Originally a ferry crossed the Danvers River at the location from 1636 to 1788, then the first bridge was built.

Rebuilt several times until 1896 when a steel pony truss swing bridge with trestle approaches was constructed by the county.

It was constructed by the King Bridge Company of Cleveland, Ohio.

It was replaced by the current span in 1996, and "dedicated on August 2nd, 1996 in honor Salem veterans who served the United States in its time of need".

[3] The Veterans Memorial Bridge contains seven main spans with the longest measuring 220 feet.