Williamsville Covered Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Williamsville Covered Bridge
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 Location in Vermont
Location in the United States
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| Location | Dover Rd. over the Rock River, Newfane, Vermont |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1870 |
| Architectural style | Town lattice truss |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000208 |
| Added to NRHP | August 14, 1973 |
The Williamsville Covered Bridge is a special old bridge in Newfane, Vermont. It crosses the Rock River on Dover Road. This bridge was likely built in the 1870s. It is probably the oldest covered bridge in Windham County. It is also the only one left in the town of Newfane. Because it is so important, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
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What is a Covered Bridge?
Have you ever wondered why some bridges have roofs and walls? These are called covered bridges! The roof and sides help protect the wooden parts of the bridge from rain, snow, and sun. This keeps the wood from rotting or wearing out too quickly. It helps the bridge last much longer.
Exploring the Williamsville Bridge
Where You Can Find It
The Williamsville Covered Bridge is in the southern part of Newfane. It's about half a mile west of the small village of Williamsville. The bridge carries Dover Road, which is the main road going west from the village. It stretches over the Rock River.
What Makes It Special?
This bridge is about 118 feet (36 meters) long. It is 21 feet (6.4 meters) wide, which is enough for one car to drive across at a time. The roof is made of metal. The sides of the bridge are covered with vertical wooden boards.
The inside of the bridge uses a special design called a Town lattice truss. This means the wooden beams are arranged in a criss-cross pattern, like a giant lattice. This design makes the bridge very strong. The original wooden road supports have been replaced with strong steel beams. The road you drive on is now paved.
A Glimpse into History
The Williamsville Covered Bridge was built sometime in the 1870s. We don't know who built it, but they did a great job! This bridge is the last historic covered bridge remaining in Newfane. It has stood strong for over 150 years. It reminds us of how people built things long ago.
