Instructions on Modern American Bridge Building

A concise guide for aspiring engineers, this work walks readers through the fundamentals of bridge construction in the late 19th century. Beginning with the simplest single‑beam spans, it explains how increasing lengths demand more complex arrangements, introducing inclined braces and simple trusses that can handle spans up to fifty feet. Clear illustrations and practical examples show how to calculate the forces of tension, compression and bending using straightforward formulas.

The second part delves deeper into the anatomy of common wooden trusses, detailing the role of each member, the stresses they endure, and the appropriate dimensions for timber and iron components. Helpful tables and diagrams support the calculations, while the author’s own experience adds real‑world perspective. Readers come away with a solid foundation for designing modest bridges and a roadmap toward more advanced studies in modern bridge engineering.