First train over “Deep Gorge Trestle,” Utica, Ithaca & Elmira Railroad, between Swartwood and Park Station, November 11, 1873. This bridge had ten 46-foot spans, so was 460 foot long on a gradual curve and 122 feet high at the center point, over Cayuta Creek.
Utica Daily Observer
Wednesday, July 2, 1873
Utica, Ithaca & Elmira Railroad. - The Ithaca Democrat says:
Mr. Ezra Cornell, who, as we stated Thursday, has just been to New York on business connected with the Utica, Ithaca & Elmira Railroad, made contracts for two iron trestle works for the road between VanEttenville and Horseheads. This part of the road crosses a short section which is, as a railroad line, rougher than any spot on the Erie.
Two immense trestles were required to span these ravines. Mr. Cornell bought two of them while away a few days ago, One of them will be 420 feet long and 150 feet high at the highest point. The other will be 300 feet long and of great height. The longest of these works will be erected at an expense of $29,000. the other will cost $17,000.
The ravines are altogether too deep to be filled, and Mr. Cornell did not deem it prudent to put in wooden trestling which would be liable to burn or break down. These immense wrestling will be the highest and most imposing viaducts in the State. They are to be erected by the first of September, when trains will run from Horseheads to VanEttenville.
