Background Information
Railroad cars crossing the Mississippi River has been a major part of American history since the mid 19th century. The first steam locomotive to cross the Mississippi River took place in 1855, and the river was formally engaged as a major rail transportation artery shortly after—connecting the east and west of the then-young country. During this period, the scale and importance of railroad transportation to industrialization and economic development was undisputed.
In the late 19th century, the design of railroad cars that would be able to cross the expansive river came into play. Three major developments in how railroad cars crossed the Mississippi River emerged.
Floating Drawbridges
The floating drawbridge was proposed by Edward Schillinger and went into implemented a few years later in 1904. It was developed to both provide a permanent solution to crossing the Mississippi as well as address the causes for the massive delays in crossing times. The floating drawbridge is a 1350-foot long pontoon structure with an adjustable element in the middle. This adjustable element allows for ships travelling down the river to pass through. The bridge also has an electrified switch stand with a motorcar on it. This motorcar helps operate the drawbridge to allow for the passage of ships down the river.
Lift Bridges
The lift bridge was patented in 1897 and offered a temporary solution for crossing the Mississippi River. The lift bridge was designed as a floating platform with a solid structure that can be raised via a counterweight. The lift bridge was used primarily to allow for river traffic to pass without any interference. After the river traffic has gone by, the bridge is lowered to allow for railroad cars to cross. According to the National Park Service, there are several lift bridges between Nicollet Island in Minneapolis and Lock and Dam No. 2 in Hastings.
Railroad Bridges
The railroad bridge is a more complex structure that was developed to facilitate railroad traffic on the river. It is a permanent structure composed of several piers, pylons, and trusses. Though this is the most expensive of the three methods, it is also the most reliable and durable, allowing for a dependable crossing time. The first railroad bridge to span the Mississippi River was the High Bridge, which was constructed in 1876 in Minneapolis.
Efficiency and Harnessing the River’s Energy
Since 2004, freight railroads as well as Amtrak passenger trains have become more efficient with the help of the floating drawbridge and other structures. The floating drawbridge allows for the efficient passage of ships down the river, thus shortening travel times of trains and the costs associated with them. The lift bridge and railroad bridge also serve to help small ships and boats to pass through, while allowing rail lines to cross without a hitch. This allows for the power of the Mississippi River to be harnessed, both in terms of safety and efficiency.
Environmental Sustainability
Conclusion
Railroad cars crossing the Mississippi River have been a major part of American history since the mid 19th century, and the developments and adaptations of modern technology have allowed for the safe and efficient navigation of both freight and passenger trains across this expansive body of water. Through the invention of floating drawbridges, lift bridges, railroad bridges, and advances in safety technologies, railroad cars crossing the Mississippi River has become a dependable and efficient option for businesses and passengers wishing to traverse its waters. By harnessing the power of the Mississippi River, these railroad cars have added an element of sustainability and environmental responsibility to the process of shipping and transportation.
