Peterson Ford Bridge

Information and Findings From DHPA Historic Bridge Survey

Statement of Significance

Two such polygonal chord triangulars remain in Indiana (the other is Kidner Bridge/Grant #160) and one in Ohio (Preble County). Each of these most unusual through trusses was designed and fabricated by a prolific Hoosier firm which still has its original plans. Except for replacement of some of the original latticed guardrail, this structure appears to retain its original members.

The unusual nature of the truss led Ohio experts to identify it as a Pegram. Unlike the Pegrams, however, these structures do not have compression-bearing posts. The diagonals bear both compression and tension; the verticals are in tension and, also unlike the Pegram, are all perpendicular to the lower chord.

Bridge #45 was built at a cost of $5,465.

Architectural Description

The Indiana Bridge Company of Muncie erected this 183', pin-connected "triangular" or Warren through truss upon masonry abutments and wingwalls for $5,465. Verticals of die-forged eyebars divide the truss into twelve panels. The top chord for the two most central panels is parallel to the lower chord; the angle varies for each adjacent pair of panels. The diagonals stretching in and out from the 5th and 7th top panel points (the ends of the parallel section of the top chord), as well as those stretching from the top 3rd and 9th to the lower 2nd and 10th panel points respectively, are made of two pairs of angles laced into channels and then together; pairs of die-forged eyebars complete the pattern of diagonals. Riveted to pin-plates, I floor beams carry the asphalt deck with its 15'6" roadway and 17' of vertical clearance. The lower lateral bracing angles through the center of every other floor beam.

ALTERATIONS: Some of the original latticed guardrail has been replaced.

Bridge Considered Historic By Survey: Yes