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On December 15, 1967, the Silver Bridge collapsed while it was full rush hour traffic, resulting in the deaths of 46 people. Two of the victims were never found. Investigation of the wreckage pointed to the cause of the collapse being the failure of a single eyebar in a suspension chain, due to a small defect 0.1 inches deep. Analysis showed the bridge was carrying much heavier loads than it had originally been designed for and was also poorly maintained.

Silver Bridge Before Collapse; Point Pleasant, W. Va.

Identifier:
041542
Collection Number:
A&M 3914, Duez Collection
Title:
Silver Bridge Before Collapse; Point Pleasant, W. Va.
Description:
On December 15, 1967, the Silver Bridge collapsed while it was full rush hour traffic, resulting in the deaths of 46 people. Two of the victims were never found. Investigation of the wreckage pointed to the cause of the collapse being the failure of a single eyebar in a suspension chain, due to a small defect 0.1 inches deep. Analysis showed the bridge was carrying much heavier loads than it had originally been designed for and was also poorly maintained.
Acquisition Source:
Duez, Richard
Acquisition Method:
Acquired
Medium:
digital file
Projects:
West Virginia History OnView