When a bridge at Clinton, Iowa was replaced with a the current bridge, several spans of the old bridge would be relocated.
Along with the nearby Whitewood Rail Bridge and a span in northern Wisconsin, four spans of the old Clinton Bridge would find their way to branch lines.
Frugal railroads oftentimes reused spans to save money. The two main spans were relocated from the above mentioned Clinton bridge in 1910. They were originally constructed as approaches in 1898, only 12 years prior.
Had a double track bridge not been required for the Clinton crossing, it is safe to say that these spans would have been heavy enough to carry traffic into the present day. These two spans are two of the heaviest 19th century railroad trusses the author has ever seen.
The main trusses include both a 7-panel and an 8-panel panel pin connected Pratt Through Truss. The massive spans were originally built with a large lattice portal, which still exists. In addition, a cutout on the bridge indicated a date of 1898, but has since been covered up to prevent confusion.
These two main trusses are approached on the south by a series of six deck girder spans. In addition, trestle spans approach the bridge on either side.
Holding up the bridge are a variety of substructures. Under the trusses are large concrete piers, while steel piers hold up the deck girder spans and wooden trestles are supported by wooden pilings.
Overall, the bridge remains in very good condition. It is believed that this bridge will be able to carry modern loads for years to come.
Photo of the Clinton Bridge, with the old bridge on the right
The author has ranked the bridge as being regionally significant, due to the newer age but the relocation history.
The photo above is an overview looking north. The photo below is a detail of the portal.
| Upstream | BNSF Cheyenne River Bridge |
| Downstream | Abandoned Cheyenne River Bridge |
