The History Of This Abandoned Bridge In Maine Might Surprise You
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Michelle
Author
If you’ve driven through Portland, or spent any time near the Eastern Prom, you’re probably familiar with the hulking structure of wood and metal that sits beside the B&M Bean Factory. The swing bridge sitting in the Back Cove, with its train tracks to nowhere raises lots of questions. What was it used for? And why was it left in its current (and permanent) open position? We thought maybe others had these same questions, so we did a bit of research and found the most incredible aerial video!
In the late 1840s, the Atlantic and St. Lawrence railroad started service connecting Yarmouth to nearby Portland. The rail swing bridge and trestle was built to cross over the Portland peninsula and open, allowing for tall ships to enter safely into the Back Cove.
For over 100 years, the bridge did its job - allowing for fluid movement of ships through the area. The existence of the tracks here became even more necessary when the Atlantic and St. Lawrence train expanded to connect Portland with Montreal. Later, the Grand Trunk Railway found it useful.
For over 100 years, the bridge did its job - allowing for fluid movement of ships through the area. The existence of the tracks here became even more necessary when the Atlantic and St. Lawrence train expanded to connect Portland with Montreal. Later, the Grand Trunk Railway found it useful.
Sadly, in 1984, the bridge fell victim to arson and was greatly damaged. In fact, the damage was so significant that the Grand Truck railroad felt it wasn't worth investing in repairs. This was a result of the high cost, but also a result of the change in usage. Passenger service ceased in the 1960s and with the popularity of trucking services, freight services using the tracks had significantly decreased.
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The bridge was left in the open position and for a long time the Atlantic and St. Lawrence line ended at the nearby B&M Bean Factory. In October 2015, the railroad ceased operation to the factory, which was its only customer in the area. Now, they must rely on truck deliveries.
If you've ridden the Narrow Gauge Railway along the Eastern Prom, you've lived a small part of the history of this bridge. The Narrow Gauge currently operates on the old tracks that led to it.
If you've ridden the Narrow Gauge Railway along the Eastern Prom, you've lived a small part of the history of this bridge. The Narrow Gauge currently operates on the old tracks that led to it.
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While the bridge is no longer necessary for rail access, it feels so necessary as a permanent part of Portland. Its decaying wood and abandoned rails offer a certain sense of history that makes the area feel just a little more authentic. If you haven't seen it, check out this gorgeous video footage shot by drone. It might make you imagine all the goods that traveled through it once upon a time.
Thanks to YESAH DIGITAL on Vimeo.
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