Embossed lettering on 1920s steel makes a sharp ascent on a diagonal beam. Steel company markings are visible in many places, this one had just begun to dry out after rain and seemed especially lovely.

Regular applications of dull-green paint would have meant no artistic peeling, no lovely oxidizing...and no photograph.

Unfortunately, rust holes are now visible in many vertical components around deck level on the south side near the Illinois shore. The bridge endured 40 years of heavy Route 66 traffic and, no doubt, road salt before being turned into a hike-and-bike trail.