Klamath Heritage: Link River and Main Street

Link River and Main Street, c. 1920 (Submitted photo)

Klamath County Museum’s Photo of the Week for June 2, 2019, shows the Link River as it flows past Main Street in Klamath Falls.

This image is one of only a few that show the third Main Street bridge across Link River. The first bridge, made of logs, was constructed by Linkville founder George Nurse. It was replaced by the county with an iron bridge constructed in 1885 at a cost of $6,725. A sign on the second bridge warned of a $50 fine for anyone caught riding or driving “faster than a walk,” or moving more than 25 head of cattle or horses across the bridge at one time.

The third bridge, seen in this photo with its arch supports, was constructed in 1916. A ferry was used to transport people and vehicles across the river during the transition from the second bridge to the third.

This third bridge suffered a number of problems, including loose timbers on the deck of the bridge that made a loud rattle as vehicles drove across. A layer of asphalt was applied over the timbers in 1921 to solve that problem. But within a decade there were calls for yet another new bridge.

As preparations began for a new bridge in 1931, the bridge seen in this photo was moved a few feet downstream to make way for construction activities. The 1931 bridge continues to serve to this day, after undergoing a $2.3 million renovation in 2013.

The old Linkville Hotel – seen at upper right with its turret feature and prominent dormers – was razed in 1923, helping date this photo at around 1920.

Information provided from the Klamath County Museum.