Category: History
-
A Newer Generation of Stone Culverts
Over the course of our research, it came to our attention that there were in several places multiple eras of stone bridge construction: the stereotypical early 1900s work, and then a later style that relied heavily on cement mortars.
-
The Low-Cost Stone Bridges of the Early 1900s
A hallmark of US stone bridges and culverts built for the public roads during the early 1900s is their low-cost design. As a result, these structures tend to feature several shortcuts leading to maintenance issues.
-
Announcing a New Book of Walter Sharp’s Writings
We have released a new book composed of Walter Sharp’s writing. In this book, learn about the history of the Good Roads Movement, the story of Cowley’s stone bridges, and more in the words of Sharp himself.
-
Cowley’s Stone Bridges: A Vanishing Heritage
The stone arch bridges of Cowley County are a vanishing part of Cowley’s history. In this post we show the rich heritage of these bridges and how they helped shape the lives of people in Cowley County.
-
Stone/Concrete Hybrid Bridges
In the early days of concrete, stone and concrete were sometimes used together in bridges to create a unique form of hybrid construction. These structures can be durable, but have weaknesses due to the multiple types of materials used.
-
Why Were Stone Bridges Built?
Stone arch bridges were usually built historically for their proven durability, which made these structures desirable. In the early 1900s, stone bridges made a resurgence in the United States.
-
The History of Peter Johnson’s Bridge
In this post we record the unique history of the double-arched Peter Johnson’s Bridge recently found built into a road embankment near Leon, Butler County, Kansas.
-
The Flint Hills’ Stone Bridge Heritage: Part 4
The Flint Hills of Kansas are the home of many stone arch bridges. Wherever these structures remain, they are at once a part of the landscape itself and a lasting piece of the Flint Hills’ rich heritage.
-
The Flint Hills’ Stone Bridge Heritage: Part 3
Of all the counties in the Flint Hills of Kansas, none built as many stone arch bridges as Butler and Cowley counties. Butler was a major pioneer in this respect, while Cowley built many record-breaking stone bridges.
Stone Arch Bridges 