There’s something so irresistibly charming about an old, covered bridge that never fails to stop us in our tracks. Hand-built and often featuring intricate designs, covered bridges are exquisite works of architectural art. These structures are a beautiful reminder of a bygone era, but are becoming increasingly harder to find. But they do exist, especially here in the Bluegrass, a state with a big heart for history and tradition. There are many covered bridges in Kentucky, in fact, but only a small number are open to vehicular traffic. That’s just one of the things that makes Colville Covered Bridge such a treasure.
Once upon a time, there were beautiful bridges that served as gathering spots of rural communities. Covered bridges were found all over Kentucky, spanning the state’s myriad rivers and creeks.
ExploreKYHistory.gov
In Bourbon County alone, there were 27 beautiful covered bridges, their ornate coverings providing umbrage to road-weary travelers and farmers.
ExploreKYHistory.gov
Today, there are only 11 covered bridges remaining in Kentucky, including one stalwart in Bourbon County.
cmh2315fl/Flickr
The Colville Covered Bridge was constructed in 1877 by Jacob Bower of the Bower Bridge Company of Maysville, Kentucky, about 100 years after the first such bridges were first built in there Bluegrass.
James Walsh/Flickr
Located on the Colville Road, the eponymous bridge spans Hinkston Creek near the Harrison County line. It’s situated 28 feet above the water level and consists of a multiple kingpost truss structure originally built of yellow poplar for its durability. It’s quite striking and unlike any other covered bridge in Kentucky!
cmh2315fl/Flickr
While the bridge has undergone repairs and renovations over the years, happily, it has remained true to its original form. This is something bridge enthusiasts celebrate about Colville Bridge!
ExploreKYHistory.gov
Today, vehicular traffic is generally limited to local residents and farm vehicles. But this historic beauty is as beguiling as ever, and definitely worth seeking out on your next Kentucky adventure!
James Walsh/Flickr
Have you visited this Kentucky covered bridge before? There’s something undeniably charming about Colville Covered Bridge, a true Kentucky treasure and proud reminder of our state’s history.
ExploreKYHistory.gov
cmh2315fl/Flickr
James Walsh/Flickr
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Colville Covered Bridge, 543-509 Colville Rd, Paris, KY 40361, USA
