www.TuolumneMuseum.org

West Side Lumber Company

Docent-led Field Trip Program to
Bourland Bridge
Built by the West Side Lumber Company

in the Stanislaus National Forest

Saturday Morning, August 5, 2006

(Photo courtesy of Mr. Michael Azzarello www.WSRestoration.com )

History of the Bourland Bridge

Bourland Trestle which still partially stands today, was an engineering marvel at the time it was built in the early 1920’s, at least for a logging railroad. For years, it proved to play an important part in West Side's history. The West Side's mainline extended some 70 miles toward the outskirts of Yosemite National Park. In order to get there they needed to cross several rivers and creeks. The WSLC had a total of 4 major Trestles, which they called Bridges. The first was only 7 miles from the mill site at the Tuolumne River. The railroad also crossed the Clavey River, Niagara Creek and Reed Creek, which Bourland crossed. Bourland Trestle is one of two wooden Bridges remaining in Northern California. The Trestle is over 75 years old, 315 feet long and 76 feet high.

Due to its age and recent storm damage, the costs of rebuilding the trestle by volunteers have proved to be too great. As of now, there are no plans to save it.  It was a sight to see in operation as well as today. However, the Trestle is quickly deteriorating. Over the past several winters, high water has taken out several of the middle bents. It won't belong before it is all gone. (History written by TCMM Member and Volunteer Michael Azzarello)

Meet at the Tuolumne City Memorial Museum on Saturday morning August 5, 2006 between 9:00 and 10:00 AM for a map and instructions.

Bourland is about an hours drive and our field trip guide, WSLC Historian Art Kauppi, will be waiting for you at the west side of the Bourland Bridge. Join us for an easy 10-minute walk and leisurely picnic in the woods. Bring your own folding chair, camera and a picnic lunch and beverages. The site is located in the Mi-Wok Ranger District of the Stanislaus National Forest. We will be traveling via Cottonwood Road.

RSVP is necessary. Call the Museum at (209) 928-3516 and leave a message. On Saturday, the Museum will be open between 9 and 10 AM for your convenience. Be advised, there are no “facilities” after you leave the museum.

RETURN TO TCMM HOME PAGE