1819-1866

This is the covered bridge which was erected in 1819 to connect the towns of  Rossville and Hamilton.  This photograph was taken on September 20, 1866, from the Rossville (West Side) of the river before
the bridge was washed away by the flood waters.

The sign above the three-lane bridge reads:
Keep to the right. A fine of $5.00 for riding or driving faster than a walk.  A fine of $20 for driving
more than twenty head of cattle or horses or more than 100 hogs over this bridge at one time.

1867-1895

This suspension bridge was built to replace the bridge that was washed away during the flood of 1866.  The suspension bridge remained until 1895 when it was demolished to build a bridge which could accomodate more traffic, especially streetcars.

1896-1913

This steel bridge, constructed in 1896, was the largest single span bridge in the country at the time of its construction.  Despite its size, it proved no match for the flood waters of March, 1913.

1915- the present

This photo shows the fanfare surrounding the dedication of the new bridge in 1915.

This site was created by the Butler County Historical Society
Those with questions, comments, or additional information are encouraged to contact the Society.

 © 2000 by the Butler County Historical Society