New book tells history of Duluth's famous lift bridge

by Cathy Wurzer, Minnesota Public Radio

A new book tells the story, in words and pictures, of Duluth's most famous landmark.

Duluth, Minnesota — The aerial lift bridge is an icon in Duluth. It spans a small canal, connecting the city to Minnesota Point -- a long, narrow sandbar. When raised, the bridge allows giant ships to enter and leave the protected waters of Duluth Harbor.

Tony Dierckins is the author of a new book, "Crossing the Canal: An Illustrated History of Duluth's Aerial Bridge." To see a slideshow of pictures from the book, click here.

Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer met Dierckins in Duluth, right near the bridge. He said it was first built in 1905 as a "transfer bridge." It carried people over the water in something that looked like a giant basket.

Broadcast Dates

• Morning Edition, 11/19/2008, 6:55 a.m.