The 1894 Bridge Across the Skykomish River
Monroe Historical Society photo #448

Until bridged, the Skykomish River formed a formidable barrier between the town of Monroe and the rich farms of the Tualco Valley. The financial panic of 1893 almost prevented the first bridge from being built, but it was finally completed in 1894 and rebuilt in 1905. The 150-foot span across the main channel, coupled with another 75-foot span across the slough to the south of it, and a 300-foot trestle connecting the two finally allowed for easy travel between Monroe via Lewis Street and the Tualco Valley. This 1900 photo was taken looking south across the river.