Welcome to the Cedarburg Covered Bridge, the last historic covered bridge in the state of Wisconsin, a remarkable relic from a bygone era. Built in 1876, this bridge stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and practicality of the time. Originally named the ‘Red Bridge,’ it spans Cedar Creek just north of the city of Cedarburg. This bridge was crucial in connecting farmers with markets, allowing them to buy and sell goods easily. Its construction was a community effort, using pine timber from near Baraboo, Wisconsin. The design is known as lattice truss, characterized by interlacing planks held together by hardwood pins. In 1927, a center abutment was added to support heavier vehicular traffic as the area modernized.
The bridge’s historical significance is rooted in Cedarburg’s broader history. Settled in the 1840s by German immigrants, Cedarburg quickly became a thriving community, powered by the mills that dotted Cedar Creek. The town’s development was marked by industriousness, with flour and textile mills harnessing water power, and local breweries quenching the thirst of its residents. The covered bridge played a vital role, linking the rural farming areas with Cedarburg’s bustling markets.
Several stories surround the bridge, adding to its charm. It’s said that the covered design helped calm skittish horses who might otherwise be spooked by the sight of rushing water below. Another legend tells of farmers’ hay loads being leveled as they passed through the bridge, a practical benefit of its construction.
In 1940, with the advent of modernization, many such structures were dismantled, but the Cedarburg Covered Bridge was preserved thanks to the foresight of the Ozaukee County Board, recognizing its historical importance. Later, the Port Washington Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution placed a plaque on the bridge, marking it as a historical monument.
Today, the bridge is not just a functional piece of architecture but a cherished historical landmark. It draws visitors who wish to step back in time and appreciate the simple yet robust engineering of the 19th century. Walking across the Cedarburg Covered Bridge is like walking through history, a reminder of the town’s rich heritage and the community spirit that built it.
