If you're looking for an old-school reminder of just how awesome human engineering can be, you should definitely give the Pyeatt's Mill Bridge in Indiana a closer examination. Built in 1869 and semi-recently fully restored, this particular bridge in Warrick County is one of the only remaining multi-span bowstring truss bridges in the United States.
In fact, it's the oldest iron bridge in the entire Hoosier State.
There are only five others like it remaining. Considering that one of those is right here in our own backyard, we think that's pretty special!
Pyeatt's Mill Bridge is 256 feet long, which makes it the longest bridge of its kind as well.
As of the time of this writing, it's more than 150 years old, and it's truly a testament to the awesome engineering abilities of man.
Fascinating fact: Pyeatt's Mill Bridge has unique, patented cast-iron bents, the only ones of their kind left in Indiana.
Bents are a fundamental part of bridge construction; there are always several of them, and together they behave like supports for the entire bridge.
This old bridge goes by many names; other monikers it's known by include Spencer County Bridge #276 and Warrick County Bridge #273.
It's also called "Boner Bridge" (pronounced by most locals as "bonner") in reference to the road the bridge is a part of.
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In 2007, it was remodeled and restored, as it had begun showing obvious (and dangerous) signs of its age.
Nowadays, the bridge is open and still in use; it's perfectly safe and totally interesting to check out from the bottom up.
Of course, considering it's an active bridge, one must be cautious of cars and other traffic.
Little Pigeon Creek flows underneath Pyeatt's Mill Bridge, and it's easily accessible. One is able to get right up underneath the bridge if they so desire.
The bridge is also great for photographers looking to hone their skills; bridges make for interesting subject matter, especially when the bridge in question is 150+ years old!
It's beautiful, historically significant, and offers up some very interesting angles and lines for those who are more visually inclined.
So, what do you think? Have you ever visited this intriguing living historic artifact or any of the four others remaining like it? Pyeatt's Mill Bridge can be found at the intersection of Red Bush Road and Boner Road, in Hatfield, Indiana.
If you're a big fan of bridges, we definitely recommend you take our awesome road trip that will guide you to eight old bridges peppered around the Hoosier State.
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