Virginia’s many metal-truss bridges are fast being replaced by sturdier, though less visually appealing, spans of concrete. Among the several examples selected for landmark designation because of rarity of type or picturesque qualities is the Gholson Bridge spanning the Meherrin River in central Brunswick County. The Gholson Bridge is important from an engineering standpoint as the oldest multi-span metal bridge in the state. It was constructed in 1884 by the Wrought Iron Bridge Company of Canton, Ohio, and consists of two through Pratt trusses set on random ashlar sandstone piers. The wrought-iron trusses consists of top chords and end posts that are two upright channels connected with cover plates and stay plates. Decorative details include cast-metal caps with the construction date. Above each portal is a plaque identifying the builder.