Ware–Hardwick Covered Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Ware–Hardwick Covered Bridge
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Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Ware River, Ware and Hardwick, Massachusetts |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1886 |
| NRHP reference No. | 86001006 |
| Added to NRHP | May 8, 1986 |
The Ware–Hardwick Covered Bridge is a special old bridge in Massachusetts. It crosses the Ware River between the towns of Ware and Hardwick, Massachusetts. This bridge is unique because it's one of the few covered bridges from the 1800s still standing in the state.
The bridge was built in 1886. It was closed in 2002 because of problems with its structure. After a big repair project, the bridge reopened in October 2010. Now, it can hold more weight than before. This historic bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
What is the Ware–Hardwick Bridge?
The Ware–Hardwick Bridge is found in a village called Gilbertville. This village was once a busy industrial area in the 1800s. The bridge is a single-span lattice truss design. This means it uses a crisscross pattern of wooden beams to make it strong. This style was invented by an architect named Ithiel Town.
The outside of the bridge is covered with vertical wooden boards. It has a pointed metal roof. The wooden siding does not cover the entire sides. This leaves a small gap for light to come through. The bridge is about 137 feet (42 meters) long and 25 feet (7.6 meters) wide. It is wide enough for one lane of traffic.
History of the Bridge
The Ware–Hardwick Covered Bridge was built in 1886. Both the towns of Ware and Hardwick help manage it. It is one of only a few covered bridges from the 1800s that are still left in Massachusetts.
The bridge has survived some tough times. In the 1930s, a huge flood hit the area. Many textile mills in Gilbertville were destroyed. But the Ware–Hardwick Bridge managed to survive this big flood.
Repairs and Reopening
In August 2002, the state ordered the bridge to be closed. An inspection showed that the bridge could not hold much weight. This was partly because of insects damaging the wood. At that time, the bridge could only hold about 6 short tons (5.4 metric tons).
A big project to rebuild and restore the bridge began. It cost about $1.9 million. In October 2010, the bridge finally reopened. After the repairs, it no longer has a weight limit. This means it is much stronger and safer for vehicles.
Some of the old wood from the bridge was given to the towns. The Ware Historical Commission planned to use their share of the wood. They wanted to use it to rebuild other historic buildings in the area.
