Brubaker Covered Bridge

About Brubaker Covered Bridge

The Brubaker Covered Bridge is an 88-foot Childs Truss covered bridge spanning Sam's Run northwest of Gratis in Gratis Township. Built in 1887 by Everett S. Sherman, this distinctive white-painted bridge features a unique modification - its upper sides were opened to allow light in and improve visibility for the curved roadway approaches. The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

History of Brubaker Covered Bridge

E.S. Sherman constructed the bridge on Aukerman Creek Road (now Brubaker Road) in 1887 at a cost of $986, with T.J. Smith building the abutments for $1,422, bringing the total project cost to $2,408. In August 2022, a semi-truck driver following GPS directions struck the bridge, causing significant damage. The community rallied to restore it, and the bridge reopened in early 2024.

Architecture and Design

The Brubaker Bridge is an 88-foot Childs Truss design. What makes this bridge unique is its open-sided modification, which transformed it into one of southwestern Ohio's most scenic bridges. Painted white instead of the traditional red.

Visiting Brubaker Covered Bridge

Located on Brubaker Road about a quarter-mile northwest of Gratis, the bridge is accessible via State Route 122. The Preble County Historical Society is located nearby.