Side A: The Covington-Cincinnati Bridge Company under the leadership of Amos Shinkle built the first Ohio River bridge linking the North and South following the Civil War. The bridge was privately operated until purchased in 1955 by Kentucky and later renamed the “John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge.” Completed in 1866, this National Civil Engineering Landmark was the only bridge in service over the Ohio River during the 1937 flood. Since 1976, its national and local heritage has been commemorated with beautification lighting and flags sponsored by the citizens and institutions for which the bridge stands as a community symbol. (Continued on other side)
Side B: (Continued from other side) The Covington-Cincinnati Bridge was the world’s longest bridge span when opened to vehicle traffic on New Year’s Day 1867. Designed by John A. Roebling, and constructed with his son Washington, this predecessor of modern suspension bridges served as the prototype for the Brooklyn Bridge. In 1897, William Hildenbrandt, without interrupting traffic, installed a second set of suspension cables and reconstructed the deck and truss system to accommodate an urban railway, which was later replaced by interstate buses. In 1975, the bridge was designated a National Historic Landmark symbolizing the American spirit of 19th century engineering and construction.
Sponsors: The Ohio Bicentennial Commission, The International Paper Company Foundation, The Ohio Historical Society
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