Located in Ottumwa, this large truss is a signature pedestrian bridge across the Des Moines River.
Built in 1888, the bridge was originally constructed using a quartet of 8-panel, pin connected skewed Pratt Through Trusses, approached by trestle on the south end. These spans sat on stone and timber piers.
The trusses are a unique design, featuring heavy skews and a decorative type portal. The trusses also feature an interesting member, due to the unique skew. As seen below, there is a member that starts in the upper angle of the span and crosses two panels. This design is reminiscent of a Whipple truss.
Structural plans for this bridge provided by James Holzmeier and the Wabash Railroad Historical Society, used with permission.
Since the original construction, the bridge has seen occasional updates. An I-Beam span was added on the south approach. An additional alteration came in 1973, when a Norfolk & Western train derailed and destroyed the northern truss. This span was later replaced with a new concrete abutment and a through girder span.
After abandonment, the bridge was left intact. Plans to demolish it almost succeeded, until it was converted to a trail use in 2007. Spearheaded by Wapello County and constructed using exclusively private funds, the bridge is a great example of a public-private partnership.
In 2008, the deck was burned by a vandal. Again, money was raised to reopen this local landmark.
Fortunately, the bridge still remains intact and in good condition. It is recognized as a landmark in the community, and has provided a great connection across the Des Moines River.
The author has ranked this bridge as being regionally significant, due to the unique nature of these trusses as well as the great example of successful preservation.
The photo above is an overview. The photo below shows the portal bracings.
| Upstream (Main Channel) | DM&E Des Moines River Bridge |
| Upstream (Side Channel) | DM&E Turkey Island Bridge |
| Downstream | Eldon Railroad Bridge |
