Honeymoon Bridge

Honeymoon Bridge spans the Ellis River using a Paddleford truss design, with exposed wooden beams and a covered walkway for pedestrians. The interior shows the typical joinery and dark wood tones characteristic of this construction method.

Charles Austin Broughton and his son Frank built this bridge in 1876, applying carpentry skills Charles gained during the Civil War. The construction took place during a period when many covered bridges were being built across New England.

The bridge gets its name from a local tradition where couples kiss beneath it for good luck, a practice documented since 1936. This custom remains part of how people connect with the place today.

The walkway is narrow, so care is needed when passing other visitors, especially in tight spots within the bridge. The best time to visit is in good weather and during daylight hours, when the interior is bright enough to explore comfortably.

This is one of just twenty remaining examples of Paddleford truss architecture in the entire United States. Its rarity makes it a prized specimen for historians and those interested in historic bridge construction methods.

Official opening: 1876

GPS coordinates: 44.14140,-71.18610

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:26