There are lots of historic places you can explore in the Badger State, but one of the most charming is definitely the Cedarburg Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin. Dubbed a historic treasure, the bridge dates back to 1876! And since it’s part of a park, it makes the perfect day trip destination. Take a look; who knew the bridges of Madison County were so breathtaking?
The Cedarburg Bridge, which was originally known as Red Bridge, is the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin.
It’s also one of the few remaining covered bridges in Wisconsin – at one time, the state had more than 40!
The charming piece of historic architecture can be found in Covered Bridge Park, which is about 20 miles north of Milwaukee.
The bridge was built in 1876, using pine logs from Baraboo. Utilizing a lattice truss construction, it was built without nails or bolts. Instead, its wood planks were secured using hardwood pins.
In the 1960s, after nearly 100 years of continuous use, the bridge began to show signs of disrepair.
So, as a way to preserve the bridge, it was moved about 50 feet from its original location and closed to vehicle traffic.
The fact that the bridge has been closed to vehicles for decades hasn’t stopped people from visiting, though. Today, it’s a popular spot for bikers, hikers, joggers, and photographers.
In 1965, the bridge was dubbed a historic treasure by the Ozaukee County Historical Society. And in 1973, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
A historical marker now sits near the bridge, highlighting its past and significance.
After checking out Cedarburg Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin, spend some time exploring Covered Bridge Park, which is a popular spot for grilling, picnicking, canoeing, and fishing.
For more information, call (262) 377-4509. You can also visit the Covered Bridge Park website.
Have you ever visited the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin? If so, what did you think? Know of another charmingly historic bridge? Tell us in the comments section - we would love to hear from you!
This isn’t the state’s only covered bridge. Read about our other beloved bridges of Madison County, too!
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