Visiting a Covered Bridge

The first bridge was built over Sandy Creek in 1872, but in May of 1886 it was washed away by high waters. In August of 1886 the bridge that still stands today was built.

Some other important dates for this covered bridge include:
> 1952-renovation
> 1967-Missouri declares all remaining covered bridges to be historic sites
> 1984-latest reconstruction

Today the bridge is only open to pedestrian traffic.

Here is a photo I took inside the covered bridge. In the early days there would have been posters inside the bridge that were used for advertisements, much like we use billboards today. Today we see writings on the walls and various graffiti.

In the 1800's bridges were made of wood and when they were uncovered their life expectancy would be only about ten years due to being exposed to the elements.

Covering the bridge increased the life expectancy and also had several other advantages. The barn type structure of the bridge made animals feel safer when they crossed and the covering helped to strengthen the structure. In addition the bridges could be used for emergency shelter.

The above photo of information at the Sandy Creek Covered Bridge Historic Site shows some of the history of covered bridges.

In Missouri the first covered bridges were built in the 1850's. Soon after the Civil War many more covered bridges were built, increasing the total in Missouri to 30 covered bridges. Over the years fire, abandonment and the elements have eliminated all but four of the bridges that are still standing today.

Information for this lens was obtained from posters at the Sandy Creek Covered Bridge Historical Site. For more information you can go to their website at Sandy Bridge.

All photographs were taken by myself, Mary Beth Granger.