Worley Bridge

Worley Bridge. . In the early 20th century, Milam County was growing in population and developing rapidly thanks to an agricultural economy fueled by cotton and other crops. Most smaller rural communities depended on good roads and infrastructure to get themselves and their goods to Cameron and Rockdale, the two most populous towns in the county., In 1911, residents of the Sharp, Tracy and Duncan communities petitioned the Milam County Commissioners Court for a bridge to cross the San Gabriel River, which would enable farmers to travel a shorter and safer distance to markets to transport their crops. Frank Worley, a large landowner in the area, donated a site for building the bridge over the river on what is now County Road 428., Construction on the Worley Bridge began in 1911 and was completed in 1913. The Pratt Through Truss Bridge spans the San Gabriel River near the historic Apache Pass Crossing. It is one of more than twenty metal bridges in the county dating from the early 20th century, in association with the good roads movement to benefit homeowners, schools, churches and travelers with reliable roads for automobiles and wagons. The Worley Bridge is 271 feet long, spans 113 feet across the river and has an overall width of 13 feet with steel grate decking. The bridge has been maintained through the years to adapt to vehicle and safety requirements, including a 2011-14 restoration. Still in operation, it remains a vital link in the road network of the county and the region, continuing to facilitate travel and commerce after more than a century of use. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2020.