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I don't know if I would trust that bridge...

Tom

F1nut wrote: »

Scariest bridge I've been on was going into Charleston. The lanes seemed to be only a few inches wider than my vehicle and those guard rails weren't going to stop anything. I understand it has been replaced.

It has. Here is the new bridge...it opened July 16th of 2025. We saw it when we were down there earlier this year, but we never drove over it. It sure does look nice!



Tom

mhardy6647 wrote: »

Isn't there a bridge over the C&D canal on the Eastern Shore (up north) that goes fairly steeply up and down? I have a hazy memory of a pretty impressive bridge from an outing over that way many years back.

Yeah. Goes over the canal at Chesapeake City. Not my favorite bridge on the planet. Fairly steep approach & the guardrails are just vertical posts. And you're up there

Squicks me right out

I crossed the Nice bridge many times... it was effing steep. Only a hair past two lanes wide, too... and chockablock with tractor-trailers much of the time.

I wondered why they covered bridges, so I asked.

Mainly longevity x10.

Covered bridges were built primarily to protect wooden structures from the elements, significantly extending their lifespan and ensuring their structural integrity.
Purpose of Covered Bridges
Protection from Weather: The primary reason for covering bridges was to shield the wooden components from rain, snow, and sunlight. Exposure to these elements can cause wood to rot, warp, and deteriorate quickly. Uncovered wooden bridges typically had a lifespan of only 10 to 20 years, while covered bridges could last over 100 years due to the protective covering.
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Engineering Solution: The design of covered bridges was not merely aesthetic; it was a practical engineering solution. By enclosing the bridge, builders could prevent moisture from affecting the wooden trusses and decking, which were crucial for the bridge's strength and stability. This design allowed for a more durable structure that could withstand the test of time.
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Community Involvement: The construction of covered bridges often involved the entire community, with skilled workers such as sawyers and timber framers collaborating to build these structures. This communal effort not only fostered local craftsmanship but also ensured that the bridges were built to last.
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Additional Benefits
Calming Animals: Some theories suggest that the roofs helped keep animals calm while crossing over rushing water, although this was not the primary reason for their construction.
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Shelter for Travelers: Covered bridges provided shelter for travelers, offering a reprieve from inclement weather during their journeys.
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Cultural Significance: Beyond their functional use, covered bridges became iconic structures in many regions, often associated with local history and culture. They served as gathering places for community events and social activities.
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Conclusion
In summary, the covering of bridges in the old days was a crucial innovation aimed at preserving the integrity of wooden structures, enhancing their durability, and providing additional benefits to the community. This engineering choice has left a lasting legacy, with many covered bridges still standing today as historical landmarks.

Robert Palmer's Sneakin' Sally Through the Alley is a great album with Little Feat’s Lowell George and Steve Winwood playing on it. I saw him in concert one time in what had to be a couple thousand dollar suit, fantastic performance!

Rumor was he liked the Bolivian marching powder a bit too much, hence the fatal heart attack in Paris.