I find the history of covered bridges fascinating. On our Traveling through Vermont, New Hampshire and Massachusetts we kept discovering beautiful examples of these covered bridges. They were created in the late 18th century when wood was the main resource for bridge construction. Carpenters built roofs to protect the wood from weather and decay. This significantly extended the life of the bridges.
Many of us are familiar with the images of romantic bridges in New England. But they originally existed all over America. The first covered bridge was built in Pennsylvania in 1805. Over time, they also became social meeting places, which I particularly like. Not only did they protect traffic, but they also offered shelter in bad weather. So the bridge often became a setting for meetings.
As industrialization progressed, steel replaced wood and many bridges disappeared. However, some regions, such as New England, have retained them to this day.
New England covered bridges have a touch of the past. They spread charm that brings back memories. One almost expects that instead of the cars and bicycles that pass them, horse-drawn carriages bump over their wooden planks. The covered bridges of New England. Covered bridges are one of the attractions that make New England unique.
Where can I find the Covered Bridges in New England?
It is unclear why the New England bridges were covered with wood and provided with a roof. There are explanations for this that vary. Some say the reason is the winters in the states of Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire or Vermont. To protect the carriages from the dangers of ice bridges, they were covered to protect them from the elements and unpredictable weather of New England winters. Another explanation is more prosaic and unflattering. Because they remind the viewer of stables, animals that were used to them crossed them without any problems. What's more romantic is the fact that they were in the past - and maybe today too, who knows? – were used by lovers to kiss, protected from the curiosity of others.
Bridge shapes
Their shapes vary greatly from bridge to bridge. Some are closed. Others have a wooden grille that allows some daylight to pass under the bridge roof. They are painted in all colors from red to white to brown. They look particularly beautiful Indian Summer when the deciduous trees in the area turn into the colors of autumn. Then the bridge colors compete with a fireworks display of foliage colors.
Covered Bridge at the Shelburne Museum in Shelburne, Vermont
The Shelburne Museum is home to a historic covered bridge that was originally built in Vermont in 1845 and moved to the museum in 1949. This bridge is an example of the “Burr-Arch” truss, which makes the structure particularly durable.
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Where to find Covered Bridges in New England
There are currently about 700 to 800 surviving covered bridges in the United States. Pennsylvania is the state with the most of these historic bridges, followed by states such as Ohio, Vermont, and Oregon. The exact numbers vary depending on the source, as new bridges are restored or discovered and others may be lost due to damage.
Covered bridges can be found in every New England state: Vermont has 106 of them. There are 54 in New Hampshire and nine of the wooden beauties in Maine. Specimens can also be found in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. However, these are often not easy to find as they are usually not on the main thoroughfares. Therefore, it is a good idea to find out where you are along the route for the New England tour before you travel.
questions
How did the tradition of covered bridges begin in the USA?
The tradition of covered bridges in the United States began in the late 18th century, when early settlers and engineers were looking for ways to cross rivers and streams. At that time, wood was the most commonly used building material because it was readily available in most regions. However, wooden bridges were exposed to the elements and quickly deteriorated. To extend the life of these structures, builders decided to put roofs on the bridges. These roofs protected the wooden structure from rain, snow and sun, which greatly increased its durability. Over time, these bridges became not only functional but also landmarks of rural communities.
Why were mainly wooden covered bridges built in the USA?
In early America, wood was available in large quantities and inexpensive to obtain. Iron and steel, which were later used for bridge construction, were not as common at that time. In addition, building with wood was a familiar technique that many settlers had mastered. Wooden bridges were quick to build and, when covered, offered a durable and stable solution. Huge amounts of wood were available, especially in heavily forested areas such as New England, Pennsylvania and the Midwest, which led to many bridges being made of this material. The covered structures protected the wood from the elements and thus significantly extended the life of the bridges.
Why are there only a few remaining covered bridges in the USA today?
Over the years, many covered bridges have been replaced with modern structures made of steel or concrete, as these are more durable and require less maintenance. Advances in technology and the desire to build wider and sturdier bridges have led to many of the original wooden bridges being demolished or replaced with modern structures. In addition, many old bridges have fallen victim to natural disasters such as floods or fires. However, since covered bridges are now considered historical landmarks, those that still exist are carefully restored and protected to preserve this piece of American history.
What role did covered bridges play in American cultural history?
Covered bridges have a place in American cultural history. In the 19th century, they were an important part of rural life, connecting isolated communities and promoting trade between regions. But not only that, many bridges became meeting places for villagers, as they offered shelter from the elements and were often used as places for socializing. It is even said that some young couples secretly met under these bridges, which is why they were nicknamed "Kissing Bridges." Today, they represent romance, nostalgia, and a bygone era of American history.
Why do many covered bridges have special names?
Most covered bridges in the United States were named after the people who used or built them. They were often named after nearby towns, families who lived in the area, or the rivers they spanned. This naming helped residents clearly identify the bridges, as many rural areas often had multiple bridges. Some names also changed over time, showing how deeply embedded the bridges were in the lives and stories of local people.
Are there special construction methods for covered bridges that are typical for the USA?
Yes, there are several specific construction methods that are typical for covered bridges in the United States. One of the most well-known is the so-called "Town Lattice" construction, named after its inventor, Ithiel Town. This construction method is characterized by a lattice-like pattern in which diagonal wooden planks are bolted together to ensure stability. Another method is the "Burr Arch Truss," which uses a combination of a wooden arch and vertical supports. These and other techniques provided excellent load distribution and ensured that the bridges remained stable for a long time, even when subjected to great stress.
What significance do covered bridges have for tourism in the USA?
Covered bridges have become a staple of rural tourism. Many travelers, especially in the New England states and Pennsylvania, seek out these historic structures to experience their architectural beauty and nostalgic charm. Often, the bridges are embedded in picturesque landscapes, making them ideal photo subjects. Covered bridge tours have become a popular tourist activity in some regions, and there are even special festivals held in honor of these bridges. For many, they are not just bridges, but symbols of a slower, simpler lifestyle.
What makes covered bridges in the USA so architecturally special?
Covered bridges are impressive for their simple yet functional architecture. Their designs combine craftsmanship with engineering. Despite the simple materials and tools available to the builders of the time, they created bridges that were sturdy enough to last for centuries. The roof itself is a key element that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. In addition, the styles of the bridges vary by region, indicating different technical innovations and local building habits. This combination of regional diversity, practicality and beauty is what makes the covered bridges so unique.
Why do some covered bridges have windows and others don't?
The decision whether or not a covered bridge would have windows often depended on the needs and preferences of the builders. Windows could let light into the bridge and allow users to see outside while crossing. They also helped allow wind to blow through the bridge, which could prevent moisture and rot from forming inside. On the other hand, some bridge builders preferred a covered design with no windows, as this further protected the bridge from the elements and preserved its structural integrity. Both approaches have their advantages, and the choice often came down to regional traditions or the purpose of the bridge.
Are there certain regions in the United States that are particularly known for their covered bridges?
Yes, certain regions in the US are particularly well-known for their covered bridges. New England, particularly the states of Vermont and New Hampshire, is famous for its numerous and well-preserved covered bridges. This region offers a particularly dense concentration of these historic structures, which are often found in idyllic landscapes. Pennsylvania, especially Lancaster County, is also a hotspot for covered bridges. The Midwest, with states like Indiana and Ohio, also has many of these bridges, which are often found in small, charming communities. Each region has its own architectural style and stories that make the bridges even more interesting.
You can find more information about Covered Bridges here:
- Covered Bridges in Parke County, Indiana
- Website about wooden bridges in the USA
- NSPCB
- Library of Congress
- American Engineering Record (HAER) Division
- List of wooden bridges in the USA
- National Park Service
- Wooden Bridges and the Birth of American Engineering
Do you like to travel by motorhome?
- Do you want to rent a mobile home? Then you will find information and a selection of booking options.
- Also check our packing list for campers to see whether you have packed everything for your motorhome tour.
- For example, there is a nice RV parking space near Bennington here: Dorset RV Park, 1567 Route 30, Dorset, VT 05251, United States
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Sources: own research on site and with support from Discover New England. We are very grateful for this. However, our opinions remain our own.
Text: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos: © Copyright see captions for the individual photos as well as Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline