The Sandpoint Long Bridge
by Bob Gunter
On 26 May 1908 the first pilings for the first bridge connecting Sagle, Idaho with Sandpoint, Idaho were driven. When completed the bridge was supported by 1,540 pilings and covered a distance of almost two miles. Near the center was a steel lift which allowed the steam boat traffic to pass underneath. After numerous problems the bridge was completed and ready for use on March 11, 1910 and was advertised as the longest wooden bridge in the world. When completed the bridge was about 200 feet short of two miles long. It served the area for many years until in the 1930's it was torn down to make room for a new wooden bridge.
It was during the great depression that the second bridge over the Pend Oreille River was constructed. It was built with help from the WPA (Works Progress Administration) and was dedicated on March 3, 1934. The bridge retained the name of "The longest wooden bridge in the world" and for many years tourists, hunters, fishermen, and people who came to the area just to see the bridge used it. Unlike the first bridge, whose planks were placed long-ways, the second bridge was quieter and safer.
The second bridge served the area for about 22 years. The heavy traffic of World War II took its toll on the structure and in June of 1956 the third bridge was built. It could no longer be called "The longest wooden bridge in the world" because it was built of steel and concrete. The span is also partly fill and partly bridge.
The second Long Bridge in Sandpoint. It was dedicated in 1936 and advertised as the longest wooden bridge in the world, two miles long. The first bridge can be seen on the right.
The fourth and final "Long Bridge" was dedicated on September 23, 1981 and it runs along side the previous span. Today the third bridge is used as a walking-bike path and is widely used by locals and tourist alike. The third and fourth bridges were located where they are today but the first two bridges connected directly with 1st Avenue.
The bridge over the Pend Oreille River still has a magic effect on anyone who lives in the area. After a trip, even as short as one to Spokane, the sight of the bridge and surrounding area, on returning home, has a calming effect. As the tires go from section to section of the bridge one can hear a rhythmic sound that seems to say, "Back home - Back Home -Back Home."
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All photographs have been used with permission of the Bonner County Museum.
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