Academia Pomeroy Covered Bridge

About Academia Pomeroy Covered Bridge

Academia Pomeroy Covered Bridge is the longest remaining covered bridge in Pennsylvania, spanning an impressive 278 feet over Tuscarora Creek in Juniata County. Built in 1902 by James N. Groninger to replace a flood-damaged bridge from 1870, this magnificent double-span Burr Arch Truss structure is one of the most beautiful covered bridges in the state. While no longer open to vehicles, visitors are welcome to walk across the bridge and explore its historic architecture.

History of Academia Pomeroy Covered Bridge

The original bridge at this location was built in 1870 but was destroyed by ice jams and flood waters in 1901. Juniata County funded construction of a replacement, and local builder James N. Groninger completed the new bridge in 1902. The bridge takes its name from Joseph Pomeroy's nearby mill and the village of Academia. It has been owned by the Juniata County Historical Society since 1962. The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and underwent an extensive eight-year, $1.4 million restoration between 2001 and 2009.

Architecture and Design

The bridge features a double-span Burr Arch Truss design, measuring 278 feet in length and nearly 18 feet in width. It rests on stone abutments and a central stone pier. The structure is faced with random-width board-and-batten siding and features a single window centered on each of the long sides for illumination. The portals are square with scalloped and flared eaves. A small park with benches and informative historical plaques surrounds the bridge.

Visiting Academia Pomeroy Covered Bridge

The bridge is located about seven miles southwest of Port Royal on Covered Bridge Road (off Route 3013). Parking is available at the end of Covered Bridge Road where visitors can pull off to the side. The bridge is open to pedestrian traffic from sunrise to sunset, with signposts explaining its history and a guest book for visitors to sign. While in the area, don't miss the nearby Tuscarora Academy Museum, also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.