Although strategically insignificant the Elsenz Bridge and two other bridges were blown up by German pioneers on April 1, 1945 shortly before the allied troops entered Sinsheim. The American troops were already advancing into the city from both sides of the river Elsenz. A new bridge was inaugurated on May 26, 1949 under Mayor Gottlob Barth. It was given the name Friedensbrücke (Bridge of Peace).