UPDATE – Appleton Branch – Milwaukee & Northern Railway Historical Society

UPDATE – Appleton Branch

Post published:March 27, 2022
Post last modified:March 27, 2022

Five new photographs and information about the swing bridge over the Fox River have been added to The Milwaukee & Northern – Appleton Branch page.

Appleton Swing Bridge — “The bridge was always locked in place for rail traffic and only opened when a boat signaled for passage. By 1966 river traffic was mostly pleasure craft. August 2, 1966.” Photograph and caption by Larry Easton, courtesy of Neenah Historical Society.

Appleton Swing Bridge — “The bridge tender’s cottage was located between the railroad tracks and the river, making for a very scenic and secluded spot. A stairway to the park above was the only access.” Photograph and caption by Larry Easton, courtesy of Neenah Historical Society.

Appleton Swing Bridge — “Looking north form the south bank of the Fox River, the Milwaukee Road swing bridge is an imposing structure. With very little boat traffic on the river, the bridge tender had little to do other than visit with an occasional railfan or neighborhood kids. August 2, 1966.” Photograph and caption by Larry Easton, courtesy of Neenah Historical Society.

Appleton Swing Bridge — “The Milwaukee Road tracks curve gracefully under the Memorial Drive bridge before reaching the swing bridge on the south side of the Fox River in Appleton. July 27, 1966.” Photograph and caption by Larry Easton, courtesy of Neenah Historical Society.

Appleton Swing Bridge — "Herman Erdman was the bridge tender when Larry Easton had the opportunity to stop in for a visit on August 2, 1966." Photograph and caption by Larry Easton, courtesy of Neenah Historical Society.