Editor's Note: Sadly, the Beech Fork Covered Bridge was completely destroyed by a fire in early March 2021. We are devastated by this loss and hope these photos and words remain as a reminder of this historic bridge.
The modern day highways that wind through Kentucky are certainly convenient and efficient, but many aren't filled with the same sense of history as a road that was created in the early days of our state. Many of these historic roadways have been preserved and some include features such as a covered bridge that would take travelers across a creek or dip in the land. If you've ever wondered about the longest covered bridge in Kentucky, then head to Mooresville and the Beech Fork Covered Bridge.
The Beech Fork Covered Bridge, also known as the Mt. Zion or Mooresville Covered Bridge, was built in 1871.
Some sources say it is 210 feet long while others list it as long as 280 feet. Either way, it is known as the longest covered bridge in Kentucky.
This bridge was originally classified in the Burr Truss style but, after renovation, that was updated to now be Multiple Kingpost Truss with added arches.
Of course most of us don't know much about covered bridge classifications, but we can all be impressed by the craftsmanship that went into building this bridge and then later restoring it. Unfortunately, the bridge has been vandalized many times over the years and also suffered with issues from aging. Restoration efforts began in 2015.
Experts in covered bridge restoration moved to Kentucky to complete the extensive project.
It took a few years and the project was completed at the end of 2017. Workers aimed to keep and reuse 70% of the original wood from the bridge.
You can now visit the bridge in its restored state and it's still filled with history.
Thanks to the detailed work and efforts to keep the bridge, it should be around for years to come. It is only one of a few wooden covered bridges left in Kentucky.
The bridge crosses the Beech Fork and was open to vehicles until 1977.
Today you will drive along KY 458 to cross the water, but you can easily pull over to get a closer look at the bridge.
This aerial view shows both the covered bridge and the "new" highway.
Thankfully this historic bridge was kept and maintained, despite no longer being needed to cross the Fork. And as the longest wooden covered bridge in Kentucky, we hope it stands strong for generations to come to visit this piece of history.
The longest wooden covered bridge in Kentucky may have been restored over the years, but it still holds plenty of history and a sense of how things used to be in the Bluegrass. Have you seen the Beech Fork Covered Bridge in person (or whichever name you use!)? What is your favorite covered bridge in Kentucky? Tell us about it in the comments.
For more information on the restoration of the bridge, take a look at this Kentucky Living article.
And for another historic spot that's worth a visit, check out the oldest covered bridge in Kentucky.
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