Connecting the Past: The Horse-Drawn Trolley Bridge That Linked St. Augustine to Anastasia Island

Prior to the construction of the Bridge of Lions, St. Augustine relied on a much more modest crossing.

In the late 1800s, a simple bridge—complete with a horse-drawn trolley—connected the historic city to Anastasia Island, home to the well-known St. Augustine Lighthouse. It’s worth noting that some historical photographs often thought to depict the Bridge of Lions actually show a separate structure. This bridge, located in the marshes of Anastasia Island, served visitors arriving by boat from the city to access the lighthouse—a popular destination, even then. Referred to as the “Bridge to Anastasia Island” or the “South Beach railroad bridge,” this span was originally built in 1895.

Following a significant renovation in 1904, it was upgraded to accommodate trolley traffic. The bridge itself was a flat structure, featuring a movable section to permit ship passage, and it operated as a toll bridge.

The iconic Bridge of Lions was completed in 1927 and underwent a major restoration in 2010. Its name derives from the distinctive pair of marble Medici lion statues that stand sentinel at the entrance, offering both a striking welcome and a nod to classical European design.