Bissell Bridge (Massachusetts) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bissell Bridge
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Charlemont, Massachusetts |
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| Architect | T.J. Harvey & Son, Michael J. Mahiljan |
| NRHP reference No. | 04000083 |
| Added to NRHP | February 26, 2004 |
The Bissell Bridge is a historic covered bridge in Charlemont, Massachusetts. It crosses Mill Brook on Heath Road. This special bridge was built in 1951. It was the first covered bridge built in Massachusetts during the 20th century. It replaced an older bridge from the 1880s.
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What is a Covered Bridge?
A covered bridge is a type of bridge with a roof and sides. They look like a long, narrow building. The roof and sides protect the wooden parts of the bridge. This keeps the wood safe from rain, snow, and sun. Protecting the wood helps the bridge last much longer.
The Bissell Bridge: A Special Design
The Bissell Bridge uses a strong design called a "TECO Enhanced Long through truss." This means it has a sturdy frame that helps it hold up. The T. J. Harvey Company built it. The design came from the Timber Engineering Company (TECO) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (DOT).
The bridge is about 92 feet (28 meters) long. It sits on strong concrete supports. Mill Brook flows far below, about 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters) down.
A Bridge with History
The Bissell Bridge is named after Henry W. Bissell. His house was not far from the bridge. The original bridge was built around 1881. The town decided to build it in 1880.
By the middle of the 1900s, the old bridge was wearing out. The state's Department of Transportation (DOT) said it was unsafe. The town of Charlemont really wanted a new covered bridge. They did not want a modern steel and concrete bridge. This idea got a lot of attention in the news.
Building the New Bridge
The new Bissell Bridge was designed to look almost exactly like the old one. It was built between 1950 and 1951. The only big changes were made to fit modern road rules. The cost was shared by the town, state, and federal governments.
By the end of the 1900s, this newer bridge also needed repairs. It was closed for a while to be fixed up.
Keeping the Bridge Safe
The Bissell Bridge is important because it shows how towns can keep their history. It also shows how people worked together to save a special type of bridge. In 2004, the bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
