The Old Lattice Bridge-HCC-Clay Co
Posted by: 
Sprinterman
N 31° 36.373 W 085° 03.285
16R E 684536 N 3498431
Site of old fort, Bluff Street, Fort Gaines
Waymark Code: WMBVRG
Location: Georgia, United States
Date Posted: 06/24/2011
Views: 5
(Side 1)
The second covered bridge across the Chattahoochee River, connecting Clay County, Georgia and Henry County. Alabama was constructed between 1867-69. Bonner and Walden, a New York construction company, were the original contractors but the bridge was completed by Horace King. After the three span bridge collapsed during the flood of March 1875, the original stockholders relinquished control of the structure to the City of Fort Gaines on the condition that the city should rebuild at public expense. A$7,500 bond issue was floated and the bridge was rebuilt by Captain B. B. McKenzie of Eufaula, Alabama.
(Side 2)
Following the reopening of the covered bridge in 1875, the City of Fort Gaines considered levying ad valorem taxes to help retire the bridge repair bond issue. Angry property owners proposed that the city sell the bridge to any person who would guarantee to retire the bonds. After considerable debate, the bridge was sold to David C. Adams, who realized a handsome profit on his investment. The flood of March 1888 partially destroyed the bridge again and it was resold to the city for $5,000. The bridge was then rebuilt by William King, son of Horace King. The covered bridge was in use until 1925 when the Henry - Clay cantilever bridge was opened.
Type of Marker: Highway
Marker #: HCC
Date: 1987
Sponsor: Erected by the Historic Chattahoochee Commission
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Visit Instructions:
Take a picture of the marker, yourself at the marker, your gps at the marker, or anything specific to the text on the marker. And don't forget to enjoy your visit.