Covered Bridges Of New Brunswick

The Canadian province of New Brunswick is home to 58 covered bridges, 54 of which are maintained by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure. These bridges are iconic landmarks and fully functional, carrying traffic across rivers and streams every day. They are also popular tourist attractions, with visitors coming from all over the world to admire their engineering and unique designs. The Hartland Covered Bridge, for example, is the longest covered bridge in the world, spanning 1,282 feet (391 meters). Kings County boasts the most covered bridges with 15, while Northumberland and Victoria counties each have one.

The history of New Brunswick's covered bridges

New Brunswick's covered bridges are some of the most iconic and beautiful structures in the province. There are 58 covered bridges in New Brunswick, each with its own unique history and design.

The history of these bridges goes back to the early 1900s when most of them were built. At that time, vehicles moved much slower, so proper road etiquette was not as much of an issue. With faster-moving vehicles now on the road, certain rules must be followed when driving through a covered bridge. For example, the first vehicle to approach the bridge has the right of way, and it is always good practice to honk your horn to alert anyone coming from the other side.

In 1953, there were 340 wooden structures spanning rivers and streams across the province. Since then, the number has decreased significantly, with only 58 covered bridges remaining today. Damage from floods, vehicle accidents, and industrial mishaps have taken their toll on these historic structures. Despite this, the bridges remain fully functional, carrying traffic across rivers and streams every day.

One of the most famous covered bridges in New Brunswick is the Hartland Covered Bridge, which is the longest covered bridge in the world, spanning 1,282 feet (391 meters). It was built in 1901, and the covered portion was added in 1921-1922. This bridge is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its engineering feats and unique design.

Another notable covered bridge is the Patrick Owens Covered Bridge, which spans 236 feet (72 meters) across the Rusagonis River. This bridge is the only one in New Brunswick to feature a full-length window along one side, offering a beautiful view of the river while driving through.

The covered bridges of New Brunswick are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing, attracting tourists from all over the world. They are a glimpse into the past and a testament to the province's rich history and culture.

The Hartland Covered Bridge

The Canadian province of New Brunswick is home to 58 covered bridges, with 54 maintained by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure. The Hartland Covered Bridge, located in the town of Hartland, is the longest covered bridge in the world, spanning 1,282 feet (391 metres). The bridge crosses the Saint John River, connecting Hartland to Somerville, and is oriented west-southwest to east-northeast.

The bridge was funded by tolls until it was purchased by the provincial government in 1906. Interestingly, the bridge was not originally built with a cover. In 1920, two spans of the bridge collapsed due to river ice, and it was repaired and covered in 1922, despite some local opposition. A pedestrian walkway was added in 1945, and the bridge was declared a National Historic Site in 1980 and a Provincial Historic Site in 1999.

Covered bridges near Saint John

There are 58 covered bridges in New Brunswick, 54 of which are maintained by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure. Of these, two are located in Fundy National Park, and are maintained by Public Works and Government Services Canada. The remaining bridges are located at Magnetic Hill and Turtle Creek and are maintained by the City of Moncton.

The world's longest covered bridge is located in New Brunswick. The Hartland Covered Bridge spans 1,282 feet (391 metres) over the Saint John River, from Hartland to Somerville. The bridge was constructed in 1901 and was not originally built with a cover. It was only after a fire in 1907 and a collapse in 1920 that the bridge was covered and the wooden piers were replaced with concrete.

The closest covered bridge to Saint John is the Hammond River No. 2 covered bridge in French Village. Unfortunately, this bridge was torn down after an excavator went through its flooring and extensive wood rot was found.

Another covered bridge near Saint John is the Coverdale River No. 3 (Colpitts, Bramford) bridge. This bridge is located near Salisbury.

Covered bridge etiquette

New Brunswick is home to 58 covered bridges, with the Hartland Covered Bridge in Hartland being the longest in the world. These bridges are an important part of the province's history and have become a popular tourist attraction. To ensure these bridges are preserved for future generations, it is important to follow proper etiquette when visiting them. Here are some guidelines to follow when visiting the covered bridges of New Brunswick:

Appreciate Their History and Significance: These bridges are more than just a tourist attraction. They are a testament to the engineering and craftsmanship of the past. Respect the bridges and those who built and maintained them by learning about their history and significance.

Follow Local Guidelines and Rules: Each bridge may have its own set of rules and guidelines, so be sure to follow any posted instructions or guidelines. This may include weight limits, pedestrian lanes, and other restrictions put in place to ensure the safety and preservation of the bridge.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Covered bridges tend to be located in isolated areas, making them vulnerable to vandalism and arson. Be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Also, be considerate of other visitors and local residents by being mindful of noise levels and respecting their privacy.

Practice Proper Vehicle Etiquette: If driving through a covered bridge, follow all standard road rules and be mindful of the weight and height restrictions. Do not stop in the middle of the bridge to take photos or admire the view, as this can cause traffic congestion and potentially block emergency vehicles. Find a safe place to stop and admire the view instead.

Support Preservation Efforts: The Covered Bridges Conservation Association of New Brunswick is dedicated to preserving these historic structures. Consider supporting their efforts by becoming a member, donating, or volunteering. You can also spread awareness about the importance of preserving covered bridges and encourage others to do the same.

By following these guidelines and being respectful, we can all play a part in preserving New Brunswick's covered bridges for future generations to enjoy. Remember, these bridges are more than just a photo opportunity; they are a living piece of history.

The Covered Bridges Conservation Association of New Brunswick

New Brunswick once had 340 covered bridges spanning its rivers and streams in 1953, but that number has dwindled to just 58 today. Of these, 54 are maintained by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, while the remaining four are located in Fundy National Park, Magnetic Hill, and Turtle Creek, maintained by Public Works and Government Services Canada and the City of Moncton, respectively.

The association faces challenges in its mission to preserve the covered bridges, as some of them have been removed or replaced due to the priority of restoring transportation links. Additionally, issues such as wood rot and damage from accidents have contributed to the deterioration of these bridges.

Despite these challenges, the association remains dedicated to conserving as many of the remaining covered bridges as possible. These bridges are not just beautiful relics of a bygone era but also fully functional, carrying traffic across rivers and streams daily. They are a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire their engineering feats, unique designs, and historical significance.

Frequently asked questions