The same year, the C&D became a part of the Dubuque & Sioux City Railroad, who already operated a mainline between the namesake cities.
The Illinois Central leased the D&SC, and it fully merged in 1946.
As a branch line, this route gradually became excess for the Illinois Central, which had reorganized as Illinois Central Gulf in 1972.
The entire line was abandoned between 1978 and 1980. Today, most structures on the line remain but the tracks are long gone.
06/26/21
Located north of Quimby, this large through truss bridge crosses the Little Sioux River.
Built in 1887 during the initial construction of this route, the bridge features a single pin connected 8-panel Pratt Through Truss structure, set onto stone piers. The bridge also is approached by trestle spans on both sides. The truss also features a unique double jointing on the lower connections at the outermost vertical members.
This type of bridge is a standardized design on the Illinois Central routes. Seen throughout Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin, these bridges were simple and durable. Many continue to exist today.
Fortunately, this bridge continues to be owned by Cherokee County. Located along River Drive, the structure is easy to access from the nearby road.
Overall, the truss appears to be in good condition, although most of the deck is in poor condition. It is hoped that this bridge will continue to be preserved, or reused at another location as a trail.
The author has ranked this bridge as being moderately significant, due to the truss design. It is a good example of a truss left standing after the removal of the railroad.
The photo above is an overview.
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