The meeting’s focal point was the Bardwell’s Ferry Bridge, celebrated as “the ultimate bridge trust nerd bridge” for its rare lenticular truss form, combining triangular and parabolic curves. This structure’s historical narrative began in the late 18th century when Gideon Bardwell established a ferry across the Deerfield River. As railroads emerged, the need for a bridge became apparent, leading to its construction in 1882 after negotiations between Conway and Shelburne. Despite its current closure due to issues with its approach and deck, the bridge’s trusses remain sound. A personal anecdote shared during the meeting described a visit to the bridge accompanied by a “semiferal herd of goats,” adding a lighthearted touch to the discussion.

The Bardwell’s Ferry Bridge’s significance extends beyond its structural design; it is located in a popular area for whitewater rafting, underscoring its importance to both history and recreation. The discussion also highlighted the broader context of bridge preservation in Massachusetts, noting that the state houses more lenticular truss bridges than most others, with few exceptions like California.

Attention then shifted to the Shelburne Falls Bridge, described as a “closed spandrel concrete arch” adorned with flowers by the local women’s club. This bridge, built by a trolley service in the 1890s, was an essential link between Shelburne Falls and Colrain, facilitating the movement of people and goods, particularly for regional mills. Concerns were raised about maintenance issues stemming from water infiltration due to deck removal, with speculation about the bridge’s long-term planning.

The meeting also explored the engineering contributions of Edward Shaw, who designed notable bridges in Franklin County, including those in Shelburne Falls and Northfield. Shaw’s work was praised for its unique engineering, particularly in the adaptation of Warren trusses, known for their equilateral triangle design. The Barrett Meadow Bridge in Northfield, once carrying State Route 10 across the Connecticut River, was highlighted for its cantilever design, reflecting Shaw’s ingenuity.

Covered bridges in Franklin County also received attention, with Massachusetts hosting only twelve, emphasizing the region’s preservation efforts. Two covered bridges were debated for their claim as the oldest in the state, with one dating back to 1870 and another to 1868. An anecdote about a Greenfield bridge recounted its tragic history linked to the murder of Ununice Williams and its subsequent community-driven reconstruction following destruction by teenagers in 1969 and Hurricane Irene in 2011.

The discussion on the Bissell Bridge in Charlemont underscored local advocacy for its preservation, with residents successfully arguing for its rehabilitation rather than replacement.

Irving’s bridges, though not historically registered, were noted for their unique designs, such as the Farley Road Bridge’s Phoenix column design, comprising cast iron pieces for robust structural support. The Mineral Road Bridge was also mentioned, though its location presents navigational challenges due to inadequate signage and map visibility.

The meeting’s discourse on Turner’s Falls included the French King Bridge, praised for its aesthetic appeal from a pedestrian trail perspective. The discussion touched on Turner’s Falls’ industrial heritage and the significant role of bridges in facilitating transportation across the barge canal, expanded post-Revolutionary War.

The speaker detailed various bridges, including those with Warren Truss designs, and highlighted one recognized by the Historic American Engineering Record for its unusual structure. The meeting’s narrative included the impact of the 1936 floods on Massachusetts bridges, with designs by state engineer George Harkness noted for their large pylons and distinctive style.

Safety concerns regarding bridges, particularly suicide prevention measures, were briefly addressed, with suggestions for barriers or nets to deter individuals from jumping. The meeting concluded with an informal poll engaging attendees on their perspectives on bridges, revealing diverse interests ranging from historical context to structural beauty and functionality.