Columbia Bridge: A Historic Covered Crossing of the Connecticut River
Spanning the scenic waters of the Connecticut River, the Columbia Bridge serves as a vital link between the rural landscapes of southeastern Lemington, New Hampshire, and northwestern Columbia, Vermont. This historic structure carries Columbia Bridge Road, connecting United States Route 3 in New Hampshire to Vermont Route 102 in Vermont.
Set within a quiet agricultural environment, the bridge is oriented northwest-to-southeast. It rests on dry laid stone abutments—foundations built from stones fitted together without mortar—which have since been reinforced with concrete facing to ensure long-term stability.
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Engineering and Architectural Design
The Columbia Bridge is a prime example of the Howe truss design, a structural system that combines wooden diagonal members with vertical iron rods to distribute weight efficiently. This specific bridge consists of a single span measuring 146 feet (45 m) in length.
The overall width of the structure is 20.5 feet (6.2 m), providing a roadway width of 15.5 feet (4.7 m) and an internal vertical clearance of 13 feet (4.0 m). To protect the internal wooden truss ends from the elements, the exterior is sheathed in vertical board siding that extends slightly into each portal.
A unique feature of its architecture is the siding on the north side, which rises to a height of 6 feet (1.8 m), leaving an open gap between the wall and the gabled roof for ventilation and light.
History and Preservation
The current bridge was constructed in 1912 by Charles Babbitt. It was built to replace a previous structure that had been destroyed by fire in 1911, making it the third bridge to occupy this specific site. Because of its construction date, it is recognized as one of the final covered bridges built during the historic era of covered bridge construction in either New Hampshire or Vermont.
To preserve this architectural landmark, the state of New Hampshire undertook a rehabilitation project in 1981, investing $143,000 to restore the bridge's integrity.
Key Facts
- Location: Connects Lemington, NH (US Route 3) and Columbia, VT (VT Route 102).
- Construction Date: 1912.
- Builder: Charles Babbitt.
- Design: Wood-iron Howe truss.
- Length: 146 feet (45 m).
- Roadway Width: 15.5 feet (4.7 m).
- Historical Significance: One of the last covered bridges built during the historic period in the region.
Technical Specifications Summary
| Feature | Measurement/Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 146 feet (45 m) |
| Total Width | 20.5 feet (6.2 m) |
| Roadway Width | 15.5 feet (4.7 m) |
| Internal Clearance | 13 feet (4.0 m) |
| Truss Type | Howe truss (wood-iron) |
| Abutment Material | Dry laid stone with concrete facing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who built the Columbia Bridge?
The bridge was constructed by Charles Babbitt in 1912.
What is a Howe truss?
A Howe truss is a bridge design that utilizes a combination of wooden beams and vertical iron rods to support the structure's load.
Why was the bridge built in 1912?
It was built to replace a previous bridge on the site that had been destroyed by fire in 1911.
When was the bridge last rehabilitated?
The state of New Hampshire rehabilitated the bridge in 1981 at a cost of $143,000.
How many bridges have stood at this location?
The current 1912 structure is the third bridge to stand on this site.