High Bridge research

[NW Mailing List]

Just thought I'd touch base with you on some High Bridge research 
that has come to light. In 1886, when the Fink trusses were 
removed/modified to Pratt deck trusses using a falsework truss 
system, the work was completed by Frederick H. Smith.

The Fink trusses removed were used at other places along the N&W 
line. Apparently 7 or 8 spans were used at Big Otter Creek in Bedford 
and a disaster occurred there (not sure of the date) with a collapse 
and train wreck.

This resulted in a court case and apparently, in Smith's favor. (6 of 
his workers were killed.)

Are any of you familiar with this bridge and wreck? Any pics?

I'm just excited to learn of High Bridge iron being recycled.

The engineer who put the Fink trusses in place in 1869 was C. Shaler Smith.

Bob Flippen
High Bridge Trail