Sulphite Railroad Bridge

The Sulphite Railroad Bridge spans across the Winnipesaukee River with three sections supported by granite piers and Pratt trusses beneath the railbed. The structure features an unconventional arrangement with railroad tracks positioned above the trusses rather than beneath them.

The structure was built in 1896 by the Boston and Maine Railroad to replace an earlier trestle bridge from 1892. Operations ceased in 1973 when the railroad line lost its importance for freight transport in the region.

The bridge takes its name from the sulfur that was transported to paper mills in Franklin, which served as the economic backbone of the community until the 1920s. This industrial purpose defined the local identity for several generations.

The bridge is accessible from Trestle View Park, where free parking is available for visitors starting their walk along the Winnipesaukee River Trail. The short walk from the park provides an easy approach to view the structure up close.

The structure features a rare design where railroad tracks are positioned above the trusses rather than beneath them. This makes it the last remaining example of this inverted building method in the United States.

Location: Franklin

GPS coordinates: 43.44530,-71.63610

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:44