This small pony truss bridge crossed a branch of the Bad River on the western edge of the town of Philip.
Likely built in approximately 1885 at another location, the bridge was moved here sometime between 1918 and 1930.
This design of Double Intersection Warren Pony Truss was once exceedingly common along the Chicago & North Western system. At a length of 84 feet long, this design was standardized.
Many of these types of trusses were later rebuilt to carry roads over mainlines. However, some survived in original form and were moved to branch lines.
As it last stood, the bridge featured an 84 foot long Double Intersection Warren Pony Truss with riveted connections. It is set onto steel caisson piers and approached by trestle spans on either side.
An approximate date of 1885 has been given for the original construction date. It is currently unknown where the span was relocated from. Unfortunately, using deduction or logical reasoning to assume a location is not possible, due to the sheer number of spans like this constructed.
Overall, the bridge appeared to be in good condition. The approaches were rebuilt less than a decade ago. Unfortunately, this unique bridge was destroyed by a derailment in January 2022.
The author has ranked this bridge as being regionally significant, due to the relocation history and older age.
The photo above is an overview.