West Union Covered Bridge (West Virginia) facts for kids
The West Union Covered Bridge was a special old bridge in West Union, West Virginia, USA. It was built in 1843 over Middle Island Creek. This bridge was a famous landmark for over 100 years until a big flood destroyed it in 1950. Covered bridges like this one were very common in the 1800s. They had roofs and walls to protect the wooden parts from weather, helping them last longer.
Bridge History
This famous bridge replaced an even older one that was washed away in a flood in 1835. That first bridge was made of logs. After it was destroyed, people needed a new way to cross the creek.
In 1842, a contract was given to a very skilled engineer named Colonel Claudius Crozet. He was from France and had a lot of experience building things. Crozet had even taught at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. The new West Union Covered Bridge was part of a bigger project. This project was building roads and bridges along the Northwestern Turnpike. This important road went all the way from Winchester to the Ohio River.
A local blacksmith named Ephraim Bee helped build the bridge. He made all the iron bolts and bands needed for the structure. The bridge was finished in 1843. It stood strong for 107 years.
The 1950 Flood
The West Union Covered Bridge was destroyed in June 1950 by a terrible flood. This flood caused a lot of damage across the whole region. It washed away homes and businesses. Sadly, more than 20 people lost their lives in Doddridge County because of the flood.
When the bridge collapsed, it fell into the river. Officials were worried that the large wooden pieces would block the floodwater. This could have caused even more problems. So, the remaining parts of the bridge were taken apart to prevent further damage.
Images for kids
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The West Union Covered Bridge as it appeared in the early 20th century.
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Crozet was a French civil engineer who immigrated to the U.S. He became known as the "Pathfinder of the Blue Ridge".
