Once upon a time, the Deering Bridge rose to prominence. This massive railroad bridge looms large. It stands as a testament to Chicago’s industrial might.
The Deering Bridge isn’t particularly long. Its massive structure was designed to handle three sets of tracks. Look closely to see v-lacing and lattice. These intricate details adorn the built-up beams. This adds to the aesthetic value of the Deering Bridge. Large concrete counterweights are clearly visible overhead.
This bridge is a Strauss heel trunnion bascule bridge. Its design is skewed. The two truss webs are of unequal length. The bridge was built for the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. Today, the railroad line is Union Pacific.
The Deering Bridge stands as at least the third railroad bridge at this site. An earlier single-track wooden bridge was replaced in 1887. This bridge was a double-track swing bridge measuring 176 feet in length. It weighed about 400 tons. Steam powered it.
The current Deering Bridge opened to traffic on July 30, 1916. Maintaining railroad traffic was essential during construction. The bridge had to be designed so it could be built without service interruptions. The bascule bridge was constructed in the raised position. This kept everything away from the active tracks. These tracks carried 200 trains every 24 hours.
When the bascule bridge is raised, the counterweights descend to track level. To prevent the counterweight from blocking traffic, it was designed in two sections off to the side. This split design replaced a single counterweight spanning between the truss webs. During construction, the 1887 swing bridge remained in place. Temporary wooden approach spans were built for the railroad line.
To minimize the transition time from the old bridge to the new Deering Bridge, a detailed plan was developed. The transition from the swing bridge to the bascule bridge took only 18 hours. The swing bridge was moved to the open position. The vertical members and top chords of the center panels of the truss were cut out. This made room to lower the bascule bridge into place. Once lowered, trains could travel on the bascule bridge. Workers then continued to demolish the swing bridge without disrupting rail traffic.
Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company was a contractor for this project. The Kelly-Atkinson Construction Company was also involved with the Deering Bridge construction. The Strauss Bascule Bridge Company played a role in the design.
Adam Kerman noted the nearby Deering Harvester Company. This company later merged into International Harvester. Charles Deering was a director of the Chicago and North Western. The Deering Bridge was built for the triple tracking project on what is now the Kenosha Subdivision. This explains the bridge’s name. Further research revealed a train station in the area called Deering Station.
The Strauss Bascule Bridge Company extensively advertised to raise awareness. They highlighted the benefits of their bridges. They also pointed out the flaws of bridges built by other companies. This era saw bridge engineering companies succeed by offering unique products.
Miniature models of bridges advertised the Strauss Bascule Bridge Company at an exhibit. Mr. Kaufman, an engineer with the company, operated the exhibit. He believed exhibit advertising was excellent for presenting arguments clearly. Visitors saw the bridge operate and heard its construction described. They also viewed photographs of bridges in practical use. This display was attractive and convincing.
Today, the Deering Bridge stands as a symbol of innovation. It showcases Chicago’s commitment to progress. As you gaze upon this structure, consider the ingenuity. Consider the efforts of those who built this lasting landmark.