Here in New Brunswick, we had about 400 covered bridges at one point in time. Today, there are 58 remaining. These bridges represent more than a simple aid to transportation. They symbolize the growth and prosperity of the province in the 20th century. Covered bridges were covered for a very practical reason. The roofs protect the floorboards and their supporting beams from the wetting and drying that open bridges normally endure.
New Brunswick covered bridges are distinctive from similar bridges in other parts of North America for two reasons. The most visible is that the wall boards were left unpainted, resulting then in turning the wood the popular soft gray. They are today. Secondly, the openings are taller than most as most bridges were built in rural communities. Regulations stated that bridges must allow a full wagon load of loose hay to be able to pass under safely.
With each passing year, New Brunswick's covered bridges are increasingly at risk of irreparable damage or demolition due to a range of natural forces, accidents, vandalism and the lack of maintenance. Recent ice and floodwaters have taken their toll, weakening and immediately threatening the future of many bridges.
But the province is investing in repairing some of the bridges, and even in building the first new one in 70 years. In this podcast, you will learn about some of the ones that you should visit!
Businesses/organizations mentioned in the podcast are listed below:
Association Heritage New Brunswick
Provincial List of Covered Bridges
SJYO Holiday Concert – December 16
Home for Christmas playing at Fredericton Playhouse – December 22
Mark J Brewer, Host