The line crossed across the Big Sioux a number of times, crossing between Iowa and South Dakota.
The line was merged into the Sioux City and Dakota Railroad in 1879.
By 1881, the line became a branch of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, also known as the Milwaukee Road.
In 1913, following an escapade to the Pacific Ocean, the railroad became known as the Chicago, Milwaukee St. Paul & Pacific Railway.
Heading north out of Sioux Falls, the Milwaukee Road also operated a branch to North Dakota.
By 1981, with the Milwaukee Road falling to bankruptcy, the Dakota & Iowa (D&I) Railroad was formed as a joint coalition between Iowa and South Dakota to operate the former branch to Sioux City.
Today, D&I continues to operate the line from Sioux Falls to Sioux City, as well as the Dell Rapids branch.
04/03/22
Located along Iowa Highway 12 north of Westfield, this large through girder bridge crosses Westfield Creek.
Built in 1929, the bridge consists of a large through girder, approached by trestle. The entire bridge sits on timber substructures.
Spans like this were commonly used due to the ease of construction. It is likely that this span replaced an older trestle.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in fair condition, with no major deterioration visible.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.