Bridges 54,28 & 63 spanning the Eel River in Northern Miami County are all unique bridges built for horse and buggy traffic but endured the demands of the 20th century and are still in use today.

 

In the last few years bridge 54 and bridge 28 have both been targeted for replacement by the Miami County Commissioners. The Indiana State Historic Preservation Office, a division of the DNR, The Indiana Landmark Foundation, The Friends of Lost Bridge and many citizens of Miami  County have recognized the historic value of the these bridges and have to date prevented them from being  demolished.

 

We believe that these bridges have stood the set of time and deserve the right to be rehabilitated for future generations. The iron bridges of Miami County are a reflection of the skill and craftsmanship of the 19th century and for a fraction of the replacement cost can be rehabilitated and kept in use for another hundred years.

 

To bring attention to our project we held the first Miami County Iron Bridge Festival, Hog Roast and Canoe Rally on June 21, 2003. Over 100 people from across Indiana came and canoed the beautiful Eel River and enjoyed a hog roast and live music. Last years festival was also a success with over 100 people braving the brief showers. The clouds gave way in the afternoon and everyone enjoyed the hog roast and live music from the Bluegrass Buddies.