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Gilkey BridgeThe Gilkey Bridge spans Thomas Creek and until 1960, it proudly stood next to a covered railroad bridge. |
Gilkey was once a town of some activity, as noted by a nearby sign: "Gilkey Station was established when the railroad arrived in 1880 and was named in honor of Allen and William Gilkey. Gilkey served as a shipping point for farm products." Just about all but the sign and bridge are now gone...and the sign is totally faded.
The familiar swimming rope is tied to the framework of the bridge, and during the summer swimmers enjoy this area of Thomas Creek.
Although the Gilkey Bridge has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places, the increased traffic and use of larger farm equipment may force the county to realign the road or replace the bridge. Linn County has continued its maintenance program for the structure, replacing skirting boards, roofing, and a coat of paint. In the fall of 1987, crews closed the bridge for several days to replace floor beams and pilings.
