Old River Bridge, Historic truss bridge near Saline River in Benton, Arkansas.
This iron structure spans approximately 260 feet across the Saline River with two large trusses and a wooden deck supported by cylindrical concrete columns. The entire framework shows the distinctive steel construction style typical of the late 1800s.
The Youngstown Bridge Company from Ohio built this structure in 1891 following funding approved by the Saline County Court in 1889. This created a vital crossing point for the region at that time.
The bridge stands where William Lockhart established a settlement in 1815 called Saline Crossings, marking the first permanent European community in Saline County. This location served as a gathering point for people traveling through the region.
The structure closed to vehicular traffic in 1974 following damage from a concrete truck and was completely removed in 2020. Today visitors can view the site to see remaining foundations and structural remains.
The bridge appeared in the 1996 film Sling Blade as a setting where the character Karl Childers reflects beneath its iron framework. This film role made it a notable location for cinema enthusiasts.
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