Fernbridge Concrete Bridge Over Eel River Fortuna Ferndale Humboldt 1911 Real Photo Postcard
The "Big Concrete Bridge Across Eel River" refers to Fernbridge, a landmark structure completed in 1911 in Humboldt County, California. Designed by engineer John B. Leonard and constructed by the Mercer-Fraser Company, this bridge was a pioneering achievement in reinforced concrete construction. Spanning 1,385 feet with seven arch spans, it was celebrated as one of the longest and most significant concrete bridges in California at the time, earning it the moniker "Queen of Bridges."
Its construction marked a crucial step in regional development, providing a durable, flood-resistant crossing that replaced previous timber bridges frequently washed out by the powerful Eel River. This stability facilitated economic growth, connecting agricultural and logging communities to markets and solidifying transportation infrastructure in the early 20th century, an era characterized by significant public works projects across the United States.
Its construction marked a crucial step in regional development, providing a durable, flood-resistant crossing that replaced previous timber bridges frequently washed out by the powerful Eel River. This stability facilitated economic growth, connecting agricultural and logging communities to markets and solidifying transportation infrastructure in the early 20th century, an era characterized by significant public works projects across the United States.
