The Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge performs many functions today.
It’s a major Saugatuck River crossing.
For decades, Westporters have gathered there for political protests.
Every spring and summer, it’s festooned with American flags. Twice a year — on jUNe Day and UN Day — they’re replaced by those of nations around the world.
Back in the day, the bridge was simply utilitarian.
In 1915 — 110 years ago — it looked like this:
(Photo courtesy of Christopher Maroc)
Known then as the State Street Bridge, it carried the trolley — a vital form of transportation.
In the view above — looking east — on the left we see the backs of Main Street buildings. The Saugatuck River lapped up against them, before construction of Parker Harding Plaza in the 1950s.
On the right is the former “Hurlbutt block” (now anchored by South Moon Under). The river wall looks much as it does today.
In the center — beyond the bridge — is the outline of the Westport Hotel. It was torn down 8 years later. The YMCA (now Anthropologie) rose in its place.
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