Red Bridge returns to Cool Crest Garden Golf

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- A familiar bridge has reclaimed its place at Cool Crest Garden Golf.

The red bridge on the West Course, which was sold in 2019, has been returned to its original home. Rick Gilmore, Owner of Cool Crest, said he bought the bridge six years ago from the orginal owners of Cool Crest at an auction.

"I bought the bridge and some other things that I wanted to take care of, and took it over my house and saved them in storage," he said. "I wound up buying up the entire property. I had the bridge set up behind my house, and I just decided to bring it back this year."

Gilmore said he brought the bridge back because he is considering moving from his home.

"I'm considering moving from where I live, so I thought I'd go ahead and move the bridge before I do that, you know, I didn't want to have it in place before I put my house up for sale," he said.

Gilmore said he is glad to bring the bridge back after the previous owners were trying to get rid of it.

"Well, it was always a part of the course, and the only reason I bought and moved it is because the previous owner planned on stripping everything out of here," he said.

Gilmore said the bridge has a good memory for a lot of people in the community.

"I think it has a good, warm feeling in their memories, and they like to come," he said. "We have many, many people that have been here and returned from the past."

Gilmore said the course is a part of the history of St. Joe, and it makes him feel happy that the course is still here.

"It's part of my history. I'm about the same age as this business is," he said. I think it's important to continue on with business that has prospered here."

The bridge will make its official comeback when the course opens in April.