History of Delaware's Covered Bridges

Delaware is home to several covered bridges--some old, some modern. Most are located in the northern part of the state. The tidal plain topography in the coastal region does not lend itself to covered bridge crossings. At one time, Delaware was home to more than two dozen of these charming bridges.

Ashland Bridge

The Ashland Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Delaware, was built around 1870 to span Red Clay Creek. Located in New Castle County in the north central part of the state, this 52-foot bridge was rebuilt according to the original Town truss design in 2008. A free nature center is located adjacent to the bridge. The Ashland Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

Smith Bridge

The Smith Bridge was built in 1839. The bridge was destroyed by fire in 1961 and rebuilt in 2002. The Smith Bridge spans Brandywine Creek and was built with a modified Burr Arch construction, and thus is not considered authentic.

The Westminster Bridge

The Westminster covered bridge crosses Hyde Run in New Castle County. The 32-foot stringer-style bridge was built in 1960.

DePaulo Bridge

The DePaulo Bridge is a small but interesting structure that crosses a little stream just south of Centerville, Delaware. The 17-foot bridge was built in 1996.

Sussex Bridge

The Sussex covered bridge spans a small stream near Lewes in Sussex County. The 21-foot structure was built in 1981 using the stringer-style construction.

Visting Delaware's Covered Bridges

Most of Delaware's covered bridges are located in the north-central part of the state and most are open to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Some, such as the Ashland Bridge, have visitors center adjacent to the structures.

References

• Delaware Covered Bridges