Stayton–Jordan Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stayton–Jordan Bridge |
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Stayton–Jordan Bridge in 2007
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| Coordinates | 44°47′55.2″N 122°47′09.2″W / 44.798667°N 122.785889°W |
| Carries | Foot traffic |
| Crosses | Salem Power Canal |
| Locale | Stayton, Oregon, Marion County, United States |
| Other name(s) | Salem Power Canal Covered Bridge |
| Preceded by | Jordan Bridge over Thomas Creek, Linn County |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Howe truss |
| Total length | 90 feet (27 m) |
| History | |
| Opened | 1998 (1937) |
The Stayton–Jordan Bridge is a special covered bridge located in Stayton, a town in Marion County, Oregon. This bridge was built in 1998 and is used by people walking over the Salem Power Canal. You can find it in Pioneer Park. The canal itself is a path for water that comes from the North Santiam River.
Contents
The Original Jordan Bridge
The bridge you see today in Stayton isn't the very first one. Its story actually begins with an older bridge built in 1937. This original bridge was called the Jordan Bridge. It crossed Thomas Creek near a town called Lyons in Linn County.
What Made It Special?
The 1937 Jordan Bridge was one of seven similar covered bridges in Linn County. These bridges were unique because they had large openings on their sides. The original bridge got its name from the nearby small community of Jordan.
Moving and Rebuilding the Bridge
In 1986, officials in Linn County decided they needed to replace the old Jordan Bridge. But instead of just tearing it down, a group of people from Stayton had a great idea! They got the parts of the taken-apart bridge.
A Community Effort
With lots of help from volunteers and even Marine Corps reservists, the bridge was carefully moved and put back together in Stayton. This rebuilt bridge opened for people to walk across in 1988. It spanned the Salem Power Canal, just like the bridge does today.
A New Beginning: The 1998 Bridge
Sadly, in December 1994, something unexpected happened. Christmas lights on the bridge caught fire. The fire caused a lot of damage, and most of the bridge was destroyed.
Building a Nearly Identical Bridge
But the people of Stayton didn't give up! Local residents worked together to build a brand-new bridge in the same spot. This new bridge looks almost exactly like the one that was destroyed. It opened in 1998 and is the bridge you can visit today.
What the Bridge is Used For
The Stayton–Jordan Bridge is a public footbridge, meaning anyone can walk across it. It's a lovely spot in Pioneer Park. Sometimes, the bridge is even reserved for special private events, like weddings.
