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Key Facts |
Bridge Name | Type | Road | Location | City | Crossing |
| Water Street Bridge | Truss | Water Street | Perth County, ON | St. Marys | Trout Creek |
Note that this bridge is located in the town of St. Marys, which is in the County of Perth, in southwestern Ontario. It should not be confused with the town of Perth in eastern Ontario, which a website visitor informed me is also known for stone buildings like St. Marys.
St. Marys is a town that seems to value its history. Many restored or well cared for stone buildings can be found in the town. This bridge may not be made of stone, but it seems to fit right into the town anyway, providing a gorgeous crossing for Water Street. Although not officially designated a heritage structure (although in my opinion it should be) St. Marys has taken good care of this bridge. They have attempted to maintain its historic appearance whenever possible during repairs as well. For instance, the cantilevered sidewalks are either not original or have been replaced. However, what appears to be the original lattice railings were placed on the new sidewalk. This is a very photogenic bridge, and it is easy to get any angle of this bridge you want. Be sure to visit some of the other historic attractions of St. Marys while you are here, this is a very special town. Also see the restored Church Street Bridge, and the tiny sidewalk bridge over Mill Race.
The Water Street Bridge is a seven panel pin connected Pratt through truss bridge. Pin connected structures are quite rare in Ontario, so this is a significant bridge in my opinion. As mentioned, lattice railings remain on the centilevered sidewalks. There is v-lacing present on the vertical members. The portal bracing is an a-frame design. The bridge is seated on stone abutments made of the stone that can be found all over Sr. Marys.
