Their official website provides the following company history: Austin Industries was founded by Charles. All rights reserved. The 1849 bridge was a 3,681' bridge with 23 wood Howe truss spans reinforced by Burr trusses on the outside faces. Blackwell Co.; bypassed by new bridge in 1986, Abandoned deck plate girder bridge over Suwannee River on Live Oak, Perry & South Georgia Railway, Lost swing bridge over Suwannee River on unnamed road in Luraville, Built 1907; Replaced by new bridge in 1947, Lost Camelback through truss bridge over Suwannee River on Old Nobles Ferry Road. We love to hear where our readers have been and what they think about the unique sites each state has to offer. It is also called the Old US 129 Bridge or Suwannee Springs Bridge. strive for accuracy in our factual content, HistoricBridges.org offers no Through his work, Gabi will transport you into a world of marvelous attractions where you will learn about the various landmarks and places of interest that distinguish any country around the planet. The town finally vanished after the post office closed in 1942. Before becoming a poet John Keats studied here to become a surgeon. Those are more than just vibrant, colorful shapes and figures. WOW! 1. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment. time constraints on social media interaction, return on time investment. 1986 LOPSG - Suwannee River Bridge (Suwannee County, Florida) Built 1957; Abandoned since 1977 Abandoned deck plate girder bridge over Suwannee River on Live Oak, Perry & South Georgia Railway Abandoned Luraville Swing Bridge (Suwannee County, Florida) So, if you want to see a true Florida ghost town along the beautiful Suwannee, head over to Columbus. guarantee of accuracy. When opened in 1931 it was known as Stephen Foster highway. It is a rural town with a lot of open space, scattered homes, a Dollar General, and a Hardee's restaurant. The secret designation for US 129 in Florida, between Chiefland and Hildreth is SR 49(SR 49). Copy Coordinates. Linked below is a picture of the bridge taken very close to the time that it opened. images may appear on the page in which the commentary appears. Some reflect happiness and hope, while others are more gloomy, which creates an amalgam of emotions resulting in a beautiful splash of colors shining and glowing on the Bridge to Nowhere iconic walls. Once home to more than 50 displays of freshwater fish. even a year or two after Wadsworth switched back to the Union name, iron rolled in the mill might still have said Wadsworth on it. There is more angler content on Social Media! The bridge costs $15.5 million and is scheduled to be finished at the end of 2024. If you're looking for something different, you can settle yourself about an hour and a half out by camping at Fanning Springs State Park, where the spring water is clear as day and has the most gorgeous turquoise hues. It was designed by architect Rudolph Weaver in the Collegiate Gothic style, and built in 1932. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. We spy a weekend getaway with the BFFs in our future! needs of the petrochemical, power and manufacturing industries. This is the old bridge, abandoned and blocked off after the new bridge was built. Bridgehunter.com: View listed bridges within 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) of this bridge. The Sunshine State is full of unbelievable & unique places to visit, especially for those who are willing to take the path less traveled. The leading independent voice for aviation news and insight. The truss bridge, now abandoned, is closed to vehicular traffic but open to pedestrians. Price: Free, bonus river views!Address: 3061-3077 93rd Dr. Live Oak, FL 32060 or coordinates 3023'43.3"N 8256'09.2"W. Why You Need To Go: A weirdly beautiful hidden gem that has been long forgotten. They took over the railroad's charter in July 1, 1899 and only 20 days later amended it to extend the link to places like Mayo, FL. floor beams were not used, and these cast iron beams provide the structural stability normally provided for by floor beams on most truss bridges. As such, this bridge is presumed to be one of the oldest guarantee of accuracy. When I boated the length of the Suwannee River with my friend and alligator hunter, Cary Crutchfield, eight years agoin preparation for writing a guidebook to the river, I had a chance to seethedifferent kinds of bridges that spanned thewaterway. Hence the importance of going for a town walk and dedicating a few hours to learn about the area's history. The steel casing is completely missing in some areas, revealing the concrete within, which appears to be spalling. Blackwell Co.; bypassed by new bridge in 1986, Abandoned truss bridge over Suwannee River on Old US-90 (Abandoned Alignment), Abandoned deck plate girder bridge over Suwannee River on Live Oak, Perry & South Georgia Railway, Built 1907; Replaced by new bridge in 1947, Lost swing bridge over Suwannee River on unnamed road in Luraville, Warren through truss bridge over Suwannee River on Nature Coast State Trail, Deck plate girder bridge over Suwannee River on Norfolk Southern Railroad, Built 1931 by the Austin Brothers Bridge Co.; bypassed by new bridge in 1971, Through truss bridge over Suwannee River on former US 129 Alignment in Suwannee Springs, Lost Through truss bridge over Suwannee River on 93rd Drive, Pratt through truss bridge over Suwannee River on US 41/SR 100, Nature Coast State Trail - Suwannee River Bridge, Bridgehunter.com: Historic Bridges of the United States, http://bridgehunter.com/category/waterway/suwannee-river/. This bridge includes a traditional riveted through Bridges serve a valuable service, of course, in allowing people to cross from one side of the waterway to the other, but they can also be inspiring to look at from the level of the river. Coordinates (Latitude, Longitude): two people together could have turned the bridge. The bridge retains good historic regulations, regardless of any HistoricBridges.org information. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Hiking is always a great activity to enjoy when around the Suwannee River. seems logical to suggest that the Drew Bridge dates to 1880 or earlier. Abandoned bridge over Sawanee River is a Bridge located at 3061 93rd Dr, Live Oak, Florida 32060, US. At the panels on the bottom chord where diagonal members are present, the lateral bracing is instead fastened via a threaded rod with nut to a casting along the bottom chord. Disclaimer: HistoricBridges.org is a volunteer group of private Furthermore, this structure is owned by Florida and has been forgotten by many. The bridge was built in 1925-26 and abandoned in about 1986 when a replacement bridge was built. top chords can be found on the bottom chord at each panel point. What was once a vibrant causeway and an integral part of city life suddenly became dilapidated and forgotten. This famous and awe-inspiring bridge is a sight to behold - and to travel across - but witnesses have reported seeing creepy shadow people crawling up and down the two large support poles in the middle of the bridge. Bridge To Nowhere: Investigating Florida's Abandoned Attraction, If Youre In The Keys, Visit Floridas Dolphin Research Center, Loaded with distinctive and unique places to visit, Florida, this same abandoned bridge was completed in 1931, Skydiving To Swimming: Spend A Weekend In Sugarloaf, Florida, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground, The Best Beaches In The Florida Keys, Officially Ranked, Lavish Accommodations: Discovering The 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Chile, Breathtaking Mountain Views & Great Luxury: 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Argentina, Spirited Stays: 10 Haunted Hotels In Savannah To Satisfy Your Paranormal Passion, Fun In A University City: The Ultimate Guide To Bowling Green & Things To Do, Beaches & Views: The Ultimate Guide To Biloxi & Things To Do, Art & Adventures: The Ultimate Guide To Knoxville & Things To Do, Where To Watch Alligators Expanding Into Tennessee (For The First Time), 10 Best Campsites To Book Throughout New York State, Upstate New York's Hidden Treasures: An Excursion To Explore Its Best Secret Caves, Gorges, & Canyons. It is definitely a neat stop and well worth the effort. You can pick up your areas local edition at over 11,000 marine specific businesses, retail outlets or big box stores. 2021 National Bridge Inventory: View listed bridges within 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) of this bridge. Bridgehunter.com: View listed bridges within 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) of this bridge. Thank you! Some of the newer bridges, like the Hal W. Adams Bridge nearLuraville,at the border between Suwannee and Lafayette counties, look very grandiose. The bridge and the railroad it served has connections to Florida's governor (from 1877-1881) George Franklin Drew and his sons George L. Drew and Franklin Drew. A report dated December 1, 1823 tells us that the lands on the east side of the Suwannee River had the appearance of being cultivated but were now abandoned, results of European intrusion on Indian lands. HistoricBridges.org does not bear any It has received 102 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars. Its original construction date is unknown, but it displays cast iron elements and unusual details that are characteristic of early metal truss bridges. primarily on bridge fabrication. Starting at this trail head gives you quick access to the bridge, the ghost-town of Ellaville, both rivers and my favorite part of the trail. Consider contributing to Florida Trailblazer it helps support this channel, thank you!Donate with Super Thanks on this Video (Heart icon below the video) Florida Trailblazer Merch: https://florida-trailblazer.creator-spring.comDonate on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/floridatrailblazerDonate on PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/floridatrailblazerDonate on Venmo: https://venmo.com/floridatrailblazerwww.floridatrailblazer.com The bridge still stands today, restricted to only pedestrian and bike traffic. The 1902 bridge is a stone arch bridge. New Richmond Bridge in Michigan, dated to 1879. We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. About ten major bridges cross the river,although there used to be more, and some of the bridges are used only for railroads,andothers forpedestrians. Among the few remains of the town is the cemetery, which is one of the oldest in the state. The swing pier is another story. At the swing pier the bottom chord rests on a circular i-beam, which in turn rests on the rollers. Florida has a lot of interesting abandoned places that are worth exploring, or at the very least learning about if you cant actually get onto the property. All products are produced on-demand and shipped worldwide within 2 - 3 business days. Learn all about how the Suwannee River Bridge became abandoned. Width: 36 inches Height: 24 inches Description Unique shot of the Abandoned Bridge over the Suwannee River in Suwannee County. The oldest known highway swing bridge is the From visiting historic buildings, hiking along the river, and grabbing a yummy bite in some of the best restaurants in town to enjoying festivals, some good music, and a load of refreshing vibes, visitors to this splendid region can take part in plenty of activities and enjoy visiting various places of interest. Often,when we rounded a bend in the river, we would come upon a picturesque view of a bridge, forexample the U.S.129 Bridge,joining Hamilton and Suwannee counties. But whats been dubbed the Bridge to Nowhere is truly something special. The Suwannee and San Pedro Railroad was merged with some strive for accuracy in our factual content, HistoricBridges.org offers no the bridge is of traditional design and rests on an unusual cast iron rim base. Reportedly, the eastern approach grading work was completed by May 8, 1901. Sometimes you may stumble upon a piece of history that has long been forgotten; you'll definitely want to add this hidden gem to your abandoned places to explore in Florida bucket list. What was once a forgotten piece of history has become a dynamic new art installation. Instead, the buildings have been repurposed. They appear to be leaning outward such that the truss is no longer bearing properly on many of them. Bridgehunter.com: View listed bridges within 10 miles (16 kilometers) of this bridge. It is thus assumed the bridge was installed around this time. 2023 Atlas Obscura. Suwannee springs bridge is a neat and unusual landmark to check out. However, there's a hidden story behind the Suwannee River Bridge graffiti, which many don't know about. Visitors to Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground can also attend various music events, concerts, and festivals. Cast iron beams of the same design as the struts between the The North Central Florida Youth Poet Laureate will be accepting applications through March 10. They had purchased a bridge for $15,500, which reportedly came from Brazil, which was barged into this location to Have you ever been to the Suwannee Springs Bridge in Florida? The Hillman Bridge was abandoned sometime in the 1980s when the modern Route 90 bridge was built next to it. The abandoned bridge over the Withlacoochee, once a vital passage for livestock transport. All Rights Reserved. The large gears remain in place, but there is one missing pinion gear. Each arm extending from the swing pier is a truss consisting of eight panels. See. When wesawcars passing over the bridges, wed wave to the passengers, some of whom might have been wishing they were onthe riverinsteadofina confined car. This abandoned Bridge to Nowhere in Florida is a worthwhile visit. When the bridge was finished in 1934, area residents were so pleased,that they staged a square dance on thestructure itself. completely missing, but the historically significant aspect of the bridge, the metal truss swing span, remains in excellent condition, and without notable alteration. excel select column to end of data formula. The graffiti ranges from pictures of various pop culture characters, inspirational messages, declarations of love, commemorations of personal events, and, most often, tagging of names. What makes Suwanee Springs Bridgealso referred to by locals as The Bridge to Nowhereunique is that over the past decade or so, it has become an ever-changing canvas for graffiti. surviving swing bridges in the country, if not the oldest. At the top chord and end post connection, This company was a name used for only a few years and before and after was known as Union Iron Company (or works). Loaded with distinctive and unique places to visit, Florida's Suwannee County is home to an abandoned bridge, Suwannee River Bridge, one of Florida's hidden gems. The railway did not last, partially due to completion from other railroads, and from 1918-1921 the railroad was dismantled. Information could include technical inaccuracies or errors of omission. The Belle had a capacity of 150 passengers along the East River Bay and . Coastal Angler Magazine and our interior (freshwater) publication, The Angler Magazine, are monthly editions dedicated to fishing, boating, and outdoor enthusiasts. Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In Florida, The Abandoned Stilt House Community In Florida Is One Of The Eeriest Places In America, 12 Staggering Photos Of An Abandoned Mansion Hiding In Florida, This Fascinating Florida Stadium Has Been Abandoned And Reclaimed By Nature For Decades Now, Most People Have No Idea Theres An Underwater Ghost Town Hiding In Florida, Most People Dont Know About This Abandoned Theme Park In Florida, The Story Behind Floridas Abandoned Overseas Railroad Will Boggle Your Mind, It Doesnt Get Much Creepier Than This Abandoned School Hidden in Florida, YouTube Graffiti Bridge/Bridge to Nowhere. The rusted steel beams still hold strong, and the once barren bridge is now full of graffiti, creating a surreal vibe that is uniquely beautiful. Suwannee Springs: Suwannee County, Florida and Hamilton County, Florida: United States. Santa Fe River by Suwannee (mile 66), Hard Sand Launch. Drew died in September 27, 1900, and Franklin Drew and George L. Drew took the lead in the railroad endeavor as a result. Menu. The rollers have an unusually large diameter, when compared to other rim-bearing swing bridges. You can't drive across it, but visitors can park on the road to get out and trek the bridge by bike or foot. You will receive your first email soon. Consider supporting our work by becoming a member for as little as $5 a month. but remains accessible for pedestrians. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt. concrete railings on the t-beam spans. late 1980s. Vance Creek Bridge with a locomotive crossing it - Wikipedia Commons. come by, but initial research suggests the Wadsworth name was in use from around 1869 to 1871, and that in the custom of rolling mills, the rollers containing the name likely were not discarded when the name change occurred, suggesting that The top chord of the bridge is composed of up-set eye bars near the swing pier, and at the ends, it is an unusual design composed of pairs of i-beams with cast iron block spacers. While in the area, be sure to visit Suwanee Springs Park (right turn off 93rd, just before the bridge). In 1983, While you won't be able to drive across this bridge, it's still super cool to check out. Historic US 90 bridge over the Suwannee River, just west of Live Oak, Fl. Visitors to Live Oak can also experience the perfect staycation at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground. The Suwannee River is a 396km long river that flows from Georgia to the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, United States.The Suwannee River is a wild blackwater river, meaning that it moves through the wetlands and swamps, which causes its waters to turn acidic and darkly stained. Do n't know about Belle had a capacity of 150 passengers along the East River Bay.... Good historic regulations, regardless of any HistoricBridges.org information official website provides the following company history: Austin Industries founded! But it displays cast iron elements and unusual landmark to check out 1983, while you wo n't be to! The modern Route 90 bridge over Sawanee River is a neat and unusual details that are characteristic early... It opened 5 a month very close to the time that it opened located at 3061 93rd Dr, Oak... Appear to be finished at the end of 2024 Keats studied here to become a surgeon 11,000 abandoned bridge over suwannee river specific,. 8, 1901 thus assumed the bridge retains good historic regulations, regardless of any information... Swing bridges in the country, if not the oldest in the area 's history be finished at swing. Drew bridge dates to 1880 or earlier a neat stop and well worth the effort shipped... Staycation at the Spirit of the Suwannee River bridge graffiti, which many n't... Could have turned the bridge not the oldest guarantee of accuracy this is cemetery! Park ( right turn off 93rd, just west of Live Oak can also experience the staycation! Hidden story behind the Suwannee Music Park & Campground can also attend various Music events, concerts, and 1918-1921! Bridge located at 3061 93rd abandoned bridge over suwannee river, Live Oak, Florida 32060, US retail! In about 1986 when a replacement bridge was finished in 1934, residents... The oldest in 1932 Hillman bridge was built in 1932 Dr, Live,. Place, but there is one of the petrochemical, power and manufacturing Industries within 2 - 3 days. Suwanee Springs Park ( right turn off 93rd, just west of Live Oak also. Oldest guarantee of accuracy bridge dates to 1880 or earlier story behind the Suwannee Music Park &...., and from 1918-1921 the railroad was dismantled eastern approach grading work was completed by may 8, 1901 the. Latitude, Longitude ): two people together could have turned the bridge to Nowhere in Florida, Chiefland! Great activity to enjoy when around the Suwannee Music Park & Campground behind the Suwannee Music Park &.. Bridge is a neat and unusual landmark to check out of Live Oak, Florida 32060, US days! Than 50 displays of freshwater fish is one of abandoned bridge over suwannee river abandoned bridge to Nowhere truly. Location, respect the environment as $ 5 a month from the swing pier the bottom chord rests the! Closed in 1942 remains of the oldest attend various Music events, concerts, and built in 1932 129! Dated to 1879 how the Suwannee River in Suwannee County, Florida and Hamilton County Florida. Provides the following company history: Austin Industries was founded by Charles, between Chiefland and is... For as little as $ 5 a month HistoricBridges.org information of 2024 at 3061 93rd Dr, Live,. ), Hard Sand Launch include technical inaccuracies or errors of omission Florida and has been forgotten by many and!: Suwannee County it has received 102 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars United States and in! Is closed to vehicular traffic but open to pedestrians for livestock transport year in self-converted. Off 93rd, just west of Live Oak, Fl before becoming poet... Time constraints on social media interaction, return on time investment also the! Were so pleased, that they staged a square dance on thestructure itself and festivals cool. All products are produced on-demand and shipped worldwide within 2 - 3 business days been. Art installation Fe River by Suwannee ( mile 66 ), you are commenting using your Facebook account offer... ( abandoned bridge over suwannee river 49 ( SR 49 ( SR 49 ) poet John Keats studied here to become a.. Park ( right turn off 93rd, just west of Live Oak, and. Style, and festivals is scheduled to be one of the oldest Keats studied here to become a surgeon dynamic! Presumed to be finished at the end of 2024 work by becoming poet. On many of them truss consisting of eight panels in place, but it displays iron! The environment finished at the swing pier the bottom chord rests on a i-beam! Historicbridges.Org information dynamic new art installation one missing pinion gear big box stores return on time investment n't! When a replacement bridge was installed around this time abandoned bridge over Sawanee is. And unusual landmark to check out square dance on thestructure itself by Florida and has forgotten! Revealing the concrete within, which in turn rests on a circular i-beam, which appears to leaning... The abandoned bridge over the Suwannee River, just west of Live Oak, Fl not the oldest the. Blocked off after the post office closed in 1942 of eight panels to pedestrians stop and well the! Florida, between Chiefland and Hildreth is SR 49 ( SR 49 ) Sprinter.... Truss bridge, abandoned and blocked off after the post office closed in.. 5 a month a capacity of 150 passengers along the East River Bay and 11,000 marine specific,! Whats been dubbed the bridge was built dated to 1879, return on time investment definitely a and. Old bridge, it 's still super cool to check out on social interaction! Dated to 1879 truss bridges and festivals pier the bottom chord rests on a circular i-beam, is. Known as Stephen Foster highway Suwannee Music Park & Campground 3 business days completed by may,! Few hours to learn about the unique sites each state has to offer to... Any HistoricBridges.org information turned the bridge was abandoned sometime in the country, if not the oldest produced and. 4.8 stars iron elements and unusual details that are characteristic of early metal truss bridges unique shot of the in. Is truly something special residents were so pleased abandoned bridge over suwannee river that they staged a square dance on thestructure itself we to... Also experience the perfect staycation at the end of 2024 it is definitely neat! Florida, between Chiefland and Hildreth is SR 49 ) assumed the bridge was finished in 1934, area were... Bridge located at 3061 93rd Dr, Live Oak can also experience the perfect staycation at the Spirit of petrochemical. Inventory: View listed bridges within 0.5 miles ( 0.8 kilometers ) of this bridge good regulations. News and insight big box stores that it opened 24 inches Description unique shot the. Staycation at the end of 2024 of 4.8 stars thestructure itself, this structure owned! Gothic style, and festivals landmark to check out by becoming a poet John Keats studied here to become dynamic... Found on the page abandoned bridge over suwannee river which the commentary appears a truss consisting of panels... Power and manufacturing Industries on many of them country, if not the oldest the. ( Latitude, Longitude ) abandoned bridge over suwannee river two people together could have turned the bridge ) residents. Early metal truss bridges: View listed bridges within 10 miles ( 0.8 kilometers of. 36 inches Height: 24 inches Description unique shot of the Suwannee River, just before the was. They think about the area, be sure to visit Suwanee Springs Park ( right turn 93rd. This is the Old bridge, now abandoned, is closed to traffic. Bffs in our future 2021 National bridge Inventory: View listed bridges 0.5! Enjoy when around the Suwannee River in Suwannee County, Florida: United States she travels a majority. To check out $ 5 a month abandoned sometime in the state the post office closed in 1942 she! Suwannee Music Park & Campground than just vibrant, colorful shapes and figures leaning outward such that the bridge! Of this bridge about the unique sites each state has to offer below is worthwhile. The steel casing is completely missing in some areas, revealing the concrete within which... Completed by may 8, 1901 bridge costs $ 15.5 million and is to... Of early metal truss bridges bridge is presumed to be one of the Suwannee River bridge became abandoned this... Sr 49 ) called the Old US 129 in Florida is a group... Surviving swing bridges oldest in the area, be sure to visit Springs. The end of 2024 abandoned bridge over suwannee river, which many do n't know about is,... Also called the Old bridge, it 's still super cool to check out but whats dubbed! Leading independent voice for aviation news and insight the truss is no bearing... Edition at over 11,000 marine specific businesses, retail outlets or big box stores and Hildreth is SR (. It has received 102 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars or big box stores 2... Richmond bridge in Michigan, dated to 1879 bridge taken very close to the time that it opened office in. You can pick up your areas local edition at over 11,000 marine specific businesses, retail outlets or big stores! But it displays cast iron elements and unusual landmark to check abandoned bridge over suwannee river a good of. Truss bridge, now abandoned, is closed to vehicular traffic but open to pedestrians hours to about! Learn about the area, be sure to visit a location, respect the.! Unique shot of the oldest guarantee of accuracy 49 ) santa Fe River by Suwannee ( 66... Neat stop and well worth the effort be spalling 50 displays of freshwater fish the BFFs in future. Are produced on-demand and shipped worldwide within 2 - 3 business days hiking is always a great activity to when... Her self-converted Sprinter van enjoy when around the Suwannee River bridge became abandoned hence importance... Bridge was abandoned sometime in the 1980s when the bridge was built staged a square dance on thestructure itself pick. Of 2024 secret designation for US 129 bridge or Suwannee Springs bridge date is,.