The lift bridge hosted rail service until 1982
The Portage Lake Lift Bridge, officially known as the Houghton–Hancock Bridge, is a pivotal structure connecting the cities of Hancock and Houghton in Michigan. Spanning Portage Lake, part of a waterway that cuts across the Keweenaw Peninsula and links with Lake Superior, this bridge is a critical infrastructure piece for the region. US Highway 41 and M-26 both traverse this bridge, making it the only land-based connection between the northern part of the peninsula, known as Copper Island, and the southern section. In recognition of its engineering and historical significance, the bridge was designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in June 2022.
The bridge, designed by the Chicago engineering firm Hazelet and Erdal, is a remarkable example of lift bridge technology. Its middle section can be raised from a clearance of four feet above the water to 100 feet, allowing boats to pass underneath. This feature makes it the world’s heaviest and widest double-decked vertical-lift bridge. Constructed with over 35,000 tons of concrete and 7,000 tons of steel, the bridge replaced a narrow, 54-year-old swing bridge that had become a navigation hazard on the busy Keweenaw Waterway.
Connecting Upper Peninsula Mainland
Early settlers who came to the Keweenaw Peninsula found it connected to the Upper Peninsula mainland at both ends, with a series of lakes, waterways, and swampy areas, including small creeks that linked to Lake Superior. In the 1870s, these interconnected waterways were dredged to form the Keweenaw Waterway as we know it today. The transformation of the region began in earnest in the mid-1840s with the discovery of copper by Douglass Houghton, Michigan’s first state geologist. This discovery attracted miners and settlers from across the country. This lead to the rapid development of mining towns like Hancock and Houghton on both sides of the waterway. As these communities grew, the need for a reliable, year-round crossing became evident.
Houghton Country Traction streetcar nearing the Houghton end of the bridge
In the early days, barges and small boats were used to ferry people, horses, and goods across the waterway. During the winter, travelers used marked roadways on the ice—a hazardous but necessary practice. In 1853, Sam Eales saw the potential for a more organized ferry service and introduced the first ferry boat, the Lizzie Sutton. He later added more vessels such as the Leviathan and Northern Light. Eales charged modest fees for passage: 10 cents for pedestrians, 40 cents per horse, and 60 cents for a horse and buggy. Despite this service, the necessity of crossing the ice in winter underscored the need for a permanent bridge.
Permanent Bridge Needed
By the 1870s, it became clear that a more robust, year-round solution was required. In 1871, the Houghton County Board of Supervisors granted rights to three men—Streeter, Gottstein, and Ames—to build a private wooden toll bridge. This initial project failed due to piling issues on the north side, but it highlighted the need for a permanent crossing. In 1875, private investors George Shelden and James Edwards stepped in, investing $10,000 to construct a primarily wooden toll bridge with a swing section to allow maritime traffic to pass. By January 1876, the bridge was operational, with tolls set at 1 cent for pedestrians, 10 cents for single horse draws, and 15 cents for double horse wagons. This bridge quickly made the ferries obsolete, driving them out of business by the end of 1876.
The original wooden bridge could not keep pace with the rapidly increasing traffic and high maintenance costs. Additionally, the need to accommodate railroad traffic further complicated matters. In 1891, the bridge was sold to Houghton County. Tolls were immediately abolished, and the bridge underwent significant modifications. The plank roadway was raised and rebuilt, and a railroad level was added underneath in 1892.
Ad appeared in a 1907 issue of the Proceedings of the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association
Iron Swing Bridge
In 1897, the Mineral Range Railroad Company constructed a new iron swing bridge, replacing the old wooden structure. This new bridge also featured a two-lane roadway with a railroad crossing below. It served the community well until disaster struck on August 15, 1905. The steamer Northern Wave collided with the center section, causing extensive damage. A new iron bridge with a swing section was completed the following year, featuring a control house above the roadway. This bridge had 118 feet of clearance on the north maritime passage and 108 feet on the south side. The bridge narrowly avoiding another collision in 1940 and a repeat incident 20 years later. Despite this the bridge continued to serve the region until 1960.
By the late 1950s, the Michigan Department of Transportation recognized the need for a modern bridge to replace the aging structure. The new design, developed by Hazelet and Erdal of Chicago, aimed to build the world’s heaviest aerial lift bridge. Construction began in 1959, just west of the existing bridge. The new bridge, featuring four traffic lanes above and a railroad crossing below, was inaugurated on June 25, 1960. Interestingly, the night before the opening ceremony, a large freighter nearly collided with the bridge. This created a dramatic spectacle for the gathered spectators.
Aerial View of Portage Lake Bridge and former swing bridge in the spring of 1960
Innovative Design
The 1959 design was innovative, with roadways on both levels and rails embedded in the lower deck. This allowed the bridge to be partially raised for small and medium boats without disrupting vehicular traffic. The bridge only needed to be fully raised for large ships or lowered for trains. With the end of rail service in 1982, the bridge remains in the middle position during the summer boating season. In the winter it is lowered to accommodate snowmobiles.
Today, the Portage Lake Lift Bridge stands as a remarkable piece of engineering. It plays a crucial role in the region’s history and continuing to serve as a vital link for the community. It facilitates regional trade, tourism, and daily commutes, significantly impacting the local economy. The bridge is also a cultural landmark, embodying the spirit and resilience of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Regular maintenance ensures its functionality, adapting to modern transportation needs while preserving its historical significance. This blend of historical value and modern utility makes the Portage Lake Lift Bridge an enduring symbol of engineering excellence and community connection.
The lower deck of the lift bridge is now used by snowmobiles in the winter (image: peter Zhu)
Bridgefest
Bridgefest is a weekend celebration in June of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge. The bridge was officially opened in 1959 and then formally dedicated in 1960. The bridge links the communities of Houghton and Hancock and is the gateway to the rest of the Keweenaw Peninsula.
The celebration started in 1987 and offer a wide range of events. There are outdoor concerts, sporting events, parade and fireworks. The waterfront venue is perfect for delicious foods and beverages as well as exhibits from local artisans.
Live Stream of Bridge
Michigan Tech University in Houghton offers a live Stream of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge from Michigan Tech Lakeshore Center in Houghton. The page also offers a time lapse option by date. You can view the bridges live stream and other cameras by visit Michigan Tech Universities webcams.
Learn more about the rich history of the Western Upper Peninsula.
