“A Chicago-type bascule bridge,” someone said, pointing to the steel structure. You stand before the Division Street North Branch Bridge, a towering testament to Chicago’s industrial past. The bridge, designed by the renowned engineer, George S. Morison, was built in 1904. As you gaze at the bridge, it’s easy to imagine it was once a bustling crossroads connecting the city’s thriving industries, a symbol of Chicago’s remarkable rise as a commercial powerhouse. The Division Street Bridge, one of the first bascule bridges to grace Chicago, was a marvel of engineering, a testament to the city’s commitment to innovation. Originally a swing bridge made of wood and iron, it was replaced in 1902 with the current bascule bridge. The bascule design, unique to Chicago, allowed for ships to pass through, facilitating the trade that was the lifeblood of the city. It served as a vital artery, connecting the city’s north side to the bustling Goose Island manufacturing district. The Division Street North Branch Bridge has seen the city transform around it, from the clanging of steel mills to the gentle hum of modern offices. Today, the bridge remains a silent guardian, a relic of a bygone era, its grandeur hinting at Chicago’s vibrant industrial past. It serves as a reminder of the tenacity and ingenuity that shaped the city we know today. Even though it is no longer operational, the Division Street Bridge continues to hold fast, a symbol of Chicago’s enduring legacy.
Congregation Or Torah
Rabbi Zvi Engel’s leadership guides Congregation Or Torah. This impressive Modern Orthodox Synagogue stands proudly in Skokie Illinois. It’s one