Covered structures bridge past, present

Covered bridges – though more associated with the Northeast – are as much a part of our Western heritage as ghost towns, steam locomotives and mines.

They were built at a time when the West had abundant wood and no steel or concrete that could be used to construct bridges across rivers. And, if the wood bridge was covered with a roof, it would last at least three times longer.

Like so many historic structures, covered bridges have individual character and a story to tell. In Oregon, about 50 of the structures still exist. Each bridge has a common thread of citizens cooperating to save their local beloved bridge.

Here are some favorite and picturesque Oregon bridges.

Drift Creek Covered Bridge: Found near Lincoln City, the Drift Creek Bridge doesn’t span Drift Creek anymore – it’s now over Bear Creek. Because of its run-down condition and a concern for safety, the bridge was within one day of being destroyed, until a woman convinced the county to allow her to move it. With much community support, it was moved and reconstructed to allow access to private property.

Ritner Creek Covered Bridge: Next to Oregon Highway 223 in Polk County, the Ritner Creek bridge is one of the most photogenic bridges found in the state. It was built in 1927 for $6,963.78 and was the last covered bridge to still be used on a primary and busy road. It is 75 feet long.

The bridge became dangerous and it was determined that it was too narrow and the traffic too heavy and fast to use the bridge. It was to be destroyed in 1976. Local schoolchildren and residents launched a “Save Our Bridge” campaign and appealed to the county. They in turn met with the state highway department, and a one-time tax was placed on a ballot and passed. The bridge was moved and rebuilt in 1976.

Fisher Covered Bridge: East of Waldport in Lincoln County, this bridge is fairly remote but is accessed by paved roads. The bridge was built in 1919, when a small town nearby had a larger population with a post office. Many local people call it Fisher School Bridge because an elementary school is nearby. The bridge spans a fork of Five Rivers, which flows from the confluence of five creeks and eventually empties into the ocean. The covered bridge is at the original site, and automobiles can still drive over it. However, a concrete span has been built to bypass the old bridge.

Harris Covered Bridge: This attractive structure spans the Marys River near Corvallis and is still in use. It was built around 1929 and is 75 feet long.