Source: The Mining Journal
Marquette, Mi.
December 25, 1886
The "Soo" Bridge
THe following bit of railroad news comes from Washington: In 1882 a company of Mi., men were authorized to build a bridge across the Sault Ste. Marie river and the canal at the "Soo". A clause in the bill provided that the draw should be kept closed except when required to be open for the passage of vessels. Col. O.M. Poe now reports that the navigation has increased through the canal threefold since the bridge was authorized, adn it is necessary to amend the law so as to provide fo rhte opening of the bridge at all times except when required for the crossing of trains. The secretary of war sent Poe's recommendation to congress Monday. The DM&M road owns the franchise for constructing the bridge. A bill passed the house last session giving a Wisconsin company authority to erect one. The bill is now in the senate, but it is not likely to be passed, as the Mi., company's plans have been approved, and Col. Poe says in his report thehy will construct a bridge during the coming session.