This bridge is one of four similar structures in Dixon, but is one of the most significant in Illinois.
Built in 1851, the bridge is a well preserved example of an early stone arch. While the bridge was built in 1851, it did not open to traffic until 1855.
The four bridges in Dixon were built out of Galena Limestone, quarried near Dixon. They were all designed by Robert F. Laing.
This bridge also features a semi-circle type design, instead of a more common horseshoe shape. The bridges also use no bond, instead keys were cut into the stone to hold it together.
All of these bridges were abandoned in the late 20th Century. Overall, this structure appears to be in excellent condition.
Despite the bridges significance, the arches were almost demolished in 1986, as Dixon tried to remove the low clearance structures. However, preservationists fought and thankfully won.
The bridges were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987, and are some of the most significant bridges in Illinois today.
The author has ranked the bridge as being of high significance, due to the old age and extremely historic collection of bridges in the vicinity.
The photo above is an overview.