Ball’s Bridge History

by Karen Webster, "Glimpses of the Past" columnist . Enjoy her bi-weekly column in The Citizen!

 

Sometimes one can stray from the beaten path to find a unique treasure, and such is the case with Ball’s Bridge. This impressive structure, built in 1885, was recognized in 2011 with a plaque designating it as a provincial Heritage Site. Ball’s Bridge is located at the intersection of the former townships of Goderich, Colborne and Hullett (now Central Huron and Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh municipalities).

 

This bridge, built to connect Goderich with the eastern parts of Huron County, is a rare example of a wrought iron Pratt design, pin-connected through truss bridge. It features symmetrical triangle patterns complemented by structural lattice work on its main supporting members. Its twin spans are firmly anchored on large stone and concrete abutments and piers, and provide a 77.4-metre (251-foot) long bridge. The structure is a photographer’s delight with its aerial tunnel effect.

 

This bridge was built to accommodate the horse and buggy traffic of the day. As time went by, concerns about safety arose and the bridge was closed. Because the bridge had never been subjected to road salt, it was found to be a solid structure and due to the efforts of the Friends of Ball’s Bridge, it was fully restored and upgraded then reopened to light traffic in 2007. The bridge can accommodate one-way traffic.

 

The bridge is nestled in a loop of the Maitland River that is an ecological treasure that has also been designated as a provincially significant wildlife habitat.

 

There are multi-uses of this bridge and surrounding area. It is a Mecca for canoeists and kayakers who enjoy the calm Maitland waters. Hikers using the Maitland Trail cross this bridge as a side trail option that connects to the Goderich to Guelph route. Should a bridal couple wish for a scenic backdrop for their wedding photos, Ball’s Bridge fits the bill and it sees many groups heading here for spectacular memories. Indeed, Ball’s Bridge has the nickname the “Bridge that Love Built” because of an earlier wooden structure which was erected here by an engineer who fell in love with a daughter of the Ball family. Part of this historic bridge rests on property that belonged to the Ball family.

 

To find this peaceful reminder the past, turn west on Little Lakes Road when approaching it from Base Line from either Clinton or Auburn or alternatively when travelling on Londesboro Road east of Benmiller, turn north on River Line, then east on Little Lakes Road to follow a charming country road until the bridge is reached. There is some limited parking available to facilitate a chance for a relaxing stroll and an opportunity to photograph this architectural treasure. 38199 Little Lakes Rd.