Scenic USA - Pennsylvania

Bowser Covered Bridge

Scenic USA on Facebook

Scenic USA
on Facebook


Home Archives Previous Next

Bowser Covered Bridge - Osterburg, Bedford County, Pennsylvania
Photos by Ben Prepelka
Ben Prepelka Photography

   For covered bridge fans, Pennsylvania's Bedford County features 14 late 19th century historic treasures. With some of the best maintained bridges in the state, a ninety minute drive from the first bridge in Old Bedford Village leads to eight of Bedford County's favorites. A detailed guide not only helps to track down the bridges, but introduces Bedford County visitors to Gravity Hill. Here you'll believe your car is rolling uphill, a place where the laws of physics no longer apply.
   The second stop on the bridge Bowser Bridge - Bedford County, Pennsylvania tour follows a snaking Route 869 west to Osterburg. Here, crossing Bob's Creek is the Osterburg Bridge, more commonly called the Bowser Covered Bridge. Built in 1890 using a Burr truss pattern, the 90 feet span was utilized almost a full century. No longer open for vehicular traffic, the bridge adds a beautifying touch to the countryside. Its exposed sweeping arches create a picturesque scene for everyone, not only covered bridge fans.
     Built in an era that lacked modern power tools and heavy equipment, America's covered bridges exhibit true quality craftsmanship and that famous Yankee ingenuity. Now with repair costs averaging about a million dollars, a two thousand dollar price tag (1890) for this old bridge seems extra-special.

     Area Map
     Bedford County Bridge Tour


Additional Points of Interest

Scenic USA Prints from
Fine Art America

Art Prints


 

    Copyright © 2020 Benjamin Prepelka
    All Rights Reserved