The bridge story
Follow the bridge’s journey from the 1982 flood to its return over Apple Creek.
Read the history ↗Welcome to Old Appleton, MissouriSmall town.
Small town.
Timeless story.
Along Apple Creek, a restored iron bridge connects more than two counties. It connects a community with its past. Founded in 1824. We are a small rural community of 82 residents. Located 85 miles south of St. Louis, Mo and 20 miles north of Cape Girardeau, MO. We are proud to have the oldest iron truss bridge standing at it’s original location in Missouri. Built in 1879.
Discover the bridge ↗Explore the photos
Old Appleton, MissouriStories along Apple CreekA community’s shared history
Get to know Old AppletonA little place.
A little place.
A lasting connection.
Explore the bridge, revisit its restoration,
and discover the people behind the story.
History in pictures
Browse original photographs of the reconstruction and the 2006 rededication.
Open the photo archive ↗Town information
Find the town information page, with space for current meeting notices and approved minutes.
Town Council ↗A bridge worth bringing backCarried away.
Carried away.
Never forgotten.
The original website documented years of work to bring the bridge home. Those memories belong here.
See the restoration ↗1982A flood washes the bridge from its piers.
2005The main span returns to its upgraded piers on September 23.
2006The community gathers for the April 22 rededication.