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J. J. Daniels facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Joseph J. Daniels (1826–1916), often called J. J. Daniels, was a super talented American bridge builder. He built many bridges, especially in Indiana. Some of his amazing bridges are even listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, which means they are important historical sites!

Joseph J. Daniels: Master Bridge Builder

Early Life and Learning

Joseph J. Daniels was born in 1826 in a town called Marietta, Ohio. Guess what? His dad was a bridge builder too! So, Joseph learned all about how to design and build strong bridges from his father. It was like a family business, and he learned the ropes from the best!

Building Amazing Bridges

J. J. Daniels became famous for building many sturdy and beautiful bridges. He worked hard and built bridges that lasted a long time, helping people travel safely across rivers and valleys. His very last bridge was the Neet Bridge, which he finished in 1904. He was 78 years old when he built that one!

His Famous Bridges

Many of the bridges J. J. Daniels built are still standing today and are considered very special. They are so important that they are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means they are protected and recognized for their history and design.

Here are some of the cool bridges he built:

  • Big Rocky Fork Bridge: You can find this one southeast of Mansfield, Indiana.
  • Billie Creek Bridge: This bridge is near Rockville, Indiana, in a place called Billie Creek Village.
  • Bridgeton Bridge: Located north of Bridgeton, Indiana.
  • Eugene Covered Bridge: This bridge crosses the Big Vermillion River in Eugene, Indiana.
  • Jackson Bridge: Another one of his bridges found north of Rockville, Indiana.
  • Mansfield Covered Bridge: This bridge is off IN 59 in Mansfield, Indiana.
  • Mecca Bridge: You can see this bridge off US 41 in Mecca, Indiana.
  • Medora Covered Bridge: This one is southeast of Medora, crossing the east fork of the White River.
  • Melcher Bridge: Found east of Montezuma, Indiana.
  • Neet Bridge: Located north of Bridgeton, Indiana.
  • Newport Covered Bridge: This bridge crosses the Little Vermillion River in Newport, Indiana.
  • Possum Bottom Covered Bridge: You can find this bridge on US 36 near Dana, Indiana.
  • West Union Bridge: Located north of Montezuma, Indiana.
  • Williams Bridge: This bridge is southwest of Williams, Indiana.

A Lasting Legacy

Joseph J. Daniels passed away in Rockville, Indiana in 1916 when he was 90 years old. Even though he's no longer with us, his amazing bridges continue to stand strong. They are a reminder of his skill and hard work, and they help us understand the history of engineering in America.

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