Mount Orne Covered Bridge: A Historic Landmark of the Connecticut River
Spanning the Connecticut River between eastern Lunenburg and southwestern Lancaster, the Mount Orne Covered Bridge stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering. This rural landmark serves as a vital link between two towns and represents one of the final chapters in the historic era of covered bridge construction in the region.
Key Facts
- Construction Year: 1911
- Builder: Berlin Construction Company
- Design: Two-span Howe truss (wood and iron)
- Total Length: 267 feet (81 m)
- Location: Border of Lunenburg and Lancaster
Architectural Design and Specifications
The bridge is engineered using Howe trusses—a design that combines wooden diagonal members with vertical iron rods to provide structural stability. The bridge consists of two distinct spans supported by stone abutments and piers, some of which have been reinforced with concrete facing.
The total length of the structure is 267 feet (81 m). The western span measures 134 feet (41 m), while the eastern span is slightly shorter at 133 feet (40.7 m). With an overall width of 20.5 feet (6.2 m), the bridge accommodates a roadway width of 15.5 feet (4.7 m).
To protect the internal wooden trusses from the elements, the bridge features a corrugated metal gable roof and vertical boarding. This siding extends partway to the eaves and wraps around to the insides of the portals.
History and Maintenance
The current structure was built in 1911 by the Berlin Construction Company. It was commissioned to replace a previous bridge that had been destroyed by flooding in 1905. Along with the Columbia Bridge (built in 1912), the Mount Orne Covered Bridge is one of only two Howe truss bridges remaining over the Connecticut River.
Because the bridge connects two municipalities, the costs associated with its construction and ongoing maintenance are shared between the towns of Lunenburg and Lancaster.
Over the decades, the bridge has undergone various repairs. A notable closure occurred on July 5, 1983, for essential repair work, with the bridge reopening and being rededicated on November 23 of that same year.
Recent Status
In November 2023, the bridge was closed for an undetermined period. This closure was necessitated by structural damage caused by an oversized vehicle attempting to drive through the bridge.
Technical Summary
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 267 feet (81 m) |
| Western Span | 134 feet (41 m) |
| Eastern Span | 133 feet (40.7 m) |
| Roadway Width | 15.5 feet (4.7 m) |
| Truss Type | Howe truss (wood and iron) |
| Roof Material | Corrugated metal |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Mount Orne Covered Bridge built?
The bridge was constructed in 1911 by the Berlin Construction Company to replace a bridge lost to flooding in 1905.
What is a Howe truss?
A Howe truss is a bridge design that utilizes a combination of wooden beams and vertical iron rods to distribute weight and provide strength.
Who is responsible for the bridge's upkeep?
The costs for the construction and maintenance of the bridge are shared between the towns of Lunenburg and Lancaster.
Why is the bridge currently closed?
As of November 2023, the bridge is closed due to damage caused by an oversized vehicle.
How does it compare to other bridges in the area?
It is one of only two Howe truss bridges over the Connecticut River, the other being the Columbia Bridge built in 1912.