Geiger Covered Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Geiger Covered Bridge
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Geiger Covered Bridge, February 2008
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | Southeast of Schencksville on Township 681, North Whitehall Township, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 0.1 acres (0.040 ha) |
| Built | 1860 |
| Architectural style | Burr truss |
| MPS | Covered Bridges of the Delaware River Watershed TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 80003558 |
| Added to NRHP | December 1, 1980 |
The Geiger Covered Bridge is a historic wooden bridge located in North Whitehall Township, Pennsylvania. It's a special type of bridge called a covered bridge. This bridge is 112 feet (about 34 meters) long. It was built way back in 1860.
The bridge crosses over Jordan Creek. It's known for its unique design and how well it has lasted over the years.
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About the Geiger Covered Bridge
The Geiger Covered Bridge is a very old and important part of local history. It was built in 1860, which means it's over 160 years old! This bridge is made of wood and has a roof and sides. These features protect the wooden parts from bad weather. This helps the bridge last much longer.
Bridge Design and Features
The Geiger Covered Bridge uses a special design called a Burr Truss. This design was created by a man named Theodore Burr. It uses a mix of arches and trusses (a framework of beams) to make the bridge very strong. This design helps the bridge support heavy loads.
The bridge also has vertical wooden planks on its sides. The entrance, called the portal, is made of stepped square planks. These details give the bridge its unique and classic look.
Why Bridges Are Covered
You might wonder why some old bridges have roofs and walls. The main reason is to protect the wooden structure. Wood can rot or weaken over time if it's always exposed to rain, snow, and sun. The roof acts like an umbrella, keeping the main support beams dry. The sides help keep wind and moisture away from the important parts. This protection means the bridge can last for many, many years.
National Recognition
The Geiger Covered Bridge is not just a local landmark. It's also recognized on a national level.
Listed on the National Register
In 1980, the Geiger Covered Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a special list kept by the United States government. Being on this list means a place is important for its history, architecture, or culture. It helps protect these places for future generations to enjoy.
