The flow of Muskingum has been regulated by a series of dams and locks since the mid-19th century.

Before the regulation serious floods often occurred, which washed away or weakened the earliest bridges.

A winter flood in 1831–1832 weakened the second bridge to be unsafe for the increased traffic.

A third iteration, a wooden covered bridge was completed in 1832 and stood until 1900.

While being a relief to traffic and the citizens, it has received criticism for a tunnel-like effect due to its solid railings, providing hardly any view of the scenery.