I have always been drawn to old bridges—there’s just something about their history and the stories they hold. Combine that with my fascination for the iconic Route 66, and you’ll see why the Chain of Rocks Bridge became the second stop on this virtual road trip from Chicago to Santa Monica. Standing tall over the Mississippi River, this bridge feels like a gateway to the past, a structure that’s as timeless as the legendary road it once served.
Let’s dive into the rich story of the Chain of Rocks Bridge, its unique quirks, and why it continues to captivate travelers, history buffs, and bridge enthusiasts like me. And have fun with this week’s puzzle, which features not only the bridge, but signs to a part of Americana now lost to time.
Puzzle photo credit of Rhys Martin and nps.gov
A Bridge Made of Rocks? Not Exactly.
Nestled between Missouri and Illinois, the Chain of Rocks Bridge spans 5,353 feet across the Mississippi River. Opened in 1929, this bridge boasted an innovative design and a vital connection for travelers during its heyday. What truly sets the bridge apart is its peculiar 22-degree bend midway through its span. This quirk not only gave the bridge character but also served a functional purpose, allowing it to align with the river’s natural features and the strategically placed water intake towers.
While it officially transitioned into a pedestrian and cyclist bridge in 1999, the Chain of Rocks Bridge had its golden age as an essential crossing on the legendary Route 66.
Chain of Rocks Bridge Trivia Time!
If you thought the 22-degree bend was the only fun feature of the Chain of Rocks Bridge, think again! Here are a few facts that make this historic site even more unique:
1. It Was a Toll Bridge
When it first opened, travelers had to pay a toll to cross the Chain of Rocks Bridge. The toll was discontinued in 1966, just a few years before the bridge ceased vehicular traffic. Imagine that—a time when drivers stopped their cars and dropped coins into the hands of toll-keepers instead of using transponders and credit cards!
2. A Hollywood Cult Classic
Film buffs may recognize the Chain of Rocks Bridge as the “69th Street Bridge” in the 1981 cult classic Escape from New York. Its rugged, industrial aesthetic made it the perfect backdrop for a dystopian storyline.
3. The Historic Water Towers
One of the most iconic features of the bridge isn’t even part of the bridge itself! Two historic water intake towers stand in the river near the bridge, resembling lighthouses. These towers have a whimsical quality that draws photographers and curious onlookers to this curious slice of the Mississippi.
4. The Auto Court
At one point, the Chain of Rocks area featured an auto court, a precursor to modern-day motels. It provided weary travelers on Route 66 a place to rest and refuel before continuing their journeys. While the auto court is no longer there, its legacy reminds visitors of the amenities that once supported the bustling road tripping culture of Route 66. Oh, and by the way, when the original auto court went out of business, it was replaced by a massage parlor—until it was raided for prostitution.
5. A Bridge for Everyone (on Foot or Bike!)
After closing to vehicle traffic in 1970, the bridge got a second chance at life in 1999 when it reopened for cyclists and pedestrians. Today, it’s part of the Mississippi Greenway trail network, offering scenic views to outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead
Wow. Motor courts? Phillips 66 gas stations? I feel like I stepped into an episode of Happy Days. I expect to see the entire Cunningham family standing on the bridge enjoying the panoramic views of the Mississippi and snapping ‘selfies’ with their Polaroid camera. This is the nostalgia of Route 66. I hope you had fun with it! Next week, our ‘road trip’ will take us to another iconic bridge with stunning scenery and an awesome name, Devil’s Elbow in Missouri.
If you enjoyed this week’s Friday Morning Post, please leave a comment with your time on the puzzle. I’d also love to hear your thoughts on the post! Thanks for being here!
See all my Friday Morning Posts here. If you missed last week’s post, you can use this link to view Route 66 — the Ultimate Road Trip.
7:18 for me. Walk or bike across that bridge would be a definite no for me!!
My time was 12:13.
7:02 Another interesting article. Thanks again for sharing.
11:45…that was difficult! It would be fun to travel there!
7:12, what a fascinating old bridge!
10.50. I remember the old motor courts. Used to drive by one in Scarborough, Maine. Had one in my CT hometown, too, but it fell into disrepair early in the 1960s. Now they would be called Tiny Homes. How times change and yet do not. With the rising inflation and lowered economy of today, SROs [Single Rooms Only], boarding houses and motor courts may return. Better than homeless encampments and tent cities.
9:03. Similar to a local bridge that is scheduled to be taken down.
9:44. What an interesting story! It would definitely be on my “places to see” list if I’m ever able to do a cross-country trip.
7:24
Interesting. I’m always on the lookout for interesting, off the beaten path, places to visit and photograph. Need to add this to the list.
10:48 That was fun!
9:59
5:41. I enjoyed reading about the Chain of Rocks Bridge and am glad it’s still being used as a pedestrian bridge.
8:57 Wonderful scene today, challenging puzzle
6:13 very interesting!
7:25