Covered bridges are so fascinating to me. The history, the stamina, the beauty. Each one possesses its own character and vibe. Walking across them felt like I was walking back in time. Most of the bridges we visited have been updated or completely replaced through the decades, but they all seem to evoke nostalgia and an appreciation for things of the past.
These are just a few of my favorite covered bridges from our early fall trip through beautiful Vermont and New Hampshire.
Packard Hill Bridge
The Packard Hill Bridge in Lebanon, NH, was our first stop. I was so excited to see my first covered bridge, and it didn’t disappoint. After a little research, we learned this one was originally built sometime between 1780 and 1790 to provide access to the home of Ichabod Packard. The original one was not covered. The bridge underwent some changes in 1804 and again in 1878. Later, it was completely removed in 1952 and replaced with a Bailey bridge, a prefabricated truss bridge. Lastly, the Bailey bridge was replaced in the early nineties and is the one that remains. Even though the current one doesn’t have the history that the original bridge would have, it was still a great treat.
Meriden Covered Bridge
The Meriden Covered Bridge is located in Plainfield, New Hampshire, also known as the Mill Bridge. The one that currently stands at this spot is the third bridge. The first bridge was originally built in 1880 for $685. The first two built at this location were open structures.
Howe Covered Bridge
The Howe Covered bridge is located in Turnbridge, VT, and leads to the Howe family farm. It was built in 1879 and was added to the National Historic Registry in 1974. If I had to pick one must-see bridge on this trip, it would be this one. The structure is nothing out of the ordinary it looks like most other bridges on our path. This one is special because of the name. Howe is a family name. Although my family hails from Kentucky, I found it fascinating to see our name on the covered bridge.
Cilley Bridge
Speaking of Howe, the Cilley Bridge carries Howe Lane over the First Branch of the White River in Tunbridge, VT. This one was completely rebuilt in 2009 following the same design as the original bridge.
Larkin Bridge
The Larkin Bridge is located in Tunbridge, VT. This bridge was built in 1902 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As one of five bridges in the town, it is recorded to be the last bridge to be built in Vermont during the bridge construction period.
The Robbins Nest Bridge
This is a privately-owned covered bridge that was built around 1960. It is a beautiful bridge that has been well maintained. The water flowing beneath it and the surrounding landscape are worth a stop.
The Mill Bridge
The Mill Bridge is located in Tunbridge, Vermont, and crosses the White River. Built in 2000, this one is a replica of the original bridge built in 1883.
The Moxley Bridge
The Moxley bridge was built in1886-1887, and the one you see today is the original bridge. It is located in Chelsea and crosses the First Branch of the White River. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The records indicate this bridge is the only one to survive in the town of Chelsea.
These states take great pride in their covered bridges. We stopped to see as many as possible in the limited time we had while passing through. We had very little cell service during some of our travels. Therefore, I recommend mapping out the directions to the bridges before you start your adventure. We drove for what felt like miles with no service, keeping our eyes peeled for signs or turnoffs that would lead us to the next bridge. The bridges we visited were not marked by landmark signs or other notable postings. Luckily my husband has an excellent sense of direction and even more patience.
Please share if you have visited any of these bridges or have a favorite.
I love to travel and see new places. Check out some of my other trips: Key West, FL; Boone, NC; Baltimore, MD, and Savannah, GA.
References:
Packard Hill Bridge, Meriden Bridge, Larkin Covered Bridge, Mill Covered Bridge, Moxley Covered Bridge
