This suspension bridge was the longest of its type in Canada and dated back to 1904. When built the wooden structure was 600 feet long and spanned across the Souris River. It was the creation of a rich landowner, Squire Sowden, and allowed him access to his property by water. Suspension bridges were designed to be flexible, and this one truly was, particularly on windy prairie days. The site was a popular tourist attraction for decades.
Damaged by a broken cable in 1961, the bridge was swept away altogether in the late 1970s by a flood. The wooden bridge was replaced in 2013 by a modern concrete affair: stable and illuminated at night. Its claim to fame remains though its current safety can make one long for the adventure of days gone by.
“The whole world is a very narrow bridge. The essential thing is not to be afraid at all.” ~ Rebbe Nachman of Breslov
Location: Souris, Manitoba
Date: Summer 1980
Source: Pentax ME Super with Fuji Black and White film
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