Chitwood Bridge

Chitwood Bridge is a wooden covered bridge that spans the Yaquina River in Lincoln County. It displays traditional Howe truss construction with wooden protective covering that shields the entire structure.

The structure was built in 1926 by Lincoln County authorities when wooden bridges like this were still commonly constructed. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, marking recognition of its historical value.

The bridge carries the name of Joshua Chitwood, an early settler whose legacy tied to this rural area. The name reflects the local history and the people who helped shape the region.

The bridge sits near U.S. Route 20 and is readily accessible to visitors exploring this area. It underwent major restoration in 1984 to stabilize and preserve it for future generations.

This bridge was once scheduled for demolition but was saved through local advocacy and restoration efforts. It stands today as a rare surviving example of this construction style from Oregon's earlier era.

Location: Lincoln County

GPS coordinates: 44.65422,-123.81775

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:04