Covered Bridges on Two Wheels
A photographic journey to Vermont's Covered Bridges
Willard Twin Bridge
One of the newest authentically covered bridges in the state, which didn't have an official name when it was opened, has become known as the Willard Twin Bridge or the West Twin.
There was a Queenpost truss covered bridge on this site back in the 1800s to match the still-standing Willard Bridge. In those days, they were known as the twin bridges. In 1938, this bridge was lost to a hurricane and was subsequently replaced with a steel and concrete bridge.
Current Status: Open
Location: Hartland, on Mill Street
Crosses: Ottauquechee River
GPS: 43.593598N, 72.350386W
Built: 2001 Length: 81 feet
Truss Design: Town lattice
WGN*: VT-14-64#2 NRHP**: not eligible
* WGN: World Guide to Covered Bridges Number
**NRHP: Listed on National Register of Historic Places
The Town of Hartland decided that it was time that another wooden bridge replace the failing concrete span. The State agreed and this fine new bridge is the result. The interior dimensions closely match those of the older, longer East Twin Bridge and it was built using Town lattice trusses. The reason for not utilizing Queenpost trusses like the lost original is that this span it too long for that type of truss to be truly effective. One feature not frequently seen in covered bridges is the use of ship's knee braces to reinforce the tie-beam joints. It is a nice touch to use those when simpler or more modern braces would have sufficed. This will reduce the likelihood that an large vehicle will hit the braces, like happens all to often in other bridges.
The new West Twin bridge was constructed in a nearby recreation field and moved into place on the causeway. Traffic was allowed to pass through it while finishing touches were placed, the official opening ceremony was held on October 13, 2001.
Visiting the bridge:
Parking for the "twin bridges" can be had in a small turnout between the two. Mill Street is paved - at least until you get through the second of the two bridges, where it turns into dirt/gravel.
See the write-up for the Willard Bridge for more tips.