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IRON RAILROAD BRIDGES,
IRON ROOFS,
WROUGHT IRON TURNTABLES,
IRON FIRE ESCAPES,
IRON BUILDINGS,
PLATE AND BOX GIRDERS FOR
BRIDGES AND BUILDINGS.
IRON HIGHWAY BRIDGES,
CORRUGATED IRON FIRE-PROOF
DOORS AND SHUTTERS,
CORRUGATED IRON,
STONE ARCH BRIDGES,
SUSPENSION BRIDGES,
ROLLED I BEAMS, CHANNELS,
ANGLES, ETC.
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IT IS OUR ENDEAVOR TO FURNISH NOTHING BUT FIRST-CLASS WORK FOR A FAIR REMUNERATION.
AVERY LICr'-Y
COLUMBIA i:;;v ;■ ;
Officers :
BURR K. FIELD,
CHARLES M. JARVIS, GEO. H. SAGE,
VICE-PRESIDENT AND TREASURER.
PRESIDENT AND CHIEF ENGINEER. SECRETARY.
MACE* MOULTON, Consulting Engineer.
S. W. BOWLES, Jr.,
ENGINEERS:
R. FLEMING, E. W. STEARNS,
J. H. EDWARDS, A. L. HYDE,
SUP’T OF WORKS:
* . SUP’T OF SUBSTRUCTURES:
W. N. EDSON.
C. V. PENDLETON.
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WM. O. DOUGLAS,
AGENTS:
JOHN TOWNE, F. K. FIELD,
WM. PAYSON, Edna, Texas.
* . CU ssi£-S
AYZRY - at
COLliliBiA i..:
PREFACE ^ INTRODUCTION
TUo the Public:
PRESENTING THIS CATALOGUE to the public it is our intention to illustrate our line of work by engravings
taken directly from photographs of actual structures built by us. These illustrations are not pictures made to order to
show each bridge in the best possible light, but are all taken from photographs of actual structures, just as they are.
We have endeavored to illustrate as many different kinds of bridges as possible, so that any party in want of a new iron
bridge can find something here which will show about how his bridge will look when completed.
The first iron bridges built in this country were made by Whipple, the compression members being cast-iron, and the tension mem¬
bers being wrought-iron. Many of these bridges are standing at the present day, notwithstanding their crude construction, and speak
much for the intelligence and honor of the builder. Cast-iron is, however, not well adapted for use in iron bridges, for no matter how well
and by what process the castings are made they are very apt to contain serious and unseen flaws, which only develop after breaking,
so that, at the present time, cast-iron, in bridge construction, except for'minor details, has been almost universally abandoned. The first
bridges built by Whipple were built in a scientific manner, and, considering the limited knowledge of the subject at that time, reflect great
credit upon the designer. Since then but little progress has been made in the designing of iron highway bridges except in the matter of
detail, until the introduction of our Patent Parabolic Truss, which appeared in 1877 and 1878. This form of truss was a radical departure
from the old Whipple Truss, or the old Bow String Arch, which were in universal use until the Fall of 1877 or the Spring of 1878, and
the introduction of the Parabolic Truss at that time marks a new era in iron bridge construction.
The great object in an iron highway bridge is stiffness and simplicity. If the bridge is not stiff and rigid the traveling public get
an idea that it is weak and not fit for its work, and it is very soon necessary to replace it. Simplicity is required, because iron highway
bridges, after being once built, are seldom, if ever again, looked after, except, perhaps, occasionally to paint them. If the bridge is simple
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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in its construction it is not apt to get out of repair, as would be the case of a complex structure. Our patent Parabolic Truss particularly
commends itself upon these two points, viz : stiffness and simplicity.
Each part of the bridge is designed to do its special work, and every part helps to support as well as strengthen. A piece of string
has little or no strength of itself when drawn perfectly straight, but if allowed to deflect even a small distance, its strength is very materially
increased—the same with a piece of timber. Take, for example, a 12x12 piece of timber, supported at its ends, and having a span of 20
feet; this timber will stand a given load, under these conditions, but if the ends are rigidly held, and the timber is curved between so that
there is a rise at the center of three feet, its supporting power is more than tripled. This explains why the Parabolic Bridge is stronger,
better, and stiffer than the old style bridge, with parallel chords. Neither chord of a Pratt Truss will support a pound taken by itself
alone, but with a Parabolic Bridge either chord will not only support itself but will support a large load besides. Unite these two at the
ends, one to resist the other, and you have the strongest form of truss known.
One particular merit in the Parabolic Truss is that each part of the bridge is designed to do its own separate work.
In iron bridges there are two loads to be resisted; first, the vertical or live load, and next, the horizontal or wind load—this latter in
long spans with narrow roadways being often more than the vertical load. In our Parabolic bridge the vertical load is resisted by the main
trusses, and the horizontal or wind load by a chord placed beneath the floor, and tangent with the vertical truss at the center, and designed
especially for this purpose. There is no other bridge built which provides for this wind load, and where the span is of any considerable
length, and the roadway of medium width, it amounts from 25 per cent to 100 per cent of the live road. This often reduces the live load
capacity of the truss one half, unless especially provided for, as in our Patent Parabolic Truss Bridge.
The Parabolic truss is simplicity itself. The chords have a uniform section throughout their length, and, therefore, a Parabolic
bridge is stiffer than a Parallel chord bridge, where the sections are lighter in the end panels. There are no temperature strains in the
Parabolic bridge, as the parts are so proportioned that each expands its regular proportion under the changes of temperature. Every part
of the bridge admits of exact analysis and calculation.
The capacity of iron highway bridges varies with their location. Large city bridges which are built to carry heavily loaded truck
teams and continuous traffic, must of necessity be heavier and stronger than country bridges, where the loads are light and the traffic
infrequent. For this reason the capacity of bridges, or what is equivalent to the same, the unit strains in the different members of a
bridge, vary with the different locations.
City bridges should also be proportioned for an Aveling & Porter steam road roller, concentrating a weight of 14,000 pounds on the
4
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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front axle, and 22,000 pounds on the rear axle. This steam road roller load, however, effects mainly the floor system and the web rather
than the chords of the bridge.
There are two classes of connections used in bridges, viz., pin connections and riveted connections. Each is well adapted for its
proper condition. In spans of less than 100 feet, riveted connections do very well, but in large spans they are apt to work loose in time
and give trouble. As a general rule we recommend pin connected bridges, although we are prepared to make bridges with riveted con¬
nections, wherever desired.
At the present time the quality of the iron used in iron highway bridges by all first-class builders is so well known that little need
be said on that subject. It does not pay for a bridge company to use poor iron, for the cost of labor in working it is so much greater than
the cost of labor to work first-class iron, that it does not pay any Company to use anything but the very best of bridge iron. Good
bridge iron should have an ultimate strength of from 45,000 to 50,000 pounds per square inch, and elastic limit of not less than 26,000
pounds per square inch.
To parties contemplating iron bridges we would say that we are prepared to furnish plans, specifications, and estimates lor both sub¬
structures and super-structures. We have a corps of first-class engineers, and, whenever desired, can send one of our engineers to advise
with town officers as to location, number of spans, foundations, etc.
We are also using a large number of cylinder piers, shown on page 57, for locations where stone is expensive, or where the founda¬
tion is soft and unreliable. We have put in a large number of these cylinder piers, and in every case they have given the best of satisfac¬
tion, and often have been subjected to very severe floods, without injury.
When called upon for our services in preparing plans and estimates, or for giving advice, we make no charge as that is part of our
business.
IRON JOIST.
If you are building an iron bridge, build an iron bridge, that is, build as much of it of iron as possible.
It was formerly the custom to build the trusses of iron, and the floor beams and joists, of wood ; but as iron bridges came more
in general use, iron floor beams were introduced, and now a great many iron bridges are built with the joists of iron. If it is advisable to
build an iron bridge, it is advisable to build a good one, and to build as much of it of iron as is possible. We therefore recommend towns
to build their bridges entirely of iron, with the exception of the floor plank, as the extra expense of an iron joist over a wooden joist is very
small compared with the advantage to be derived.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
5
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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THE RELATIVE ECONOMY OF IRON AND WOODEN BRIDGES.
The high price and scarcity of good bridge timber at the present time prevents the building of wooden bridges to any very large
extent, as it costs but little more to build a first-class Iron Bridge, than it does a first-class wooden bridge. To parties who
contemplate building wooden bridges in preference to iron bridges on the score of economy, we have one word to say, as we think we
can prove that in time the iron bridge is much more economical. Suppose, for example, that you can build two wooden bridges for the
same amount of money that it will cost to build one iron bridge, or, that the iron bridge costs twice as much as the wooden bridge.
Suppose two towns wanting a large number of bridges both start in at the same time, one building iron bridges and the other wooden
bridges. Suppose the town building iron bridges builds one iron bridge each year, and the town building wooden bridges builds two
wooden bridges each year, thus each town spending the same amount of money each year for bridges. The following table gives the
progress from year to year, and shows where each town will land at the end of each year up to 20 years :
At the end of 10 years, the town building wooden bridges will have to com¬
mence to renew those built the first year, as this table is made on the supposition that
the wooden bridges will last for 10 years—this is the life of an ordinary wooden
bridge. Therefore, the town building wooden bridges, at the end of 10 years will
have 20 bridges on hand, all of -wood, while the town building one iron bridge each
year will have 10 iron bridges on hand. From this time forward the matter changes,
as the town building two wooden bridges each year, must commence to renew the
two wooden bridges built the first year, so that they will never have more than 20
wooden bridges, if they only build two each year, all their money going for renewals.
The town building iron bridges, however, will keep increasing one bridge each year,
so that at the end of 20 years each town will have the same number of bridges, but
the town building wooden bridges having 20 wooden bridges on hand, part of them
having been in use 10 years, and the town building iron bridges will have 20 iron
bridges on hand. In both cases each town has spent the same amount of money in
the 20 years, and one has 20 iron bridges on hand, and the other 20 wooden bridges,
proving conclusively that in the long run iron bridges are much cheaper than wooden bridges.
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TERMS OF YEARS
NO. OK
IRON BRIDGES
IN USE.
NO. OF
WOODEN BRIDGES
IN USE.
At end of I year
I
2
“ “ “ 2 years
2
4
“ “ “ 3 “
3
6
“ “ “ 4 “
4
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9
18
11 a 11 jq a
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20
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20
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6
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
■©
CONCLUSION.
In conclusion we have only one word to say—we give in this catalogue a partial list of the iron highway bridges built by us during
the last ten years, which shows that in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New
York, we have built over 90 per cent of all the iron highway bridges which have been put up in the last ten years ; and have, in fact, built
more bridges in the states named than all the other bridge companies in this country combined. This is a broad statement, but the facts
justify it.
We also give a list of a few of the testimonials which we have received, which show conclusively the character of the work which we
produce. There is not an Iron Highway Bridge Company in the United States wnich can produce a list of the bridges and a list of testi¬
monials equal to this, and we invite city and town authorities to correspond with the authorities where we have put up bridges, with a view
of ascertaining the character of the work which we build, as we have no hesitation in saying that we build the best iron highway bridges
that are built in America. We do not claim to build the cheapest bridges in America, but we do claim to build the best, and to build as
cheaply as is possible to produce first-class work. , •
The Berlin Iron E^ridqe Qomrany.
o
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
7
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
BRIDGE AT BINGHAMTON, N. Y.
CUT on the opposite page represents a bridge built by us in 1887, at Binghamton, N. Y. The bridge consists ot three
® I © spans of 165 feet each, with a roadway 24 feet wide in the clear, and two sidewalks, each six feet wide. The bridge is
across the Susquehanna River, at the foot of Washington street, and takes the place of what has been known for a great
many years past as “ the old covered bridge.” The bridge is located on the site of the original settlement of the city of Binghamton,
which in olden times was known as “ Chenang Pint.”
The Washington street electric street railroad cars cross the bridge. These cars are run by electricity—the motor being
placed in the car—and therefore when loaded with a crowd of people are much heavier than the ordinary street car. The bridge
is on the direct route to Ross Park, and is crossed by many thousands of people every day, and by these street cars heavily loaded
with picnic and excursion parties. Ross Park is the only park in the city, and was presented to the city some years- ago, through
the munificence of Erastus Ross, Esq., and is a popular resort for church picnics and excursions.
Owing to the beautiful design of this bridge it has largely increased the value of property in the immediate vicinity. We furnished
the whole bridge complete, from the foundation to the finish, doing all. the work ourselves with our own men and with our own tools.
The roadway is paved with asphalt pavement and has iron joists. Without a doubt it is the finest iron highway bridge in New York State,
and second to no iron highway bridge in this country.
©-
8
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
9
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
BRIDGE AT WATERBURY, CONN.
TT 7 IIIS BRIDGE is without doubt the heaviest iron highway bridge in the New England States.
The bridge spans the Naugatuck River on Bank Street, in the city of Waterbury, Conn., and consists of one span of 175 feet,
having a roadway 27 feet wide in the clear, and two sidewalks, each nine feet wide in the clear. The cut on the opposite page
gives a good idea of the appearance of the bridge, but, owing to the fact that the street crosses the river on a slight angle, the bridge does
not present as good an appearance as though made perfectly square. The roadway of the bridge is provided with iron joists and asphalt
pavement.
The bridge is crossed by a line of street cars, which run directly through the center of the roadway—a wise provision in bridges with
very wide roadways, but a very unwise provision where the roadways are narrow, as in the latter case the railroad tracks should run near
the outside of the roadway.
This bridge replaces an old iron arch bridge which had been built about ten years—it being taken down because it was too light and
too narrow to accommodate the very heavy traffic.
Waterbury is one of the largest manufacturing cities in Connecticut, and the centre of the brass industry. With two rivers flowing
entirely through the city, and with large railroad connections, there are probably more spans of iron bridge in the city of Waterbury than
in any city of its size in this country. We have built for the city and town of Waterbury, and for the railroad companies, in Waterbury
over 40 spans of iron bridge in the last ten years, and any parties desiring to see all the different kinds of iron bridges, from the simple
short span of beam bridge (shown at the bottom of page 40) to the heaviest iron truss railroad bridges, can find both of these extremes and
all intermediates at Waterbury.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
©
BRIDGE AT WATERBURY, CONN.
Span, 175 feet. Roadway, 27 feet wide. Two sidewalks, each g feet wide
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11
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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BRIDGE AT MASSENA, ST. LAWRENCE CO., N. Y.
ERE WE have represented a bridge with a single span 235 feet in the clear, with a roadway 16 feet wide in the clear. This is a
bridge which illustrates in a forcible manner our remarks in the introduction to this catalogue relating to long spans and narrow
roadways, and the particular adaptability of the Parabolic Bridge to this class of structures. There is not a Pratt truss bridge or
a Bow String girder, or, in fact, a Bridge of any kind in this country having an equal span and as narrow a roadway, that has as much
lateral stiffness as this bridge—for the reason that the bridge has an independent chord under the floor which takes care of the wind
load and the side vibration of the bridge.
Parties contemplating long span bridges will do well to examine this bridge—or others built by us of equal and greater spans—before
deciding what kind of a bridge to build.
There are many long span bridges in the vicinity of Massena, as the width of the Racket river and the climatic conditions require
long spans. Ice often forms in this river to a depth of four feet, and it is almost impossible to put up any kind of piers which will stand the
pressure when the ice starts early in the Spring with severe high water. The cost of maintaining piers under these conditions, is greater
than to build bridges in long single spans.
The bridge as shown is taken direct from a photograph, but, owing to the fact that it rests on high abutments, the photograph is
taken from the underside, and presents a rather peculiar appearance.
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12
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
4 >
BRIDGE AT MASSENA, ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY, N. Y.
Span, 235 feet. Roadway, 16 feet.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
13
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
< 2 >
BRIDGE AT HIGHGATE CENTER, VERMONT.
t"T 7 HE BRIDGE at Highgate Center, Vt., consists of one span of 215 feet, and one span of 80 feet, with a roadway 20 feet in the clear, and
® I fo is shown by the cut on the opposite page. The State of Vermont has lately passed a law whereby towns excessively burdened with
roads and bridges can, under certain restrictions, apply to the State and receive financial aid. The bridge here shown was built
by a commissioner appointed by the State under this law, and is the longest single span of iron highway bridge in the State of Vermont.
At the point where it crosses the Missisquoi River the banks are very high and rocky—the distance from the roadway to the bed of
the stream being 70 feet. No more beautiful sight can be imagined than this location where the boiling, bubbling, surging water rushes
down through the narrow channels with a force which is almost irresistable, and with a roar which prevents ordinary conversation being
carried on near the bridge.
This bridge replaces what was probably the best built wooden highway bridge in the New England States. Built of first growth
Vermont pine, it stood in this location for a long series of years, but, finally, like all wooden bridges, had to give way for iron.
The iron bridge adds very much to the beauty of the surroundings, while the old wooden bridge detracted from the beautiful scenery.
Notice that the bridge is provided on each side with a 16-inch lattice railing, and below this one line of iron pipe, which form a very
effectual barricade for school children or persons who are apt to be timid when crossing a bridge at such a great height.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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BRIDGE AT HIGHGATE, VT.
One Span of 215 feet, and one Span of 80 feet. Roadway, 20 feet wide.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
15
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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BRIDGE AT STAMFORD, CONN.
FT" 7 HE CUT on the opposite page is taken from a photograph of a bridge built by us in 1887, at Stamford, Conn., and consists of one
® I ® span of 150 feet, with a roadway 20 feet wide, and two walks, each five feet wide. Stamford is on the line of the N. Y., N. H.
& H. R. R., and the bridge can be clearly seen from the cars on the south side of the track. At the time this bridge was built
there was a great strife as to which was the better, an iron or a stone arch bridge, but, owing to the extreme cost of a stone bridge, an iron
bridge with iron joist and asphalt pavement was adopted at a cost of less than one-fourth of a stone arch.
The bridge is on a grade of about three feet in its length, which is hardly noticeable at a distance, but it shows the great adapta¬
bility of the Parabolic truss to bridges of this class—bridges on a grade.
The truss is placed horizontally, perfectly level and the floor is made tangent to the truss at the center ; one end post is lengthened
while the other end post is shortened an equal amount, so that the bridge is not distorted in any way, nor is there any ambiguity in the
amount or character of the strain, owing to the bridge being on a grade. This is the only form of truss made in which this condition
prevails.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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BRIDGE AT STAMFORD, CONN.
Span, 150 feet. Roadway, 20 feet wide. Two walks, each 5 feet wide.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
17
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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BRIDGE AT DANIELSONVILLE, CONN.
B RIDGE SHOWN on opposite page is located at Danielsonville, Conn., on the N. Y. & N. E. R. R., and consists of one span oi 140
feet, with a roadway 20 feet wide in the clear, and two sidewalks, each five feet wide. The bridge has iron joist and heavy capacity,
as it is situated in the midst of a large manufacturing community and is subjected to the heaviest traffic. The bridge, with its sur¬
roundings, presents a very handsome appearance, and has added very much to the beauty of that part of the town in which it is situated.
Note also that in this bridge the trusses have a lattice railing to protect the foot passengers on the sidewalk.
This is not an absolute necessity but is preferred by a great many towns, especially where the travel is heavy and frequent both on
the roadway and sidewalks. It acts equally as well to prevent children from getting on the roadway and thus be in danger of being
injured, as well as to keep teams and cattle from the sidewalks. Two or three bars of iron pipe are equally as effective in preventing the
roadway travel from getting on to the sidewalk as is a lattice railing, but a lattice railing is much more sightly and adds greatly to
the appearance of any bridge.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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BRIDGE AT DA NIELSON VILLE, CONN.
Span, 140 feet. Roadway, 20 feet wide. Two walks, each 5 feet wide.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
19
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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BRIDGE AT OXFORD, N. Y.
\ I /HE BRIDGE on the opposite page is taken from a photograph of a bridge built by us in 1884, at Oxford, N. Y. The bridge
® consists of one span of 150 feet, with a roadway 20 feet wide in the clear, and two sidewalks, each five feet wide.
This was one of the first iron highway bridges of any considerable span built by us in New York State. Oxford is a small
but very enterprising and flourishing town, and one of its principal industries is the large stone quarry of Clarke & Son. Here is
quarried the finest flagging stone to be found anywhere in New York State, if not in the United States. These quarries can furnish
flagging stone having a larger surface measure, without crack or blemish, than any quarry in the United States. Frequently these stone
weigh from 18 to 25 tons, and in order to get them to the depot, it is necessary to haul them over this bridge. There is probably no
bridge in New York State which is subjected to so severe and heavy loads as this bridge, and it shows conclusively the adaptability
of the Parabolic Truss to heavy concentrated loads.
The masonry on which this bridge stands is a marvel of strength and good workmanship, the stone having been taken
from the adjacent quarry of Clarke & Son. The workmanship also is first-class, and the abutments are probably equal
to any ever built in New York State.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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BRIDGE AT OXFORD, N. Y.
Span, 150 feet. Roadway, 20 feet wide. Two sidewalks, each 5 feet wide.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
21
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
BRIDGE AT KENNEDY, CHAUTAUQUA CO., N. Y.
BRIDGE represents in a general way a large type of ordinary iron highway bridges in use throughout the State of New
e)l© York. The bridge has a span of 115 feet, with a roadway 16 feet wide in the clear, and is built to accommodate ordinary
country traffic—distinct from heavy city traffic, such as described in the bridge at Waterbury, on page 11. The railing on this
bridge consists of two bars of one inch pipe on each side, securely fastened to the trusses, and forms a very effectual guard against
ordinary travel getting off the bridge between the panel points.
The picture is taken in such a way as to show the ends of the bridge, which present a very ornamental appearance, the portal
being curved to form a pleasing outline, and ornamented with a name plate and cast-iron cresting, which, with the ornamental casting
on the end posts, give the bridge a very striking appearance when approached from the ends. Of course this ornamentation and curved
portal costs more than to build the bridge perfectly plain, but at the same time it adds so much to the general appearance and general
style and make-up of the bridge, that parties after once seeing it always adopt it. It costs but little more to have your iron bridges
ornamental and tasteful in design and fitted to the location, than it does to build them perfectly plain.
&
22
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
-©
U S'
i/° r-"^ s W, V i
BRIDGE AT KENNEDY, CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY, N.Y. Span, 115 feet. Roadway, 16 feet wide,
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
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23
©•
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
BRIDGE AT MONTGOMERY, ORANGE CO., N. Y.
^*^HE CUT on the opposite page does not give a fair idea of the bridge at Montgomery, N. Y., as it was necessary to take the
I (s> photograph at some distance from the bridge in order to show the approach and the attending surroundings. The bridge is
situated at Montgomery, Orange county, N. Y., and consists of two spans, 115 feet each, with a roadway 20 feet wide in the
clear, and one sidewalk, six feet wide in the clear. We furnished the whole bridge, including the foundation, consisting of one pier
and two abutments, together with the superstructure. The bridge gives the best of satisfaction, and is pronounced by all who
have seen it a masterpiece of work.
We wish to call especial attention to the two kinds of railing shown. The outside truss has a lattice railing the same size and
construction as the sidewalk railing, but the truss next to the walk has simply two lines of gas pipe. The lattice railing adds very
much to the beauty of the bridge, but of course is much more expensive than the pipe railing, but where a bridge is crossed by children,
and the travel is heavy and frequent with a walk on one side only, it is generally advisable to use a lattice railing of this kind notwith¬
standing the extra expense. On country bridges, where the travel is not so frequent, two lines of gas pipe answer every purpose, but
we should advise towns under no circumstances to build a bridge without at least two lines of gas pipe, as one line is not sufficient.
24
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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BRIDGE AT MONTGOMERY, ORANGE COUNTY, N. Y.
Two Spans, 115 feet each. Roadway, 20 feet wide, One walk, 6 feet wide.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
25
&
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY.
BRIDGE BETWEEN THE CITIES OF SACO AND BIDDEFORD, MAINE.
BRIDGE consists of six spans, 55 feet each, with a roadway 22 feet wide in the clear, and one sidewalk 8 feet wide in the clear,
e) I (9 The bridge connects the cities of Saco and Biddeford, Maine, and is subjected to the heaviest city traffic. This is the second
bridge which we have built for these two cities across the same stream, and since this photograph was taken we have built a third
one at another point further up the stream. This bridge is built in the midst of a lumber district; in fact, lumber is probably cheaper
to-day per thousand in the cities of Saco and Biddeford, Maine, than in any other place in the United States, and yet these cities find it
more economical to build iron bridges than they do to build wooden bridges.
We also wish to call especial attention to the railing on the outside truss, which consists of two pieces of 6 in. x 1^ in. white pine
plained and thoroughly bolted to the truss. This railing gives a good protection on short, low truss bridges ; in fact, it has the appearance
of closing up the open web work to better advantage than two lines of round iron or pipe, but, of course, is not as lasting, as wood will
decay, and has to be replaced in time.
26
©-
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A,
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
- @
BRIDGE BETWEEN THE CITIES OF SACO AND BIDDEFORD, MAINE.
Six spans, 55 feet each. Roadway, 22 feet wide. One walk, 8 feet wide.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
-©
27
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
BRIDGE AT JAMESTOWN, N. Y.
rTTHIS BRIDGE represents a very large class of iron highway bridges throughout New England, New York, and Pennsylvania.
® I © It consists of one span of 76 feet, with a roadway 16 feet wide in the clear, and is an exact picture of a bridge built by us
at Jamestown, N. Y. in 1887. The trusses are 8 feet deep on centers and are pin connected throughout, so that there is no cast
iron whatever about the bridge except small washers and the ornamental urns on top of each end post. Jamestown is a very flourishing
city, the principal industry being lumber, and yet, notwithstanding the low price of lumber, the authorities find it more economical to build
iron bridges than wooden bridges. The bridge has a wooden railing consisting of two pieces of 6 in. x 1% in. white pine on each side,
securely bolted to the trusses, which offers a safe and ample guard on bridges where the traffic is not very severe. A railing of this kind
also serves to protect the trusses against careless driving.
The top chord is made out of two channels with a cover plate, latticed on the underside, which lattice work is not to be found in
ordinary iron highway bridges except those built by us. It adds very materially to the strength of the chord, and should be insisted upon
in all cases where the bridge has a span of over 50 feet. Parties in want of iron highway bridges in spans from 60 feet to 80 feet will do well
to visit this bridge and examine it as it is one of the best of its kind in New York State.
(St-
28
EAST BERLIN. CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
■©
BRIDGE AT JAMESTOWN, N. Y.
Span, 76 feet. Roadway, 16 feet wide.
-©
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A
29
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
©-
BRIDGE AT SUFFIELD, CONN.
‘ERE WE have illustrated a deck bridge, consisting of one span of 130 feet, with a roadway 16 feet wide in the clear. This bridge
was built by us for the town of Suffield, Hartford County, Conn., i-n 1888—the illustration being taken direct from a photograph.
This illustration again shows the adaptability of the parabolic truss, the roadway being placed above the truss (forming a deck
bridge), instead of below the truss (forming a through bridge), as is the usual case. It also shows the adaptability of the parabolic
truss to a deck bridge on a grade. The truss remaining in a horizontal position, but the roadway taking any grade that is desired.
This bridge also presents a very ornamental appearance, as can be readily seen from the illustration.
©■
30
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
BRIDGE AT SUFFIELD, CONN.
Span, 130 feet. Roadway, 16 feet wide.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U, S, A
■©
31
©-
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
BRIDGE AT BINGHAMTON, N. Y.
B OR SHORT spans, say not longer than 35 feet, there is nothing so good as a plate girder bridge. The one represented on the
opposite page was built by us in 1886, at Binghamton, N. Y., and consists of one span of 29 feet, with a roadway 32 feet wide in
the clear, and two sidewalks, each nine feet wide in the clear. Owing to the fact that the stream across which this bridge is
located, at certain seasons of the year, is subjected to very severe freshets, it was desirable not to block up the water way more than was
absolutely necessary. Therefore the bridge was made with girders, placed as shown, and the iron joist resting on the bottom flange of the
main girders — in this way the depth of the bridge from the top of the plank to the lowest point of iron work did not exceed 10 inches.
The bridge presents a very ornamental appearance — the girders between the roadway and sidewalk forming a very effectual barricade.
For city and heavy country bridges, we recommend plate girders for spans as long as 50 feet to 60 feet. They are more expensive
than a truss bridge, but the material is concentrated into so few parts that they are stiffer than any other form of bridge.
32
©•
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
■O
Span, 29 feet. Roadway, 32 feet wide. Two walks, each 9 feet.
-©
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
33
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
©■
BRIDGE AT MERIDEN, CONN.
ERE IS represented another style of plate girder bridge which differs from the one shown on page 33, this being a deck
bridge, while that shown on page 33 is a through bridge. This bridge is located across the Quinipiac river on Hanover street, in
the city of Meriden, Conn., and consists of one span of 50 feet, with a roadway 30 feet wide in the clear, and two sidewalks,
each 10 feet wide in the clear.
The distance from the top of the floor of the bridge to the bed of the stream was ample to put in a deck span, and as the travel
over the bridge is heavy and very frequent, the authorities decided to use the very best form of bridge which they could get for
their location, and therefore adopted a plate girder.
The bridge consists of three girders, one on each curb line and one under the center of the roadway as shown in the cut. These
girders are thoroughly connected by floor beams with lateral braces, making a stiff, rigid and very strong construction.
Meriden is one of the most enterprising cities of the New England States, and parties who desire to see a first-class deck-plate
girder bridge, in every way, shape, and manner, will do well to examine this bridge.
©■
34-
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY.
IRON BUILDINGS AND ROOFS BUILT BY US.
HE FOLLOWING is a list of some of the many iron buildings and iron roofs built by us in the last few years. Parties wishing
to inquire or examine the character of our work are thus given an opportunity to know where it can be found. We invite
examination and correspondence with the parties named below as to the character of our work.
N. Y., N. H. & H. R. R. Co.
AMOSKEAG MFG. CO.
CHEENEY BROS .
RUSSELL & ERWIN MFG. CO.
NEW HAVEN WIRE CO.
CHESHIRE WATCH CO.
L. B. SMITH RUBBER CO.
BRIDGEPORT ARMORY.
WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO
MILLERTON IRON CO.
D. & H. SCOVILL.
PALMER BROS.
COE BRASS CO.
BRIDGEPORT COPPER CO.
SHELBY IRON WORKS.
ANSONIA BRASS AND COPPER CO . .
SEYMOUR MFG. CO.
CITY WATER WORKS.
New Haven, Conn.
Manchester, N. H.
Manchester, Conn.
New Britain, Conn.
New Haven, Conn.
Cheshire, Conn.
Setauket, L. I.
Bridgeport, Conn.
New Haven, Conn.
Irondale, N. Y.
Higganum, Conn.
Montville, Conn.
Torrington, Conn.
Bridgeport, Conn.
Shelby, Ala.
Ansonia, Conn.
Seymour, Conn.
Burlington, Vt.
86
©■
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
•©
IRON BUILDINGS AND ROOFS BUILT BY US.
HE FOLLOWING is a list of some of the many iron buildings and iron roofs built by us in the last few years. Parties wishing
to inquire or examine the character of our work are thus given an opportunity to know where it can be found. We invite
examination and correspondence with the parties named below as to the character of our work.
WATERRURY BRASS CO.Waterbury, Conn.
BILLINGS & SPENCER CO. . . ..Hartford, Conn.
STANLEY RULE AND LEVEL CO.New Britain, Conn.
NEW HAVEN COPPER CO.Seymour, Conn.
RUSSIA CEMENT CO.Gloucester, Mass.
LAKE GEORGE PULP AND PAPER CO.Ticonderoga, N. Y.
EASTERN FORGE CO.Portland, Me.
SEYMOUR MFG. CO.Seymour, Conn.
ANACONDA SMELTING WORKS.Anaconda, Montana.
MANCHESTER PRINT WORKS.Manchester, N. H.
FOOT GUARD ARMORY.Hartford, Conn.
SEDGEWICK HALL. Lenox, Mass.
JOHN ILLINGWORTH STEEL CO.Harrison, N. J.
NARRAGANSETT ELECTRIC LIGHTING CO.Providence, R. I.
DULUTH IRON AND STEEL CO.Duluth, Minn.
CONNECTICUT ELECTRIC CO.Waterbury, Conn.
C. W. HUNT CO.New York, N. Y.
ALUMINUM BRASS AND BRONZE CO.Bridgeport, Conn.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
S7
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
©■
ANGLES, TEE BARS, CHANNELS, BEAMS, AND GIRDERS.
T"T 7 HE ILLUSTRATIONS on the opposite page show several different forms of made and rolled sections for use in buildings. The
® J.® upper row on the page gives a section of the ordinary rolled forms which are used in construction. To carry heavy walls, the
plate and box girders shown in the lower row are especially designed where the span and the loads are too great for rolled beams,
the ordinary plate girder, as shown, is particularly well adapted, but incase the walls are over 12 inches wide, the box girder is
better designed for the work as it gives greater width. Where the wall is more than 20 inches wide and the loads are very excessive, it is often
necessary to use a triple box girder, the construction of which is also shown. The ordinary box girders can be made of any depth or any
width up to 24 inches, but above that we recommend a triple box girder, which can be made any depth or any width up to 60 inches.
We carry in stock ordinary even legged angle iron from 1 inch x 1 inch x 3-16 inch to 6 inch x6 inch x ^ inch, or unevenlegged
angle of the ordinary sizes. We always have in stock a large assortment of plates, angles, T bars, beams, channels, and girders, so that
we are able to furnish any of these at short notice.
88
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
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ANGLES, TEE BARS, CHANNELS, BEAMS, AND GIRDERS,
89
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
CORRUGATED IRON DOORS AND SHUTTERS.
TT^HE USE of iron doors and shutters to protect openings in brick walls from fire is very old. A great many people, however,
loose sight of the fact that iron will not resist fire unless put in proper shape. A window shutter made of one large sheet of
heavy plate iron is of little 'or no use as a fire protection, for the reason that as soon as exposed to any heat which would ignite
wood work, the shutter will warp and twist so badly as to allow fire to enter between the wall and the shutter. For this reason, plate
iron doors and shutters have been almost universally abandoned, and in their stead are used corrugated iron. We have no hesitation
in saying that we make the best corrugated iron fire proof door and shutter to be found anywhere in this country, as our experience
extends over a long series of years, and our experiments have been very expensive and very valuable as determining the best form and
construction to resist fire.
We make several different styles of corrugated iron doors and shutters, depending upon the exposure. For slight exposures,
where the buildings are well separated, and the danger from excessive heat is very slight, we recommend our single thickness doors
and shutters, shown and described on pages 96 and 97, as offering sufficient protection. Where, however, the buildings are close
together, and the danger from fire communicating between the buildings is great, we recommend our two thickness corrugated iron
doors and shutters, shown and described on pages 94 and 95, as these will offer ample protection for all outside exposures. For inside
exposures, as for use in vault doors and fire proof walls, we recommend our filled box doors, shown and described on pages 92 and 93,
as being the very best thing ever built in this line.
Some four years ago we made a test of our corrugated iron shutters, an account of which we clipped from the New Britain Herald at
the time.
“ In one corner of the yard was located a building about ten feet square, with a 3 x 6-inch opening in each side, and into these were
fitted the four different styles of fire proof shutters manufactured by the Company, viz.: Single and double thick box doors, and a
wood shutter door covered with tin. The inside of the building was completely filled to the top of the wall—about ten feet frigh—with
hard wood thoroughly saturated with kerosene oil, and covered over the top with corrugated iron, to confine the heat. The shutters
90
©-
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
-O
CORRUGATED IRON DOORS AND SHUTTERS—Continued.
were all placed in exactly the same exposure, and the fires were lighted. It soon began to burn fiercely, but for the first half hour it did
not show itself on any of the shutters, but so great was the heat the walls commenced cracking. The first signs of giving way under
this severe heat was shown in about half an hour, by the wood shutter covered with tin, which commenced to emit smoke and wood oil
through the holes in the tin where the latches and stays were bolted on. The corrugated iron shutters at this time showed no effect
of the heat, except the single thick shutter, which became quite warm so that the paint commenced to smoke. The box door was so
cool that a person could hold their hand on it. At the end of an hour, the wood shutter covered with tin, which had been for some
time throwing off streams of smoke through the cracks, showed unmistakable signs of giving out, and had it not been for the heavy iron
bands forming the outer frame, it would have fallen from its place. The single thickness corrugated iron shutter was, at the same
time, so hot that the paint was all burned off, and the others began to show the intense heat by the burning paint on the outside, but
still held their places, and beyond the burning paint showed no signs of distress. It now became evident that the wood shutter covered
with tin could not withstand this severe heat much longer, and soon the flames were seen to eat through it at the top, showing that
the inside cover of tin had been burned off, and the shutter, as a fire protection, was useless. The corrugated shutters held their
places firmly and closely to the wall. At the end of three hours the fire had nearly subsided, and the shutters were all opened out for
examination. On the inside of the wood shutter, covered with tin, a large hole had been burned through the inside covering, and when
the shutter was opened, about one-half of the inside wood work dropped out, a mass of burned and charred wood. The shutter had
been evidently held together by the wrought iron band about the outside, and the strap pieces forming the hinges which were all firmly
bolted through and through with large washers inside—a form of construction which the superintendent informed us they alone use on
shutters of this kind, and without which the shutters, no doubt, would have failed completely to do the duty. As it was, it came out
of the fire in a very damaged and useless condition, while the corrugated iron shutters were, apparentiy, as good as new, except the
single thickness shutter, which was warped a very little on one lower corner, but not enough to allow the fire to leak through.
The test was witnessed by several, but it is to be much regretted that it had not been more generally advertised, so that more of
our large manufacturing companies, to whom fire proof construction is such an important item, could have been represented. The test
was very satisfactory indeed, as showing merits of the corrugated iron shutters over the wood covered with tin, although for moderate
exposure these latter stood a good test. The building with the shutters still attached is to be left standing, just as they now are, and
parties interested in fire proof shutters can see them if they wish.”
- 0
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
91
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
&
CORRUGATED IRON BOX DOORS.
T“^ 7 HESE ARE constructed of two layers of heavy corrugated iron, each layer built in a heavy angle iron frame, and the two
® I ® connected together by heavy bands and angles, with an air space of two inches or more between the layers, the whole
strengthened by projecting flanges and cross bands, and held firmly in position by heavy hinges and double latch bars. For
extraordinary exposures, as for fire walls in wooden buildings and for vault doors, we fill the space between the two layers with non¬
conducting material, making a fire proof door which will resist any heat short of the melting point.
We have no hesitation in saying that these doors will stand any heat which a brick wall will stand, without warping, twisting,
or allowing the fire to pass through.
©■
92
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
-©
93
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
TWO-THICKNESS DOORS AND SHUTTERS.
r^^HESE ARE composed of two plates of corrugated iron, the corrugations running at right angles to each other, built into a
® I ® heavy angle iron frame, thoroughly supported by flanges, bands, hinges, and latch bars, making an air space of less depth
than in the box doors, but amply sufficient for ordinary exposures, and forming an entirely reliable protection, except for
extra hazardous positions.
This plan is also admirably adapted for outside shutters, where the windows are very large, or are subjected to an unusual exposure.
94-
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
9 -
SINGLE THICKNESS SHUTTERS AND DOORS IN ANGLE IRON FRAMES.
^^HESE ARE our regular, best quality shutters and doors for all ordinary outside exposures. There are many thousands of them
in use, and they have never failed to prove an entire protection, though often subjected to the severest tests. They are
constructed of heavy plates of corrugated iron, with heavy angle iron frames, and thoroughly supported by heavy bands,
flanges, hinges, and double latch bars.
96
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
:
1
■©
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
97
Cross Section Showing the Construction of Our
Regular Single Thickness Corrugated
Iron Shutters.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY.
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These Illustrations were taken direct from
Photographs,
The town of Litchfield, Conn., at an expense of several thousand
dollars, lately completed a new town and county court house, which is
shown in the cut below. The building was constructed entirely of wood,
except in the center there was a brick vault for storing town records.
The openings to this vault were protected by corrugated iron fire
proof doors, furnished by The Berlin Iron Bridge Company.
The view on the right shows the ruins after the fire. The letter which
we received a few days after the
fire from the architect, Robt.
W. Hill, Esq., of Waterbury,
Conn., explains how the doors
protected the vault.
BEFORE THE FIRE.
AFTER THE FIRE.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn. : Waterbury, Conn., August 17, 1888.
Dear Sirs: —I have just returned from Litchfield, Conn., where I examined the ruins of the new court house.
The court house has been entirely consumed by fire, and nothing is left standing but two chimneys and the two brick
vaults, which were built to preserve the town and county records.
The doors on the vaults, which were furnished by your company, protected them perfectly. The vaults being
new, no records had yet* been placed in them, but the inside wood-work and some yellow pine shavings lying on the
floor were unscorched. The outside doors are of course more or less warped and burned, but the inside vestibule
doors are unharmed, the paint not being blistered; in fact they are in as good condition as when they were put in, and
will be used again, and with some repairs, the outside doors can be used again.
I have never seen a corrugated iron box door of any kind exposed to so severe a heat as this, and shall have no
hesitation hereafter in recommending your corrugated iron doors for fire proof vaults. I consider this a very severe
test, as the building was entirely of wood, and very heavily timbered.
Yours very truly, ROBERT W. HILL, Architect.
98
©-
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
JAIL CELL.
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The cut on this page
represents an ordinary form
of Jail Cell or Lock-up, of
which we are building a great
many. The illustration shows
three cells, which can be placed
in any ordinary room or hall, as
they are complete in themselves,
the sides, floor and top being of
iron, thus saving the expense of
building a large amount of
mason work. These cells are
very valuable in small towns as
furnishing a perfectly safe and
reliable means of confinement
for temporary criminals, tramps,
etc. They are not designed to
hold prisoners under long sen¬
tence, as such prisoners are
generally consigned to the keep¬
ing of the county officials. These
cells made of iron or steel are
much cheaper than those made
of stone or brick.
Cells constructed in this
way are much easier to clean
and keep clean than if made of
wood, brick, or stone. Each
cell is provided with an iron bed¬
stead securely riveted to the iron
cell, thus preventing prisoners
doing themselves bodily harm
or using portions of the bed¬
stead for breaking out.
Plan.
99
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
IRON POLICE STATION AT WATERBURY, CONN.
v | / HE CUT on the opposite page shows the iron work for a Police Station built by us for the City of Waterbury, Conn,
e) I © The s ide walls are of brick and stone. In the centre of the building, with a corrider on each side, there are placed two rows
of jail cells, ten cells in each row—thus offering accommodations for twenty prisoners without using the corrider. Each cell is
made with a back and sides of solid plate iron, thus preventing any communication whatever between the occupants of the different cells.
For the purpose of light and ventilation the tops of the cells are made of iron lattice, and, in order to prevent violent and insane prisoners
from making any fastenings to the roofs of cells for the purpose of hanging themselves, a layer of fine wire netting is placed between the
lattice bars, so that it is absolutely impossible to make any attachment whatever to the top of the cells.
The front is made of solid plate, except the grated door, which is provided with a slide through which food can be passed without
unlocking the door. In each cell is an iron cot bed thoroughly riveted to the sides and floor, making it perfectly immovable.
This is probably one of the best designed police stations in the United States for a city of the size of Waterbury, as it combines a
good, comfortable place for the detention of prisoners, at the same time, a safe and reliable place of confinement.
We should be pleased to furnish plans and estimates to parties desiring work in this line, either in iron or steel.
&
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
lOl
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
©■
TESTIMONIALS.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. ! Nichols, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Yours of Jan. 28th is at hand, and in reply would say that the
bridge built by your Company for our town has given entire satisfaction, combining
durability, simplicity, and strength. Would recommend your work as first-class in
every respect to those needing anything in your line of work.
Yours truly, Lewis Jones, Com’r Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : DALTON, Mass.
Gentlemen—The three iron bridges erected by your Company for this town are
perfectly satisfactory to the Board of selectmen and the traveling public. We have
three other bridges in town, but we consider your bridges are far superior to those.
I can recommend them to any town needing iron bridges.
Very respectfully, John Smith, Chairman Selectmen.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this town for a new board of
town officers.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : GOSHEN, IND.
Gentlemen—Your bridge here is entirely satisfactory, and we find it to be all you
claimed. A. Myers, Sup’t of Bridges.
Bennington, N. H.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. :
Gentlemen—The bridge built by the Berlin Iron Bridge Company for this town
is a first-class structure, and has proved satisfactory in every respect, and I cheerfully
recommend it to any town wanting a good bridge.
B. F. George, Civil Engineer and Selectman.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : LACONIA, N. H.
Gentlemen—The bridge you built for us four years ago is entirely satisfactory,
and I most cheerfully recommend your Company to parties in want of bridge work.
Respectfully yours, F. W. Ladd, Selectman.
Office of the Langdon Mfg. Co., Manchester, N. H
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. :
Gentlemen—The iron bridge you made us last summer was first-class in every
respect, and is giving us entire satisfaction. Yours truly, Wm. Killey, Agent.
'Hie Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Lisbon, N. H.
Gentlemen—In reply to yours of the 25th inst., would say that the bridge your
Company built for our town in the autumn of 1884 gave entire satisfaction at the
time and has been growing in favor ever since. It is now the pride of every citizen
in our town, and it is now the verdict of those that opposed the bridge, that the town
did the right thing at the right time. After nine consecutive years of experience in
looking after the bridges of this town, I am confident that no town can afford to
replace their old worn-out bridges with wood, and that no town could do any better
than to build the Parabolic Truss Bridge, in preference to any other iron bridge. I
can cheerfully recommend the Company for square dealing to all in need of their
work. Yours respectfully, Henry C. Symonds, Ch. of Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Middlefield, Conn.
Gentlemen—It gives me great pleasure to be able to say that the bridge con¬
structed by your Company for us two years ago has given entire satisfaction ; and I
may also say that the bridge erected by your Company at Rock Falls is to-day as
staunch and firm as when it was first erected.
James T. Inglis, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn. : Manchester, Vt.
Gentlemen—The bridge built for this town some four years ago by your Company
has as yet shown no signs of “ structural weakness.” If we send it out to sea in
search of a storm, and the inoffensive experts appointed to accompany it report that it
fails to come up to the contract, will inform you.
Yours very respectfully, M. Canfield, Chairman Selectmen.
& ---
102
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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Gentlemen of the Iron Bridge Co. : Sharon, Conn.
The bridge you erected across the stream at Sharon Valley in 18S4 gives entire
satisfaction. The public commend it lor its symmetrical proportions, as well as for its
strength and durability. The bridge is situated near a blast furnace, and is crossed
daily, except Sundays, with teams heavily loaded with iron and coal. I consider the
wear and tear on this bridge greater than on any other of its size in town, and it stands
its test well. To towns desirous of erecting iron bridges I can cheerfully recom¬
mend your Bridge Company for good work and fair dealing.
Yours respectfully, Baldwin Reed, First Selectman.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Dover, Me.
Dear Sirs—In answer to your letter of inquiry of Jan. 21st., would say that the
iron bridge built by your Company for our town in the fall of 18S4 has given entire
satisfaction. The citizens are well pleased with it, and should we want another bridge,
we would, in my opinion, vote unanimously for another iron one, in preference to the
old wooden ones, and would advise all parties in want of a good substantial bridge to
buy your iron bridge every time. Yours truly, I. O. Burgess, Ch. Selectmen.
The Iron Bridge Co. : Derby, Conn.
Gentlemen—The iron bridges built for the town of Derby, as we have stated
before, give the best of satisfaction; they are strong, durable, and built to stay. You
may refer to our board at any time.
Yours truly, Robert O. Gates, Chairman Selectmen.
Since above was written we have built another bridge in this town for a new board of
town officers.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Washington Mills Co., Lawrence, Mass.
Gentlemen—The bridge you built for us last summer is entirely satisfactory in
every way. Yours respectfully, Washington Mills Co.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. Thomaston, Me.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge 60 ft. span and 18 ft. roadway which your company
built between this town and the city of Rockland in 1885 gives entire satisfaction.
The bridge has been in use two years and subject to heavy loads and continuous traffic
which has fully tested it, and now we have no hesitation in saying the bridge is entirely
satisfactory in every way, shape, and manner, and we cheerfully recommend your
company to all in want of first-class iron bridges. The Parabolic Bridge built by your
company has great stiffness as well as beauty of outline. We are thoroughly satisfied
with the bridge and your manner of dealing.
Yours very truly, Wm. A. Hatch, Chairman Selectmen.
Since above was written we have built another bridge in this town for a new board of
town officers.
I The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Hollis Center, Me.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge built by your company between this town and Bux¬
ton has given entire satisfaction. I consider it first-class in every particular, and I can
cheerfully recommend your company to any town in want of first-class iron bridges.
W. S. Moulton, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Corinth, Vt.
Gentlemen—I can with pleasure say that the bridge that you built for us last sum¬
mer gives perfect satisfaction, and we can cheerfully recommend your work to those
in need of first-class bridges. Yours truly,
G. M. Winchester, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Hopkinton, N. Y.
Gentlemen—The Parabolic Low Truss Bridge built at Ft. Jackson in the town of
Hopkinton in 1885 by your company gives entire satisfaction to the tax-payers and the
traveling public. We have no hesitation in recommending your company to any town
or committee wishing to purchase bridges. Respectfully yours,
J. A. Harron, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Westport, Mass.
Gentlemen—Your favor of the 8th received. In regard to the iron bridge con¬
structed by you for the town of Westport last summer we have to say that the bridge
as erected is very satisfactory to the great majority of our town people, and we believe
so far as can be seen the bridge is all that you claimed for it, viz.: a bridge of great
strength and utility. We have no doubt that that class of bridge will become gen¬
eral as old bridges become dilapidated and untrustworthy and need replacing.
Yours truly,
A. D. Manchester,! ,, , ,
H. W. Kirby, } Selectmen -
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Office of Merrick Thread Co., Holyoke, Mass.
Gentlemen—The iron elevated bridge, 81 feet span, you erected for us across
Main street in this city, gives us thus far entire satisfaction. We consider it strong
against any lateral pressure less than a tornado. Yours truly,
Timothy Merrick, Treas.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., Burnham, Me.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 21st came duly to hand, inquiring about the bridge
you built for us three years ago. In reply would say that the bridge has given entire
satisfaction, and if we had another one to build we should let the job to your company.
Yours truly, G. E. Berry, Chairman Selectmen.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
103
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : CUMMINGTON, Mass.
Gentlemen—The bridge purchased of you for the town of Cummington has given
entire satisfaction to all. I can cheerfully recommend your bridge to all in need of
highway bridges. Respectfully yours, L. A. Tower, Ch. Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Ashland, N. H.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge you built for this town is giving perfect satisfaction,
and I can recommend your bridges as first-class in every respect.
Eri G. Clapp, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Westfield, Mass.
Gentlemen—Your letter of the 8th inst. was duly received. Permit me to say
that the bridge you built for this town last summer is entirely satisfactory in every
respect. It is as firm as the earth and handsome withal. Yours very truly,
Edwin Hedoes, Selectmen.
We have built two iron bridges for this town since above was written.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Camden, Me.
Gentlemen—The bridge which you contracted for the town of Camden across
Goose River in the year 1884 gives our town perfect satisfaction in every way. It is
some 159 ft. long 40 ft. above the river, rattles none, and is an ornament to our village.
We cheerfully recommend your bridge to any towns which are contemplating building
bridges across streams or deep chasms.
Very respectfully, Alden Miller, Jr., I
J. S. Fuller, > Selectmen.
D. J. Andrews, j
Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: HoRNELSVILLE, N. Y.
Dear Sirs—I have put in during the present year, three of your iron bridges from
54 to 63 ft. ' All of these bridges are being subjected to severe tests, and all, so far,
prove satisfactory, I regard them as excellent bridges in every respect.
Yours truly, James Gray, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : North Manlius, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Your bridge is a good one and gives good satisfaction.
C. J. K. Oats.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Grantyille, Conn.
Gentlemen—Your line at hand. In reply would say that I think the bridge you
put on for us has given good satisfaction. My one regret is that we have not more
like it. Yours truly, M. F. Grant, First Selectman.
1
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Wadleys Falls, N. H.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 25th has been received. In reply I may say, the
bridges built us by the Berlin Iron Bridge Co. give us perfect satisfaction. 1 stood
on the first bridge built when a team of six oxen and four horses with an engine
of ten tons crossed it and I could notice hardly a vibration. We have no hesitation
in saying they are good. Isaiah D. Edgerly, Selectman.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Swanton, Vt.
Gentlemen—In answer to your inquiry in relation to the iron bridge )ou built
for this town I would say that it has given entire satisfaction. We can cordially
recommend your bridges to any in need of a bridge. Very truly yours,
Charles H. Reynolds, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Honeoye Falls, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Your letter of January 29th to hand and contents noted. The
iron bridge you built for our town last year gives entire satisfaction. We have several
iron bridges in our town, but none to compare with jours in strength and durability.
We would recommend it to any parties wanting a good, durable bridge.
Yours respectfully, N. P. Earle, Commissioner of Highways.
Office of Amoskeag Paper Mill, Manchester N. H.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. :
Dear Sirs—The iron bridge which you built and placed over the canal in this
city for us last summer we are much pleased with. To those desiring such structures,
we unhesitatingly recommend your house. Very truly, John Hoyt & Co.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Mayor’s Office, Brockton, Mass.
Gentlemen—This is to certify that the Berlin Iron Bridge Co. has furnished
the city of Brockton with five iron bridges, two of which are what are known as the
concrete iron bridge. I am pleased to say that our dealings have been perfectly
satisfactory and that everything has been done in a thorough and workmanlike
manner, and the material furnished has been first-class.
Very respectfully, John J. Whipple, Mayor.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Chesterfield, Mass.
Gentlemen—In relation to the bridge you recently put up in this town, we take
pleasure in stating that it is constructed according to contract, and that it has been
satisfactorily tested by heavy loading, fast driving, and extreme cold weather, and
everything is entirely satisfactory, and even exceeds our expectations.
Very respectfully,
D.' L Stanton, } Selectmen of Chesterfield:
ID-
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY
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The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Whitefield, N. H.
Gentlemen—We have had one of your iron bridges in use since 1S83, and it
has given entire satisfaction and we can recommend it to any town in want of a
first-class bridge. Yours truly, A. W. Miner, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Chester, Vt.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge you built for the town of Chester last August is
a first-class iron bridge, and so far has given entire satisfaction to the tax-payers and
the community at large. Material and workmanship appear to be good, the bridge
firm and rigid. We would recommend any town to examine your bridge before
purchasing elsewhere. Yours truly, Calvin S. Hinds, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : SALAMANCA, N. Y.
Gentlemen—This town has now five spans of Parabolic Truss Iron Bridges put
up by the Berlin Iron Bridge Co.—three span of 133'/; feet 20 ft. roadway with two
five-foot walks, put up in 1883, one span 85 feet in 1884, and one span 150 feet 20
ft. roadway, in 1886, put up in place of a two span of-iron bridge removed.
All of these bridges give perfect satisfaction to the town and are admired by every
one. Yours truly, J. E. Champlin, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Conway, Mass.
Gentlemen—I can cheerfully say, we are well pleased with the bridge you built
for us last summer, and also the 200 ft. span you built four years ago, between this
town and the town of Shelburne. Both are giving the best of satisfaction. If more
iron bridges were to be built this would be the one preferred.
Yours very truly, Franklin Pease, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Canandaigua, N. Y.
Gentlemen—We, the Commissioners of Highways of the town of Canandaigua,
do heartily endorse the Parabolic Truss Bridge manufactured by you. We have one
low truss and four high truss bridges that have been tried for the last five years, and
they meet the approbation of the public. We, as a board of commissioners, cannot
speak too highly of the material and workmanship in your bridges. May the good
work go on. Yours truly, Dewitt Haire, I
Homer A. Davis, [■ Commissioners of Highways.
G. M. Duel, J
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Westerly, R. I.
Gentlemen—We have now used the Concrete bridge which you built between
the towns of Westerly, R. I., and Stonington, Conn., and we are fully satisfied that
there is no better bridge in the New England States. Yours truly,
B. Court Bentley, Chairman Town Council.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Saco, Me.
Gentlemen—In answer to your inquiry of January 22d, would say it gives me
great pleasure to say that the bridge built by your company in the city of Saco, some
four years ago, has given entire satisfaction, and that the larger one of over 3C0 feet
in length, constructed by you the past summer for the cities of Saco and Biddeford
sonrbined, is, in my judgment, superior to the other in consequence of several
improvements in construction which you have adopted.
Yours very truly, Roscoe L. Bowers, Mayor.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this city for a new board
of city officers.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Pike, N. Y.
Dear Sir—I am in receipt of your favor of December 8th. In reply thereto
I would say we have several iron bridges in this town, two of which were made by
the Berlin Iron Bridge Co. I consider the bridge you built for me last fall to be
the best one in western New York, without exception; it is so conceded by all who
have seen it. It is a model of strength, workmanship, and beauty.
Yours truly, J. A. Phillips, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Chateaugay, N. Y.
Gentlemen—This is to certify that the town of Chateaugay, N. Y., during the
summer of 1886, purchased of the Berlin Iron Bridge Co. two Parabolic Truss
Bridges, which are giving the best of satisfaction. It is believed that these bridges
are the best in the market.
Yours truly,
N . G. Douglas, Town Clerk.
R. W. Anderson, Supervisor.
H. W Derby, j
J. M. Warren, I T .
H. A. Stoughton, j J Ub lct> '
H. H. Hill, J
John Daskin, Commissioner of Highway.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Jewett City, Conn.
Gentlemen—In reply to yours of the nth, I have to say, the two bridges made
by you, of iron, are in place: one 62 feet and the other 102 feet long. I am very
much pleased with them, and am satisfied that they are constructed on the right
principle and are destined to be the bridge of the future.
J. O. Sweet, Agent Ashland Cotton Co.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Evans Mills, N. Y.
Dear Sir—The two iron bridges built this fall by the Berlin Iron Bridge Co.,
give entire satisfaction to all that have seen them, and I think they are the best
bridges now in use. B. M. Strong, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.. Thompson, Conn
Dear Sir—We received your letter dated August I ith, and in reply will say,
we are well pleased with the bridge, and if we ever have to buy another bridge, we
shall buy the same kind of a bridge; and everything was as Mr. Towne agreed to
have it. This is the way we feel. Yours, etc.,
George H. Nichols, First Selectman.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this town for a new board
of town officers.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co.. Maine, Broome Co., N. Y.
Gentlemen—We have in this town five iron bridges built by four different com¬
panies, one—the last one erected—by the Berlin Iron Bridge Co. When it became
my duty to buy an iron bridge I carefully examined the bridges in this and other
towns, among them the one built by your company, and decided on one of your
Parabolic Truss Bridges, and now that it is completed, I am satisfied that I made no
mistake in my selection. All who have seen the bridge pronounce it ahead in all
points, of any bridge we have, and it gives me pleasure to say that all your agree¬
ments and the contract have been fully kept, and I can heartily recommend your
company and bridges to all. Yours very respectfully,
T. T. Lawton, Commissioner of Highway.
We have built two iron bridges for this town since above was written.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Jewett City Mills, Jewett City, Conn.
Gentlemen—The bridge you have recently built for us in Jewett City gives
entire satisfaction, and has stood, without any apparent settling, the severe tests
of heavy teaming during the repairs which are going on here.
Yours respectfully, W. A. Slater.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Braintree, Mass.
Gentlemen—The three iron highway bridges erected by the Berlin Iron Bridge
Co., for the town of Braintree, Mass., have given general satisfaction to the citizens,
and are very acceptable to the undersigned as agents of the town.
J. M. Knight, J. F. Bates, H. A. Monk, Selectmen.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this town for a new board
of town officers.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Egremont, Mass.
Dear Sirs-—The bridge put up by your company in the village of South Egre¬
mont, on September last, meets the approbation of the entire community. It not
only adds greatly to the beauty of the place, but we, the Selectmen, are bound to
consider it a first-class structure in every respect. Yours, etc.,
H. L. Rowe, Chairman of Selectmen.
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : STONINGTON, Conn.
Gentlemen—In reply to your letter of the 18th inst., I would state, that the Iron
Plate Girder Bridge with concrete roadway, built by you over Pawcatuck River,
between this town and the town of Westerly, R. I., in 1885, has thus far proved
satisfactory to us. Before deciding upon any particular plan of bridge, I made a tour
of the State for the purpose of examining and inquiring into the merits of the various
styles of bridge, and sought the opinions of the local authorities relative thereto.
The result of my observations convinced me that an Iron Plate Girder Bridge, with
a concrete roadway, supported on iron cylinder piers, would be best adapted for the
locality in question; and my reasons therefor may be briefly summarized as follows:
1st. It would obviate the presence of high and unsightly truss work in the central
portion of the two villages and on the main thoroughfare connecting them. 2d. The
concrete roadway would obviate the disagreeable din of a plank roadway, and would
save the expense of frequent repairs that must of necessity be accompanied with
a plank covering, especially in a live business locality like this, where the passing
of teams is incessant, and with daily loads of from three to five tons; last, but not
least by any means, the economy in first cost, and the substantial, durable character
of the structure. As a matter of fact, strangers, in crossing the bridge over the con¬
crete roadway, have aught to remind them of but one continuous street.
Very respectfully, Geo. D. Stanton, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Wallingford, Conn.
Gentlemen—In reply to your inquiry respecting your bridges, would say that
I have made inquiries, and, as far as I can learn and by my own observations, they
have proved perfectly satisfactory. Yours very respectfully,
Chas. M. Jones, Town Agent.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : CLAREMONT, N. II.
Gentlemen—About eight years ago, your company built an iron bridge for this
town, 108 ft. span. 20 feet roadway, and two walks, 5 feet each. The bridge has
proved perfectly satisfactory, and we can cheerfully recommend it to anyone wanting
a bridge. Isaac II. Long, J
M. S. Rossiter, l Selectmen.
Henry S. Sanders, J
Office of The Russell Mfg. Co., Middletown, Conn.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. :
The iron bridge at Middlefield, which you built five years since, has given entire
satisfaction to ourselves and the public travel, and is as good as new. The small
bridges connecting our mills at South Farms, constructed for fire escapes, in compli¬
ance with the laws of the State of Connecticut, relating to protection of persons
employed in mills in case of fire alarm, are very strong, durable, and artistic in
design. Very respectfully, H. G. Hubbard, President.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : North Haven, Conn.
Gentlemen—We are well pleased with the iron bridge you erected for us the
past season, and would recommend it to any who need structures of a similar kind.
R. T. Linsley, ~|
W. B. Hemmingway, v Selectmen.
F. E. Jacobs, J
Office of Amoskeag Mfg. Co., Manchester, N. H.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. :
Gentlemen—Your favor of the Sth inst. is at hand. I am glad to say that our
experience with the two iron bridges and the iron roof of our boiler-house, which
your Company erected for us last summer, has been satisfactory so far.
Yours truly, J. S. Livermore, Agent.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Keene Valley, N. Y.
Gentlemen—I think that the Parabolic bridge that you furnished for the town
is superior to any other that I have seen. It gives perfect satisfaction.
Yours truly, Monroe Holt, Supervisor.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Amherst, Mass.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge built by your Company for this town four years
ago has given entire satisfaction. It appears to be as firm, strong, and unyielding
now as the day it was finished, and all the indications are that is to be its permanent
condition. Respectfully yours, Levi Stockbridge, Chairman Selectmen.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this town for a new board
of town officers.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Glendale, Mass.
Gentlemen—Referring to your favor of the 21st inst., would say, the iron bridge
erected by you four years since for the town of Stockbridge, has, from its peculiar
location, been subjected to a very severe trial. It has given perfect satisfaction, and
is, so far as I can see, in perfect order. I would cheerfully recommend your bridge
to any in need, and would be pleased at any time to meet persons who might wish
to examine it. Truly yours, F. M. Adams, Selectman.
Office of Chaffee & Callender, Glendale, Mass.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co.:
Gentlemen—The iron bridge that you put up for us in June, 1S82, has been
in constant use ever since, and gives perfect satisfaction. Though light in appear
ance, it has been loaded heavier than any common road bridge; often is without any
perceptible springing; and we cheerfully recommend it to any one who wants a
good bridge. Yours truly, CHAFFEE & CALLENDER.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Londonderry, Vt.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge you built for us some two years ago has given
entire satisfaction. Those who were opposed to putting in an iron bridge now con¬
sider it a good investment. I can conscientiously recommend your work to any one
in want of iron bridges. Yours very truly,
W. L. Gibson, Chairman Selectmen.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Goshen, Ind.
Gentlemen—Your bridge here is entirely satisfactory, and we find it to be all
you claimed. A. Myers, Sup’t of Bridges.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : STILLWATER, R. I.
Gentlemen—Your request is at hand. In reply will say, so far as the bridge
you constructed in our town meets with an approbation perfectly in every particular,
though we have made no severe test as to its strength. Four heavy horses with a
wagon loaded with five-ton weight driven over it makes scarcely a perceptible
vibration or jar on the iron rods. I think it far superior to one of wood. I don’t
think a wooden bridge of that length could have been built as firm as this appears
to be. I would recommend iron every time in case of a new bridge.
Yours truly, J. S. Appleby, Pres. Town Council.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this town for a new board
of town officers.
The Berlin Bridge Co. : Lee, Mass.
Gentlemen—The bridges you built for us are perfectly satisfactory in every way.
We do not know of anything about them but what is perfect. If we were in want of
any more should not look for anything better than these have proved so far.
Yours respectfully, F. C. Phelps, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Harwinton, Conn.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 22nd inst. is received. In reply would say, the bridge
you built between the towns of Harwinton and Litchfield has been satisfactory to the
traveling public in every way, and I most earnestly endorse the Berlin Iron Bridge
Company as the builders of good, strong, and reliable bridges.
Very truly yours, Henry E. IIinman, Chairman Selectmen.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Danforth, Me.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge built for our town by your Company last year, and
placed in position by Mr. John Towrne, your Company’s special agent, gives entire sat¬
isfaction. It is the universal opinion that it is the cheapest and best bridge ever built
in this section ol the country.
Very truly yours, Goodwin Brothers, Danforth, Me.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
107
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Binghamton, N. Y.
Gentlemen—This is to certify that the Berlin Iron Bridge Company have built for
the city of Binghamton, N. Y., under our charge, the sub-structure and super structure
of an iron truss bridge, consisting of two abutments and two piers, about 1,500 yards
of first-class masonary and three spans of iron truss bridge, each 161 feet long, with a
roadway 24 feet wide, and two sidewalks, each 6 feet wide, with iron joist in the
roadway, and that their work has been first class in every particular. The bridge is
now open for travel, and the heaviest teams cross it continually with stone, lumber,
and that class of loads, either walking or trotting, and it is as firm and solid as the
street itself, not a tremble or a vibration of any kind being perceptible. They are well
supplied with all the necessary pile drivers, derricks, hoisting engines, etc., for doing
sub-structure work, and the shops are well equipped with all the necessary tools and
machinery for doing work promptly and well. We never saw iron work go together
so accurately as this bridge. They did their work in a thorough manner, and we can
cheerfully recommend them to any party in want of a good reliable bridge.
D. T. Finch, B. M. Babcock, Commissioners.
S. E. Monroe, Engineer in charge.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Bangor, Me.
Gentlemen—In reply to your inquiry concerning the present condition of the
Plate Girder Bridge, built by your company in 1884, over the Kenduskeag stream in
this city, I will say that it is certainly a success. This bridge is subject to the constant
application of heavy loads throughout the entire year, and I have examined it care¬
fully when heavily loaded, as a result of which I am satisfied that it is not only strong
otherwise, but that the concrete with which it is covered adds considerably to its rigid¬
ity. As to the satisfaction it gives generally, I can only say that so far as I know our
citizens are more than satisfied, and their experience indicates that a Plate Girder
Bridge covered with concrete, supported on arches of corrugated iron, is the most eco¬
nomical bridge we can build here for a deck bridge. Very truly yours,
P. H. Coombs, City Engineer,
Ashley Falls, Mass.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn. :
Gentlemen—The bridge built by your company over the Housatonic River, near
the village of Ashley Falls, town of Sheffield, Mass., in the summer of 1880, is giving
complete satisfaction. I have delayed answering your letter of the 6th to make
inquiries, as you are aware that the friends of the bridge encountered the most deter¬
mined opposition from many of the most influential men in town about having an iron
bridge. But now the opposition is dead, and the last wooden bridge over the Housa¬
tonic has been built. Truly yours,
Wm. L. Abbott, Chairman of Bridge Committee.
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Franconia, N. H.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge 94 ft. span, 16 ft. roadway, which your company
built for this town in 1884, has now been in use for three years and has given entire
satisfaction to everybody. We have never heard anything against the bridge in any
way, and we can recommend your bridge and your company to towns in want of first-
class iron highway bridges. When the bridge was built there was some talk that per¬
haps it was better to use wood here than iron, as we are in the midst of a lumber
country where wood is very cheap: but now, after three years, we have no hesitation
whatever in saying that we believe the iron bridge to be the best and cheapest invest¬
ment that the town has made. Yours truly, Osman Parker, Ch. Selectmen.
Office of Palmer Brothers, Montville, Conn.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. :
Gentlemen—The bridge you built for us, so far, has given entire satisfaction. It
seems to meet all the requirements, and we see no reason why it will not continue to
do so. Respectfully, Palmer Bros.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Seymour, Conn.
Gentlemen—The three iron bridges built by your company for the town of Sey¬
mour four years ago have given and are giving entire satisfaction to the citizens of this
town, and the opinion is general here that in a few years this town will replace the
upper wooden bridge across the Naugatuck River with one of your excellent iron
bridges. Yours respectfully, C. H. Lounsbury, Town Agent.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Jewett City, Conn.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 24th received, and in reply would say, the bridge your
company erected for us in the fall of 1879 has fully come up to the recommendations
and gives perfect satisfaction, and is looked upon as a model of strength and beauty.
The same may be said of the bridge your company put in for us in the summer of
1886, which has been severely tested with no signs of weakness. I will only add
that the community are satisfied. Respectfully yours,
Israel Mathewson, Selectman of Griswold.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Elizabethtown, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Your Parabolic Truss Bridge put up in this village in June last,
gives the very greatest satisfaction. All speak in its favor. Should this town put
in any more iron bridges, I am certain they would choose your bridge in preference
to any other they have ever seen. It is all right as to strength, and very fine in
appearance. George W. Rice, Commissioner Highways.
A. K. Dudley, Supervisor.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Buckfield, Me.
Gentlemen—The two iron bridges, which you built for us some four years ago,
are giving entire satisfaction, and I have no hesitation in recommending them to
others in want of first-class structures. Yours truly,
A. P. Bonney, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Lower Bartlett, N. H.
Gentlemen—Some four years ago, your company built a bridge for the town
of Bartlett. The bridge spans the east branch of the Saco River. Not a nut has
been turned on the bridge since built, and the only expense incurred since is painting
it over. It stands to-day the same as when built, and, for aught I know, as good.
The bridge we had across the stream before this bridge was built was a wooden one,
somewhat of the model of yours, but of single action, yours being double makes it
much stronger, and of iron, as much better and durable, as iron is over wood. We
have three covered bridges in town, and for wear this is worth the whole of them.
I can cheerfully recommend your bridge to any town that wants a good, durable,
and cheap bridge. Yours truly, G. W. M. Pitman, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Biddeford, Me.
Gentlemen—I desire to acknowledge a full approval of the splendid Parabolic
Truss Bridge lately furnished this city by your company. It is substantially without
deflection, notwithstanding the numerous weights it is required to sustain, and its
contour is faultless. Respectfully, etc., Samuel F. Parcher, Mayor.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this city for a new board
of city officers.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Uxbridge, Mass.
Gentlemen—The Parabolic Truss Bridge we bought of your company last sum¬
mer, gives general satisfaction. It is strong and stiff, no shake or tremble when
teams pass over it, even if it be faster than a walk. It is also ornamental as well as
strong, which together, makes it a very desirable bridge to erect. After a trial
of six or eight months as compared with the many other iron bridges in the market,
all doubts are removed, and I call your Parabolic Truss Bridge superior to all
of them. Yours respectfully, Zadok A. Taft, Chairman Selectmen.
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The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : South Canterbury, Conn.
Gentlemen—A letter written by your treasurer has just come to hand. The
Parabolic Truss Bridge, you built for us last summer, gives complete satisfaction to
us all. A few of my townsmen were bitter against it at first, but after observing it
properly tested are now loud in its praise, and consider it more economical than
a wooden bridge. There will hereafter be no more large wooden bridges built
in this part of the country. They will be of iron. Respectfully,
George F. Tillinghast, Selectman.
Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Nashua, N. H.
Dear Sirs—Yours received. The bridge you built for the city speaks for itself
far better than I can. It is as solid as our granite hills. Truly yours,
A. M. Norton, Mayor.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Ludlow, Vt.
Gentlemen—The two iron bridges erected in the fall of 1883, also the one in
1885, have pioven satisfactory. They have now been up long enough for us to be
able to say they are first-class work, and we can recommend your company and your
bridges to all parties. We would cheerfully give our time in recommending and
showing our bridges to all who wish to see them. Respectfully yours,
D. R. Sargent, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : North Sheldon, Vt.
Gentlemen—Yours received. Would say that I can heartily recommend your
bridge as first-class work, and gives entire satisfaction. In the last thaw the ice
jammed at the ends of the bridge so that it rose up from its abutments, but it came
back all right. It must be strong and well made to stand such a pressure.
Yours truly, J. A. Potter, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : South Oxford, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Yours of January 27th was duly received, and in reply would say
that the tax-payers of Oxford are much pleased with our bridge and think it is
a first-class one. I do not think that there are more than ten tax-payers in town
but what are pleased. Respectfully yours, J. B. Willoughby, Com. Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Mayors’ Office, City of Taunton, Mass.
Gentlemen—I desire to express to you my entire satisfaction with the two
concrete iron bridges which you have erected for this city during the present season.
For substantiality and convenience they are unsurpassed. Respectfully yours,
R. H. Hall, Mayor.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Torrington, Conn.
Gentlemen—We are glad to recommend your iron bridges. We have nine
of them in our town, some of them being subjected to heavy traffic, and we have
no hesitation in recommending them as being first-class in every respect. Some
of these bridges have been in use about five years, so that we have a good oppor¬
tunity to judge of their merits, and we have no hesitation in recommending them
to other towns. Yours respectfully,
George A. Allen, E. C. Hotchkiss, T. M. Sullivan, Selectmen.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Sandisfield, Conn.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge you built for us five years ago, spanning the Farm¬
ington River between this town and the town of Tolland, has given entire satis¬
faction. J. M. Fuller, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn.: Malone, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Your favor of the 28th received, and replying would say that the
bridge you built for this town three years ago is all you claimed for it. It has given
uood satisfaction. We have not laid out one cent on it since it was built. Iron
bridges are far superior to wooden. Wallace H. Jones, Com. of Highways.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this town for a new board
of town officers.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. . Lake Village, Conn.
Gentlemen—The bridge which you built for us some four years ago at the outlet
of the lake, is a strong permanent structure, and has given entire satisfaction in every
respect. When our bridge at Lake Village is in need of repairs I shall recommend an
iron bridge from your company. Yours truly,
Steven S. Ayer, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn. : DANIELSONVILLE, Conn.
Gentlemen—It gives me pleasure to hear, and talk with the people of the town of
Killingly and Brooklyn, Conn., in reference to the bridge you have recently erected
for us across the Quinebaug River. All speak highly of the structure, and I as chair¬
man of the board who contracted with you, will say in behalf of said board, that your
contract is more than filled. You gave us a better bridge than we contracted for.
Yours truly, E. R. Burlingame, Chairman Selectmen.
Killingly, and Chairman Building Committee.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Hartwick Seminary, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Your favor of Jan. 31st received. In reply would say the bridges I
purchased of your company were satisfactory in every respect.
Respectfully yours, H. E. Kinne, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Avoca, N. Y.
Gentlemen—We have eleven of your bridges in our town ; we have also some
bridges in our town built by other companies but your bridges are liked the best.
We are well pleased with them and think we have the best bridge we can get for the
money they have cost us.
Respectfully yours, L. Mathewson, Commissioner of Highways.
We have built two Iron Bridges for this town since above was written.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Campton, N. H.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge erected by the Berlin Iron Company gives good sat¬
isfaction and all are pleased with it. Yours respectfully,
C. W. Pui-sifer, A. P. Rowe, D. B. Pulsifer, Selectmen.
Since above was written we have built another bridge in this town for a new board of
town officers.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Northfield, N. H.
Gentlemen—The iron bridges that our town bought of you in 1881, have proved
satisfactory. We have had no repairs to make on them, but to keep them painted.
We had the driveways concreted in 1885, and we like it.
Yours respectfully, F'rank II. Hill, For the Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. ; Great Barrington, Mass.
Gentlemen—Your letter asking me my opinion of your bridges, received. We
have nine of them here, which have been built within the last ten years. They have
proved satisfactory, and I would gladly recommend them to anyone wishing to build
a bridge. For safety aud durability, as well as workmanship, they cannot be excelled.
Yours truly, W. W. Langdon. Chairman Selectmen.
Since above was written we have built another bridge in this town for a new board of
town officers.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Waterbury, Conn.
Gentlemen—The 11 iron bridges which we have had in our town of your make
are giving entire satisfaction. The spans vary from 40 to 205 ft , and are all Parabolic
Truss. Some of these bridges are subjected to the heaviest city traffic, as our truck
teams cross them almost every hour of the day, but under this severe and heavy traffic
they show no danger of rattling or vibrating in any way. We prefer your Parabolic
Truss Bridge to any bridge made, as we have had experience with other makes and
are now taking down another iron bridge, which has been put up only about ten years,
and have purchased one of your Parabolic Truss Bridges to replace it. This is the
second bridge we have taken down within a few years, to be replaced by your Para¬
bolic Truss Bridge. We consider your Parabolic Truss Bridge the best and most
complete road bridge, both in strength and workmanship, of any bridge manufactured,
and have no hesitation in recommending your company and your bridge to others in
want of first-class work. Yours truly,
Benj. Sedgwick, J. B. Doherty, Selectmen.
I fully concur in the recommendation of Benj. Sedgwick, Selectman, in relation
to the Parabolic Iron Bridge made by the Berlin Iron Bridge Company of East Berlin,
Conn. My experience with these bridges in Waterbury, Conn., will warrant the
endorsement. Henry Boughton, Mayor of Waterbury.
We have built six Iron Bridges for the city and town of Waterbury since the above
was written besides 18 spans of bridge for the Meriden, Waterbury and Connecticut River
Railroad Company.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S, A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Guilford, N. Y.
Gentlemen—The bridge you built across the Unadilla River for our town and the
town of Unadilla, in the year 1884, has been thoroughly tested, and I take pleasure in
saying it is in every way as represented and gives entire satisfaction.
Truly yours, J. J. Godfrey, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Monroe, Me.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge you put in for us last year, has given entire satis¬
faction. Even those opposed to iron bridges are satisfied that it is the best and cheap¬
est that could be erected. I have not heard a man find fault with the bridge in any
particular. It is all we could have hoped for. Yours truly,
W. B. F. Twombly, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: OAKLAND, Me.
Gentlemen—Four years ago last summer you erected for our town an iron bridge
of two spans 61 ft. each, 20 ft. roadway, 5 ft. walk. We consider the bridge fully up
to your representation; in every respect a first-class structure. The only outlay upon
the bridge since its erection has been for one coat of paint, and of course for the nec¬
essary plank. Yours respectfully, J. Wesley Gilman, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : North Conway, N. H.
Gentlemen—The bridge built for the town of Conway, by your Company three
years ago, has given entire satisfaction to the town and traveling public, and it gives me
great pleasure to recommend your work to other towns that contemplate building
bridges. Yours truly, Hiram Dow, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Meriden, Conn.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 6th inst received. We consider the bridges erected by
you for our factories last summer as first-class. They are perfectly solid, do not spring
or shake, and on this account think them superior to anything of the kind which we
have ever tried before. Yours truly,
Meriden Britania Co., H. C. Wilcox, President.
Mr. Wilcox is also President of the Meriden Waterbury and Connecticut River Railroad.
We built 34 spans of Iron Bridge for this company in the last two years ; in fact, we furnished
every Iron Railroad or Highway Bridge over the entire line of the road.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Black Brook, N. Y.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge erected by you for the town of Black Brook last
spring at Union Falls has given entire satisfaction thus far to the users of it. It is
regarded by the tax-payers who have seen it as a satisfactory investment of their money.
Yours truly, H. W. Stetson, Commissioner of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Lyndon, Vt.
Gentlemen—We have yours asking how we like the two iron bridges which you
built for us two years ago. In answer, I would say with pleasure, that they have
given entire satisfaction. Our largest iron bridge stands between the railroad and
four big saw-mills, where loads of lumber all pass over this bridge with big six-horse
teams daily, and it stands firm. Our town has sixteen covered bridges, which costs
$64.00 a year to keep them snowed. I will vote iron ever)' day.
Yours truly, W. W. Heath, First Selectman.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Conklin N. Y.
Gentlemen—The bridge which your Company built for us some three years ago
has given entire satisfaction, and we have no hesitancy in recommending the bridge to
other towns in want of the best. We have another iron bridge—a Pratt Truss—
which was built for our town this year, but we consider your bridge the best kind of a
bridge. Yours truly, Levi L. Rowe, Com Highways.
Since above was written we have built another bridge in this town for a new board of
town officers.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Plainville, Conn.
Gentlemen—The bridge built for our town three years ago has been thoroughly
tested, and is satisfactory in every particular. The destruction of the old bridge
by fire and the replacing it by this one has been a profitable investment for us. No
more wooden bridges here. Respectfully, R. A. Potter, Selectman.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Franconia, N. H.
Gentlemen—In reply to yours, permit me to say that, so far as I know, the
bridge you built for us last spring has given universal satisfaction. In general appear
ance we like it, and have detected no perceptible trembling about it.
Yours truly, F. D. V. Garretson.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn.: Rockland, Me.
Dear Sirs—I received your letter of inquiry in regard to the bridge you built
for us last winter. It gives good satisfaction. Yours truly,
Wm. L. Ulmer, Street Commissioner.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: WESTON, Conn.
Gentlemen—Yours of January 28th at hand. In reply would say, that the ire n
bridge, built for the town of Weston by the Berlin Iron Bridge Company, has given
good satisfaction. We have never heard one word of fault found with it, and all
say we have got a first-rate bridge. Yours truly,
M. V. B. Rowland, Chairman Selectmen.
EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE OOMPANY,
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The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Orwell, Vt.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 8th inst. at hand. In reply would say, the bridge
you erected for us this season has given entire satisfaction.
Yours truly, John Hall, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Champlain, N. Y.
Gentlemen—The Parabolic Truss Bridge, 105 feet span, 14 feet roadway, built
for us two years ago, has proved satisfactory to the commissioner and also the best
men of the town. I can cheerfully and safely recommend the Parabolic Truss Bridge
to any town that needs a safe, first-class iron highway bridge.
Yours respectfully, Lemuel North, Com. Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : PUTNEY, Vt.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge you built for our town gives good satisfaction, and
all that have spoken about it are well pleased with it. Any town in want of a good
iron highway bridge, in my opinion, will find the Parabolic Truss Bridge, built by the
East Berlin Iron Bridge Company, to be just what they want.
Yours truly, M. C. Ingalls, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Mt. Morris, N. Y.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge and the stone work which you erected for this
town over the Ceshaqua at Tuscarora the past summer, is, in all respects, satisfactory
to the public, myself, and the engineer, E. A. Fisher, of Rochester.
Yours respectfully, Willard Sherman, Com. Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : EUCLID, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Our bridge gives general satisfaction. It is a nice structure, and
all went off without any disagreemeut on either side. Yours truly,
Edward Clay, Com. Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Buxton, Me.
Gentlemen—We have two of your bridges across the Saco River, that divides
Buxton from Hollis; one span of 76 feet, built in 1885, the other two spans of 116
and 119 feet, each built in 1880. Both bridges are as perfect in form to-day as when
built, and we are confident there is not a person in either town but that is fully
satisfied with both bridges. As fast as our bridges need repairs, we are sure the
tax-payers in town will be in favor of giving the preference to the Berlin Iron
Bridge Company. Very respectfully, John G. Locke, 1
Geo. S. Adams, l-Selectmen.
J. H. Bradbury, J
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : WOODBURY, Conn,
Gentlemen—We hereby certify that the iron bridge erected by your company
last fall, continues to give the best of satisfaction, and, as agents of the town, we
shall recommend the erection of iron instead of wood, as our bridges need replacing
in the future. W. A. Strong,
Calvin Lines, l Selectmen.
Vincent M. Barnes, J
We have built two Iron Bridges for this town since above was written.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Richford, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 27th ult. received, and in reply will say, that your
bridge so far has given good satisfaction to the public. We think that we have as
good a bridge as there is in this section. Yours truly,
M. L. Gee, Com. of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Romford, Conn.
Gentlemen—As far as I know, the bridges are entirely satisfactory.
Yours truly, S. H. Clark, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Charleston, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Yours of the 7th at hand. In answer to how we like the bridge,
it gives entire satisfaction; all of the community are well satisfied.
Yours truly, Siras Goewey, Com. of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin: Richford, Vt.
Gentlemen—The iron bridge of Ii8j^ feet span, 20 feet roadway, and two
walks of five feet each, built by your company for our town last summer, proves
satisfactory in every respect. It is stiff and rigid. We allow all to drive on it as
they please. Would take pleasure in recommending your bridge above any other
we have ever seen, to parties wishing to build iron bridges. Yours truly,
J. S. Dailey, Selectman.
Office of Lake George and Warrensburg Plank Road Co.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Warrenburg, N. Y.
Gentlemen—We are to day in receipt of your letter of the 28th inst, asking
“ if the iron bridge built by you still continues to give general satisfaction, and also
can we recommend the bridge made by you, to other parties.” The one built for us
is as erect and firm as upon the day it was put up, and has not cost us a cent, with
the exception of painting. We regret very much that the advices and wishes of your
agent, Mr. John Towne, “that we erect 16 ft. instead of a 13 ft. roadway,” was not
acceded to by us, as it would have given the bridge a much better appearance.
Respectfully yours, Henry Griffing, Treasurer.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
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The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn. : HUDSON, N. H.
Gentlemen—Your favor of the 17th, with bill for balance due company on
Taylor’s Falls Bridge, was received. I handed the bill to the treasurer, and he will
immediately forward the amount, if he has not done so already. As the bridge is
now virtually completed, a few words expressive of my opinion may not be out
of place at this time. When we contracted for the bridge last spring, we expected
a good, permanent structure; but that now it is completed, I can say that our
expectations have been more than realized; it is a better bridge than 1 expected,
in many respects, and in saying this I know I express the sentiments of all the
committee, both that for this town and for Nashua. I believe the contract to be
carried out in good faith, not only in the main, but in all the details, and in some
respects exceeded. Where many contractors would have undertaken to have cut
corners, your company have been perfectly square, and this has been done mainly
without any urging or pressure from the committee. During the erection of the
bridge I was present nearly every day, and saw its different parts put together, and
the connections made and fastened, and everything seemed to be done in the most
thorough manner possible. I consider it to be a permanent, durable structure, and
not only a lasting honor to the Berlin Iron Bridge Co., that built it, but also to the
committee that had it in charge, and to the town of Hudson and the city of Nashua.
And I feel myself personally, and in behalf of the committee, and the town of Hud¬
son and city of Nashua, under obligations to you, for the gentlemanly treatment
we have received, and for the faithful manner in which you have executed the con¬
tract. Yours truly, Kimball Webster,
Chairman Committee for the town of Hudson, and Civil Engineer.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin , Conn. : Nashua, N. H.
Gentlemen—In behalf of the committee of the city of Nashua, I most heartily
endorse what Mr. Kimball Webster says in his letter of the 21st. Yours truly,
J. W. Howard, Chairman of Committee of Nashua, N. H.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co., East Berlin, Conn. : NASHUA, N. H.
Gentlemen—I take pleasure in saying that I believe the statement made by
Kimball Webster, Esq., of Hudson, in his letter to you dated January 21, 1882,
is correct in every particular, so far as my knowledge extends.
Yours respectfully, Benj. Fletcher, Jr., Mayor.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : FALMOUTH, Me.
Gentlemen—Your favor received, and am happy to be able to comply with your
request, and I trust in a satisfactory manner. Since the erection of our bridge I have
never heard a word in regard to it except in its praise. It is a new thing with us,
and consequently has been discussed very freely, and from all I have heard from our
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
town people, and from the people from adjacent towns, and also from railroad men,
the verdict from all is the same. A very nice, pleasing, and substantial bridge.
It gives eminent satisfaction, and from my own knowledge (being present all the
time during its erection, and seeing how nicely everything fitted together) I haw-
no hesitation in saying that I think the Berlin Parabolic Iron Bridge superior to any
other that I have ever seen, comprising, as it does, great strength, beauty of outline,
and nicety of finish. James E. Merrill, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Whately, Mass.
Gentlemen—We can truly say that we are very much pleased with the Parabolic
Truss Bridge you erected for our town last summer. Our people all speak well
of it. A citizen from a neighboring state gave it quite a thorough examination, and
said that he had seen a great many iron bridges in his travels, but had seen nothing
that suited him as well as your Parabolic Truss Bridge, and should advise his town
to use your bridge in preference to any other. Previous to contracting for your
bridge we examined bridges made by other companies, and although we paid you
more money than was asked by other companies, we consider it money well invested,
and have never regretted our decision, which was unanimously in favor of your
Parabolic Truss Bridge. Yours truly,
C. G. Crafts, l
Wm. Barnard, f Selectmen of Whately.
E. A. Warner, J
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : WlLLSBORO, N. ^ .
Gentlemen—Your letter of recent date, asking me how I like your bridges after
one year’s trial, has been received. I will say that they arc by far the best bridges
in Northern New York; this is the unanimous opinion of every one who has seen
them, as far as I can learn. We do not have any sign up forbidding any one to
“ Ride or drive on this bridge faster than a walk under $5 fine.’ Our town people
all look with pride and pleasure at this beautiful bridge, and why ? because it pos¬
sesses the three special qualities: strength, rigidity, and it is an ornamental con¬
struction. It is nearly as rigid as our noted Adirondack mountains. Anyone wishing
any information I can give in regard to your bridge can get it by dropping me a line.
Yours respectfully, A. Currier, Com. of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Clinton, Conn.
Gentlemen—The bridge you built between the towns of Clinton and Madison,
some four years ago, has given universal satisfaction to those using it, and we
recommend your work to those in need of similar bridges.
C. E Watrous, 1
S. Leander Stevens, /
Selectmen.
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THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Huntsville, Conn.
Dear Sirs—The iron bridge placed by your company across Housatonic River
between this town and Salisbury some two or more years ago, gives the best of
satisfaction to the traveling public. Very heavily loaded teams seem to make but
little impression on it, and they travel across with perfect confidence.
Yours truly, M. U. Dean, Chairman Selectmen.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Wilson, N. Y.
Gentlemen—Our town have now in use three of your iron bridges, as well as
others of different make. We, as town officers, would say that your bridge gives
the best satisfaction of any we have in use, and so far, we cannot see but what they
are, and have done all that they were recommended to do. We would truthfully
recommend your Parabolic Truss Bridges to any towns who intend to buy an iron
bridge. Respectfully yours, Abram Hutchings, Com of Highways.
C. M. Martle, Town Clerk.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Le Rov, N. Y.
Dear Sirs—We three Highway Commissioners, also the town people, consider
we have an excellent bridge, and it gives good satisfaction. We are ready and
willing to recommend your bridges to any towns needing a bridge.
Yours respectfully, Wm. R. Halbert, Com. of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Raymondville, N. Y.
Gentlemen—The bridges put up by your company in our town are giving good
satisfaction. The 290 ft. span is a Leviathan, and is well spoken of by all.
Yours truly, A. A. Woodard, Com. of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Cape Vincent, N. Y.
Dear Sirs—Yours of the 29th ult. received. Would say in reply that we can
heartily recommend your Parabolic Truss Bridge. It has proved to be satisfactory
in every respect, and if we had another one to build we should give you our order.
Yours truly, Warren Casler, Com. of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Litchfield, Conn.
Gentlemen—The town of Litchfield have now in use four bridges built by the
Berlin Iron Bridge Company which give entire satisfaction.
Respectfully yours, Jacob Morse, Chairman Selectmen.
Since above was written, we have built another bridge in this town for a new
board of town officers.
| The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Jay, N Y.
Dear Sirs—We have one of your bridges in our town, span 128 feet, roadway
18 feet, two sidewalks six feet each, put up in 1881, and gives perfect satisfaction
in every way. Yours respectfully, Wells F. Nye, Com. of Highways.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Meriden, Conn.
Gentlemen—The Plate Girder Bridge you built for this city last summer is
a solid, substantial structure, first-class in every way, and entirely satisfactory in
every respect. Yours truly, S. C. Pierson, Engineer.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co.: Washington Mills, N. Y.
Gentlemen—I am much pleased with the three iron bridges you erected last
summer for the town of New Hartford, and it gives me pleasure to recommend
them. Yours truly, Chas. H. Fuller, Com. of Highways.
Office of City Engineer, Manchester, N. H.
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. :
Gentlemen—The bridge recently completed by the Berlin Iron Bridge Com¬
pany in this city is of the following dimensions: at tfce west end, 159^ feet,
of trestle 40 feet wide; bridge across the Merrimac River 411 feet, divided into
three equal spans. This bridge is a double-deck bridge, the lower driveway being
18 feet clear, without sidewalks, the upper, 26 feet driveway, with six feet walks
on each side; total width, 40 feet. This is followed by 404 feet of iron trestle,
then a 54 )/ 2 feet double-deck bridge across the lower canal, so called, the lower
deck having two driveways, 15 feet each in the clear, then terminating with 50 feet
of iron trestle, making 1,076 feet of bridging, 40 feet wide, consisting of 26 ft. drive
and two six ft. sidewalks. There is also an additional bridge of 53^ feet span
across the upper canal, so called. At the completion of the first contract with the
Berlin Iron Bridge Company, a committee of civil engineers and master mechanics
was appointed to make a thorough examination of the workmanship, material, and
strength of the bridge. This examination proved highly satisfactory. A strain test,
probably as severe as any to which the bridge will ever be subjected, was applied
in several different forms, and showed a deflection of from 26-100 to 42-100 of an
inch, the last being obtained by a sudden jar at the center of the middle span,
where these tests were taken. I shall take pleasure in recommending your work
and showing our bridge to any party in want of first-class work.
Respectfully, Geo. H. Allen, City Engineer.
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EAST BERLIN, CONNECTICUT, U. S. A.
THE BERLIN IRON BRIDGE COMPANY,
■©
The Berlin Iron Bridge Co. : Orwell, N. Y.
Gentlemen—The bridge that we bought of you, an