EAU CLAIRE, Wis. - The Wisconsin Historical Society announces the listing of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha Railway bridge in Eau Claire on the State Register of Historic Places. Popularly known as the “High Bridge,” it was added to the State Register on May 24, 2024. State Historic Preservation Officer Daina Penkiunas presented a certificate to Megan Beer Pemberton.

The iron lattice deck truss bridge spans the Chippewa River in Eau Claire just below the Dells Dam. The High Bridge is a distinctive and well-preserved example of a deck truss bridge with iron lattice work, an uncommon variation that was at the height of technological innovation when it was erected. Originally constructed in 1881 to accommodate a single railroad track, the span has served as a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Chippewa River since 2015.

The four central lattice deck trusses and the piers that support them were built in 1880-81, replacing a wooden bridge from 1870 at the same location. The approach spans were replaced with steel plate deck plate girders in 1898. The towering piers and abutments are constructed of Mankato-Kasota limestone blocks. When the bridge was converted for use by pedestrians and cyclists, the railroad track was removed and replaced by wood decking, railings, and light poles. The city has been an active steward in preserving the bridge, which is frequented by residents.

Additional information for the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha Railway “High Bridge” is available at: https://wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Property/HI40859 

To learn more about the State and National Register programs in Wisconsin, visit: www.wisconsinhistory.org.

About the Wisconsin Historical Society

The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visit wisconsinhistory.org.