Branch Hill, Ohio facts for kids
Branch Hill is a small community in Miami Township, Clermont County, Ohio, United States. It sits right on the banks of the Little Miami River near Loveland. A popular path called the Little Miami Scenic Trail also goes through Branch Hill.
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History of Branch Hill and Its Bridges
For a long time, people living in the area of Loveland mostly stayed on the Clermont County side of the Little Miami River. This was because that side had a train station. It was hard to cross the river without good bridges.
Early Efforts for River Crossings
In 1850, a wooden bridge was built across the river at Symmestown and what would become Branch Hill. But just six years later, in 1856, a flood washed it away. For many years, people on both sides of the river really wanted a new bridge at Loveland. They wanted to avoid long trips to places like Foster's Crossing or Miamiville to cross the river. By 1868, they were so eager for a bridge that they even thought about joining a different county if officials didn't help.
Building the First Big Bridge
Finally, a large suspension bridge was built at Symmestown and Branch Hill. It cost $75,000, which was a lot of money back then! The bridge was officially opened on July 4, 1871. This impressive bridge was held up by four huge wrought iron columns. Each column weighed about 7,000 pounds (3,175 kg). At that time, they were the heaviest iron columns ever made in the United States.
How Branch Hill Got Its Name
The community of Branch Hill was officially planned and created in 1873. It was named after a man named Colonel John H. Branch.
A Club in the 1930s
In the 1930s, Branch Hill was home to a place called the Arrowhead Club. This club was a popular spot for people from nearby Indian Hill to gather and enjoy themselves.
Images for kids
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The 1872 Branch Hill Bridge crossed the Little Miami River just south of Loveland. It was replaced by the "Blue Bridge" in 1922.
