Burr Bridge

Before the Western Gateway bridge was built, the Burr Bridge connected Scotia and Schenectady. In 1808, the 997-foot Burr Bridge was completed. spanning the Mohawk River between Schenectady and Scotia, NY. It was a covered wooden bridge until 1871, and then replaced with an iron bridge, which was condemned in 1926 and removed in 1936.

NOTE: - There's a wonderful Facebook group where a many these photos below were sourced from. This compilation page was created as a service to non Facebook users. Fair Use Notice

1860 Map

Burr Bridge

Note: "One Dollar Fine for crossing this bridge faster than on a walk"
Burr Bridge

The Turf Tavern in Scotia has some nice historical photos of the bridge
Burr Bridge

The wooden suspension bridge was dismantled and replaced with a new iron bridge in 1871 to 1874.
Burr Bridge 1930 Topo

This iron bridge was referred to as the Glenville Bridge or the Washington Avenue Bridge.

Bing Aerials show the old footings/abutments
Burr Bridge
Scotia

Burr Bridge
Schenectady

Did You Know?

There was a toll but church goers passed for free! Link >
In 1857, 50 Cows fell Through! (Only one of the cows was hurt.) Link >

Sources and Further Info

Bridging the Mohawk River - Union College
Good Roads - 1921 E.L. Powers Company - eBook (free)
The Bridge that Preceded It - Hoxsie.org (great site!)