Pistol Bridge

The Calcasieu River Bridge is often talked about as the "scariest" bridge in Louisiana.  Our state, because it has a lot of water, has lots of bridges.  This bridge goes over the Calcasieu River in Lake Charles is in need of replacement.  It was built in 1952 and has exceeded it's lifespan.  I drive over the bridge almost everyday.  There is no shoulder, it is steep, and you can count on someone's vehicle breaking down 7on the bridge and causing traffic delays.

Those delays will put you and your vehicle at a standstill while you wait for the wrecker to come clear the vehicle off of the roadway.  While you are waiting, there's plenty to look at.  I'm told that when this bridge was built, the builders were interested in more than simply moving the traveler over the water.  They wanted the bridge to be pretty and have a distinctive artistic flair.  

While I was in a traffic jam the other day, I had the opportunity to look at this "artistic flair" up close and personal.  The Calcasieu River Bridge in Lake Charles has crossed flintlock derringer pistols.  These are the types of pistols that pirates used.  Pirate Jean Lafitte sailed around this area.  Supposedly there is gold hidden in one of the many bayous.  There are 5,286 pair of these pistols on the bridge.

There's probably not that many anymore, though.  Numerous vehicles have hit the railing, knocking the pistols off of the bridge and into the water far below.

From what I understand, they are trying to raise money to replace the bridge (before it falls into the water far below as well.)  As I was looking at the pistols on the bridge, I was thinking that it would be neat to have a pair as a souvenir.  When the bridge is finally torn down and replaced, I'm thinking that perhaps they could auction off some of the pistols to locals who would want a nice conversation piece to frame and hang over the mantel.