The Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Delaware rail bridge over the Schuykill River into Philadelphia at Gray's Ferry caught fire, probably from sparks from a passing locomotive, and was severely damaged. The entire western section of the bridge was burned but portions of the eastern end were saved. Train service was maintained, however, using the new Pennsylvania Railroad bridge half a mile upstream. (By John Osborne)
Source Citation
"The Fire at Gray's Ferry Bridge," New York Times, December 24, 1863
J.Thomas Scharf and Thompson Wescott, History of Philadelphia 1609-1884, in three volumes (Philadelphia, PA: L.H. Everts & Co., 1884), I: 811.
J.Thomas Scharf and Thompson Wescott, History of Philadelphia 1609-1884, in three volumes (Philadelphia, PA: L.H. Everts & Co., 1884), I: 811.