Celebrate the Wooden Trestle Bridge

A Guided Walk with Susan Ratcliffe

• Hear its remarkable back-story – from quarry rail spur to prisoner-built landmark
• See the structure up close before access is closed and demolition begins
• Learn what’s next and how you can add your voice to preservation efforts

Meet at the Scout Camp parking lot on Stone Rd., Guelph

The century-old wooden trestle bridge that spans the Eramosa River has stood watch over the former Ontario Reformatory lands since 1912, when prisoners fashioned it from massive Douglas-fir logs shipped in from B.C

Recently the province issued a call for contractors to demolish the bridge, citing “increased structural deterioration.” See Guelph today article. Heritage advocates note that repairing the structure could cost less than tearing it down, but the clock is ticking.

Join Yorklands Green Hub’s Susan Ratcliffe as she guides visitors for a special, one-time walk to the bridge:

Hear its remarkable back-story — from quarry rail spur to prisoner-built landmark.

• See the structure up close before access is closed and demolition begins.
• Learn what’s next and how you can add your voice to preservation efforts.

Practical details• Easy, 20-minute walk each way on uneven ground – sturdy shoes recommended.• Family-friendly; children must be supervised near the riverbank.• Accessible alternate viewing points available on request.• Click here to register for this walk.

Let’s give this bridge the send-off — or reprieve — it deserves. See you on June 29!