Bridge: Firesteel River Bridges, Greenland, MI - (COPR)

The Copper Range Railroad crossed three branches of the Firesteel River northeast of Greenland.  In total, the three spans of bridge totaled 1,400 feet long and were from 65 to 85 feet high. These continue to be used for hiking and snowmobile traffic.

Notes

Bridge #2 was a steel & concrete trestle, 554' long. Built in 1899 and rebuilt in 1910.

Bridge #3 was a steel & concrete trestle, 597' long. Built in 1899 and rebuilt in 1910.

Bridge #4 was a steel & concrete trestle, 516' long. Built in 1899 and rebuilt in 1910.

Time Line

1899. December 27. The three bridges were completed and opened after a "last spike" ceremony. The spike was driven cy Chief Engineer Thomas Appleton during an intense snow storm.  The spike was made of copper. It was presented to president William A. Paine. [CRR]