Historical Marker

Brazos River Bridge

Historical marker location:
Hwy 6, Benjamin, Texas
( 6 miles south of Benjamin on Hwy 6)
Marker installed: 2015
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

This bridge was constructed in 1938-39 to replace a 1901 bridge and provide a crossing over the Brazos River. Located on State Highway 6 (originally State Highway 16 and later State Highway 283) south of Benjamin, the bridge links the Knox County seat to points south. A statewide historic bridge survey in the 1990s identified it as one of only five continuous through truss bridges in Texas built before World War II.

The design consists of a three-span continuous truss unit measuring 382 1/2 feet flanked by two simply supported truss spans each 96 feet long. The bridge has three steel I-beam approach spans on the south side and two on the north. The truss spans rest on reinforced concrete piers and the approach spans rest on a series of precast concrete pile bents.

The 1901 bridge, consisting of four 119-foot Pratt through truss spans and two pony truss spans, was reported to be in seriously deteriorated condition by 1934. During construction of the new bridge immediately upstream of the old one, a pier of the old bridge subsided, requiring closing of the bridge and construction of a detour road. Texas highway department engineers developed a special design for the replacement bridge’s truss spans, with a warren truss configuration with parallel top and bottom chords. Oran Speer of Alvord was the contractor, and the Virginia Bridge Company of Roanoke, Virginia, fabricated the steel truss spans. Construction began on May 2, 1938, the new bridge was open to traffic by January 11, 1939, and the project was officially completed on March 16, 1939, at a cost of about $138,000. In 1996, the bridge was listed in the National Register of Historic Places at the state level of significance

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

bridges
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
Texas random facts
Knox County, Texas, located in the north-central part of the state, has a rich and storied history dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, the area transitioned to Spanish control in the late 18th century. In 1836, Texas gained independence from Mexico, and the region subsequently became part of the Republic of Texas.

The area that would become Knox County was surveyed and opened for settlement in the late 1850s. Early pioneers, predominantly of European descent, began to establish farms and ranches. The county was officially organized in 1886 and named after Henry Knox, an American Revolutionary War general and the first U.S. Secretary of War.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Knox County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the cattle industry and the extension of railroads in the area brought prosperity and attracted new settlers. The discovery of oil in the county in the 1920s further spurred economic growth and provided employment opportunities for the local population.

In the modern era, Knox County continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture, ranching, and oil production remaining important industries. The county has also preserved its historical sites and landmarks, such as the community of Benjamin, which was designated a National Historic District in 1992. Today, Knox County is a close-knit community that cherishes its past while embracing the opportunities of the present.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Knox County, Texas.

  • 1858: Knox County is established and named after Henry Knox, the first Secretary of War for the United States.
  • 1879: The first courthouse in Knox County is built in Munday, which becomes the county seat.
  • Late 1800s: Ranching dominates the local economy, with large cattle operations covering the county.
  • 1920s: Oil is discovered in Knox County, leading to an economic boom as drilling companies flock to the area.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression hits Knox County hard, causing economic hardships for the residents.
  • 1969: The Fort Knox II Wind Farm, one of the largest wind farms in the United States, is built in Knox County.
  • 1980s: The farming industry experiences a decline due to droughts and changes in agricultural practices.
  • 1990s: Knox County becomes a popular destination for hunting enthusiasts, with its abundant deer and turkey population.
  • 2007: Knox City celebrates its centennial, marking 100 years since its founding.
  • 2010s: The county diversifies its economy, focusing on renewable energy, tourism, and small-scale agriculture.