
Bridgemeister ID:74 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1871
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Washburn's Eddy, New York, USA
Crossing:Hudson River
Principals:Robert Gilchrist
References:ABC
Status:Removed

Notes:


1871: Aboyne

Waterside, Aboyne vicinity, Scotland, United Kingdom - River Dee
Bridgemeister ID:2202 (added 2007-01-28)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Aboyne
Location:Waterside, Aboyne vicinity, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Dee
Principals:Harper & Co.
References:HARPER
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Main Span:1 x 91.4 meters (300 feet)

Notes:

  • HARPER: Likely destroyed by one of these major Dee River flood events: May 1913, December 1914, October 1920.

External Links:


1871: Boatford

Langholm, Borders, Scotland, United Kingdom - River Esk
Bridgemeister ID:1428 (added 2004-07-24)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Boatford
Location:Langholm, Borders, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Esk
References:AAJ
Status:Collapsed

Notes:


1871: Coubon

Coubon and Volhac, Haute-Loire, France - Loire River
Bridgemeister ID:1724 (added 2005-04-05)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Coubon
Location:Coubon and Volhac, Haute-Loire, France
Crossing:Loire River
Use:Vehicular
Status:Destroyed, 1930
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1871: Ferry Street

Binghamton, New York, USA - Chenango River
Bridgemeister ID:276 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Ferry Street
Location:Binghamton, New York, USA
Crossing:Chenango River
Principals:John A. Roebling's Sons, Co.
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Removed, 1897
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 109.7 meters (360 feet)

Notes:

  • This bridge was close to the alignment of Binghamton's present Clinton Street bridge. It replaced a bridge that was destroyed by flood in 1865. It was condemned in 1896 and removed in 1897. History Of Broome County indicates an act was passed March 13th, 1871 authorizing the bridge with the contract let to "W.A. Roebling & Son" each cable consisting of seven steel wire ropes, each two inches in diameter.
  • An article from the Binghamton Democrat, July 20, 1871: "The Suspension Bridge -- The work on the west abutment of the suspension bridge has been commenced and will be rapidly as advisable pushed forward to completion, and soon thereafter the wire cables will be placed in position, the stays, supports and girders made fast, and ready for the flooring. In the course of six or eight weeks it is hoped that the bridge will be completed, and our people given another way of passing from the 1st to the 2nd wards, and the old-pleasant driveway re-opened, of which we have been debarred since the flood of St-Patrick's Day in the morning in [1865]. Upon the completion of this enterprise, surely no one will ever regret having voted in favor of the free suspension bridge."
  • An article from the Binghamton Democrat, Nov. 30, 1871: "The New Bridge -- Its Cost -- For the suspenssion [sic] bridge, the tax-payers voted $28,000. It is finished, and in the Common Council last evening it was asserted that it cost over $30,000 and still all the claims are not satisfied. Mr. Jas. Fanning, contractor for building abutments, seeks relief for $1,000 or upwards which he is out no account of his contract. His petition was after considerable skirmishing finally referred to a committee. We hold that this is wrong, the Common Council has nothing to do with this matter. Mayor Dwight published a card binding himself to pay all over $28,000 that the bridge would cost. The people voted that amount and their representatives have nothing to do with any further cost or expense arrising [sic] from that source."
  • Internet searches for this bridge often lead to an image on page 32 of the book "Binghamton", from the "Images of America" series, by Ed Aswad and Suzanne M. Meredith. However, that image is of the Warren Pensylvania suspension bridge and is erroneously captioned as the Binghamton Ferry Street bridge. The bridges may be sometimes confused because of similar surroundings and similar towers. Both are often depicted with a large warehouse building on the far side of the bridge, to the right. Both had "walk-through" towers where the pedestrian walkway passed through portals in the towers. Closer comparisons reveal the Warren towers are substantially larger than the Ferry Street towers. This is not surprising given the Warren bridge was substantially longer than the Ferry Street bridge. All this being said, there are different images purporting to be the Ferry Street bridge that show different towers. The stereoview image linked here appears to show the original towers. Later photos appear to show either replaced towers or, perhaps, the original towers clad in protective housing.
  • See 1871 Warren (Hickory Street) - Warren, Pennsylvania, USA. The two bridges are sometimes confused despite the significant size difference.
Stereoview, collection of David Denenberg

1871: Hunting

Shocklach Green vicinity, England, United Kingdom - River Dee
Bridgemeister ID:2191 (added 2007-01-26)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Hunting
Location:Shocklach Green vicinity, England, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Dee
Principals:Harper & Co.
References:HARPER
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed, 1935
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 48.8 meters (160 feet)

External Links:


1871: Tanarmouth

Glen Tanar, Aboyne vicinity, Scotland, United Kingdom - Water of Tanar
Bridgemeister ID:7972 (added 2023-11-26)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Tanarmouth
Location:Glen Tanar, Aboyne vicinity, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:Water of Tanar
Coordinates:57.066833 N 2.805167 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Harper & Co.
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed, 1950
Main Cables:Wire
Main Span:1 x 30.5 meters (100 feet)

External Links:


1871: Tarassac

St. Martin-de-l'Arcon vicinity, Hérault, France - Orb River
Bridgemeister ID:2308 (added 2007-04-30)
Year Completed:1871
Name:Tarassac
Location:St. Martin-de-l'Arcon vicinity, Hérault, France
Crossing:Orb River
Coordinates:43.564251 N 2.974977 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Replaced
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

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
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
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

1872: Branch Hill

Branch Hill and Symmes, Ohio, USA - Little Miami River
Bridgemeister ID:77 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Branch Hill
Location:Branch Hill and Symmes, Ohio, USA
Crossing:Little Miami River
Principals:John Gray
References:EOV
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

  • Based on correspondence between "Gray's firm" and Washington Roebling, EOV suggests there may be a chance this early bridge contained steel cables.

1872: Chemung

Chemung, New York, USA - Chemung River
Bridgemeister ID:78 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Chemung
Location:Chemung, New York, USA
Crossing:Chemung River
Principals:J.V. Fishler, J.R. Crowell
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire (iron)

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1872: Dryburgh Abbey

Dryburgh and St. Boswells, Scotland, United Kingdom - River Tweed
Bridgemeister ID:1439 (added 2004-07-31)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Dryburgh Abbey
Location:Dryburgh and St. Boswells, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Tweed
Coordinates:55.580771 N 2.654251 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Replaced, 1911
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1872: Fulsom Landing

Riparius, New York, USA - Hudson River
Bridgemeister ID:330 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Fulsom Landing
Also Known As:Riverside, Folsom Landing, Riparius
Location:Riparius, New York, USA
Crossing:Hudson River
Coordinates:43.661963 N 73.898194 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1

Notes:

  • The location of this bridge was originally known as "Folsom Landing" and later became known as "Riverside." In 1886 the name was changed to "Riparius" to avoid confusion with another New York "Riverside" location. The suspension bridge is sometimes referenced by each of these names. To make matters even more confusing, the bridge was known as the "Fulsom Landing" bridge (instead of Folsom).
  • Removed at some point after 1919.
  • Near 1871 (suspension bridge) - Washburn's Eddy, New York, USA.
Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1872: Gilead

Gilead, Maine, USA - Androscoggin River
Bridgemeister ID:2157 (added 2006-12-10)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Gilead
Location:Gilead, Maine, USA
Crossing:Androscoggin River
Use:Vehicular
Status:Replaced, 1923
Main Cables:Wire
Main Span:1 x 58.5 meters (192 feet)

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1872: Lower

Turners Falls, Montague, Massachusetts, USA - Connecticut River
Bridgemeister ID:340 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Lower
Also Known As:White
Location:Turners Falls, Montague, Massachusetts, USA
Crossing:Connecticut River
Coordinates:42.609165 N 72.561433 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:CCR, PTS2
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed, circa 1936
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1872: Ravenscraig

Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom - Caledonian Railway
Bridgemeister ID:5078 (added 2020-08-30)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Ravenscraig
Location:Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:Caledonian Railway
Coordinates:56.468350 N 2.901061 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Harper & Co.
References:HARPER
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 16.8 meters (55.1 feet)

Notes:

  • Coordinates are approximate location of the bridge based on the description in HARPER noting the bridge crossed the railway at the estate of a Colonel Sandeman at Ravenscraig which is the location of the present day (2020) Ravenscraig Gardens in Dundee.

External Links:


1872: Trinity Cemetery

New York, New York, USA - Broadway
Bridgemeister ID:79 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1872
Name:Trinity Cemetery
Location:New York, New York, USA
Crossing:Broadway
Principals:Calvert Vaux
References:CVA
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Connected Trinity Cemetery across Broadway. Demolished 1911. Appears to have been wide enough to handle vehicles.
  • Eric K. Washington contacted me in 2011 wondering if the Trinity Cemetery bridge was the first suspension bridge constructed in New York City. While it seems unlikely that New York City (even just Manhattan) did not have, at least, other minor suspension bridges constructed before 1872, I have never encountered mention of one.

1873: Boatford

Langholm, Borders, Scotland, United Kingdom - River Esk
Bridgemeister ID:534 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1873
Name:Boatford
Location:Langholm, Borders, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Esk
Coordinates:55.15098 N 3.00273 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:AAJ
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2004)
Main Span:1 x 53.3 meters (175 feet)

Notes:

Photo by Dave Cooper

1873: Franklin

Franklin, Ohio, USA - Great Miami River
Bridgemeister ID:80 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1873
Name:Franklin
Location:Franklin, Ohio, USA
Crossing:Great Miami River
Principals:J. W. Shipman & Co., John A. Roebling's Sons Co.
References:EOV, HWCO
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Replaced, 1933
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Traffic restricted to foot traffic, 1931. Closed, 1933, after the bridge sagged significantly.
  • From HWCO: "The towers are thirty-eight feet high, and each consists of four columns, of Phoenix column iron. The cables are of steel wire and each is composed of 343 strands, the whole cable having a diameter of seven inches. The masonry is constructed of Dayton stone, and is of a very substantial character... The wire and iron work was done in the summer of 1873 under the superintendence of Roebling & Sons, of Trenton, N. J. The bridge is stayed by strong wire cables and stiffened by an iron truss. The whole cost was $43,900."
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg.

1873: Harrison

Harrison, Ohio and Dearborn County, Indiana, USA - Whitewater River
Bridgemeister ID:81 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1873
Name:Harrison
Location:Harrison, Ohio and Dearborn County, Indiana, USA
Crossing:Whitewater River
Principals:James W. Shipman and Co.
References:EOV
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Destroyed, 1913, by flood
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

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

1874: (suspension bridge)

Bannockburn, New Zealand - Kawarau River
Bridgemeister ID:660 (added 2003-03-08)
Year Completed:1874
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Bannockburn, New Zealand
Crossing:Kawarau River
References:GAP
Status:Replaced

Notes:


1874: Canet

Canet and Le Pouget, Hérault, France - Hérault River
Bridgemeister ID:7491 (added 2022-12-30)
Year Completed:1874
Name:Canet
Location:Canet and Le Pouget, Hérault, France
Crossing:Hérault River
Coordinates:43.597444 N 3.493061 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular
Status:Replaced
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1874: Châtel-de-Neuvre

Châtel-de-Neuvre and La Ferté-Hauterive, Allier, France - Allier River
Bridgemeister ID:4905 (added 2020-07-18)
Year Completed:1874
Name:Châtel-de-Neuvre
Location:Châtel-de-Neuvre and La Ferté-Hauterive, Allier, France
Crossing:Allier River
Coordinates:46.402296 N 3.317844 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:AAJ
Use:Vehicular
Status:Replaced, 1923
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:2
Main Spans:2

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1874: Huitong

Longling, Yunnan, China - Nujiang
Bridgemeister ID:1232 (added 2004-02-15)
Year Completed:1874
Name:Huitong
Location:Longling, Yunnan, China
Crossing:Nujiang
Coordinates:24.734810 N 98.966987 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:BCG, BYU
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Closed, 1971 (last checked: 2019)
Main Cables:Chain (iron)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 94.3 meters (309.4 feet)

Notes:

  • Originally built with iron chains, modified to steel wire cables, 1935.

1874: Isidora

Lota, Chile
Bridgemeister ID:7930 (added 2023-10-22)
Year Completed:1874
Name:Isidora
Location:Lota, Chile
At or Near Feature:Parque Isidora Cousiño De Lota
Status:Only towers remain (last checked: 2023)

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1874: Palmengarten

Frankfurt, Germany
Bridgemeister ID:8107 (added 2024-01-06)
Year Completed:1874
Name:Palmengarten
Also Known As:Palm Gardens
Location:Frankfurt, Germany
Coordinates:50.122639 N 8.654833 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Removed, 1931
Suspended Spans:1

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1875: (footbridge)

Castle Bergedorf, Bergedorf, Hamburg, Germany - castle moat
Bridgemeister ID:799 (added 2003-03-29)
Year Completed:1875
Name:(footbridge)
Location:Castle Bergedorf, Bergedorf, Hamburg, Germany
Crossing:castle moat
Coordinates:53.489417 N 10.212 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2005)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 6.9 meters (22.6 feet)
Deck width:2 meters

Photo by Eckhard Bernstorff

1875: (suspension bridge)

Clyde, New Zealand - Clutha River
Bridgemeister ID:662 (added 2003-03-08)
Year Completed:1875
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Clyde, New Zealand
Crossing:Clutha River
Coordinates:45.190381 S 169.315298 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:L.D. Macgeorge, William Grant
References:GAP
Status:Destroyed, 1878

Notes:


1875: Nith

Dumfries, Scotland, United Kingdom - River Nith
Bridgemeister ID:524 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1875
Name:Nith
Also Known As:Biddall's
Location:Dumfries, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Nith
Coordinates:55.065120 N 3.610292 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:J. Willett
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2022)
Main Cables:Chain (iron)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1

External Links:

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

1875: Saint-Nazaire

Saint-Nazaire-en-Royans, Drôme and Saint-Hilaire-du-Rosier, Isère, France - Isère River
Bridgemeister ID:7328 (added 2022-09-02)
Year Completed:1875
Name:Saint-Nazaire
Location:Saint-Nazaire-en-Royans, Drôme and Saint-Hilaire-du-Rosier, Isère, France
Crossing:Isère River
Coordinates:45.067313 N 5.243247 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1875: Swinging

Arroyo Grande, California, USA - Arroyo Grande Creek
Bridgemeister ID:307 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1875
Name:Swinging
Location:Arroyo Grande, California, USA
Crossing:Arroyo Grande Creek
Coordinates:35.12336 N 120.57703 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Newton Short
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2007)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 52.1 meters (171 feet)

Notes:

  • A rotary club plaque at the bridge reads, "To connect his properties, Newton Short built this swinging bridge without sides about 1875. Sides were added after 1902. The bridge was given to the City of Arroyo Grande on July 14, 1911,... Due to severe storm damage, the bridge was rebuilt in 1995."
Photo by David Denenberg

1875: Swinging

Frederick, Maryland, USA - Carroll Creek
Bridgemeister ID:253 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1875
Name:Swinging
Location:Frederick, Maryland, USA
Crossing:Carroll Creek
At or Near Feature:Baker Park
Coordinates:39.415033 N 77.4208 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2022)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • The black and white photo shows the same bridge at its original location on Bentz Street (then Mill Alley). It was later moved to Baker Park, and then moved again (in 1927, 1928, or 1930 according to various sources) to its present location, another location in Baker Park.
  • Local legend states this bridge was used by Stonewall Jackson and his troops when they entered Frederick on September 10, 1862.
  • Closed March, 2008 due to safety concerns. Eventually reopened.
  • Near 2006 William O. Lee (Carroll Creek Park) - Frederick, Maryland, USA.

External Links:

Photograph, collection of David Denenberg Photo by David Denenberg Photo by David Denenberg

1876: Brunner

Brunner, New Zealand - Grey River / Māwheranui
Bridgemeister ID:414 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Brunner
Location:Brunner, New Zealand
Crossing:Grey River / Māwheranui
Coordinates:42.433068 S 171.324420 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:John Carruthers
References:GAP
Use:Vehicular and Rail
Status:Restricted to foot traffic (last checked: 2017)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • GAP: Collapsed just before opening due to anchor plate failure, rebuilt. Rebuilt again 1925-1926. Towers replaced 1963-1964.
Photo by David Denenberg

1876: Laissey

Laissey, Doubs, France - Doubs River
Bridgemeister ID:2171 (added 2007-01-13)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Laissey
Location:Laissey, Doubs, France
Crossing:Doubs River
Coordinates:47.298411 N 6.236290 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed

External Links:

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

1876: Lamagistère

Lamagistère, Tarn-et-Garonne, France - Garonne River
Bridgemeister ID:7175 (added 2022-07-01)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Lamagistère
Location:Lamagistère, Tarn-et-Garonne, France
Crossing:Garonne River
Coordinates:44.122921 N 0.819276 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular
Status:Destroyed, 1930
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:2
Main Spans:2

Notes:

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1876: Linwood

Linwood, Ohio, USA - Little Miami River
Bridgemeister ID:82 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Linwood
Location:Linwood, Ohio, USA
Crossing:Little Miami River
Principals:Cincinnati Bridge Co.
References:EOV
Status:Removed

Notes:

  • Replaced after 1913 flood damage.

1876: Nile River

Charleston, New Zealand - Nile (Waitakere) River
Bridgemeister ID:659 (added 2003-03-08)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Nile River
Location:Charleston, New Zealand
Crossing:Nile (Waitakere) River
Coordinates:41.899278 S 171.443694 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Arthur Dudley Dobson
References:GAP
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

External Links:


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
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
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

1876: Zoar

Stevenson vicinity, Connecticut, USA - Housatonic River
Bridgemeister ID:85 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1876
Name:Zoar
Location:Stevenson vicinity, Connecticut, USA
Crossing:Housatonic River
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Demolished, 1919
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Located on the road connecting Monroe to Oxford, until 1919 when the Stevenson Dam was built.
  • May have been significantly widened, c. 1910.
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1877: (suspension bridge)

Kent, Ohio, USA - Cuyahoga River
Bridgemeister ID:1979 (added 2005-11-27)
Year Completed:1877
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:Kent, Ohio, USA
Crossing:Cuyahoga River
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire (iron)

1877: Canet

Ventenac-en-Minervois and Canet, Aude, France - Aude River
Bridgemeister ID:5658 (added 2021-01-01)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Canet
Location:Ventenac-en-Minervois and Canet, Aude, France
Crossing:Aude River
Coordinates:43.240039 N 2.855134 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:AAJ
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Piers are still present (in 2020) next to the current Aude River crossing at this location.
Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1877: Cottaneva

Cottaneva Creek, Rockport, California, USA - Rockport Bay, Pacific Ocean
Bridgemeister ID:1152 (added 2004-01-18)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Cottaneva
Location:Cottaneva Creek, Rockport, California, USA
Crossing:Rockport Bay, Pacific Ocean
Coordinates:39.736703 N 123.832585 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Pacific Bridge Co.
References:AAJ
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 82.3 meters (270 feet)

Notes:

  • This bridge was part of the Rockport lumber mill (Mendocino County). The bridge stretched over ocean to a large rock in the bay.
  • Jakkula cites two sources describing the cables as steel.
  • Don Sayenga transcribed one of Jakkula's references, The Iron Age Volume XX , No. 3 (August 2, 1877) Page 1: "A Steel Wire Suspension Bridge In California"
    The Pacific Bridge Company are building in Mendocino county, California at Cottoneva, a suspension bridge which is described as follows "The distance from center to center of the saddles on the towers is 270 feet. The deflection or fall of the cable is 23 feet 6 inches. The cables are built in the same manner as those of the Clifton bridge at Niagara. The steel wire is about No. 11 Birmingham gauge, and is protected against rust by immersing in a bath which it a fine coat of zinc. There are eleven wires in each strand, seven strands in each rope, and seven ropes in each cable. The ropes are not twisted together to form the cable but gathered up every six feet by the suspender bands. Each rope is warranted to bear a strain of 60 tons. It is made fast to an independent anchor bar, 1 by 3 inches in diameter, and forming links 18 feet long, until connection is made with the anchors. The anchors are of cast iron, 3-1/2 by 3 feet in surface, weigh 1000 pounds each, and are placed 14 feet below the surface of the rock. Great care was taken in securing the anchors in place by means of cross I beams which run under the rock on either side. The lower part of each pit was enlarged to so as to form a hemispherical chamber, and the rock work, set in Portland cement, which is built upon the anchor, is so constructed that the upward strain is transmitted to the sides. The towers are of red wood. There are four posts 10 x 10 inches and two 10 x 12 inches, giving an effective area of 640 inches to withstand the strain of the cables on the tower. The wooden truss to prevent vertical vibration is 8 feet high and of the Howe truss pattern. The 270 feet of the bridge is divided into 45 pannels. The longest suspenders, 44 in number are of 7/8 inch steel wire, the 42 shorter ones are of 1-1/8 inch solid iron. The estimated dead load of the bridge is 1000 pounds per linear foot; live load, one ton per linear foot; in all, one and one half tons, or one fifth of actual breaking load. The bridge will be completed in about 30 days and promises to be a structure which the builders may well be proud of."
    Don writes: "[In] Jakkula's last citation, he is saying that this is factory-made wire rope... The construction of the wire rope (7 by 11) used in the main cables is not common for the USA as of 1877; in fact it is extremely uncommon. The wire ropes used at Clifton/Niagara were made in England -- it wouldn't surprise me if these were made in England too."

1877: Douelle

Douelle, Lot, France - Lot River
Bridgemeister ID:1931 (added 2005-10-27)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Douelle
Location:Douelle, Lot, France
Crossing:Lot River
Coordinates:44.471510 N 1.361864 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
References:AAJ
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:In use (last checked: 2019)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1877: Jhulaghat

Juluaghat, Dasharathchanda, Nepal and Jhulaghat, Uttarakhand, India - Sharda River
Bridgemeister ID:4344 (added 2020-04-11)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Jhulaghat
Also Known As:झुलाघाट
Location:Juluaghat, Dasharathchanda, Nepal and Jhulaghat, Uttarakhand, India
Crossing:Sharda River
Coordinates:29.571577 N 80.382849 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Restricted to foot traffic (last checked: 2023)
Main Cables:Eyebar
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • 2022-2023: Damaged during 2022 monsoon season. Reopened October 2023.

External Links:


1877: Lead Mine

Gorham, New Hampshire, USA
Bridgemeister ID:1198 (added 2004-01-28)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Lead Mine
Also Known As:Hutchinson
Location:Gorham, New Hampshire, USA
Principals:Timothy H. Hutchinson
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Collapsed, 1921
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • Provided access to Mascot Mine. Collapsed, 1921.
Postcard, collection of David Denenberg Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1877: Minneapolis

Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA - Mississippi River
Bridgemeister ID:86 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Minneapolis
Location:Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
Crossing:Mississippi River
At or Near Feature:Nicollet Island
Principals:Thomas M. Griffith
References:AAJ, BPL, HBE, PTS2
Use:Vehicular, with walkway
Status:Replaced, 1890
Main Cables:Wire (iron)
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 205.8 meters (675.1 feet)
Deck width:32 feet

Notes:

Stereoview, collection of David Denenberg

1877: Netherby

Kirksandrew-upon-Esk, Longtown vicinity, Cumbria and Netherby, England, United Kingdom - River Esk
Bridgemeister ID:2369 (added 2007-09-28)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Netherby
Location:Kirksandrew-upon-Esk, Longtown vicinity, Cumbria and Netherby, England, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Esk
Coordinates:55.03855 N 2.95261 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2012)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Photo by Dave Cooper

1877: Punalur

Punalur, Kerala, India - Kallada River
Bridgemeister ID:415 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Punalur
Location:Punalur, Kerala, India
Crossing:Kallada River
Coordinates:9.018114 N 76.927620 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Albert Henry
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Restricted to foot traffic (last checked: 2019)
Main Cables:Eyebar
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1
Side Spans:2

Photo by Daniel Sebastian

1877: Victoria

Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India - Beas River
Bridgemeister ID:2750 (added 2019-06-23)
Year Completed:1877
Name:Victoria
Location:Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India
Crossing:Beas River
Coordinates:31.712668 N 76.933310 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:In use (last checked: 2019)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

External Links:


1878: (suspension bridge)

New Zealand - Hawea River
Bridgemeister ID:664 (added 2003-03-08)
Year Completed:1878
Name:(suspension bridge)
Location:New Zealand
Crossing:Hawea River
Principals:William Grant, McKellar
References:GAP

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
Use:Vehicular
Status:Removed
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:


1878: Sedgwick

Sedgwick and Sizergh, England, United Kingdom - River Kent
Bridgemeister ID:1313 (added 2004-04-16)
Year Completed:1878
Name:Sedgwick
Also Known As:Low Park Woods, New Sedgwick
Location:Sedgwick and Sizergh, England, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Kent
Coordinates:54.281 N 2.7564 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Francis James Willacy
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2010)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

External Links:

Photo by Dave Cooper

1878: Spider

Crewe, England, United Kingdom
Bridgemeister ID:1843 (added 2005-07-15)
Year Completed:1878
Name:Spider
Also Known As:Midge
Location:Crewe, England, United Kingdom
Use:Rail
Status:Demolished, 1939
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

  • Carried a narrow gauge rail line over several tracks at the Crewe Locomotive Works. Used as a footbridge, 1929-1939.

1878: Upper

Turners Falls, Montague, Massachusetts, USA - Connecticut River
Bridgemeister ID:87 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1878
Name:Upper
Also Known As:Red
Location:Turners Falls, Montague, Massachusetts, USA
Crossing:Connecticut River
Principals:J.W. Shipman
References:CCR
Use:Vehicular
Status:Dismantled, 1942
Main Cables:Wire

Notes:

External Links:

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1879: Azuqueca

Azuqueca de Henares, Guadalajara, Spain - Henares River
Bridgemeister ID:7625 (added 2023-05-27)
Year Completed:1879
Name:Azuqueca
Location:Azuqueca de Henares, Guadalajara, Spain
Crossing:Henares River
Coordinates:40.555941 N 3.246655 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Use:Footbridge
Status:Derelict (last checked: 2022)
Suspended Spans:1

External Links:


1879: Infirmary

Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom - River Ness
Bridgemeister ID:539 (added before 2003)
Year Completed:1879
Name:Infirmary
Location:Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Ness
Coordinates:57.471653 N 4.228844 W
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:C. R. Manners
References:HBR
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2021)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 61 meters (200 feet)
Side Spans:2 x 12.8 meters (42 feet)

Notes:

Annotated Citations:

  • Glen, Louise. “Closure Fears for Iconic Inverness Bridge Facing Huge Repair Bill.” Inverness Courier, 21 Apr. 2021, www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/closure-fears-for-iconic-inverness-bridge-facing-huge-repair-235713/.

    "Fears have been raised that decades of under investment in an iconic city bridge could see it closed permanently. Members of Ballifeary Community Council believe the cost of fixing and upgrading the Infirmary Bridge to bring it up to modern standards may be more than £1 million..."

  • Duncan, Ian. "The future of Infirmary Bridge secured into the 2040s as Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee today agrees up to £550,000 in funding for repairs." Inverness Courier, 05 May 2021, www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/the-future-of-infirmary-bridge-secured-into-the-2040s-237340/.

    "Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee agreed today to include up to £550,000 for repairs for Infirmary Bridge… 'It will be 2022 before the repairs are completed, but once done the bridge's life will be extended for a further 20 to 25 years.'"

External Links:

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

1879: Saint-Ilpize

Saint-Ilpize, Haute-Loire, France - Allier River
Bridgemeister ID:1097 (added 2004-01-02)
Year Completed:1879
Name:Saint-Ilpize
Location:Saint-Ilpize, Haute-Loire, France
Crossing:Allier River
Coordinates:45.198556 N 3.386866 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Ferdinand Arnodin
References:AAJ, BPF, HBE, PTS2
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:In use (last checked: 2020)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:3
Main Span:1 x 70.35 meters (230.8 feet)
Side Spans:2
Deck width:18 feet

Notes:

  • The side spans are supported solely by inclined stays, not suspenders from the main cables.
  • Closed to all traffic on July 15, 2004 due to damage to the deck, possibly caused by an overloaded truck. Repaired and reopened.

External Links:

Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle

1879: Shaky

Alexandra, New Zealand - Manuherikia River
Bridgemeister ID:665 (added 2003-03-08)
Year Completed:1879
Name:Shaky
Also Known As:Manuherikia
Location:Alexandra, New Zealand
Crossing:Manuherikia River
Coordinates:45.253846 S 169.398651 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:L.D. Macgeorge, William Grant, McKellar
References:GAP
Use:Vehicular (one-lane)
Status:Restricted to foot traffic (last checked: 2017)
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

Photo by David Denenberg

1879: Swing

Monymusk, Scotland, United Kingdom - River Don
Bridgemeister ID:2192 (added 2007-01-26)
Year Completed:1879
Name:Swing
Location:Monymusk, Scotland, United Kingdom
Crossing:River Don
Principals:Harper & Co.
References:HARPER
Use:Footbridge
Status:Demolished, c. 2005
Main Cables:Wire
Suspended Spans:1
Main Span:1 x 32.6 meters (107 feet)

External Links:

Postcard, collection of David Denenberg

1879: Viljandi

Viljandi, Estonia
Bridgemeister ID:2654 (added 2019-03-03)
Year Completed:1879
Name:Viljandi
Location:Viljandi, Estonia
At or Near Feature:Viljandi Castle Park
Coordinates:58.358912 N 25.594293 E
Maps:Acme, GeoHack, Google, OpenStreetMap
Principals:Felser and Co.
Use:Footbridge
Status:In use (last checked: 2018)
Suspended Spans:1

Notes:

  • 1931: Relocated from original location at Tarvastu Manor. Coordinates provided here represent the new location of the bridge.
  • 1995: Reconstructed.
Postcard, collection of Jochem Hollestelle


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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