Historic postcard
This postcard shows the original Lewis Bridge (right) next to the Bellefontaine Railroad Bridge
BH Photo #107232
That post-card is art, not a photograph which means it may not reflect reality, however that looks like a Toll-booth at the entrance?
The old Lewis Bridge was built in 1926 or 1927.
Beautiful postcard. I remember traveling this narrow bridge, and watched its destruction from the shore when the new one was opened. Any actual photographs of this bridge would be appreciated. My memories are fading.
The Bi-State Development Agency used to operate an "Alton Express" bus route which used this bridge (and the old Alton Bridge over the Mississippi to the north of this location). The Lewis Bridge was a four-span truss structure running parallel to the Bellefontaine RR bridge. As you drove north into St. Charles County, the fourth truss span dropped off on a slight incline, then a steel stringer span carried you to the U. S. 67 mainline and began a two-lane divided highway, thenceforth proceeding through West Alton and on up to the old Alton Bridge, where the divided highway ended. Somewhat scary bridge, but the old Alton Bridge was even scarier.