Check Out The Oldest Stone Arch Bridge in Illinois

Just west of Marshall, Illinois hidden under historic Route 40 is a relic from a bygone era when everything was built to last. The oldest stone arch bridge in the state.

Old Stone Arch Bridges

Stone arch bridges are not only impressive feats of engineering but also hold rich historical and cultural significance.

Their graceful arches and stonework sides still attract attention. These bridges are the truest definition of "built to last."

One of the most remarkable features of stone arch bridges is their durability. Many ancient stone arch bridges are still standing today, some of them having endured for over a thousand years. The longevity of these structures is a testament to the skill of the engineers and craftsmen who built them.

Most Important Part of Stone Arch Bridges

The Keystone Principle. The keystone is the central stone at the top of an arch bridge. It is crucial to the stability of the entire structure because it locks all the other stones in place.

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Without the keystone, the arch would collapse. This principle has been used in bridge construction for centuries and is still employed in engineering today.

Stone Arch Bridges: Symbols of Endurance and Resilience

These beautiful structures have survived wars, natural disasters, and always-changing landscapes. Stone arch bridges serve as reminders of human ingenuity and the enduring power of well-built infrastructure.

The Old Stone Arch Bridge in Illinois

Just to the west of Marshall, hidden away under modern-day Route 40, is one of the few remaining, original stone arch bridges used by the National Historic Road.

The bridge is a little tough to see when traveling through the area because you drive right over the top of it. There is a historical marker sign right next to the guard rail on the bridge with an arrow pointing to a turn-off where one can view the arch.

The entire Old Stone Arch bridge is still supported by the ‘keystone’ placed at the center when it was built in 1834. In fact, this bridge could be the oldest remaining bridge in Illinois, according to enjoyillinois.com.