North Carolina is a state steeped in history, and this is perhaps most evident when taking a drive through its countryside. Here, you’ll find a number of beautiful and historic covered bridges, each with its own story to tell. Those who take time to explore these bridges will be rewarded with a glimpse into the past and a better understanding of North Carolina’s unique culture. Here, we’ll explore some of the state’s most enchanting covered bridges and examine the history and significance of each.
The Humpback Bridge
One of the most iconic and recognizable covered bridges in North Carolina is the Humpback Bridge. Built in 1895, this bridge is located near the town of Elkin and is the last remaining example of a “humpback” bridge in the state. It is constructed of wood and has a single span of 91 feet across the Yadkin River. It is a unique example of 19th century bridge-building in the state and is a popular destination for visitors.
The Boonville Bridge
The Boonville Bridge is the oldest surviving covered bridge in North Carolina. Built in 1877, this bridge is constructed of wood and spans the Yadkin River near the town of Boonville. It is an example of a “town lattice” truss bridge, a popular style of bridge construction in the 19th century. This bridge was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 and is still in use today.
The Jarvisburg Bridge
The Jarvisburg Bridge is a unique covered bridge located near the town of Jarvisburg in Currituck County. Built in 1909, this bridge is constructed of wood and spans the Currituck Sound. It is the only surviving example of a “double-barreled” covered bridge in the state. This bridge is currently closed to vehicle traffic, but is still open to pedestrians, making it a popular destination for those looking to explore the area’s history.
The Bakersville Bridge
The Bakersville Bridge is located near the town of Bakersville and is the only covered bridge in North Carolina to be constructed of steel. Built in 1933, this bridge spans the South Toe River and is an example of a “steel arch” bridge. It is a unique example of bridge engineering and is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the area’s history.
The Shelton Bridge
The Shelton Bridge is located near the town of Shelby and is the longest covered bridge in the state. Built in 1908, this bridge is constructed of wood and spans the Catawba River. It is an example of a “town lattice” truss bridge, a popular style of bridge construction in the 19th century. This bridge is still in use today, making it a popular destination for those looking to explore the area’s history.
The Carl Alwin Schenck Memorial Bridge
The Carl Alwin Schenck Memorial Bridge is a unique covered bridge located near the town of Asheville. Built in 1925, this bridge is constructed of wood and was the first “town lattice” truss bridge to be built in the state. It was designed by Carl Alwin Schenck, an engineer and professor at the University of North Carolina. This bridge is currently closed to vehicle traffic, but is still open to pedestrians, making it a popular destination for those looking to explore the area’s history.
The Broyhill Bridge
The Broyhill Bridge is located near the town of Boone and is the only surviving example of a “multiple king post” bridge in the state. Built in the early 1900s, this bridge is constructed of wood and spans the Watauga River. It is an example of a vernacular style of bridge construction and is a popular destination for those looking to explore the area’s history.
The Moore’s Creek Bridge
The Moore’s Creek Bridge is located near the town of Fayetteville and is the only covered bridge in North Carolina to be constructed of concrete. Built in 1930, this bridge is an example of a “concrete arch” bridge and spans the Moore’s Creek. It is a unique example of bridge engineering and is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the area’s history.
The Shocco Creek Bridge
The Shocco Creek Bridge is located near the town of Wilson and is the only surviving example of a “bowstring” bridge in the state. Built in 1891, this bridge is constructed of wood and spans the Shocco Creek. It is an example of a vernacular style of bridge construction and is a popular destination for those looking to explore the area’s history.
Conclusion
The covered bridges of North Carolina are a unique reminder of the state’s history and culture. These bridges are a testament to the ingenuity of 19th century bridge-builders, and each one has its own unique story to tell. Those who take time to explore these bridges will be rewarded with a better understanding of the state’s past and a glimpse into its unique culture.
