The Swinging Bridge in Byram, MS is unique not only because it is one of the the last remaining swinging suspension bridges constructed in Mississippi in the early twentieth century, but it is also where couples can declare their love. Residents in the area remember driving across the bridge when it would actually swing, and tales of hauntings on the bridge enticed teenagers to congregate on dark weekend nights many years ago.
Twin-tower suspension bridges like the Byram Swinging Bridge were successful technological products of the early twentieth century that met the agricultural transportation needs of local farmers in rural southwestern and south central Mississippi. The bridges were well suited for construction across the ravines and deep creek beds that separated settlement areas. They were also less expensive than iron bridges and easier to maintain than wooden bridges.
Built in 1905, the bridge connects Old Byram Road and Florence Road. It measures 360 feet in length, and has a central span of 200 feet with two 80 feet spans between the towers and the Pearl River bank. The arched wooden deck is 20 feet wide, and is supported by steel floor beams and lateral bracing. The two steel I-beam towers rise 25 feet above the deck, and are supported by a substructure of concrete piers sheathed in steel connected by sway bracing.
The Byram Bridge was recognized by the National Register of Historic Places on May 23, 1979. Due to severe deterioration and safety concerns, it was closed to traffic in 1987. That same year, it was dedicated as a civil engineering landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Over 25 years later the Hinds County Board of Supervisors approved its restoration, and in 2013, the project which converted the bridge into a pedestrian footbridge was completed.
During the renovation project, Carl Felix, public works director for Hinds County, noticed something very interesting. He discovered hundreds of locks left by couples similar to the ones left on the Pont des Arts Bridge in Paris, France which are no longer allowed.
A love lock is a padlock which lovers lock to a bridge to symbolize their love. Sometimes their names or initials and the date are inscribed on the lock, and the key is thrown into the river to symbolize their eternal love. The tradition began in Serbia during the First World War.
Byram mayor Richard White has many fond memories of the bridge from his childhood, and believes the locks are a wonderful tradition that should continue. Mayor White stated engineers have been consulted, and assured him the bridge’s railings can support thousands of love locks.
Walking on the Byram Swinging Bridge feels both surreal and exhilarating. If you are lucky you will be there on a windy day. Consider a visit to the bridge with your love, and perhaps place a love lock on the railing. Share a kiss and throw the key in the river. You will experience a part of history while making a romantic memory together.
