Little Pipe Creek bridge and viaduct

Little Pipe Creek bridge is a railway crossing in Maryland that spans over 700 feet with a steel truss framework divided into multiple sections. The structure carries rail traffic across the creek between two counties and remains in active use today.

Construction began in late 1871 and finished in spring 1872 to connect the two counties with rail service. The bridge was rebuilt decades later with new metal components to extend its usefulness for continuing train traffic.

The structure displays engineering choices from the 1800s that show how railway builders solved the challenge of crossing water. Walking near it, you notice the metal framework that was standard for this era of construction.

The bridge is viewable from nearby areas but sits directly alongside active train tracks with regular traffic. Keep a safe distance from the rails and be aware that trains pass through regularly during the day.

In the 1890s the bridge received a major overhaul that replaced its structure with an open deck made of riveted steel plating. This transformation reflected advances in metal construction techniques available at that time.

Location: Maryland

GPS coordinates: 39.42330,-77.24060

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41