Coldwater Creek Covered Bridge, Coldwater Alabama
Coldwater Covered Bridge is one of 16 remaining covered bridges in Alabama, a state which as recently as 1930 had approximately 200 of these rustic relics. By 1958 there were only 46 left and the destruction from arson and neglect continued to take its toll.
This transportation landmark, which was built before 1850 and possibly as early as 1839, is one of three surviving bridges in the state built in the modified kingpost style.
In 1920 the structure was partially burned after a hunter dropped his torch on the bridge, but it was immediately repaired and rebuilt by Frank Morris, E. A. Walker, and Eli Bynum, as the bridge was the only available transportation across Coldwater Creek.
Covered bridges were first built in the late eighteenth century in the northeastern United States. The bridges were covered chiefly to protect the wooden floor so they would have to be replaced less often. The covering in mountainous areas also prevented easily frightened horses from seeing the rushing water beneath them and provided a haven for weary travelers.
In addition to filling a vital role in transportation many of the covered bridges were toll bridges, providing additional revenue for an area.
The local covered bridge also doubled as a community social center. It was an ideal gathering place for political discussions, gossip, or a friendly game of checkers. The beams and rafters were perfect substitutes for the modern "jungle gyms" to occupy the rambunctious children while their parents visited.
The covered bridge often provided a drill for the local militia. Even revival meetings were held at the bridges, and the sidewalls were often plastered with local advertisements. For the romantically inclined, the bridges seemed designed for courting; they were so popular as "sparking" places that they earned the nickname "kissing bridges."
Bridge Description
The Coldwater Covered Bridge is a one-span structure with a modified kingpost type truss. It is sixty feet long and has a vertical and horizontal clearance of 10 feet.
The bridge abutment is of wooden construction as is the floor and truss, but a tin roof now replaces the original wooden shingles. The bridge which was repaired in 1920 has been maintained and is in appearance substantially as it was when it was built.
The bridge which spans Coldwater Creek, is situated just downstream from the substantial ruins of a large concrete mill dam and old mill. Located approximately one-half mile from a major interstate interchange, it is clearly visible from all four lanes of Interstate Highway 20.
North Entrance to Bridge (1972)
East View of Bridge (Grist Mill Ruins & Dam in Rear) (1972)
