Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is home to 12 historic covered bridges, each with its own story and architectural interest.
There were once 50 covered bridges in the county. Theremaining twelve serve as a testament to 19th-century engineering and community connectivity, primarily built to protect the wooden trusses from weather, thus extending their life. These bridges not only connected towns but also facilitated trade, especially around mills.
Most of these bridges utilize the Town Lattice Truss. This design was patented by Ithiel Town; it uses criss-crossed wooden planks for structural integrity and ease of construction.
South Perkasie Covered Bridge
Built in 1832, this bridge is the oldest in Bucks County. Originally over Pleasant Spring Creek, it was moved to Lenape Park in Perkasie to prevent demolition. It's 93 feet long and now serves as a pedestrian bridge.
Mood's Covered Bridge
Located in Perkasie, this bridge spans 121 feet over the East Branch of the Perkiomen Creek. Originally built in 1874, it was destroyed by arson in 2004 but rebuilt by 2008. It's known for its heavy traffic and proximity to recreational areas.
Van Sandt Covered Bridge
Also known as "Cry Baby Bridge" due to local ghost stories, this bridge in New Hope (Solebury Township) was built in 1875. It crosses Pidcock Creek and is near Washington Crossing Historic Park, attracting both history buffs and those interested in the paranormal.
Schofield Ford Covered Bridge
The longest covered bridge in Bucks County at 170 feet, located in Tyler State Park. It was rebuilt after a fire in 1991 and is now accessible only to pedestrians and cyclists, offering a scenic path over Neshaminy Creek.
Cabin Run Covered Bridge
Built in 1871 in Plumstead Township, this bridge is 82 feet long and crosses Cabin Run Creek. The creek was named for the log cabins once present along its banks. The bridge has a weight limit of 3 tons.
Erwinna Covered Bridge
The county's shortest covered bridge at 56 feet was built in the mid-1850s. It crosses Lodi Creek in Erwinna. It's part of a historically significant area linked to Colonel Arthur Erwin.
The Bucks County Covered Bridge Society, along with local and state officials, works to preserve these landmarks. Ten are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Self-guided tours, including a mobile app and detailed maps, are available, making these bridges a popular draw for tourists. They contribute significantly to Bucks County's tourism, with estimates of 8 million visitors annually.