The arch bridge

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Yes, an idyllic scene from Bluffton, Ohio, in the 1800s. Can you place the location of this colorized post card photo? The bridge, known as the "arch" bridge once crossed Riley Creek where the Little and Big Rileys join. The one-lane bridge was removed in the late 1950s when the present structure, which may be built better, but lacks the architectural attractiveness, was installed.

The ground on the west side where the milk cow stands was, yes, once a pasture. When this photo was taken, this spot marked the edge of the village limits. At one time, anyone in Bluffton would have been able to identify who the cow in the photo belonged. That fact has since been lost over time.

According to the Icon publisher, Fred Steiner, his grandmother, Bertha Hahn, said the bridge was a location for young people to gather.

On the post card flip side is the wording "Pub. by M. Weixelbaum Co., Lima, O"

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