Ebenezer Covered Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Ebenezer Covered Bridge
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The Ebenezer Covered Bridge
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Ginger Hill, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 0.1 acres (0.040 ha) |
| Architectural style | Queenpost truss |
| MPS | Covered Bridges of Washington and Greene Counties TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 79003829 |
| Added to NRHP | June 22, 1979 |
The Ebenezer Covered Bridge is a historic covered bridge located near Eighty Four, Pennsylvania. It's a special type of bridge that has a roof and walls, making it look like a long, narrow building. People built covered bridges to protect the wooden parts from rain and snow. This helped the bridges last much longer.
We don't know the exact year the Ebenezer Covered Bridge was first built. However, we do know it was moved to its current spot in 1977. This move helped save the bridge so people can still enjoy it today.
Contents
What is a Covered Bridge?
Why Bridges Were Covered
Covered bridges were very common in the United States, especially in the 1800s. They were usually made of wood, which is a strong material but can rot over time. By adding a roof and sides, builders protected the wooden structure from bad weather. This made the bridges last much longer, sometimes for over 100 years!
The covering also helped keep the bridge deck clear of snow and ice in winter. This made it safer for horses, wagons, and people to cross. Some people even say the covering helped prevent horses from getting scared by the water below.
The Queenpost Truss Design
The Ebenezer Covered Bridge uses a special design called a "Queenpost truss." A truss is a framework of beams that supports a bridge. The Queenpost truss is one of the simplest and oldest truss designs.
- It uses two main vertical posts (the "queens") and a top beam.
- Diagonal beams connect the top and bottom parts, creating strong triangles.
- This design is great for shorter bridges, like the Ebenezer Covered Bridge. It helps distribute the weight evenly, making the bridge very stable.
A Bridge with History
Its Journey to a New Home
The Ebenezer Covered Bridge wasn't always in its current location. It was originally built over a different stream. In 1977, the bridge was carefully taken apart and moved to its new home. This was a big project! Moving old structures like this helps preserve them for future generations to see and learn from.
Recognized as Historic
The Ebenezer Covered Bridge is considered very important because of its history and unique design. It has been officially recognized in two ways:
- It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of places in the United States that are important to American history.
- The Washington County History & Landmarks Foundation also calls it a historic bridge. This local group works to protect important historical sites in Washington County, Pennsylvania.
These recognitions mean the bridge is a valuable part of our past. It helps us remember how people built things long ago and how they traveled.
