Old Alton Bridge facts for kids
Old Alton Bridge
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![]() Old Alton Bridge
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Nearest city | Copper Canyon, Texas |
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Area | less than one acre |
Built | 1884 |
Architect | King Iron & Bridge Manufacturing Co. |
Architectural style | Pratt through-truss bridge |
NRHP reference No. | 88000979 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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Added to NRHP | July 8, 1988 |
The Old Alton Bridge is a very old and famous bridge in Texas. It connects the cities of Denton and Copper Canyon. This bridge was built a long time ago, in 1884. It's known for its unique iron design and a spooky local legend!
About the Old Alton Bridge
The Old Alton Bridge is a special type of bridge called an "iron through-truss bridge." This means it's made of strong iron pieces that form a framework. Cars (or horses, back in the day) drive through the middle of this framework. It crosses over Hickory Creek, a local waterway.
A Bridge Through Time
When it was first built, the bridge was used by horses and wagons. It helped people cross Hickory Creek, which was a popular spot for moving cattle. Later, cars also used the bridge.
The bridge gets its name from an old town called Alton. This town no longer exists. Between 1850 and 1856, Alton was the main town, or "county seat," for Denton County.
The Legend of Goatman's Bridge
Locally, many people know the Old Alton Bridge by a different name: "Goatman's Bridge." This name comes from a popular folk legend. The story says that a scary creature, sometimes called the "Goatman," lives in the forest around the bridge.
People often visit the bridge hoping to experience something spooky. It has become a popular spot for those interested in local legends and ghost stories.