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Bessemer Rail Bridge

Double Intersection Warren Pony Truss Bridge over 1st Avenue
Bessemer, Gogebic County, Michigan

Click the Photo Above to See All Photos of This Bridge!
Name Bessemer Rail Bridge
Built By Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie Railway
Contractor Wisconsin Bridge & Iron Company of Milwaukee
Currently Owned By Gogebic County
Length 220 Feet Total, 100 Foot Main Span
Width 1 Track
Height Above Ground 12 Feet (Estimated)
Superstructure Type Double Intersection Warren Pony Truss and Trestle
Substructure Type Timber Pile
Date Built 1896
Traffic Count 0 Trains/Day (Bridge is a Trail)
Current Status Rails to Trails
Significance High Significance


One of the most unique bridges in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is located across 1st Avenue in Bessemer.
Built in 1896, the abandoned pony truss utilizes an extremely uncommon design.
While most pony trusses are extremely distinct as such, this one is not. It follows the shape of a traditional curved chord through girder span.
However, closer inspection finds that it is indeed a pony truss span. Specifically, it is a 7-panel riveted Double Intersection Warren Pony Truss.
This unique main span is also known to railroads as "lattice girders", due to the resemblance of a hybrid. Many similar bridges were built, however most feature vertical endposts.
In addition to this main span, the bridge is approached by several trestle spans on either side. The entire bridge rests on wooden substructures.
Overall, this unique bridge remains in good condition. After being abandoned since 1999, the bridge was given a rehabilitation and a ATV path installed over the structure.

The author has ranked this bridge as being highly significant, due to the uncommon design and old age.
The photo above is an overview. The bridge can be accessed from the road it crosses.

Citations

Source Type

Source

Build Date Wisconsin Bridge & Iron Company plaque
Contractor Wisconsin Bridge & Iron Company plaque
Railroad Line History Source ICC Valuation Information, Compiled by Richard S. Steele