In the early 1970s, South Carolina was home to three historic covered bridges that no longer exist. But that’s not because the state didn’t make any effort to preserve them. It did! Let’s take a look at how fate, vandalism, and just bad luck intervened to leave us today with three lost covered bridges in South Carolina.

1. Bradley's Covered Bridge - Troy
Google/Christopher Boyd
This historic covered bridge was built in 1892. It was a single lane wide, 192 feet long, 30 feet high, and crossed Long Cane Creek in McCormick County 3.2 miles west of Troy.
Google Maps
Built in the Howe style, Bradley's Covered Bridge utilized steel rods in the truss. Its roof was covered in tin. In 1964, in an effort to preserve the structure, the state took over the maintenance and closed it to vehicular traffic.
Unfortunately, it caught fire and burned. The fire was thought to have been started by vandals.
Troy, SC, USA
Google/Christopher Boyd
The historic bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 - and then removed from that same list in 1979 soon after it was entirely destroyed by fire. It was one of the cooler covered bridges in SC.
2. Prather's Covered Bridge - Westminster
National Register of Historic Places

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The original Prather's Bridge was built in 1804 using cross timbers and wooden pegs. It was completely destroyed by fire in 1863. Its replacement was then washed away by a flood in 1918. In 1920, it was again replaced by a similar, single-lane bridge that served the area until 1977.
National Register of Historic Places
The single-lane, two-span structure was 158 feet long and crossed the Tugaloo River to connect South Carolina to Georgia. There were two uncovered ramps leading up to the bridge; one of them was 90 feet and the one on the South Carolina side was 48 feet long.
In 1950 a small, 15-foot section in the center of the bridge was destroyed by fire, but the damage was completely repaired and that section was replaced with a new, restored section.
National Register of Historic Places
And then in April 1978, vandals set a nearby fire that completely destroyed this historic bridge. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and then subsequently removed after the fire. In the Westminster area, it was one of the more unique covered bridges near me
Today, folks traveling on Cleveland Pike Road over the Tugaloo River on the concrete replacement bridge can spy the concrete abutments from Prather's Bridge still standing in the Tugaloo River.
Westminster, SC 29693, USA
Google Maps/Thomas Bratten
3. Chapman's Covered Bridge - Salem
Salem, SC 29676, USA
Covered Spans of Yesteryear / website
The Old Chapman's Covered Bridge was built in 1917 and crossed the Keowee River. In an attempt to preserve the bridge, it was disassembled in 1969 and moved to Keowee-Toxaway State Park where it crossed Clearwater Creek. It was 131 feet long and 14 feet high. In 1974, the bridge was struck by lightning and burned. This is one of the SC covered bridges we miss!

Do you recall any of these historic bridges before they were destroyed by fire, vandalism, or lightning? Do you know of other lost covered bridges in South Carolina? Tell us about them!

Looking for more great places to visit in South Carolina?  And if you’re traveling around the state, don’t forget to pack the ultimate road snacks!

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Covered Bridges in South Carolina

Megan McDonald | August 31, 2023

What are the most scenic byways in South Carolina?

South Carolina offers several scenic byways that capture the state's natural beauty and historical charm. While "most scenic" can be subjective, here are some noteworthy byways in the state:

  • Ashley River Scenic Byway: As mentioned earlier, this byway stretches approximately 11 miles and offers a glimpse into South Carolina’s rich history as well as its natural beauty. The road runs alongside the Ashley River and is known for its historic plantations and moss-draped oak trees.
  • Savannah River Scenic Byway: This byway takes travelers along the Savannah River and through the Sumter National Forest, offering opportunities to explore outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.
  • Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway: This route follows the southernmost peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is especially popular in the fall when the foliage changes color.
  • Edisto Island National Scenic Byway: This byway offers a coastal experience, taking travelers through the sea islands and salt marshes of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

 

How many covered bridges does South Carolina have?

South Carolina has only one historic covered bridge open to the public: Campbell's Covered Bridge. Built in 1909, Campbell's Covered Bridge is in Gowensville and spans Beaverdam Creek. This is the last remaining covered bridge in the state of South Carolina.

The bridge is no longer used for vehicular traffic but has been preserved as a historical landmark and is part of a public park. The park includes walking paths and interpretive signage, making it a popular spot for photography, picnics, and learning about local history. If you have the opportunity to see it in person, make sure to visit!

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