The kingpost that forms the basis for this truss is found in the center two panels. The multiple form is the simplest and by far, the most common type in Ohio
Truss Types
Multiple Kingpost
(MKP)
The kingpost that forms the basis for this truss is found in the center two panels. The
multiple form is the simplest and by far, the most common type in Ohio
Queenpost (Q)
A three panel truss used for short spans, the queenpost was devised as an extension of
the basic kingpost by placing a horizontal member in the center panel.
Burr Arch (B)
Patented in 1804 by Theodore Burr of New York, this design combined a large arch with a
multiple kingpost truss. The addition of an arch was a traditional way of strengthening an
existing truss. Many of Ohio’s bridges were stiffened in this way.
Long (L)
In 1830 Col. Stephen H. Long of the U.S. Topographical Engineers became the first
American to use mathematical calculations to develop a truss. It became known as an
"X" truss.
Town (T)
Connecticut architect Ithiel Town received a patent for a truss of crisscrossed
diagonals, or lattice, in 1820.
Howe (H)
In 1840 Massachusetts builder William Howe
introduced iron into wooden truss design by substituting adjustable iron rods for the
vertical members of Long’s truss.
Smith (S)
Tipp City, Ohio, native Robert W. Smith received truss patents
in 1867 and 1869. Three different variations of his basic design still exist in
Ohio’s bridges.
Partridge (P)
Reuben L. Partridge of Marysville, Ohio, received a patent for a
design that was remarkably close to Smith’s truss. He was especially active in Union
County.
Childs
(C)
Developed in 1846 by Horace Childs, the Childs truss was used
exclusively after 1883 by Ohio bridge builder Everett Sherman. The truss simply added
diagonal iron rods to a multiple kingpost design.
Warren (W)
Patented in 1848 by two Englishmen, one of whom was named James
Warren, it utilizes isosceles triangles.
