Like the many similar spans that were built during the 1890s, this one crossed a railroad main line for an electric elevated railroad that would eventually form the CTA.
This 10 panel, pin connected Parker Through Truss is a beautiful example of a truss, preserved as a signal bridge for the railroad below.
The bridge rests on stone piers, which were clearly built up at two different times. The lower portion was built in 1895 for this bridge, and the upper portion was built in 1905 when the railroad below was raised.
In addition, the bridge is an extremely light example of a railroad truss, almost more reminiscent of a highway bridge. Fortunately, it has been somewhat kept in place.
The railroad used it every day until 1951, when it was downgraded. It was used sparingly into the 1960s, when it was abandoned and sold to the Chicago & North Western Railway.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in good condition. It is unknown how long the bridge will continued to be used as a signal.
The author has ranked this bridge as being regionally significant, due to the rare design.
The photo above is an overview on a less than favorable weather day. The bridge is located between N. Paulina and N. Wood Streets.