The First Bridges in the United States: Myths and Facts

For centuries, bridges have been an integral part of infrastructure, connecting people, places, and cultures. However, pinpointing the very first bridge in the United States is a challenge compounded by the lack of official records and the passage of time. This article delves into the enigma of who built the first bridge in the US and explores the myths and facts surrounding this historical inquiry.

Myths Unveiled: Who Built the First Bridge in the US?

The story of Togg, a man who constructed a makeshift bridge using a fallen tree, is a fascinating yet unreliable account. While it captures the ingenuity of early settlers, it lacks credibility due to the lack of historical records. The question of who built the first bridge in America is far more complex, involving indigenous peoples, colonial communities, and the passage of time.

Some argue that the first bridge was built by a pre-Columbian indigenous person. This assertion is intriguing but lacks substantial evidence. The construction of wooden bridges in New England and colonial territories likely occurred without official records, and these structures may have been continuously rebuilt and replaced over time.

The Natural Bridge in Virginia

Even in the absence of human-built bridges, there is a natural formation that could be considered a bridge. The Natural Bridge in Virginia, a geologic formation with a creek running beneath it and a road crossing over it, meets the definition of a bridge. Since it is naturally occurring, it is the oldest known bridge in the United States, dating back to a time before human civilization as we know it.

Announced Predecessors: The Frankford Avenue Bridge

However, there is a documented constructed bridge that predates many of the makeshift and indigenous-built structures. The Frankford Avenue Bridge across the Pennypack Creek in Philadelphia, built in 1697, is still in use today. The bridge has been widened over the years, but significant portions of the original stone arch structure remain, providing tangible evidence of early American engineering.

While this bridge is a strong candidate, it is likely that there are smaller, similar age bridges in the Philadelphia area that predate it. These bridges, however, may have been incorporated into more modern structures over time, making them harder to pinpoint and discern from later constructions.

Understanding the Context and Overlooked History

People and settlements developed routes based on their needs and convenience. During the 1790s, shorter routes might have been less used because people preferred easier and more accessible paths. Consequently, bridges built on these less utilized routes often fell into disrepair and were eventually forgotten, while those on more popular routes remained well-maintained.

Thus, the construction of bridges in the early United States was a collective effort involving various communities. Whether built by indigenous peoples, colonial settlers, or early American engineers, these structures had a profound impact on the development and connectivity of American territories.

These myths and facts serve as a reminder of the rich history of bridges in the United States and the importance of preserving and studying these architectural marvels. Whether natural or man-made, each bridge tells a unique story of the people and events that shaped the nation.