There are many fine examples of the skill and talents Kentuckians have had over the years as they built our now historic buildings and structures. From country churches that have stood for over a century to tall, ornate buildings in our largest cities, the history of Kentucky can be found in these standing works of art. Another fascinating way to experience this ingenuity is by visiting the several historic covered bridges in Kentucky. Considered to be the oldest Kentucky covered bridge, the Dover Covered Bridge in Mason County has been through so much, yet still stands to this day.
There are many historic structures that have withstood the test of time in Kentucky, but not many have had to endure the same struggles as the Dover Covered Bridge.
Estimated to have been built in 1835, it is known by many as the oldest covered bridge in Kentucky. It sits in the town of Dover, not far from the Ohio River and about 20 minutes from Maysville.
The Dover Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
It is an example of an unusual modified queen-post truss design as it sits above Lee's Creek. Due to its age and location in an area known for flooding, it has been damaged and repaired many times over the years.
The bridge is 60 feet long and is truly a step back in time as it sits amongst trees over the scenic creek.
While it doesn't look like this right now due to construction, the county has worked hard over the years to preserve this historic gem.
The bridge was open to traffic for many years and it wasn't until 2016 that it was officially closed.
Flooding heavily damaged the bridge in July of 2016 when I-beams were washed away by the force of the water. But this bridge has many lives and somehow managed to stay standing.
These photos show the structure of the inside of the bridge and the incredible detail.
It's amazing to think of the engineering and carpentry work that went into the formation of this bridge that has lasted nearly 200 years.
Today the bridge is being repaired and reinforced once again so that it can hopefully make it to that 200-year mark.
But it seems this bridge is a safe bet, as it has made it through incredible struggles from nature. And thanks to the community and those passionate about the history of our state, the oldest covered bridge in Kentucky remains standing.
See more of the Dover Covered Bridge in Kentucky in this short video of photos:
Covered bridges are a tangible example of our state's history and the skill and work ethic of its residents. As the oldest covered bridge in Kentucky, Dover Covered Bridge has managed to remain standing since 1835, despite many near collapses and catastrophes. Have you seen this historic covered bridge in person? Have you seen any others in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!
If you've ever wondered "how many covered bridges are there in Kentucky?" The answer is 11! Will you try to see them all? For another historic covered bridge in Kentucky, check out the Goddard Covered Bridge.
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