- 1864: 62 miles completed from Escanaba to Negaunee, Michigan by the Peninsula Railroad Company of Michigan
- 1865: Peninsula Railroad Company of Michigan acquired by the Chicago & North Western Railway
- 1870: 5 miles completed from Negaunee to Ishpeming, Michigan by the Chicago & North Western Railway
- 1871: 50 miles completed from Green Bay to Marinette, Wisconsin by the Chicago & North Western Railway
- 1872: 65 miles completed from Marinette to Escanaba, Michigan by the Chicago & North Western Railway
- 1888: 22 miles completed from Ishpeming to Republic, Michigan by the Iron Range Railway
- 1889: Iron Range Railway acquired by the Chicago & North Western Railway
- 1997: Green Bay to Ishpeming segment sold to Wisconsin Central, Ltd
- 2001: Canadian National Railway acquires Wisconsin Central, Ltd
- 2001-Present: Canadian National operates the line between Green Bay and Ishpeming as the Marinette Subdivision
06/26/21
This iconic bridge sits near the mouth of the Oconto River, and contains many historic details
Originally built in late 1903 and erected in 1904, the main swing span of this bridge was once capable of turning. Although it has not for many years, it still has all the machinery necessary to operate.
In 1911, at least the south through girder span was added to the bridge. It is unknown if the north I-Beam span was added at the same time, although it seems likely.
The bridge rests on massive stone substructures.
Unfortunately, the perfectly sunny day turned cloudy right before I got here.
Overall, the bridge looks to be in great condition. The author has rated the bridge with moderate significance, because of the common design turned into a swing bridge.
The photo above is an overview.
Upstream | Stiles Rail Bridge |
Downstream | Mouth at Lake Michigan |