The Bay State is home to some of the country’s most significant pieces of history, and we also have some of the oldest artifacts around. Our railroad system is no exception. Back in the 1900s, a bridge in Bourne, Massachusetts was built, and it became one of its kind. This vertical lift bridge was once the longest in the whole world, though now it’s number two on the list. However, this bridge is still fascinating and an important part of Massachusetts’ railroad history. Check out the interesting history behind the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge near Buzzards Bay in Massachusetts.

The Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge in Bourne, Massachusetts dates all the way back to 1933.
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This railroad bridge is also known as the Buzzards Bay Railroad Bridge, as it's right near Buzzards Bay.
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This bridge is what connects Cape Cod to the mainland, making it vital for shipping purposes.
The coolest part about this bridge is that it's a vertical lift bridge, on top of being a functioning railroad bridge.
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In 1933, this bridge was originally constructed for the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and they still operate the bridge and the canal below.

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This bridge carries trains across the Cape Cod Canal, and has a 544-foot span at the main lift. At one point, this was the longest lift bridge in the world.
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Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge is the longest lift bridge in Massachusetts, and upon construction the longest in the whole world. This bridge replaced an old bascule bridge that dated back to 1910.
Now, Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge is the second longest lift bridge in the country.
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The longest being the Arthur Kill Vertical Lift Bridge, which connects Staten Island to New Jersey.
Massachusetts is home to many interesting pieces of history, but the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge is truly a manmade work of art.
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What do you think about this incredible lift bridge in Bourne? Did you know that it was once the longest lift bridge in the whole world? What other interesting bridges or attractions do you think we should know about? We’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions in the comments!

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Featured Addresses
Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge, 33 Canal Service Rd, Bourne, MA 02532, USA