Kate Shelley High Bridge | Boone Viaduct IA
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Description: The Kate Shelley High Bridge, also known as the Boone Viaduct, is a historic railroad bridge located near Boone, Iowa. Spanning the Des Moines River, it is one of the tallest and longest double-track railroad bridges in the United States. The bridge was completed in 1901 by the Chicago and North Western Railway and was named in honor of Kate Shelley, a local heroine who famously risked her life to prevent a passenger train from crossing a washed-out bridge during a severe storm in 1881. Shelley's courageous actions saved the lives of many passengers and earned her national recognition. The Kate Shelley High Bridge stands 185 feet above the Des Moines River and extends for 2,685 feet, making it an impressive feat of engineering and a striking landmark in the Iowa countryside. The bridge's towering steel trestles and massive concrete piers are a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the railroad builders of the early 20th century. Today, the Kate Shelley High Bridge is still in active use by freight trains operated by the Union Pacific Railroad, carrying goods and materials across the river valley. The bridge is also a popular spot for train enthusiasts and photographers, who gather to capture the spectacle of trains crossing the towering structure against the backdrop of the scenic Iowa landscape. In addition to its historical and engineering significance, the Kate Shelley High Bridge is a symbol of bravery and resilience, honoring the legacy of Kate Shelley and her courageous act of heroism. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the power of ordinary individuals to make a difference in the face of adversity.