Shell Rock Bridge

The Shell Rock Bridge is a three-span concrete filled spandrel arch structure measuring 266 feet in length and 24 feet in width, featuring curved wing walls and handrails that extend across the full street width over the Shell Rock River.

Constructed in 1915 by Miller-Hey Construction Company under Iowa State Highway Commission plans, the bridge cost approximately $16,500 and was completed by November as part of Butler County's infrastructure improvement initiative.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the bridge represents early 20th-century engineering excellence and serves as a symbol of regional development during the automobile expansion era for the Shell Rock community.

Located on Cherry Street in Shell Rock Township, the bridge remains open to vehicular traffic with routine maintenance inspections ensuring structural integrity while adhering to historic preservation standards for any modifications.

The bridge retains its original builder's plates and displays the year '1915' cast into the keystone of each span, maintaining exceptional physical integrity after more than a century of continuous service.

Location: Shell Rock

Architects: Iowa Department of Transportation

GPS coordinates: 42.71111,-92.58139

Latest update: July 25, 2025 19:49