Galena’s historic Y-Bridge to celebrate 100 Years in 2027

The City of Galena is looking ahead to a milestone nearly a century in the making as the community prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of its historic Y-Bridge in November 2027.

Although the celebration is still more than a year away, city officials say planning is already underway for an event worthy of one of Galena’s most recognizable landmarks. “We know it’s more than a year away, but big celebrations take big planning—and 100 years deserves something BIG!” the city shared in announcing the celebration.

The historic bridge, which spans the James River near Galena, was constructed in 1926-27 as part of Missouri’s efforts to improve transportation through the Ozarks. The reinforced-concrete structure was designed in the shape of a “Y,” allowing traffic traveling from the east to split toward different routes around the steep bluff.

Construction was completed in 1927, and the bridge was dedicated in November of that year. The dedication drew thousands of people to Galena for a celebration that included food, music and speeches. Historical records indicate that approximately 3,000 people attended the dedication ceremony.

The Y-Bridge served as an important transportation link for nearly six decades, helping connect Galena with surrounding communities and supporting the growing tourism industry in the Ozarks. Its unique design and graceful arches have since made it an important piece of local history. The bridge was eventually replaced by a modern bridge in the 1980s and closed to vehicular traffic. It remains a pedestrian landmark and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.

Now, Galena is preparing to honor the bridge's century of service and the generations of residents and visitors who have crossed it. “This isn't just a birthday for a bridge,” the city stated. “It's a celebration of Galena's history, our community and a landmark that has connected generations for a century.”

The city is encouraging residents, businesses, organizations, former Galena families, history enthusiasts and friends of the Y-Bridge to become involved as plans develop. Opportunities are expected to include sharing historical memories and photographs, volunteering, contributing ideas and helping with the celebration.

The centennial celebration is scheduled for Saturday, November 6, 2027, in Galena. With the theme of 100 years, one iconic bridge, one community, organizers hope the event will bring the community together to recognize the bridge’s past while celebrating Galena’s future. “Let's celebrate it together,” the city said.