Peoples Bridge Company stock certificate 1889 (Pennsylvania)

Rare Harrisburg collectible. Famous vignette of the bridge itself (an icon of the area). Underprint in orange of "Shares $50 Each".  Dated 1889. Heavy red pen cancellations on top half of certificate. Ink pickoff in lower left border from reattachment to stub (no longer attached). Approximately 11.5 x 9.5 inches.  

The People's Bridge Company was formed in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in 1889 to finance the construction of a new bridge, the Walnut Street Bridge, as a public, low-cost alternative to the monopolistic Camelback (Market Street) Bridge. The bridge, also known as the People's Bridge, opened in 1890 and was a vital connection between Harrisburg and the West Shore until a 1996 flood damaged the western span, making it a pedestrian-only link to City Island today.

Formation & Purpose
• Public Demand:
A public movement arose to create a new, affordable bridge in response to the high tolls charged by the Harrisburg Bridge Company.
• Company Formation:
The People's Bridge Company was established in February 1889, led by civic leader E.Z. Wallower, to fund and build this new bridge.
• Competition:
The primary goal was to break the toll monopoly on the Camelback Bridge (now Market Street Bridge), which had existed since 1816.
The Walnut Street Bridge
• Construction:
Built by the Phoenix Bridge Company and completed in 1890, the Walnut Street Bridge was made of cast-iron and utilized the innovative "Phoenix column" design.
• Original Function:
It carried vehicular, streetcar, and eventually trolley traffic until its closure to motor vehicles in 1972, after being severely weakened by Hurricane Agnes.
• Modern Status:
Following a devastating 1996 flood that destroyed three spans, the bridge now serves as a major pedestrian and bicycle link between downtown Harrisburg and City Island. 

Product descriptions and images
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