Bridgeton Covered Bridge - Parke County, Indiana
Posted by: 
GwynEvie
N 39° 38.948 W 087° 10.575
16S E 484878 N 4388830
Locals claim that this is Indiana's most famous covered bridge.
Waymark Code: WM8XK1
Location: Indiana, United States
Date Posted: 05/27/2010
Views: 13
The Bridgeton Covered Bridge straddles a waterfall that was created to drive the historic Bridgeton Grist Mill, which is still in operation. The bridge, the waterfall, and the mill combine to create a classic American tableau that has made this the most photographed covered bridge in Indiana.
The original Bridgeton Covered Bridge was built in 1868 by J.J. Daniels. It stood until April 28, 2005, when it was destroyed by arson. Given the importance of the bridge to the town, plans were immediately made to build a replacement. A group led by Dan Collum and many local volunteers began construction on January 12, 2006, and the new bridge was formally dedicated on October 1, 2006.
Every effort was made to exactly duplicate the dimensions and framing of the original bridge. The sandstone blocks from the original abutments were also reclaimed and reused. The current abutments are a mix of mortared sandstone block and concrete, as were the originals.
The original bridge was bypassed with a modern concrete bridge in 1967 and served then as a pedestrian bridge until its destruction. It was a popular spot during the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. Although the new bridge was framed in such a way that it could carry vehicles, it is used only for foot traffic. Thanks to the quick fundraising efforts and the work of the local community, only one festival season was missed between the destruction of the old bridge and the dedication of the new one.
Current Condition of Bridge: Excellent. The bridge is less than four years old.
Web Address: [Web Link]
Description of Covered Bridge:
Double-span Burr arch. 245' long plus 11' overhang on each end. Portals are 13'W by 12'H. Abutments are a mix of mortared sandstone block and concrete.
Year Built: 2006
Parking (If not at the bridge):: N 39° 38.958 W 087° 10.604
Location (Road - City - State - Country): Bridgeton Road, Bridgeton, Indiana, USA
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