Dayton bridge with mysterious past rebuilt, reopen

There are several places in the Gem City said to be haunted, from historic buildings, to local businesses, and even a college campus. - compiled by Cassidy Boyer

Credit: Wyckoff, Chad (CMG-Dayton)

Credit: Wyckoff, Chad (CMG-Dayton)

There are several places in the Gem City said to be haunted, from historic buildings, to local businesses, and even a college campus. - compiled by Cassidy Boyer

The Ridge Avenue Bridge, also known as the Bessie Little Bridge, was recently recbuilt and reopened September 2015.

The structure over the Stillwater River has been rebuilt twice since a woman named Bessie Little was murdered there by her unborn baby’s father in 1896.

Over the years, the bridge has grown a reputation in the Dayton area for being haunted by the young woman.

While this may still be the case, the structure’s new aesthetic brings a different atmosphere to the location of legend, including a memorial for Daytonians lost in World War I.

Bessie's spirit must be radiating pure beauty, for the bridge and its surroundings are absolutely picturesque.

Visitors can walk the bridge and enjoy a view that spans over both the river and Triangle Park.

According to Montgomery County's website, improvements included a left turn lane when moving eastbound, the addition of 10 foot sidewalks, and a better bus stop location on its southeast corner.

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