Hiding within Greene County, Indiana, is a modern marvel that few seem to remember nowadays; it’s the stunning, 157-foot-high Tulip Trestle Bridge, and despite having been constructed back in 1906, it’s still in use today. It may not look like much from a distance, but it’s easily one of the most unique bridges in Indiana – something that’s clear as you approach the bridge and get a better look at the intricacies in its engineering and the fascinating graffiti which graces it from decades of human civilization. It’s most known as the Tulip Trestle Bridge; however, it has another fitting moniker: the tallest bridge in Indiana! Check it out:
The tallest bridge in Indiana is known as the Tulip Trestle Bridge; locals just call it "the Viaduct," though.
Its official "name," however, is Bridge X75-6. Do you think it's the most dangerous bridge in Indiana?
It's quite striking, garnering the attention of even folks who aren't the least bit fascinated by bridges.
It consists of 17 75-foot desk-plate girder tower spans alternating with 18 40-foot girder tower spans, as well as two 50-foot spans at the western end, and two 45-foot spans at the eastern end.
It shows its age; rusty and paint-covered, it looms over the landscape, commanding the respect of all who stumble upon it during a walk.
At the time of its construction, it totaled $246,504 - today, that would be about $3,425,764. It was quite an ambitious project, and it has certainly held up through varied tests of time.
Despite its less-than-sturdy appearance, the structure is remarkably sound.
The rail is still considered "in operation" today, albeit at a much lesser rate than during its heyday in the 1920s and 1930s.
No matter which way you look at it, the tallest bridge in Indiana- from above or from below - is sure to make you appreciate human engineering.
The graffiti adorning the structure has become something of a local meme. The most famous (or maybe infamous) piece is the simple words "MICHELLE, WILL YOU MARRY ME?" scrawled in the center of the trestle beneath the tracks.
We don't know what Michelle said to this proposal scrawled on the Tulip Trestle Bridge, but we wish her the best.
Tell her to get in touch with us about this engagement if you happen to know her!
Have you ever checked out the tallest bridge in Indiana? Did you walk across the top of it? Tell us about your adventures!
The tallest bridge in Indiana isn’t the state’s only bridge worthy of some recognition. For more of the state’s oddly intriguing bridges, check out our past article featuring the most charming covered bridges in Indiana.
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