Most bridges that cross over a river are above the river. This bridge just north of Manistique that crosses over the Manistique River at one time was lower than the level of the river. It gained recognition on Ripley’s Believe it or Not. The reason for this unique distinction is the paper mill downriver was in need of more water for increased production in the early 1900s.
In my photo, you see a dude fishing. The bridge with its solid concrete walls runs along the left side of the photo. In front of the fisherman is a concrete flume that water flowed through to the papermill. The top of the flume is higher than the surface of the road and the concrete sides held back the water of the flume. I am not sure exactly when, but the paper mill no longer needed the water it once did and the water level in the flume has been lowered. It is not the most visually appealing bridge or flume but I thought it was interesting that the bridge at one time went through the river instead of over it.
P.S. If you are wondering about the tower in the background you can see my post about it HERE.
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