Pulp Mill Covered Bridge, Historic covered bridge in Middlebury, United States
The Pulp Mill Covered Bridge is a wooden structure that carries the Otter Creek crossing between two towns with two separate roadways running side by side. This double-barrel design allows vehicles traveling in opposite directions to pass each other safely.
Construction began in the early 1800s with the structure completed within two decades using methods typical of that period. Decades later, reinforcements were added to the wooden frame to extend its lifespan.
The bridge displays how builders connected timber pieces together to span water, using methods that required precise carpentry. You can see how the wooden frame still holds the crossing together through its layered design.
The bridge sits on a road connecting two towns and carries regular daily traffic through the span. Pedestrians have a separate pathway to walk while vehicles pass, keeping both uses safe.
Only a handful of these side-by-side wooden bridges remain across the entire United States, making this example quite rare. It also holds the distinction of being the oldest of its kind still standing in its state.
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