Androscoggin Swinging Bridge, Suspension footbridge in Topsham and Brunswick, Maine, United States
The Androscoggin Swinging Bridge is a pedestrian suspension bridge in Maine that spans the Androscoggin River between the towns of Topsham and Brunswick. Steel support frames at each end hold overhead cables that carry the wooden walking deck across the water.
The bridge was built in 1892 to serve workers at a nearby textile mill, and it has been in use ever since. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing it as one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in the area.
The bridge still connects the two towns and is used daily by people on foot or by bike, crossing between Topsham and Brunswick. It is one of those places where locals and visitors share the same narrow wooden path over the river.
The bridge is open to pedestrians and cyclists, and parking is available on both sides of the river. The wooden deck can get slippery when wet, so take care during or after rain.
Although the bridge was privately built to move industrial workers, it has survived as a public crossing long after the mill it served has closed. The name "Swinging" does not refer to a pivot mechanism but to the noticeable sway felt underfoot as people walk across.
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