5

Dynamite the Ice (and the bridge)
1 May 1948
East Coulee, Alberta, Canada


Credits:
Unknown

6

Legacy from the Past


This bridge was an important link in the town as it connected not only the mines on the south side of the river but also to the town of West Monarch which was situated just east of East Coulee. When this town was adandoned after the mines closed many of the people moved to East Coulee. Some of the businesses moved as well. The Repas family operated the general store West Monarch and decided to buy a new bulding and reopen in East Coulee. The store and house they owned and operated still stands and the store has been used for music shows and as a gift shop.

Currently, this bridge continues to span the river but it has fallen into disrepair and has an uncertain future. It is one of the last of its kind in Canada and has heritage value but like other old structures would require large amounts of money to refurbish. Only time will tell but the bridge did literally help build the Good Life in the Badlands.