Melcher Covered Bridge, place in Indiana listed on National Register of Historic Places
The Melcher Covered Bridge crosses Leatherwood Creek in Parke County, Indiana, along County Road 160 North near Montezuma. The structure spans about 83 feet and uses a Burr Arch truss system that combines arches with a timber frame for support.
The structure was built in 1896 by engineer J.J. Daniels, who was known for constructing numerous bridges throughout the region. It represents the era when wooden covered bridges were essential connections across rural landscapes before modern roads developed.
The bridge is known locally by several names - Melcher, Klondyke, and Marion - each reflecting stories of the surrounding communities and their connections. These names show how the crossing linked different places and activities, from a brick factory to a railroad station.
The bridge is easily accessible via County Road 160 North and can be crossed on foot or by vehicle, allowing visitors to view the structure from both inside and outside. The rural location offers adequate space nearby to stop and examine the construction without disrupting traffic.
The bridge goes by several local names including Klondyke and Marion, derived from nearby communities, with Marion named after an early brick factory in the area. These different names reflect how the crossing served as a vital link between distinct communities and the various economic activities they supported.
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