This bridge was built on the Michigan Central main line by the Detroit Bridge and Iron Works company. It carried the MC over Front Street and the St. Joseph River. It is 43' wide and 475' long. [LPM] It is used today by Amtrak.
1873. A new railroad bridge is to be built across the St. Joseph river at Niles, by the MC. It is to be of wood of the Howe truss pattern. Messrs. Wells, French & Co. of Chicago have the contract for building. [CAS-1873-0918]
1880. A new bridge, 564 feet long will be constructed over the river at Niles on the MC, by the Detroit Bridge and Iron Works. [NTR-1880-0117]
1880. December. The new iron bridge built across the St. Joseph river at Niles was tested this morning and found to be sound and of sufficient strength. Three heavy locomotives, of thirty-five tons each, were sent across several times at full speed. The test was made by Capt. Asa G. Daily, Superintendent of tracks and bridges. [NREP-1880-1202]
1890. The MC builds an iron bridge, 632 feet in length with stone abutments and piers, over the St. Joseph River at Niles for a second track. [MCAR-1880]
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