Lewis and Clark Bridge Photo

Photographer’s Note

The Lewis and Clark Bridge, also known as the Wolf Point Bridge, south of Wolf Point, was erected in 1929-1930. It is the last riveted Pennsylvania through truss bridge in Montana. The bridge is 1,074 feet long and contains 1,150 tons of steel. The 400 ft. span is the longest in the state. The bridge is still structually sound and was closed because the horizon over the bridge no longer meets minimum standards. A new bridge was constructed a short distance west (to the left in this image).

The crossing has long been a thoroughfare in the area. Buffalo used to cross here long before the white men came. The Assiniboine Indians named it Crow Ford because the Crow Indians crossed here when conducting raids. Ferries operated here from 1895 to 1920. Crossings during winters were especially dangerous because ice was the only way to cross before the bridge.

It's also interesting to note that the bridge constuction was the most popular amusement in Montana and the opening was attended by over 15,000 persons. The dedication cerimony included blessings by tribal elders, daytime fireworks, a float and a cadre of cowboys.

gadinga, MLINES has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

michellamy (364) 2004-03-12 20:33

Nice picture. very sharp and we can see the detail on the bridge. Good description. good DOF.

randompics (913) 2004-03-12 20:47

wow this is an impressive structure. And it has come out very sharp in your picture. the details of the bridge can be seen clearly.. good shot..and thanx for the description

pamastro (7213) 2004-03-13 0:17

It's an impressive bridge structure. I like your composition.
I like the lead up to it and the nice arch of the bridge. It has nice textures, also, with the rust and all the details of the bridge. Very good note, too. Nicely done all around.

Ebbe (9571) 2004-03-13 5:36

The perspective you choose is very good for showing the height of the trusses as it compresses the length of the span. Nice warm light too.

CVTJan (1244) 2004-03-13 9:06

Dear Ned, very sharp picture full of details. Good angle you chose too. I really do like how the bridge "bows" to the end. Thanks for sharing a very informative note too. Yours, Jan

[workshop] [compare]

eelliott305 (776) 2004-03-13 13:41

Excellent shot taken from a good angle. The bridge is very sharp and the sunlight on it is great. The snowy surroundings make the whole scene very attractive.

dsidwell (9745) 2004-03-18 22:12

Very nice point of view for this image. It makes wonderful leading lines. Nice clarity and tones here, too.

efimoore (2126) 2004-10-02 1:23

Nice bridge on a winter day. I like the angle you shot the bridge, which presents the structure of the bridge and the 3 arches in an interesting manner. The snow slop at the beginning and the road to the bridge add DOF. Well done!

mikoyen (1178) 2004-10-23 23:15