Have you ever wondered how they used to make sure structures would support the weight they needed to before the era of computer modelling?
Pictured here in 1915, we can see the final load testing for the new McCartney Creek Bridge on Keith Road in North Vancouver. Construction began in 1914 to replace the old timber bridge, granting a wider bridge deck to vehicles and a dedicated pedestrian walkway.
After completion, a large sled with sandbags weighing 16,000 pounds (approximately 7,250 kilograms) was pulled over the concrete and steel to ensure it would hold the required weight.
Visit the MONOVA website for more information about the history of the North Shore and to plan your visit to MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver, now open at 115 West Esplanade in The Shipyards.
Currently, MONOVA: Archives of North Vancouver, at 3203 Institute Road in Lynn Valley, is open by appointment only. Contact: archives@monova.ca
Navigate culture on the North Shore by using the North Shore Culture Compass.
