This standard stone arch bridge crosses Little Fourmile Creek in Altoona.
Built in approximately 1880, this bridge features a single stone arch span with stepped and angled wing walls.
One of the worst train wrecks in Iowa history happened nearby in August 1877 during a flood, and many other bridges were destroyed. During the accident, a stone arch completely washed out. This indicates that this bridge was likely built either before 1877, or immediately after. It is unknown if this was the location of the derailment, as descriptions give "just southwest of Altoona", which matches the description of this bridge.
The bridge follows a standardized design used for the Rock Island system. Unfortunately, Rock Island bridge information has been incredibly difficult to find, so a confirmed build date may never be known.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in fair condition. The masonry has however begun to fail in several spots.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.