Lower Blackburn Grade Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Lower Blackburn Grade Bridge
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 Location in California
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| Location | California State Route 36 outside Bridgeville, California |
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| Built | 1925 |
| Architect | John B. Leonard |
| Architectural style | Through arch bridge |
| NRHP reference No. | 81000148 |
| Added to NRHP | 25 June 1981 |
The Lower Blackburn Grade Bridge is a historic structure in California. It's also known as the Van Duzen River Bridge or Mile 18 Bridge. This bridge is about 258 feet (79 meters) long. It crosses the Van Duzen River about 4 miles (6.4 km) west of Bridgeville, California. The bridge was built in 1925 and was used for traffic until 1985.
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Discovering the Lower Blackburn Grade Bridge
This bridge is a special type called a "reinforced concrete through arch" bridge. It has a main arch that spans about 150 feet (46 meters). The bridge also has cool designs like special panels and a decorative rail. It was the only concrete arch bridge of its kind built along the Van Duzen River Highway.
How the Bridge Was Built
The Lower Blackburn Grade Bridge was designed by a famous architect named John B. Leonard. He designed five bridges for California State Route 36 between 1923 and 1925. This bridge was built by Humboldt County in 1925. Its main purpose was to replace a steep, winding road and an old covered bridge. This made travel much safer and easier.
A Historic Landmark
Because of its unique design and importance, the Lower Blackburn Grade Bridge became a historic site. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 25, 1981. This means it's recognized as an important part of history.
Why a New Bridge Was Needed
In 1985, the old bridge was no longer used for cars. A new, modern bridge was built to replace it. The new bridge is a concrete box girder bridge. It was named after an Italian immigrant called Silvio "Botchie" Santi. The old Lower Blackburn Grade Bridge remains a historic landmark, even though cars no longer drive on it.
