Double-arch Sandstone Bridge, Double-arch stone bridge in Methuen, Massachusetts.
The Double-arch Sandstone Bridge is a two-arch stone structure that crosses the Spicket River in Methuen. The arches are built from sandstone blocks fitted together without mortar, creating a sturdy passage over the water.
The structure was built in 1835 to replace an earlier wooden bridge that dated from the early 1700s. It served as a key connection between two towns for over a century before eventually being closed to traffic.
The bridge reflects how 19th-century engineering connected local communities across the river. Its construction showcases the building skills that craftspeople applied to create structures that would serve generations.
Access to the bridge can be found along Hampshire Road, though visitors should check current conditions before heading out. The structure requires careful approach due to its age and condition, so it is wise to inquire locally about accessibility.
During construction, rubble and earth were packed behind the stone blocks and compressed against the abutments. This practical method provided additional support and demonstrates how builders solved structural challenges with materials at hand.
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