Oquawka Wagon Bridge, Historic covered bridge in Henderson County, Illinois.
The Oquawka Wagon Bridge is a red-painted covered bridge that crosses Henderson Creek in Henderson County using Burr Truss construction. The wooden structure was built to provide safe passage across the waterway while protecting the timber frame from weather.
The structure was built in 1866 to replace an earlier crossing at the same location. In 1935, the main roadway was moved to a different route, which led to the bridge being converted for pedestrian use only.
The bridge shows how people once crossed waterways and what role such structures played in rural communities. It stands today as a reminder of how people solved practical problems with local materials and skill.
The bridge is accessible on foot and located near a picnic area on the grounds. Visitors should know that only pedestrians can cross, as vehicles are not permitted on the historic structure.
A picnic area was established at the site in 1936 when the structure was converted for pedestrian use, transforming it into a gathering spot for the local community. This conversion shows how old infrastructure found new life as a destination for walking and recreation.
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