Memorial Swinging Bridge - Summer 2024

Memorial Swinging Bridge Committee photo

The events are sponsored by the Memorial Swinging Bridge Project and the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce.

The 1923 suspension bridge over the Tippecanoe River was re-dedicated in July 2023 to celebrate the span’s intended purpose to serve as a memorial to Pulaski County military veterans from all wars.

Vault Dedication: One-hundred years later, at the conclusion of the community-based lighting project, a vault was donated to preserve the memorial’s history for future generations. The vault now contains 100 years of documented history of the bridge and as much information about local veterans as project members were able to gather.

Pulaski County Courts Judges Mary Welker and Crystal Kocher will dedicate the vault as it is buried and will also dedicate a cast bronze memorial marker. The marker notes the 100-year history of the bridge, the builder, and the bridge’s place in Pulaski County history. The U.S. Pledge of Allegiance will be led by local scouts, and prayers will be given by Casey Stephens, a chaplain with the Indiana Guard Reserve. The marker will exhort and remind the community to unearth and open the vault in 50 years (2074) and to once again dedicate the bridge to veterans.

Evening at the Bridge: This free family-friendly gathering will feature music by the popular local band, Hidden in Plain Sight, which will play until 10 p.m. Those attending are encouraged to bring a picnic and lawn chairs to enjoy a light-hearted evening. Desserts will be available from the Mobile Sweet Tooth. The bridge lights will illuminate at dusk to round out the evening.

NOTE: Wednesday, July 3 is the last day of the Pulaski County 4-H Fair; the 4-H Auction begins at 6 p.m. Be prepared for traffic.

Historical Note

Winamac’s Memorial “Swinging” Bridge is the third-oldest remaining, in-use suspension bridge in Indiana. Only the bridge at Turkey Creek State Park and the Foster Park Footbridge in Fort Wayne are older. That the Winamac footbridge has withstood the river for 100 years is a testament to its builder’s foresight. It holds a place in state history as one of a few that have stood the test of time. See a register of suspension bridges, past and present, at https://memorialswingingbridge.com/suspension-bridges-in-indiana.