The Fort Dodge Messenger: Feb. 3, 1903

Big Bridge Now 2-3 Done

1,720 Feet are Now Standing of 2,582 to be Built

Preparing to Cross River

First Piling Was Sunk on Monday – S.C. Stickney Pleased With the Bridge.

Just two-thirds of the new Great Western bridge across the Des Moines river has been completed. The length of the bridge when finished will be 2,582 feet, of which 1,720 feet are now up. All that now remains is to carry the bridge across the river and u p the comparatively short approach to the summit of the bluff standing opposite, and all will be done.

Work was commenced on Monday  at driving the piling, which will bear the false work of the span while the bridge is being carried across the river.

General Manager S.C. Stickney visited the bridge during his recent visit here, and expressed himself as highly pleased with the progress which had been made.

The other bride work, which is being done on the old Mason City & Fort Dodge line north of this city, is progressing satisfactorily. The bridge at Lime creek, north of Mason City, has been completed with the exception of a little riveting. The work has been transferred to the Boone river bridge, which is being moved. Engineer Harvey stated this morning that the iron will be put in on this bridge on Wednesday.

Preparations are being made to begin work on the lower yards in this city.

Tags: 1903, Harvey, Stickney