Colorado is full of history and no matter where you go, you're sure to come across some of it! There are a number of historic bridges in the state that you can still use today and one of the most well known is the 19th Street Bridge in Denver. This bridge was built in 1888 and it crosses the South Platte River and today, it's on the National Register of Historic Places. This historic bridge was built for vehicles but today it's only open to pedestrian traffic. When you walk across it on your next visit to Denver, it's like walking through history. Read on to learn more about it.
The 19th Street Bridge in Denver is well-known to anyone who knows Denver. This truss bridge is about 200 feet long and is 22.5 feet wide.
It was built in 1888 and History Colorado considers it to be the most ornamental bridge in the state.
This bridge replaced an earlier wooden bridge that was built in the same location in 1876. When that bridge was damaged in a flood in 1884, this metal bridge was constructed in its place a few years later.
It cost $25,000 to build at the time.
Although the bridge was open to automobile until 1986. Today it's a pedestrian and bicycle bridge only, but lots of people walk across it daily.
When this bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985, it was the oldest surviving wrought iron bridge in the state, the oldest vehicular bridge at its original location, and the oldest vehicular bridge still in public use.
Today, this bridge is a symbol of Denver.
Next time you're in the Mile High City, be sure to stop by it to admire it.
Take some time to walk across it, too!
You'll be following in the footsteps of millions of other people before you. This bridge will surely be a part of Denver far into the future, too!
The 19th Street Bridge in Denver is a special piece of Colorado history and it's worth a visit. You'll love walking over the South Platte while you enjoy views of the city all around you. Don't miss it!
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