Arkwright Bridge

The Arkwright Bridge is one of the finest historic trusses in Rhode Island, and it is the only remaining Phoenix column bridge in the state. The bridge was built in 1888 and Pratt through truss, which was standard for that time. However, the bridge’s uprights and top chord are made of Phoenix columns, which is unusual. Phoenix columns were patented by the Phoenix Iron Company in 1862. They are a type of hollow column that is constructed with four rolled segments which are each a quarter circle in section. The segments are riveted together along exterior flanges, creating a hollow, circular shape which is lighter and stronger than a solid cast iron column. Phoenix columns were frequently used in factory construction, but are rarely found in bridges due to the complicated connections required to join the columns to other bridge elements.

The bridge was permanently closed on September 30, 2011 after an inspection determined that the bridge was unable to carry the required 3 tons. The bridge continued to be used by pedestrians and cyclists until circa 2020 when a fence was added to keep people off the bridge. There has been talk of moving the bridge and rehabilitating it for pedestrian use, but no formal plans have been made. For now the bridge stands abandoned and is slowly falling into disrepair.