The Oldest Covered Bridge In Wisconsin Has Been Around Since 1876

There are lots of historic places you can explore in Wisconsin, but one of the most charming is definitely the Cedarburg Bridge. Dubbed a historic treasure, the bridge dates back to 1876! And since it’s part of a park, it makes the perfect day trip destination. Take a look:

The Cedarburg Bridge, which was originally known as Red Bridge, is the state’s oldest covered bridge.

It’s also one of the few remaining covered bridges in Wisconsin – at one time, the state had more than 40!

The charming piece of historic architecture can be found in Covered Bridge Park, which is about 20 miles north of Milwaukee.

The bridge was built in 1876, using pine logs from Baraboo. Utilizing a *lattice truss* construction, it was built without nails or bolts. Instead, its wood planks were secured using hardwood pins.

In the 1960s, after nearly 100 years of continuous use, the bridge began to show signs of disrepair.

So, as a way to preserve the bridge, it was moved about 50 feet from its original location and closed to vehicle traffic.

The fact that the bridge has been closed to vehicles for decades hasn’t stopped people from visiting, though. Today, it’s a popular spot for bikers, hikers, joggers and photographers.

In 1965, the bridge was dubbed a *historic treasure* by the Ozaukee County Historical Society. And in 1973, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

A historical marker now sits near the bridge, highlighting its past and significance.

After checking out Cedarburg Bridge, spend some time exploring Covered Bridge Park, which is a popular spot for grilling, picnicking, canoeing, and fishing.

For more information, call (262) 377-4509. You can also visit the Covered Bridge Park website.

Have you ever visited this bridge? If so, what did you think? Know of another charmingly historic bridge? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn’t the state’s only covered bridge. Read about others here.

Address: Cedar Creek Rd, Cedarburg, WI, USA

Daniella DiRienzo

Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.

The Oldest Covered Bridge In Wisconsin Has Been Around Since 1876

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