I grew up not more than 2 miles from this bridge at the corner of Old Military and Hwy 270 across from the Rockport Methodist Church. I learned how to drive going across this bridge and seeing the runners on the deck brought back memories of fearing for my life! The boards they laid for the runners would split lengthwise and as the sun heated them up, the boards would curl and pull the nails out. So, not only did you fear driving off the bridge (it was SO narrow) you feared puncturing a tire.
My grandfather, Vernon Lancaster, worked for the water company and was responsible for the pumps housed in the silos. Small world!
I wish I had a dime for every time I have crossed the old bridge. I'd be wealthy. I recently was able to cross the new bridge while in the area visiting and it was so much better than the old one.
The "silo in creek" housed the in-take machinery for Rockport/Malverns original water system . If you look closely at some of the pictures you will see a small castle like structure as well. This served as the control room for the water intake system. Both used to be accessible by small walkways from the old bridge. Both structures are made of concrete and are on the national register of historic places.
this is off topic ...
But why in the heck is there a cilo in the middle of the creek?
wow, this was a beautiful bridge, i am so sorry to see it gone..... thanks for the photos wayne so we can remember this lost bridge
