Before the Memorial Suspension Footbridge was built in 1923 in Winamac, IN, it appears that the only way to cross the Tippecanoe River without getting your feet wet was a large iron bridge on Washington Street, and, perhaps, another bridge at the foot of Pearl Street.
Near the end of the 19th century, there was a temporary seasonal footbridge near the artesian well at the end of Main Street. It was a convenient way in the warmer months to cross the river dividing the smaller Town park with its artesian well to the larger Winamac Park Association park with its playground and baseball field.
In the spring of 1923, a year after the new city park was established, plans were made for a permanent footbridge near the site of the temporary one. The expense would be shared by the city and the Winamac Park Association.
The design was a five-foot wide suspension bridge spanning 200 feet across the Tippecanoe River, near the artesian well. Instead of steps to the span, a fifty-foot concrete incline was planned at each end.
A single bid was filed by R.E. Nutt, an area bridge contractor, for $3,197.
The dedication, held on July 4, 1923, was a success.
Dedication Day
The day started with a parade with a cash prize for the best decorated auto. Veterans of the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and the Great War, and Gold Star Mothers were specifically invited and held places of honor.
Before noon, Congressman S.E. Cook addressed the crowd. At noon there was a band concert, followed by a baseball game.
At mid-afternoon, Brigadier General Gignilliat of the nearby Culver Military Academy dedicated the Memorial Bridge. A cannon volley punctuated the dedication.
In the early evening the band played until the fireworks display started.
Over the years since that day, the bridge has been part of the Winamac community culture, including the time in 1934, when an ordinance was passed against shimmying and shaking on the suspension bridge by “lads who should know better.”
From “Stalking My Hometown,” a Facebook page established and managed by former Pulaski County resident Jim Phillips. Find that page here.