This beautiful deck truss crosses the Black River in a remote location northwest of Black River Falls.
Despite being a very tough bridge to get back to, it is an absolutely magnificent structure. It was completed in 1902 as the Omaha Road (C&NW) bypassed an 1881 bridge in Black River Falls. That bridge would be removed in the 1920s, and at least one span reused in Nebraska.
The three main spans consist of riveted Double Intersection Warren Deck Truss structures. These are approached by a single deck girder on either side.
During this era, the C&NW used this design, with the deck girder approaches heavily. In addition, the bridge rests on all stone substructures.
Bridge soon after completion
Despite being an awesome structure to marvel, the bridge does have some dangers. While the south end has a park, the river banks are very steep.
The author learned firsthand of this, losing a camera lens in the Black River.
The bridge is best accessed from Betty Lane, on the south. On the north, a local street also provides good access.
Historic photo of the former 1881 bridge in Black River Falls
The author has ranked this spectacular structure as regionally significant, as it retains a near perfect historic integrity. The bridge appears to be in amazing condition, and could likely serve traffic for decades to come.
The above photo is an overview.
| Upstream | Hatfield Rail Bridge (E) |
| Upstream | Hatfield Rail Bridge (Middle) |
| Upstream | Hatfield Rail Bridge (W) |
| Downstream | Black River Falls Rail Bridge |