Posted in Wisconsin January 20, 2020 by

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:

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The Cedarburg Bridge, which was originally known as Red Bridge, is the state’s oldest covered bridge.
James Jordan/Flickr
It’s also one of the few remaining covered bridges in Wisconsin – at one time, the state had more than 40!
Kevin M/TripAdvisor
The charming piece of historic architecture can be found in Covered Bridge Park, which is about 20 miles north of Milwaukee.
Kevin M/TripAdvisor
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.
beav2219/TripAdvisor
In the 1960s, after nearly 100 years of continuous use, the bridge began to show signs of disrepair.
Kathy M/TripAdvisor
So, as a way to preserve the bridge, it was moved about 50 feet from its original location and closed to vehicle traffic.
Kevin M/TripAdvisor
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.
Jim Bauer/Flickr
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.
Elvis Kennedy/Flickr
A historical marker now sits near the bridge, highlighting its past and significance.
Diane B/TripAdvisor
After checking out Cedarburg Bridge, spend some time exploring Covered Bridge Park, which is a popular spot for grilling, picnicking, canoeing, and fishing.
Art M/Google

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