Tucked away within Dearborn County in far southeastern Indiana is a one-of-a-kind historic bridge that evokes a sense of awe in anyone who comes to check it out. Originally built in 1878, this incredible triple whipple truss bridge is quite literally the only bridge of its kind in Indiana - and the only bridge of its kind known at all - and it's been to and from the brink of demolition more than once. Check out the history of one of the Hoosier State's most underappreciated historic sites:
Formally named Laughery Creek Bridge (as it's situated right over the creek of the same name), this fascinating testament to human engineering is more than 140 years old.
It was designed and built by the Wrought Iron Bridge Company which, at the time, was quite the prolific engineering firm.
It spans almost 300 feet in length - 298.8 feet, to be exact - and is composed of what's called a "single-span pin-connected triple intersection Whipple-through" truss.
It's not only the only bridge of its kind in Indiana, or even the Midwest; it's also the only bridge of its kind known to still exist anywhere.
The bridge's members have three intersections instead of the usual two; this is where the "Triple Whipple" nickname comes from.
The bridge was officially closed to traffic in the 1970s; after that, it slipped into a state of disrepair.
All's well that ends well, though, and the bridge saw many remodeling and preservation efforts launched over the years.
In 1993, it earned a place on the Indiana's 10 Most Endangered Places List; it faced an uncertain future. Would the bridge be allowed to remain, or would it be destroyed? Fans of the bridge hoped for the best.
In 2009, what seemed like a small miracle occurred: the perfect combination of federal funding plus matching funds from Dearborn and Ohio counties came together to ensure the future of the ol' Triple-Whipple.
The bridge was refurbished and re-opened for pedestrian use shortly after. Today, it offers plentiful photography opportunities and some truly lovely views from over the river.
Laughery Creek Bridge is one of many bridges in the Hoosier State.
It is, however, just one of one "Triple Whipple" bridges not only in Indiana, but in the world. We think that's pretty special, and it's right here in our backyards.
Had you ever heard of - or gone out to admire - this fascinating, one-of-a-kind bridge in southeastern Indiana? What did you think? Do you have a favorite bridge in the Hoosier State? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section! For more of Indiana's amazing bridges, particularly ones of the covered variety, you might be interested in this article.
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