Ninth Street Seven Arch Stone Bridge

Ninth Street Seven Arch Stone Bridge is a limestone crossing in Lockport that spans the Des Plaines River with seven arches supporting the structure. The bridge was constructed from carefully fitted limestone blocks arranged to carry traffic across the waterway.

The structure was built in the 1860s to provide farmers and merchants with a stable river crossing. It served for over a century until closure in the early 1970s and eventually fell to severe weather damage.

The bridge shows how local stoneworkers built crossing structures using traditional masonry skills in the 1800s. The craftsmanship visible in the arch construction reflects how communities relied on skilled laborers to connect separated areas.

The bridge site was once the main crossing point for the area, though the structure no longer stands today. Visitors interested in local history can explore information about how this spot connected different parts of the community.

After the bridge fell, pieces of the original limestone blocks were saved instead of being discarded. These remains allow people to see the actual craftsmanship and building methods used by the original builders.

Location: Illinois

Architectural style: vernacular architecture

Made from material: stone

GPS coordinates: 41.59139,-88.06444

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:47