Klamath Heritage: Keno Bridge

Klamth River Bridge at Keno, c. 1900

Klamath County Museum’s Photo of the Week for June 16, 2019, shows two sets of freight wagons crossing the Klamath River bridge at Keno.

Nearly all freight destined for Klamath Falls in the late 1800s came in wagons by way of the Topsy Grade in the Klamath River Canyon, and across the bridge seen here. As the California Northeastern Railroad was extended north from Weed in the early 1900s, freight traffic shifted eastward to Laird’s Landing on Lower Klamath Lake, and Teeter’s Landing on the Klamath River.

Arrival of the railroad in Klamath Falls in May 1909 essentially brought an end to freighting with teams, except for short local hauls.

The wooden bridge seen in this photo was erected in the late 1800s, and served until a bridge with three steel arches was constructed in 1914. A third bridge, featuring three concrete arches, was built in 1930. The present bridge across the Klamath River at Keno was constructed in 1985.

A set of three wagons pulled by six mules or horses could haul thousand of pounds of freight. Large wheels made it easier to move the wagons over bumpy roads. Smaller wheels in front allowed for a tighter turning radius.

These teamsters stopped their animals long enough for this photo to be taken from the south side of the Klamath River, looking north.

Information provided from the Klamath County Museum.