Few people know much about the oldest covered bridge in Illinois. Located near Princeton, this historic relic is kept in good shape and totally worth a visit.

History lovers definitely need to check out this charming piece of architecture. Scroll on for more details.

1. Built in 1863, Red Covered Bridge in northern Illinois is the state's oldest covered bridge. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
Google/Steve Budde
2. The relic is 149 feet, making it not only the oldest, but also the longest bridge in the state. It is definitely worth your time to go exploring here.
Google/Dakoda Johnson
3. This lovely and well-preserved bridge crosses Big Bureau Creek on Route 26 about 1.5 miles north of Princeton, Illinois. This whole area is not far from the bend in the Illinois River and some of the state's best parks.
Google/Chris Chandler
4. Another reason to visit Illinois' oldest covered bridge is that it is still open to traffic. You can drive right through this thing as many times as you want and see what it looks like inside.
Google/Laurie Pichla

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5. A sign above the entrance dictates the rules for passersby. There is apparently a five dollar fine for driving more than a dozen horses, mules, or cattle through the bridge or for taking them through at anything faster than a walk.
Wikimedia Commons/Kepper662
6. The bridge is made of wood and stone and is now fitted with CCTV cameras. This helps preserve the bridge and keep it safe from vandals.
Google/Nai Choy Saephan
7. When the bridge was built in the mid-1800s, it cost $3,148 to construct. That purchasing power is similar to about $90,000 today.
Wikimedia Commons/Kepper66
8. Red Covered Bridge is one of just a few remaining covered bridges in the Land of Lincoln. Click here to learn more about the rest.
Wikimedia Commons/Majnutl

For more bridges, check out these 10 in Illinois you’ll want to cross ASAP.

What else do you know about the oldest covered bridge in Illinois? Share your thoughts with us below in the comments.

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