Proctor Man Builds Replica Lift Bridge

Those visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth are invited to check out a new model of the Aerial Lift Bridge. 

The model was donated by the City of Duluth, and constructed by local World War II veteran Ralph Andres. 

Having lived in the area since 1944, the retired Proctor resident spent the last five years building the grasswood replica, which stands 3-feet tall and runs 9-feet wide.

Andres says the structure wasn’t always the easiest bridge to cross. 

“Getting the engineering drawings was my first difficulty, and I didn’t know anywhere I could get them so I went to the Mayor’s office and contacted the secretary there. She found a small drawing which needed to be enlarged tremendously,” says Andres. 

Andres now has his eye on recreating a few other attractions across the Northland, but says he would truly love to build the Eiffel Tower in the future.