Bridges: The Spans of North America

by David Plowden

Whether built of stone, brick, wood, iron, steel, or concrete, bridges have captivated our imaginations more than any other man-made structures. Whether built of wood, stone, iron, steel, or concrete, bridges have captivated our imaginations more than any other man-made structures. In David Plowden's words, "there is no more overt, powerful, or rational expression of accomplishment―of man's ability to build." And Americans, in particular, have excelled in this structural art. This book explores in depth how, when, where, and by whom the most important North American bridges were built. Over 185 of Plowden's superb photographs allow us to dwell on the most important scientific and aesthetic qualities of each bridge. In addition, Plowden has included original designs and drawings of structures―some unbuilt, gone, or dramatically altered―illuminating less obvious aspects of these engineering marvels and introducing us to bridges we otherwise would never have seen. In his extensive text, Plowden vividly records the discoveries, misconceptions, struggles, failures, and triumphs of the men who dedicated their energies to bridge design and construction. In the more than twenty-five years since this classic book was first published, bridges have been lost, and others have been built; some of the best examples of new bridges are included in this new, revised edition. All the photographs have been reprinted to achieve the best duotone reproduction. With this new edition, Bridges is the most thorough and beautiful volume ever published on the subject―a passionate and powerful argument for our continued reverence of these wonderful structures. Over 185 photographs

328 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2002

About the author

David Plowden is the author of more than twenty photography books, including Bridges: The Spans of North America, Vanishing Point: Fifty Years of Photography, and Requiem for Steam. He lives in Winnetka, Illinois.

Reviews

[Christopher May · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading a Plowden book is one of those pleasures in life that is hard to quantify. The combination of exquisite photography coupled with a text that is approachably educational is a true treat. Bridges certainly lives up to that ethos. Highly recommended for those who enjoy beautiful black and white photography and those interested in the engineering and history of bridges in America.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

wonderful black & white photos of assorted bridges around the country....amazing technology for the 19th century when railroads sprang up across the country. engineering feats with slide rules and protractors compared to the finite engineering tools available today.

[Artie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just looked at the pictures, didn't read the text.

[Bill Daniels · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful compendium of bridges. The photographs celebrate the structure and artistry of bridges from the soaring masterpieces to the crude links between narrow, muddy banks.