Usually, when you hear about bridges it has something to do with architectural design feats or their incredible size. But in Connecticut, the most talked about bridge has more to do with its strange appearance than anything else. Thread City Bridge, also known as Frog Bridge, is a staple of Willimantic and crosses over the Willimantic River. Check it out:
The original bridge was plain in design, but was replaced in September, 2000. The new bridge maintains its function as a conventional highway bridge, but it’s definitely changed its looks!
Wikimedia Commons
The new bridge is a daily part of life in WIllimantic and the area surrounding it was also landscaped to make it a beautiful town landmark. But if you noticed the frogs first, you’re not alone.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Each corner of the bridge features an 11 foot high statue of a giant copper frog sitting atop a concrete spool of thread. Its eyes are covered in gold leaf.
susteph/Flickr
They represent the 1754 “Battle of the Frogs,” when an extremely dry summer caused bullfrogs in a local pond to essentially battle each other. The sound of their fight in the middle of the night had some then-residents believeing the end was near. The resulting design has lead to the nickname Frog Bridge, but residents love it.
Luvzdollz/Flickr
How interesting is that? But Thread City Bridge isn’t the only strange sight you can get from the comfort of your car. Check out Connecticut’s collection of Bizarre Roadside Attractions!
Wikimedia Commons
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
susteph/Flickr
Luvzdollz/Flickr
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