Located between Pierre and Fort Pierre, this is the most well known railroad bridge in South Dakota.
Built in 1907, this bridge is the first generation structure at this location. In 1907, it was ruled that railroads could build through the Native American Reservations in South Dakota, resulting in this line being continued across South Dakota.
As originally built, the bridge consists of a large swing span, with a pair of 6-panel riveted trusses on either side of the pivot point.
On the east end, the bridge contains a 12-panel, pin connected Pennsylvania Through Truss, and three more identical spans exist on the west side.
When first constructed, the bridge contained trestle approach spans on either side. However, these would later be upgraded.
The approaches were largely replaced in 1927 and 1928. Currently, the east approach contains a pair of deck girder spans built by American Bridge Company for the project.
On the west approach, a single deck girder span was possibly relocated from Winona, Minnesota. This span was built in 1897 by the Lassig Bridge & Iron Works. Currently, this span is also approached by a couple of trestle spans.
The entire bridge rests on a variety of substructures. The truss spans rest on stone substructures, while the east approach rests on concrete substructures and the west approach rests on wooden substructures.
While the main span is a swing span, it has only operated once. It is unknown if it still can operate.
Overall, the bridge remains in good condition. The bridge retains a high level of historical integrity.
Historic photo of the bridge soon after completion
The author has ranked this bridge as being nationally significant, due to the unique design and historical integrity of the structure.
Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad currently operates the bridge. Hopefully they can continue to maintain the high level of historical significance involved with this bridge.
It is worth noting that the bridge has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The photo above is an overview, while the photo below is a photo of the portal bracing. The bridge can be easily accessed on both sides.
| Upstream | Mobridge Rail Bridge |
| Downstream | Chamberlain Rail Bridge |
