COTTER -- Re-dedication of the R.M. Ruthven Rainbow Arch Bridge
will open Cotter's fifth annual fall festival, Art, Antiques and
Architecture ... A Cotter Open House.
Ceremonies are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. Sept. 24 with a
variety of state and federal officials expected to attend, according
to an announcement by the Cotter Area Chamber of Commerce. Special
entertainment will be provided by Cotter Schools.
Renovation work on the 74-year-old bridge began early in 2002 by
the Hardy Construction Company of Maumelle. Bridge foreman Phillip
Caves has called this the most challenging job of his 35-year career
of repairing bridges. Workers had to be tied off some 60 feet above
the water and innovative techniques developed to protect boaters and
pedestrians below from falling materials.
The interior of the bridge was replaced while the arches were
patched and cleaned. Throughout the project, the artistry and
architecture of the bridge has been preserved.
The bridge was designed by Marsh Engineering Company and included
distinctive rainbow arches patented by James Marsh in 1912. The
Bateman Contracting Company completed the bridge in 1930, and for
many years it was key to the development of east-west transportation
in northern Arkansas and Highway 62. The bridge later was named for
Baxter County Judge R.M. Ruthven, who was instrumental in gaining
its original approval.
It has been added to the National Register of Historic Places and
is listed as an American Civil Engineering Landmark. It has become
one of the most photographed bridges in Arkansas, according to the
chamber.
After 70 years of heavy usage by increasingly heavier vehicles,
the Ruthven bridge fell into disrepair and nearly had to be closed.
Its architecture was so unique, it made duplication extremely
difficult and costly, according to the release. The bridge's history
qualified the project for federal enhancement funds, specifically
for historic preservation. The Arkansas Highway and Transportation
Department was able to secure federal funding for 80 percent of the
$6.3 million project.
After the Sept. 24 bridge ceremony, festivities will move below
the bridge to Big Spring Park. A variety of entertainment and food
will be presented throughout the evening in the pavilion overlooking
the White River.
On Sept. 25, there will be attractions for the whole family. A
downtown parade steps off promptly at 10 a.m. and will wind its way
through Cotter's historic areas. Other attractions will include an
art show and sale, historic programs, entertainment and shopping
opportunities for antiques, art and crafts. Additional attractions
are being developed and more detailed schedules and information will
be provided.
Cotter's fall festival is a celebration of Cotter's 100-year
history as a railroad boom town. Cotter was incorporated July 7,
1904, as a division point for the White River and Iron Mountain
Railroad and was the most prominent city in northern Arkansas for
many years. Today, the Cotter area enjoys a rebirth with restoration
of historic downtown buildings, completion of the Anglin-Tinnon
Railroad Workers Memorial, an influx of new people, increased job
opportunities and world class trout fishing, according to the
chamber.
Cotter's fall festival is a promotion of the Cotter Area Chamber
of Commerce and the city of Cotter. Any organization wanting to
participate in this year's festival can contact festival chairman
Sonny Sharp at (870) 492-4483 or mailto:chamber@cotterarkansas.com
They also can contact Chamber President Beverly Pence at (870)
430-5012 or Mayor Bill Jennings, (870) 435-6326.
