| Although now unused, The Caddo Lake Drawbridge was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. The bridge was built in 1914 to replace the ferry that normally traveled the lake, to allow oil drilling equipment an easier access. The bridge was even used in World War II as a mean to prepare soldiers for war. General Dwight D. Eisenhower and George S. Patton even led a "capture" of the bridge. But as the area expanded, the bridge became to small for what the community needed, and in the 1970's, traffic was switched to an alternate route. A newer two-lane bridge was constructed next to the old bridge. The initial plan was to demolish the bridge, but a citizen's campaign was launched to save the bridge, refurbish it, and recognize it's historic status. The campaign worked, and the bridge was painted, blocked off to vehicles, and accepted into the National Register of Historic Places. When me and the old lady visited the bridge, it was sort of an improvised side trip after going to see the Rodessa School. I've always wanted to see the bridge, and I figured it was the perfect time. The bridge sits close to a small park and boat launch for Caddo Lake, where there were a only a few cars. It was surprisingly quiet and peaceful while we were there. It makes it nice being off of Highway 1 a good ways, which this far north of Shreveport isn't really that traffic-heavy anyways, but made for great scenery this time of year. All in all, Caddo Lake Bridge makes a nice place to see if you're out that way, and as some people have already found out, makes a great spot for an afternoon of fishing. |
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