Office Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Office Bridge
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Office Bridge and North Fork Middle Fork Willamette River
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| Location | Westfir, Oregon |
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| NRHP reference No. | 79003768 |
| Added to NRHP | 1979 |
The Office Bridge is a special covered bridge in Westfir, Oregon. People also call it the Westfir Covered Bridge. It crosses the North Fork Middle Fork Willamette River. This bridge is at the start of the Aufderheide National Scenic Byway. It is also right next to the Willamette National Forest.
This bridge is the longest covered bridge in Oregon. It stretches 180 feet (55 meters) long! It is also one of only two bridges in Oregon that uses a special building style called "triple Howe truss". What makes it even more unique? It's the only covered bridge west of the Mississippi River that has a separate walkway just for people.
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Building the Office Bridge
The Office Bridge was built in 1944. It replaced an older bridge from 1941 that was washed away. The Westfir Lumber Company built this new bridge. They needed it to carry big logging trucks. These trucks brought lumber to their mill and a special pond. The company's main offices were across the river. Today, that old office building is a bed and breakfast. It even still has the company's old walk-in safe!
Changes Over Time
In 1977, the town of Westfir, the lumber mill, and the bridge were sold. They were bought by an investment company. Sadly, the lumber mill burned down in the early 1980s. In 1992, Lane County took over the bridge. This happened because of unpaid property taxes.
The bridge needed a lot of work. In 1993, major repairs were done to make it strong again. Then, in 2002, the roof of the bridge was replaced.
A Place for Everyone
For a long time, the bridge was closed to the public. But around 2003, a small park was created. This park is on the north side of the bridge. It's a great place to visit! The park is also the start of the North Fork Trail #3666. This trail follows the Wild and Scenic part of the North Fork river.
Christmas Lights Tradition
Every Christmas season, the town of Westfir decorates the bridge with lights. It's a beautiful sight! A firetruck drives across the bridge. Santa is usually riding in the truck! He turns on the lights during the first week after Thanksgiving. It's a fun tradition for everyone.
