Designed by Edward S. Shaw, the bridge abutments and piers were built by the firm of Ellis & Buswell of Woburn, Massachusetts, and the superstructure was built by the New England Structural Company of East Everett, Massachusetts.

[3] The bridge was commissioned by Francis R. Schell, who gave $42,000 for design and construction.

In 1985, due to advanced deterioration of the steel truss members, the bridge was barricaded and abandoned.

To provide for safer and more convenient access across the river, Francis Schell gave $42,000 for the construction of a new steel bridge.

It had been proposed that, if preserved, the bridge will be reopened only to travel by foot, bicycle, snowmobile, and emergency vehicle.