Algebuckina Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Algebuckina Bridge |
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The bridge in 2009
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| Coordinates | 27°53′57″S 135°48′27″E / 27.8993°S 135.8075°E |
| Carries | Railway (disused) |
| Crosses | Neales River |
| Locale | Allandale Station, South Australia |
| Heritage status |
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| Characteristics | |
| Material | Wrought iron |
| Total length | 587 metres (1,927 ft) |
| Number of spans | 19 |
| History | |
| Construction cost | £AU 60,000 |
| Opened | 8 January 1892 |
| Closed | 1981 |
| Replaces | Surface level crossing |
The Algebuckina Bridge is a very old railway bridge in South Australia, a state in Australia. It's located about 55 kilometers (34 miles) south-east of a town called Oodnadatta. This bridge was part of the Central Australia Railway, which is now closed. It opened in January 1892.
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About the Algebuckina Bridge
The Algebuckina Bridge is a historic railway bridge. It was built during the Victorian era, a time when Queen Victoria ruled Britain. This bridge was the longest in South Australia for many years. It held this record until a new bridge was built for the Seaford railway line in 2014.
How the Bridge Was Built
The bridge is 1,927 feet (587 meters) long. It is made up of 19 sections, called spans. Each span is about 100 feet (30 meters) long. These sections are made from strong wrought iron in a criss-cross pattern. They sit on round supports called piers, which are made of cast iron.
Strengthening the Bridge
In 1926, the bridge was made even stronger. This was done so it could carry heavier trains. It was important for the railway to be able to move more goods and people.
Building in the Desert
About 350 men worked to build the Algebuckina Bridge. They worked in the very hot desert. It was a very tough job. Some workers faced serious health problems because of the extreme heat. There are graves nearby for some of these workers. One grave belongs to David Saunders, who passed away in 1890 due to an illness made worse by the heat.
Why the Bridge Was Needed
The bridge crosses the Neales River. This river often floods, especially during the rainy season. Before the bridge, the railway track was at ground level. It would often get washed away by the floods. The Algebuckina Bridge was built high above the river to solve this problem.
The Bridge's Closure
In 1974, there was a very big flood. The water almost reached the top of the bridge. Because of the frequent flooding, the railway line was closed in 1981. A new railway route was built about 100 miles (160 kilometers) further west.
Protecting the Bridge's History
The Algebuckina Bridge is an important part of Australia's history. It was listed on the Register of the National Estate in 1982. This register no longer exists. The bridge was also listed on the South Australian Heritage Register in 1986. This means it is protected as a special historical place in South Australia.
