Covered Bridges first appeared in the United States around 1805, but the history of these monuments to another age date of thousands of years China. Covered bridges also existed in Europe since medieval times and there were once hundreds of them in Switzerland, Austria and Germany.
But here in the Northeast United States, where the design of covered wooden bridges and construction peaked in the nineteenth century. A combination of a pressing need, the forests abound old North and sheer Yankee ingenuity, has continued the development of wooden bridges covered a rare combination of wonderful feats of engineering were also pleasing to the eye.
WHY SO MANY IN COVERED BRIDGES THE NORTH?
The north is a region of rivers and streams. As the population has jumped away from coastal areas in the interior land, villages sprung up near water sources. The water source was used for power plants in those towns and villages, often developed on both banks of a creek or river. Bridges were the obvious answer to connect these divided communities and provide access city dwellers to things like school, worship, and supplies.
But why cover them?
While much speculation has been issued in this regard, the answer is simple: protection against the elements for the bridge. Here in New England where I live, covered wooden bridges last about three times longer than those exposed to the elements, and reduce maintenance and bridges. During the 19th and early 20th century bridges very few built were not covered.
Interesting facts about COVERED BRIDGES ...
Most historians agree that the first covered bridge in America has been the permanent bridge was completed in 1805 in Pennsylvania, originally designed by Timothy Palmer of New England. The longest covered bridge The Hartland is known in New Brunswick, Canada, in 1282 which covers the feet of St. John.
But perhaps the most famous covered bridges are Madison County, Iowa. The Bridges of Madison County used the number 19, but today only six survive. The novel by Robert James Waller, and the film of the same name, popularized these bridges to millions worldwide, and has also provided evidence that the covered bridges in North America are by no means limited to the region Northeast.
A question often asked is why so many bridges are painted in red on the outside?
Historians believe the coating Red Bridge is more like a barn for a horse, and horses tend to be skittish above about crossing the water flowing, the illusion helped farmers and travelers to navigate the obstacle with little incident in their four-legged friends.
THE NEW FACE OF THE COVERED BRIDGE IN AMERICA NORTH
As the twentieth century has progressed construction of the bridge has changed and built a steel truss bridge has become the first choice over wood. The ease of construction, increased strength, and low cost of steel bridges have become too overwhelming to ignore for budget-conscious communities in the United States
The horse "work" bridges of the 19th century gave way to the economy, and most of the wooden covered bridges in the United States quickly disappeared, except for the 800 fans to the left to see today. Although many other covered bridges are still outstanding - even cars - most are kept and maintained for tourism, and as a reminder of our heritage.
VIEWING OF COVERED BRIDGES ...
For volume Pennsylvania and Vermont take the honors, which represents over one third of the remaining bridges.
Self-guided tours are also popular in New England for a holiday covered bridge, especially in Vermont and New Hampshire, where many bridges are near the destination and other spots of attraction.
As an enthusiast and a covered bridge, I can tell you half the fun is finding the bridges. Major roads bypassed roads where most bridges are located several years ago, making the removal of a covered bridge sometimes an adventure in the location. Although covered bridges make ideal photo opportunities, there is much more to see than just a pretty picture.
Experts suggest enjoying the bridge, taking first in design and solid wood used in the frame. For these bridges authentic wood from forests where trees 100 feet tall were common.
As you view an authentic covered bridge Remember it was built for a functional purpose - simple switch from one bank to another. But it has been manufactured with skill and care of artisans, who inadvertently left a rich legacy for future generations benefit. Treasure these masterpieces woodworking as you travel the rural areas of North America, and rediscover a symbol of the spirit Pioneer, which covers both the United States and Canada during the nineteenth century.
About the Author:
For details on New England destinations and attractions and to grab your free valuable travel reports go to Cliff's New England destinations site at: http://www.new-england-vacations-guide.com/
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Covered Bridges - Discovering A North American Living History
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