The following information and photos were sent to me by Julia Edwards of the tragedy that fell upon Gudgeonville Bridge. I can not believe that someone could cause destruction to one of our cherished historical structures. I am hoping that some one will come forward and identify the individual or individuals that are responsible for this senseless act of arson. I am also hoping that this bridge will be restored like many before it.
The bridge was a victim of arson, the poor location and lack of view it was always a place for underage people of our community to hang out. At 1 am the call came in that the bridge was on fire. It was called in by kids that were on the scene when the firemen arrived. They say there was an accelerant used, t he rest is still not fact, but it sounds as if the kids didn't realize that if you light a wooden bridge it would burn. Our community is very angry today. The Girard township secretary that I had spoke to was also a friend of mine. She read me the structural report, and the stability is definitely in question. The memories raced through my mind about all the times the family traveled there just to stop and enjoy the beauty and serenity of the bridge. Thank you for the photos on the web site and the actual information on who built the bridge and the year. The Erie site has the bridge around 100 years old, boy are they off.
GoErie.com: Burned bridge to be removed
Julia Edwards
Girard, Pa.
Photos below provided by Ryan Katen
