The death of old Dewey Bridge last month, burned to death by a seven year old playing with matches, was almost more bad news than I could bear to hear. As one relic after another of the rural West’s past vanishes, this was one remnant I thought would survive. It was just a few years ago that Jennifer Speers, the millionaire with a soul, bought up the adjacent Dewy Bridge subdivision from a developer, plowed under the roads, dismantled the infrastructure and tore down a $600,000 home in order to restore the area to the way it had been.
It was a rare place of Hope. Now this. The fire triggered memories of my first visit to Dewey, more than 30 years ago.
I first heard about Dewey Bridge, believe it or not, from my mother. In 1973, I was still living in Kentucky, trying to scrape together enough money to come West again, if only for a month or so. The previous winter, I’d passed through Moab for the first time, on one of the coldest days in recorded history. With a can of flaming Sterno on the floorboard of my VW Squareback (the damn heater never worked), I stopped only long enough to gas up and then drove all the way to Grand Junction, where I used my dad’s Gulf Oil credit card for a warm bed at the Holiday Inn.
But I’d seen enough of this country to plan a return visit under better conditions. I’d hoped to leave in July for SE Utah, but my parents had booked a raft trip down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon with their friends, Bill and Vera Parker, and they asked me if I’d stay at their farm and keep an eye on the place. In exchange, they offered to help me out with gas money when I came West in August.
When they arrived home, I was eager to hear of their adventures on the river, and they had plenty to tell. But the highlight of their trip, it seemed, had been a 50 mile drive down a Utah back road, a dusty unpaved, corrugated “highway,” designated State Route 128. And they told me of a one-lane suspension bridge, Dewey Bridge, that crossed the river 30 miles upstream from Moab.
Weeks later, when they came home to the farm, and my dog Muckluk and I prepared to leave, my mom gave me very careful directions—it was the first exit to Cisco, not the second, she insisted. Look for the dirt road on the left, a couple miles west of the town.
I followed her directions and, incredibly, they were accurate (my mother has never been known for her navigational skills). We passed through Cisco—there was one café still open then, Ethel’s I later learned, but didn’t stop. Just as my ma had predicted, I spotted the gravel and dirt road, Utah 128, and turned left toward the river. I saw no one. Not a car or motorhome. No trucks or RVs. No ATVs. Nothing.
We came to the river, my dog and I, and figured the bridge was just ahead, but it was late afternoon, so I pulled into a stand of cottonwoods to make a camp. I pitched my cheap little blue nylon tent, fed Muck, cooked some beans on my Coleman stove and walked over to the Colorado to eat. The river was low, but the current was swift. I saw a Great Blue Heron, heard other birds whose songs I could not identify. And I could hear the rustle of the leaves in the great cottonwoods above me.
Finally, as the canyon filled with shadows, I heard the whine of a motor, coming down the grade from Cisco. It was a pickup truck, a local rancher I guessed. He saw me and waved and kept going. I could hear his truck for a few minutes and then the silence returned.
That night was one of the happiest of my life. An evening of “quiet exaltation” as someone once said.
The next morning, I found the bridge, just where my mom said it would be. We stopped for a while, Muckluk jumped in the river for a swim so she could later smell up the upholstery on my car. It was a glorious morning.
I knew it would be the first of many visits to Dewey Bridge. It never occurred to me that any of this would change or disappear.
But in 1974, much of the gravel and dirt road from Cisco to Moab was paved, though the asphalt was rough and pitted, and the “improvements” were negligible. Even better, because Dewey Bridge was only one lane wide, barely eight feet, large vehicles could not get across it. It was one kind of discrimination I could live with and even applaud. For another decade the road from Moab to Cisco remained quiet.
In 1985, however, UDOT construction began on a new bridge, just down river from the old one. And a year later, when it opened, traffic on highway 128 increased dramatically. Further “improvements” have brought still more traffic. Sometimes it is downright congested. Still, it’s a beautiful drive and those discovering it for the first time will be awestruck. But they’ll never be able to understand just what it felt like on that summer night in 1973. I’m not even sure they’d care to.
Last week, I stopped at the old bridge site for the first time since the fire. I could still smell the ash. The parking lot adjacent to it is now a staging area for mountain bicyclists and on this day, about a hundred brightly clad participants were prepping themselves and their bikes for a ride over the Kokopelli Trail. I felt peculiarly out of place in my Wranglers and Redwings—as much of an anachronism as the old bridge once was. I walked to the south abutment. The fire had burned every sliver of wood; all that remains are the cables. I stood there for several minutes, almost paralyzed by the sight.
One of the bikers walked up to me and said, “Hey I hear they might rebuild it…It’ll be just like it was before.”
I looked at him, smiled, and went back to my car.
The Feb/Mar Z (click the cover)
This site really has all of the information I needed about this
subject and didn’t know who to ask.
Aw, this was an extremely good post. Taking a few minutes and actual effort to make a good article… but what can I say… I put things off a lot and never seem to get anything
done.
Good post. I learn something new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon on a daily basis.
It will always be exciting to read content from other
writers and practice a little something from other web sites.
What a data of un-ambiguity and preserveness of valuable know-how regarding unexpected emotions.
This info is worth everyone’s attention. Where can I find out more?
My partner and I absolutely love your blog and find a lot of your
post’s to be just what I’m looking for. Do you offer guest writers
to write content in your case? I wouldn’t mind publishing a post or elaborating on most of the subjects you
write about here. Again, awesome website!
Hi there, this weekend is fastidious designed for me,
for the reason that this moment i am reading this impressive educational paragraph here at
my home.
I every time used to study article in news papers but now as I am a user of net thus from
now I am using net for content, thanks to web.
Τһanks for some other informative bⅼog. Тhe place elsｅ could I get
that type of info ѡritten things to do in mexico indiana
such a peгfect method? I have a challenge that I am sіmply now running on, and
I’ve been on the look out for such infοrmation.
Go᧐d info. Lᥙcky me I recently foᥙnd your Ьlog by
chance (stumblеupon). I’ve book-marked it for lɑter!
Feel free to surf to my web site things to do in south carolina
Aw, this was a really good post. Taking the time and
actual effort to create a good article… but what can I say… I hesitate a whole lot
and don’t seem to get anything done.
An interesting discussion is worth comment. I do believe that you should write more about this issue,
it may not be a taboo matter but usually folks don’t discuss
such subjects. To the next! All the best!!
Hello to every one, the contents existing at this web site are actually
awesome for people knowledge, well, keep up the good work fellows.
Admiring the time and energy you put into your website
and in depth information you offer. It’s nice to come across a blog
every once in a while that isn’t the same old rehashed material.
Wonderful read! I’ve saved your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.
Excellent post. I used to be checking constantly this weblog and I’m impressed!
Very helpful info particularly the final phase 🙂 I take care of such
info a lot. I used to be looking for this certain info for a very long time.
Thanks and best of luck.
откатить iOS 26.6 до https://t.me/s/otkatios
Your style is very unique in comparison to other folks I’ve read stuff from.
Many thanks for posting when you’ve got the opportunity, Guess
I will just bookmark this page.
This is reaⅼⅼy interesting, You’re a very skilled blogger.
I’ve joined yoսr rss feed and look forward
port huron michigan things to doseekіng more
of your excellent post. Alsο, I have shared your web site in my social networks!
This is really interesting, You are a very skilled
blogger. I have joined your feed and look forward to seeking more of your
excellent post. Also, I’ve shared your website in my social
networks!
Hey! I’m at work browsing your blog from my new iphone 3gs!
Just wanted to say I love reading through your blog and
look forward to all your posts! Carry on the fantastic work!
Take a look at my site :: ของใช้ห้องน้ำ
I like the helpful info you provide in your articles.
I will bookmark your blog and check again here frequently.
I’m quite sure I’ll learn lots of new stuff right here!
Best of luck for the next!
Hello There. I found your blog using msn. This is an extremely well written article.
I’ll be sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post.
I will certainly return.
By emphasizing theoretical proficiency, OMT discloses math’ѕ inner charm, firing սp love and drive
for leading exam grades.
Discover tһe benefit ⲟff 24/7 online math tuition at OMT, ԝhｅre engaging resources makke leearning fun ɑnd efficient for all levels.
As mathematics forms tһe bedrock of logical thinking ɑnd crucial analytical іn Singapore’s education system, expert
math tuition ⲟffers the tailored assistance required tο turn obstacles іnto
triumphs.
primary school school math tuition іs vital f᧐r PSLE preparation аs it assists trainees master the fundamental concepts ⅼike portions and decimals,
ᴡhich аｒe greɑtly tested in the exam.
Secondary math tuition lays а strong groundwork fοr post-O
Level researches, ѕuch as A Levels ᧐r polytechnic courses,
Ьy mastering fundamental topics.
Ϝor tһose pursuing H3 Mathematics, junior college tuition ρrovides innovative assistance оn researϲh-level subjects
tߋ master this difficult extension.
Τhe distinctiveness of OMT originates fｒom itѕ syllabus that enhances MOE’ѕ wіth interdisciplinary ⅼinks, connecting math to
scientific гesearch аnd daily analytical.
OMT’s ߋn the internet tuition is kiasu-proof leh, offering үօu that extra edge tо outshine іn O-Level math examinations.
Вy concentrating οn mistake analysis, math tuition protects against repeating mistakes tһat can cost
valuable marks іn Singapore tests.
Ⴝtoρ by my webpage … jc math private tutor
Tһank you for еѵery ߋther fantastic article. Where else
could anyone get that type of info things to do in virginia richmond
such a perfect means of writing? I’ve a presentation subsequent week, and
I am on the search for such info.
If you are going for most excellent contents like I
do, just pay a quick visit this web page every day because
it offers feature contents, thanks
Hi there to all, as I am really eager of reading this weblog’s post to
be updated regularly. It includes good data.
Great weblog right here! Additionally your web site rather a lot up very fast!
What web host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link in your host?
I wish my web site loaded up as fast as yours lol
It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d without a doubt donate to this outstanding blog!
I guess for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding
your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to new updates and will talk about
this website with my Facebook group. Talk soon!
Heya i am for the primary time here. I found this board and I find It truly
helpful & it helped me out much. I hope to offer one thing back and
help others such as you aided me.
ConextSolution merupakan penyedia solusi ERP dan transformasi digital yang membantu organisasi meningkatkan efisiensi operasional melalui odoo
ERP, SAP System, Business Intelligence, dan integrasi sistem.
Sebagai mitra transformasi digital odoo indonesia, kami
menawarkan layanan implementasi odoo, jasa implementasi odoo, serta konsultasi dari
tim odoo consultant indonesia yang berpengalaman.
Selain itu menyediakan jasa ERP indonesia untuk berbagai
industri, termasuk ERP manufacturing indonesia dan ERP retail indonesia.
Dengan pengalaman yang luas, implementasi ERP perusahaan dapat berjalan lebih efektif dan sesuai kebutuhan bisnis.
Kami berkomitmen untuk membantu perusahaan membangun sistem ERP
untuk bisnis yang lebih modern, mudah dikembangkan, dan mampu mengoptimalkan operasional di era digital saat ini.
At this time I am ready to do my breakfast, afterward having
my breakfast coming again to read additional news.
I do believe all of the ideas you’ve offered for your post.
They are really convincing and can definitely work. Still, the posts are
too short for novices. May just you please extend them a bit from subsequent time?
Thank you for the post.
If you wish for to take much from this piece of writing then you have to apply
such methods to your won website.
This is the right web site for anyone who wants to find out
about this topic. You realize so much its almost hard to argue with you (not that I personally will need to…HaHa).
You definitely put a brand new spin on a topic that’s been discussed for many years.
Wonderful stuff, just excellent!
Really enjoyed reading this article. Appreciate the effort.
My web site – Call Girls
Hi there! Someone in my Facebook group shared this website with us so I came to look
it over. I’m definitely enjoying the information. I’m bookmarking and will
be tweeting this to my followers! Fantastic blog and
amazing design.
Magnificent goods from you, man. I’ve take into account your stuff previous to and you’re just
too magnificent. I really like what you have obtained
here, certainly like what you are stating and the best way through which you assert it.
You are making it enjoyable and you still care for to stay it wise.
I can’t wait to read much more from you. This is actually a wonderful site.
I pay a quick visit day-to-day some websites and
websites to read content, except this webpage offers feature based
articles.
This is a very informative post about online casinos and betting platforms.
I especially liked how it explains the importance of choosing a licensed site before signing
up.
Many players often ask where they can find reliable gaming platforms with fair odds
and smooth payouts. From what I’ve seen, checking platforms like vn22vip helps users compare features,
bonuses, and overall experience.
Thanks for sharing these insights — they’re helpful for both beginners and experienced bettors.
Excellent post. I was checking continuously this blog and I
am impressed! Extremely useful info particularly the last part 🙂 I
care for such information a lot. I was seeking this certain information for a very long time.
Thank you and best of luck.
Hey there! This is kind of off topic but I need some guidance from
an established blog. Is it hard to set up your own blog?
I’m not very techincal but I can figure things out pretty
quick. I’m thinking about setting up my own but I’m not
sure where to start. Do you have any ideas or suggestions?
Cheers
Hello, its nice post on the topic of media print,
we all be familiar with media is a impressive source of facts.
What’s up to all, how is the whole thing, I think every one is getting more from this
website, and your views are good designed for new users.
Xin chào, bayclubs hiện là cổng ổn định với
tốc độ ổn định. Nội dung nhiều lựa chọn,
hỗ trợ tốt. Tôi thấy rất ổn, mọi người đang tìm thì đăng ký ngay nhé!
Truy cập ngay:bayclub
Hey! I just wanted to ask if you ever have any trouble with hackers?
My last blog (wordpress) was hacked and I ended up losing a few months
of hard work due to no data backup. Do you have any methods to prevent hackers?
Thanks on your marvelous posting! I genuinely enjoyed reading
it, you will be a great author. I will ensure that I bookmark your blog and will come back sometime soon. I want to
encourage you to ultimately continue your great work, have a nice evening!
Heya i am for the primary time here. I came across this board and I to find It really
useful & it helped me out much. I hope to offer something again and aid others such
as you aided me.
ConextSolution adalah konsultan ERP dan transformasi digital yang membantu
organisasi meningkatkan efisiensi operasional melalui odoo ERP, SAP System, Business Intelligence, dan integrasi sistem.
Sebagai penyedia solusi odoo indonesia, kami menawarkan layanan implementasi odoo, jasa implementasi odoo, serta
konsultasi dari tim odoo consultant indonesia yang berpengalaman.
Kami juga menyediakan jasa ERP indonesia untuk berbagai industri, termasuk
ERP manufacturing indonesia dan ERP retail indonesia.
Berbekal pengalaman dalam berbagai proyek, implementasi ERP perusahaan dapat berjalan lebih efektif dan sesuai kebutuhan bisnis.
Fokus kami adalah membantu perusahaan membangun sistem ERP untuk bisnis yang lebih efisien, mendukung pertumbuhan bisnis, dan mampu meningkatkan produktivitas di era digital
saat ini.
Via real-life situation reseaгch studies, OMT sһows
mathematics’s impact, assisting Singapore trainees develop ɑn extensive love and exam inspiration.
Expand уօur horizons ԝith OMT’ѕ upcoming new physical area
oрening in Ѕeptember 2025, providing mսch mоre opportunities fօr hands-οn math expedition.
Ꮃith trainees in Singapore starting official math education fгom the
first dɑʏ ɑnd facing high-stakes evaluations, math tuition ⲣrovides the extra edge needed to achieve t᧐p performance in this essential topic.
primary school math tuition enhances ѕensible
reasoning, vital for translating PSLE questions including sequences andd logical deductions.
Ιn Singapore’s affordable education landscape, secondary math tuition ցives the аdded edge
required tߋ stand ߋut in Ⲟ Level positions.
Tuition educates error analysis techniques, helping junior college pupils ɑvoid common mistakes in А Level calculations and evidence.
OMT’ѕ custom-designed program distinctly sustains tһe MOE syllabus
ƅy stressing error evaluation аnd improvement techniques
t᧐o lessen errors іn assessments.
OMT’s οn the internet quizzes offer instantaneous comments ѕia, ѕ᧐ you сan fix mistakes faѕt and see yoᥙr grades enhance likе magic.
In a fast-paced Singapore class, math tuition οffers the slower,
in-depth descriptions neеded tо construct self-confidence for
exams.
mｙ blog post; singapore online math tuition
This is very fascinating, You are an overly professional blogger.
I have joined your feed and sit up for looking
for extra of your magnificent post. Additionally, I have shared your site in my social
networks