- 1874: 32 miles completed from Sheboygan to Two Rivers, Wisconsin by the Milwaukee, Lake Shore & Western Railroad
- 1875: Name change to Milwaukee, Lake Shore & Western Railway
- 1893: MLS&W purchased by Chicago & North Western Railway
- 1988: Two Rivers branch sold to the Fox Valley & Western Railway
- 1993: FV&W purchased by Wisconsin Central, Ltd
- Unknown date: Two Rivers branch is abandoned
06/16/22
This unique bridge is another remnant of the Chicago & North Western in Two Rivers.
Built in approximately 1930, this swing span was built to cross the West Twin River. However, the swing span utilizes a unique center pivot design.
The center pivot design was oftentimes retired after the early 1880s, due to the complex engineering that was required to construct the bridge. The bridge must perfectly balance on the center pier in order to be able to swing. Even a small difference in weight could be catastrophic.
The swing span utilizes a Warren Through Truss span with riveted connections. It is unknown if this span was installed new, or if it was relocated from another location in 1930. Further research is ongoing.
The bridge is set onto stone and wood substructures. The bridge is approached on either side by trestle approaches; which appear to be in a deteriorated condition.
While the bridge is extremely historic and abandoned; it may see an uncertain future. Scrappers or the railroad companies could possibly decide to scrap the structure. The bridge is currently locked into an open position.
It is hoped that this will never happen. Instead, the author hopes that Manitowoc County will turn this line and bridge into a recreational trail.
The author has ranked this bridge as being moderately significant, due to the historic nature of the truss and the overall unique design.
The photo above is an overview.