Crossing This 100-Year-Old Bridge In South Carolina Is Like Walking Through History

The current Gervais Street Bridge first opened in 1927, making it just under 100 years old. But the site where this bridge stands has seen several other bridge structures prior to this one, each with its own history reaching back another 100 years. One of the most historic bridges in South Carolina, the Gervais Street Bridge will truly amaze you.

This historical marker is found along Gervais Street near Gist Street, which would be on your right side just after crossing the bridge heading towards downtown Columbia. It shows images and information about the history of the bridge.

The Gervais Street Bridge crosses over the Congaree River, a short, wide river that stretches for only 50 miles. It was named after a tribe of Indians, as shown on this marker along with more of its history.

The bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its rich and long history. The original bridge was a covered wooden structure, the remains of which can still be seen along the West Columbia Riverwalk portion of the Three Rivers Greenway.

That structure was burned by Confederate forces during the Civil War in 1865 to hinder the Union's progression towards Columbia. During 2023, hundreds of Civil War relics were unearthed during river cleanup efforts:

The bridge was rebuilt in 1870 and was privately owned until Richland and Lexington counties bought it in 1912. The current structure then opened in 1927 and was South Carolina's widest roadway and the only bridge in Columbia spanning the Congaree River until the Blossom Street Bridge was built in 1953.

Just below the bridge, you can take a stroll along the Riverwalk Trail.

The Gervais Street Bridge holds significance as one of just four open-spandrel arch bridges and represents an early use of reinforced concrete for bridge construction in South Carolina.

Columbia's most iconic bridge spans 1,415 feet in length. Its cast iron pedestals and lamps were designed by the United States Treasury Department and feature the palmetto and crescent design from the state flag. They were originally gas lanterns that had to be lit every evening and extinguished each morning.

Pictured above is your sunrise view with the capital city skyline in sight as you travel across the bridge towards Columbia, and below is a snapshot of a sunset view.

It's truly a beautiful scene any time, day or night!

And another way you can enjoy this state treasure is through participation in the Gervais Street Bridge Dinner, an event held annually at sunset to benefit local charities.

What an incredible spot in South Carolina to spend some time! There's even a cute Airbnb within walking distance of the Gervais Street Bridge in Columbia. So what are you waiting for? Book that accommodation and see the bridge for yourself.