Whipple Cast and Wrought Iron Bowstring Truss Bridge

The Whipple Cast and Wrought Iron Bowstring Truss Bridge spans Normans Kill near Albany with a distinctive arched design characteristic of its bowstring type. The structure uses cast iron in compression and wrought iron in tension to handle different forces throughout its framework.

Engineer Squire Whipple designed this bridge in 1867, applying scientific principles to bridge construction that influenced American engineering practices. The structure set a direction for how similar crossings were built over regional waterways throughout the following era.

The structure represents a significant milestone in American civil engineering, leading to its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.

The bridge sits near Stevens Farm entrance and is best viewed on foot, with good vantage points along the stream. Visit during daylight hours when you can see the construction details clearly and safely walk along the surrounding paths.

The structure was bypassed in 1929 when a higher and wider bridge took over the main traffic route, leaving the original standing beside its replacement. This side-by-side arrangement reveals how quickly transportation standards evolved during that era.

Location: Albany

Official opening: 1867

GPS coordinates: 42.63570,-73.80050

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:01