Fiftieth Anniversary of the Bridge over White River along Hwy. 5
Fiftieth Anniversary of the Bridge over White River along Hwy. 5
On August 12, 1966, the bridge over the White River along Highway 5 was dedicated after nearly two years of construction. The bridge marked the end of ferry transportation across the river and was the last of three major bridges constructed in the Calico Rock area (the bridge over Calico Creek, the Piney Creek bridge on Highway 56, and the Highway 5 bridge over the White River).
According to the official dedication program book, the bridge was dedicated by Governor Orville Faubus and State Revenue Commissioner, our very own Orville Cheney, spoke. It was a grand day for the community.
Pix taken from Hwy. 5
The bridge project was an initiative of Governor Francis Cherry. People thought he was crazy to build the bridges first and not focus on good roads. Cherry believed if there were good concrete bridges across the rivers and creeks, the legislature would approve the funding for better paved roads. But, Cherry said, if they approved the roads first the bridges might never get built. Of course, Cherry was right. The highways were approved shortly after the bridges were built throughout Arkansas.
As you travel across the bridge this weekend heading to Culp, Mountain View, heading into town from Stone County, or making your way toward Norfork or Mountain Home, think back on the amazing history of this bridge and what it has meant for our community.
Calico Rock Museum Foundation
104 Main Street
Calico Rock, Arkansas 72519
870-297-6100
www.calicorockmuseum.com
