More Photos of Potomac Creek Bridge

Here are some photos of the prototype Potomac Creek bridge. The top two are probably of the original bean pole and cornstalk bridge.











One interesting thing about this bridge is that it uses different types of bents. Three of the center bents use the "w" configuration, while most of the other bents are more traditional three posts with diagonal braces.













This is a good view of the surrounding countryside. Note the cut in the hill leading to the bridge site. In the background it looks like several units drawn up in formation in front of their camps. Note how neat and regular the ties are in this photo. Not your usual USMRR tree trunks and bark that you see elsewhere.












The pencil drawing dated April 1863 at the left shows scaffolding under the trusses, perhaps providing a hint on how it was built, but it's hard to tell for sure.