The Remarkable Bridge In Rhode Island That Everyone Should Visit At Least Once

Covered bridges dot the landscape of the United States as rustic reminders of the olden days. Rhode Island has just one located on a public road. While it’s only 25 years old, the covered bridge represents the kind of Americana that is a delightful surprise when you encounter it. If you haven’t visited Swamp Meadow Bridge yet, it’s time to take a road trip out to Foster.

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The town of Foster proposed the building of Swamp Meadow Bridge in 1986 to honor Rhode Island's 350th birthday. Approval for the project came in 1992 and construction began later that year. Volunteers constructed it over an existing steel bridge using lumber donated by the Providence Water Supply.

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Swamp Meadow Bridge is a Town lattice truss design. Wood planks cover the roadway area that crosses Hemlock Brook. The sides of the bridge have curb high timbers running the length to prevent vehicles from damaging the trusses. The covered bridge was dedicated on May 23, 1993. Less than four months later, the bridge was burnt by vandals. Just 12 days after its destruction, the town approved construction of a replacement bridge that still stands today.

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This rustic water crossing spans 36 feet and is 16 feet wide. Cross it and be treated to a few moments of looking back into history. Although this is Rhode Island marvel is a reproduction, it still has that old time feel that brings the past into the present. You can almost imagine the way horses hooves sounded clattering across covered bridges like this one.

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Visit Swamp Meadow Bridge on Central Pike in Foster. This one-of-a-kind structure is one you'll want to go out of your way for. You can find it at coordinates 41.79957 N, 71.72943 W where it crosses Hemlock Brook.

Have you ever crossed Swamp Meadow Bridge? The Newport Bridge is massive compared to this one. Check out these rare photos taken during that giant’s construction.