Swanton Covered Railroad Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Swanton Covered Railroad Bridge
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1973 photo
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 Location in Vermont
Location in the United States
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| Location | Over the Mississquoi River west of Swanton village, Swanton, Vermont |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1898 |
| Architectural style | Town-Pratt dbl lattice truss |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000195 |
| Added to NRHP | June 18, 1973 |
The Swanton Covered Railroad Bridge was a special kind of bridge in Swanton, Vermont. It was built in 1898 and carried the St. Johnsbury and Lamoille County Railroad over the Missisquoi River. This bridge was located just west of Swanton village. Sadly, it was destroyed by a fire in 1987. Even though it's gone, the bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
About the Bridge
The Swanton Covered Railroad Bridge was a unique structure. It was built for trains to cross the Missisquoi River. The bridge was quite long, measuring about 369 feet (112 meters). It rested on strong stone supports.
How It Looked
This bridge had a very special design. It combined two types of bridge structures: the Pratt and Town trusses. Trusses are like giant frameworks that help a bridge hold its weight. The Swanton bridge had a massive wooden deck system. Its outside was covered with vertical wooden boards. This made it look like a long, covered tunnel for trains.
Its History
The bridge was built in 1898. For many years, it helped trains cross the river. However, by 1967, the railroad stopped using this bridge. This was because trains became heavier, and the bridge was no longer strong enough.
In 1973, the bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of important historical places in the United States. At that time, the bridge was already old and falling apart.
What Happened to It?
In 1987, the Swanton Covered Railroad Bridge was destroyed by a fire. The fire was set on purpose. Today, a different bridge stands in its place. This new structure uses parts from the former West Milton Bridge. It is now part of a path that people can use for walking or biking.
