Oquawka Wagon Bridge

The Oquawka Wagon Bridge spans across Henderson Creek, featuring red-painted wooden construction and a Burr Truss architectural design that extends over 4 kilometers south of Oquawka.

Built in 1866 for $2,125 to replace the Eames Bridge, this structure served as a vital transportation link until 1935 when the state relocated the main roadway.

The bridge represents a period of American engineering when covered bridges provided essential protection for wooden structures while facilitating transportation across waterways.

Visitors can access the bridge through a dedicated picnic area established by the state government in 1936 when the structure converted to pedestrian use.

The stone abutments supporting this National Register of Historic Places structure were constructed at a cost of $2.40 per perch, reflecting 19th-century building methods.

Location: Henderson County

Inception: 1865

Architectural style: Burr Truss

GPS coordinates: 40.89417,-90.94917

Latest update: November 28, 2025 14:29