Laughery Creek Bridge
Also known as the "Triple Whipple Bridge" due to its unique Whipple design and it is reportedly the only example of this truss type left in the world. Built in 1878 by the Wrought Iron Bridge Company which was based in Canton OH. This bridge spans 298 feet and is supported by stone abutments. Originally it carried Indiana State Hwy 56 across Laughery Creek. In the late 1950's the "new" bridge was constructed and spans the creek a couple of hundred feet downstream and a new section of Hwy 56 was constructed as well thus bypassing the little town of Buffalo (or French depending on who you are talking to). However, this bridge remained in service in until 1970. After that it fell into poor condition. Fortunately, due to its historic significance federal funds combined with Ohio County and Dearborn County funds were made available and the structure and roadway were restored in 2009, but it is limited to pedestrian traffic.
It is notable that a covered bridge was originally at this site and was supported on the same abutments as this bridge. However, the covered bridge failed and collapsed in the creek after only nine years.
The "Triple Whipple Bridge" is just adjacent to the Speakman House also restored in the past few years.
Finally, on a side note, having grown up in this area I rode and drove across this bridge many times.
Laughery Creek Bridge
Also known as the "Triple Whipple Bridge" due to its unique Whipple design and it is reportedly the only example of this truss type left in the world. Built in 1878 by the Wrought Iron Bridge Company which was based in Canton OH. This bridge spans 298 feet and is supported by stone abutments. Originally it carried Indiana State Hwy 56 across Laughery Creek. In the late 1950's the "new" bridge was constructed and spans the creek a couple of hundred feet downstream and a new section of Hwy 56 was constructed as well thus bypassing the little town of Buffalo (or French depending on who you are talking to). However, this bridge remained in service in until 1970. After that it fell into poor condition. Fortunately, due to its historic significance federal funds combined with Ohio County and Dearborn County funds were made available and the structure and roadway were restored in 2009, but it is limited to pedestrian traffic.
It is notable that a covered bridge was originally at this site and was supported on the same abutments as this bridge. However, the covered bridge failed and collapsed in the creek after only nine years.
The "Triple Whipple Bridge" is just adjacent to the Speakman House also restored in the past few years.
Finally, on a side note, having grown up in this area I rode and drove across this bridge many times.