- 1836: Galena and Chicago Union Railroad charted between Chicago and Galena, Illinois
- 1849: 11 miles completed from West Chicago to Elgin, Illinois by the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad
- 1852: 52 miles completed from Elgin to Rockford, Illinois by the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad
- 1853: 28 miles completed from Rockford to Freeport, Illinois by the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad
- 1864: G&CU consolidated with the Chicago & North Western Railway
- 1972: Winnebago to Freeport segment abandoned
- 1981: Rockford to Winnebago segment abandoned
- 1980s: Rockford to Freeport segment purchased by Commonwealth Edison
- 1995: Chicago & North Western purchased by Union Pacific Railroad
- 1995-Present: Union Pacific operates the Belvidere Subdivision from West Chicago to Rockford
- 2010-Present: Pecatonica Prairie Path gradually developed on Rockford to Freeport segment
02/06/22
Located in Elgin, this large stone arch bridge is a significant reminder of a bygone era.
Built in 1861, this bridge is likely only the second bridge at this location. It consists of a two span stone arch, set onto stone substructures. The arches follow a standard horseshoe shape.
It is unclear whether the date carving is 1881 or 1861. However, numerous sources have identified the bridge as being constructed in 1861, including railroad records.
With this build date, this may be one of the oldest double stone arches remaining in Illinois.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in good condition, and has only had slight modifications.
The author has ranked this bridge as being regionally significant, due to the exceptionally old age of the bridge.
The photo above is an overview.