Reflections on the beginnings of prestressed concrete in America

To commemorate the 25-year Silver Jubilee of the founding of the Prestressed Concrete Institute, the PCI Journal presented a series of papers on the early history of prestressed and precast concrete in North America, narrated by the individuals who participated in the early development of the industry. These papers were published in 13 successive issues of the Journal from May/June 1978 through May/June 1980. Because of the heavy demand for these papers, it was decided to compile the series into a single volume. Part 1, on the design and construction of Walnut Lane Bridge, describes the significant role Professor Magnel of Belgium played in introducing prestressed concrete to America. Part 2 covers major early contributions of American engineers. Parts 3 through 8 describe the early history of prestressed concrete construction in Florida, Tennessee, the middle and southwestern U.S., Colorado, the northwestern states, and Canada. Part 9 recounts further details about the pioneers and related developments of the early prestressing industry on the east and west regions of America. A concluding section summarizes the industry's landmark events.