Built In 1878, The Bowstring Truss Bridge In Montgomery County Is The Oldest Metal Bridge In Virginia

Call us crazy, but we think there's something fascinating about bridges. If you consider yourself a fellow bridge enthusiast, then you've probably already made the trip to Humpback Bridge, Virginia's oldest covered bridge. But there are other equally impressive crossings throughout the state. Take, for instance, the Bowstring Truss Bridge. Located outside at the Ironton Rest Stop in Montgomery County, it holds the title of the oldest metal bridge in the state. The next time you find yourself in the area, you'll want to make a special trip to visit this historic architectural landmark.

Also known as the King Tubular Arch Truss Bridge, the Bowstring Truss Bridge was built in 1878 by the King Bridge Company in Ohio.

The bridge was originally positioned over the Stony Fork River in Bedford County after a major flood had destroyed the previous bridge. The county was interested in "wrought-iron arch bridges" that would withstand weather and flooding. In fact, there were 6 bridges installed after the flood in 1878 yet only one survives.

As you might have guessed, the bridge is no longer in operation. Its current resting place is at the Ironto Rest Area where visitors and bridge enthusiasts can admire it.

Bowstring bridges are immediately recognizable for their graceful arch structure. Their engineering was popular in the 19th century, and there are a handful of similar structures throughout the U.S. that exist today.

The structure measures 12 feet wide and an impressive 55 feet long. For those curious about the technicalities, it is categorized as a single-span, four-panel tubular arch pony truss.

The bridge's original location was in Bedford County. It was relocated in 1930 and again in 1977, after it was retired from operation.

If you find yourself in the area, it's well worth stretching your legs at this particular rest area and admiring an important engineering landmark from the 1800s.

Have you visited this historic landmark before? If so, we'd love to hear about your experience there! Love learning about Virginia's fascinating bridges? Check out this list of 22 amazing bridges in Virginia.