Waddell "A" Truss Bridge

The Waddell A-Truss Bridge is a railroad bridge in Missouri with a distinctive A-shaped structure that distributes loads efficiently. Its simple steel frame consists of diagonal braces forming a triangular pattern that has kept the bridge stable to this day.

This bridge was built in the late 1800s and uses a truss system that engineer John Alexander Low Waddell had patented. The design later became common on many other American railroad lines.

This bridge represents 19th-century railroad expansion and shows how engineers created practical solutions for railway traffic of that era. Visitors can see here how good design was essential to everyday transportation.

The bridge is visible from outside and located near existing roads or paths that allow access. Keep in mind that this is a working railroad bridge, so train traffic may affect your exploration.

Waddell's invention was so practical that hundreds of similar bridges were built using this system, making him a pioneer of modern engineering. His name is less known today than his enormous impact on infrastructure.

Location: Missouri

Architects: John Alexander Low Waddell

GPS coordinates: 39.18583,-94.68194

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:50