Throughout Maine, you’ll find interesting history and fun secrets that make this state special. As you explore each region, you’ll find yourself learning more and more about the people that were here long before any of us. But it’s not just history from hundreds of years ago that has us intrigued. Some of the most fascinating history isn’t even all that old! This historic bridge in Maine located in Casco Bay is within sight of a major highway has an interesting story worth learning.
There’s always a lot to see while traveling through Maine. Unlike some states, some of the best views here can be found along major highways. One of our favorites is on either side of I-295 driving through the heart of Portland.
Google Maps
Just past the downtown skyline, you’ll find the Back Cove on one side and Casco Bay on the other. And it’s here, in Casco Bay, that you’ll find the abandoned swing bridge right next to the former location of the B&M Bean Factory.
dougtone / Flickr
The bridge sits in an open position with abandoned train tracks leading to it. Today, it might not look like much but back in the 1840s the Atlantic and St. Lawrence railroad came right through here to connect Portland with Yarmouth.
pavdw / Flickr
To help, the bridge was built over the Portland peninsula. Great idea! Except that the tall ships needing to enter the Back Cove could no longer do so. The fix? A bridge that could be opened and closed when necessary.
davidjlee / Flickr
The swing bridge in Casco Bay worked this way for 100 years allowing ships to pass freely. And the tracks became even more integral to the state when the Atlantic and St. Lawrence train expanded to connect Portland with Montreal.
michaelcr / Flickr
While sturdy and able to withstand the elements in Maine, it couldn’t withstand the fire set to it in 1984 when it was irreparably damaged.
coreytempleton / Flickr
One reason for allowing it to remain unusable was the cost. Grand Trunk Railroad was the primary user at the time and they felt it wasn’t worth the investment. But changing transportation needs also played a part.
coreytempleton / Flickr
Passenger service mostly stopped in the 1960s and trucks began replacing trains for things like hauling and freight services.
coreytempleton / Flickr With the tracks ruined, the bridge was no longer needed and eventually, someone was sent to leave it in the open position one last time.
You can see the bridge just off of I-295 heading north. You can’t access it, but it’s sure fun to look at! You can also see it from the trail connecting the Eastern Prom with the Back Cove.
Google Maps
dougtone / Flickr
pavdw / Flickr
davidjlee / Flickr
michaelcr / Flickr
coreytempleton / Flickr
With the tracks ruined, the bridge was no longer needed and eventually, someone was sent to leave it in the open position one last time.
There’s just something about the bridges in this state that we can’t get enough of. This day trip takes you to 6 of Maine’s covered bridges and it’s perfect for a scenic drive.
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Address: Casco Bay, Maine, USA
