Lift Bridge - Ages 7+

One of the most common types of bridges for freight trains, our Truss Design Lift Bridge is a working replica of the many lift bridges that have been made over the last 100 years.

Lift bridges became the workhorses of the freight railroads for many years as rail lines expanded over the rivers and ports of the world. The design was particularly useful in areas where there was no room for a bridge to swing, such as a busy industrial port. This bridge uses a small handle and crankshaft to lift the center span to the top of the truss structure, allowing trolls and other vehicles to safely pass between the two ends. The kit can be mostly made without glue and taken apart for storage. Snug slot construction and accurate cutting makes this possible!

• Dimensions: 15 x 3 x 10 in
• Age Rating: 7+ The bridge kits can be made by youngsters starting around 7 years old, however we like that it is both interesting and compelling for kids of all ages – right up to those in their 90’s! They are working re-creations so are great for school bridge projects.

Pathfinders is a Canadian company dedicated to creating compelling, innovative, wooden science kits that challenge children of all ages to explore the link between science, design, and technology in the world around us. They aim to help the student integrate knowledge gained from constructing the kits by providing links to educational resources to enhance their understanding of math and science as well as historical principles. Their chief educator, Derek Wulff, is a BC certified teacher who has been teaching grades K to 10 for the past 13 years. Derek designs all of the kits produced at Pathfinders for educational and recreational use. He spends time with kids in schools, making and using the kits to see how well they deliver curriculum for teachers, and to make sure they are engaging and appropriate for both fun play and educational aspects. They are an environmentally friendly company and use recyclable materials, natural, untreated wood, and local resources and production as much as possible. All of their kits are tested to make sure they are 100% kid and pet safe! They like to work with other local companies too. Their manufacturer in Taiwan is a local family-run factory, and most of the retail stores they sell to are small businesses and neighbourhood toy stores.

Recommended for ages 7+.