Severns Bridge

Information and Findings From DHPA Historic Bridge Survey

Statement of Significance

For prior structure, see Gibson, "Severn (Cov.) Bridge". Designed by the Indiana Bridge Company of Muncie, Indiana, this all-riveted Warren through truss with verticals sits upon concrete abutments and wingwalls. Verticals, diagonals (except for center panels), and lower chord members all consist of a standard size of laced double angles. The diagonals which stretch outward from the top most central panel point consist of laced channels similar to those used for the top chord. Riveted to the gussets, I floor-beams carry the concrete deck with its 15'6" roadway and 14'6" of vertical clearance. One of the older Warrens known to have been fabricated by a prolific Indiana firm, this bridge is also one of the earliest all-riveted surviving throughs of its type. The design has been streamlined by using the same configuration of elements for the vertical, lower chord, and some diagonal members. The structure retains its original members, including its decoratively latticed guardrails. Severn's Bridge was closed in 1999, bypassed, and left in pedestrian use. References Lowell E. Morrison, Bridge Inspection Survey & Report of Gibson County (Princeton, 1974). United Consulting Engineers, Inc., Bridge Reinspection for Gibson County (Indianapolis, 1980, 1998). bridge nameplate. Indiana Bridge Co., Contract Index, #6563, Indiana Bridge Co. (Muncie). Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, Gibson and Warrick Counties: Interim Report (Indianapolis, 1984).

Bridge Considered Historic By Survey: Yes