Ware–Hardwick Covered Bridge
Ware–Hardwick Covered Bridge
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Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge
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Location | Hardwick, Massachusetts |
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Coordinates | Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found. |
Built | 1886 |
Architect | Unknown |
Architectural style | Other |
NRHP Reference # | 86001006[1] |
Added to NRHP | May 8, 1986 |
Ware–Hardwick Covered Bridge is a historic bridge on Old Gilbertville Road and Bridge Street in Ware and Hardwick, Massachusetts. It was built in 1886 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.[1] The bridge is managed by a joint committee of the two towns.[2]
The wooden structure crosses the Ware River at Bridge Street in the Gilbertville district of Hardwick and Old Gilbertville Road in Ware. Nearly 150 feet (46 metres) across, it is one of a few 19th century covered bridges that remain in the state. The bridge incorporates a wooden single-web, double-chord lattice truss theme inspired by the 19th-century architect Ithiel Town, a Connecticut native. Unlike other bridges on the Ware River, this bridge survived a major flooding event in 1936.
The state ordered the structure closed in August 2002 after an inspection concluded the bridge could not bear any more weight, due in part to insect infestation.[3] The limit at the time was 6 short tons (5.4 t). Now, there is no weight limit, according to the state Department of Transportation. In October 2010 the bridge reopened upon the completion of a $1.9 million reconstruction and restoration.[4] Wood taken from the bridge was divided between the towns; the Ware Historical Commission planned to use Ware's share of the wood to recreate other historic buildings.[3]
References
- Covered bridges in Massachusetts
- Road bridges in Massachusetts
- Bridges completed in 1886
- Bridges in Hampshire County, Massachusetts
- Bridges in Worcester County, Massachusetts
- Bridges on the National Register of Historic Places in Massachusetts
- National Register of Historic Places in Hampshire County, Massachusetts
- National Register of Historic Places in Worcester County, Massachusetts
- Visitor attractions in Worcester County, Massachusetts
- Ware, Massachusetts