Welcome to the Marsh Concrete Rainbow Arch Bridge, a piece of architectural history nestled in Cambria Township, Minnesota. This bridge, a marvel of early 20th-century engineering, was designed by the innovative James Barney Marsh. Built in 1911, the same year Marsh patented his rainbow arch design, this structure is not just a bridge but a testament to the ingenuity of its time.
As you stand here or imagine it from afar, picture the sweeping arches that define this structure. These arches, which rise gracefully above the deck, are more than just aesthetic; they are functional, supporting the deck below with vertical risers. The bridge spans the peaceful Little Cottonwood River and is a classic example of Marsh’s vision, which married form and function beautifully.
While the Marsh Concrete Rainbow Arch Bridge no longer serves vehicular traffic, having been replaced by a newer bridge to the east, it remains a significant historical monument. It’s one of the oldest of its kind in the United States, a proud relic of a bygone era when such designs were at the forefront of bridge engineering. However, as time progressed and the demands of traffic and larger farm machinery increased, many of these charming bridges could not be widened to accommodate the changes, leading to their decline.
Today, only about half a dozen of Marsh’s original rainbow arch bridges remain in Minnesota, making each one a rare and valuable piece of history. For locals and historians alike, this bridge stands as a reminder of the early 1900s’ architectural advancements and the evolution of infrastructure in response to societal needs.
James Barney Marsh, the man behind this unique design, was a prominent figure in the field of civil engineering. His work on reinforced concrete bridges was pioneering, and his bridges can be found across several states, each with its own story to tell. The Marsh Concrete Rainbow Arch Bridge here in Cambria Township is a proud part of that legacy, sharing its story with those who visit or learn about it remotely.
