Pineground Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Pineground Bridge
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 Location in New Hampshire
Location in the United States
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| Location | 0.15 mi. E of NH 28 on Depot Rd., Chichester, New Hampshire |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1887 |
| Built by | Berlin Iron Bridge Co.; Douglas, William O. |
| Architectural style | Lenticular Through Truss |
| NRHP reference No. | 04000149 |
| Added to NRHP | March 10, 2004 |
The Pineground Bridge, also known as the Depot Road Bridge or the Thunder Bridge, is a special type of bridge called a lenticular truss bridge. It used to carry Depot Road over the Suncook River in Chichester, New Hampshire. This bridge was built in 1887 by the Berlin Iron Bridge Co.. It's unique because it's the only bridge of its kind in New Hampshire.
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About the Pineground Bridge
The Pineground Bridge is a "through-type" bridge. This means that the main structure of the bridge goes above the road, and cars (or people, now) drive through it. It is 96 feet (29 m) long and 16 feet (4.9 m) wide. The bridge stands about 15 feet (4.6 m) above the river.
How the Bridge is Built
The bridge rests on strong supports called abutments. These are made from large granite blocks that are not held together with mortar. The road surface and the railings on the bridge are made of wood.
Changes Over Time
The Pineground Bridge has not changed much since it was first built. However, during a restoration project in 1981-1982, some parts of the bridge were replaced. For example, some of the wooden parts were changed, and a few decorative pieces that had been lost over the years were not put back.
History of the Bridge
The Pineground Bridge was built in a place that used to be called the "pine ground." This area had many pine trees and later became the site of a saw mill.
Connecting to the Railroad
When the railroad came to the area in the late 1860s, Depot Road was created. This road went across the bridge to connect the town to the new train station. The old bridge in this spot was already in bad shape. With more traffic going to the train station, the town decided to build a new, stronger bridge in 1887.
Bridge Use Today
The Pineground Bridge was used by cars and other vehicles until 1978. After that, it was closed to vehicles because it was getting old. However, it was restored in 1981-1982 so that people could still use it. Today, it is a popular path for walking, biking, and snowmobiling.
Historic Recognition
Because of its unique design and history, the Pineground Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004. This means it is recognized as an important historic site in the United States.
