Seven to Save: Tilton Island Park Bridge

This metal truss bridge is the only surviving example in the country of a patented Truesdell truss—constructed of both cast iron and wrought iron, with wooden decking. Built in 1881, linking Main Street to a picturesque island park on the Winnipesaukee River, it was a gift from the town’s namesake and benefactor, Charles E. Tilton.

Structural concerns include corrosion at various joints and cracking of metal elements, likely caused by age, salt splash from the adjacent public highway, and possible shifting of the substructure. The town last made repairs in 1994, in consultation with the NHDOT and the NHDHR, prompted by concerns that the dry-laid stone wall along the river was shifting and compressing the truss.

The Tilton Island Park Bridge is the vehicle that brings our community together. It is well-used, especially during the warmer months-- for summer concerts, our Native American Festival, our Halloween in the Park, weddings, picnics, and neighbors visiting neighbors on a hot summer day. The gracefully arching bridge and the waters it spans provide an appealing welcome as one approaches the historic downtown from the east.

The town is now seeking funding to carry out an inspection and condition assessment of the 140 year old bridge, along with a detailed preservation plan. Without this attention, it may well succumb to the elements and neglect, just as many of our other metal truss bridges in NH have, losses that prompted a group listing of metal truss bridges to Seven to Save in 2008.

Listed to the National Register in 1980, this bridge is a treasure that must be preserved and protected.