The Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the United States at 613 feet, spanning 93 feet above the Ashtabula River. Built in 2008, this modern engineering marvel supports full legal load traffic.
Dixon Branch Covered Bridge
Historic 1887 covered bridge relocated to Lewisburg Community Park in 1964, now serving as a unique picnic shelter and the only Preble County covered bridge not over water.
About Dixon Branch Covered Bridge
The Dixon Branch Covered Bridge is a 50-foot Childs Truss covered bridge now located in Lewisburg Community Park. Originally built in 1887 by Everett S. Sherman over Dixon Branch creek, this unique bridge was relocated to the park in 1964 after storm damage. It is the only covered bridge in Preble County not located over a stream and now serves as a popular picnic shelter, with tables placed inside for visitors to enjoy.
History of Dixon Branch Covered Bridge
Sherman constructed this bridge in 1887 on Concord Road in Dixon Township. The original construction cost totaled $1,824. The bridge was named for Eli Dixon, the first settler in the township. On June 11, 1963, an unusual windstorm destroyed the bridge's roof. The Civitan Club of Lewisburg reconstructed it in the park at a cost of about $100, with donated labor. The bridge was shortened to 50 feet during reconstruction and dedicated on July 4, 1964.
Architecture and Design
The Dixon Branch Bridge is a Childs Truss design, now measuring 50 feet after being shortened from its original length during relocation.
Visiting Dixon Branch Covered Bridge
Located in Lewisburg Community Park at 101 Knapke Lane. This bridge offers visitors a unique opportunity to picnic inside a historic covered bridge.
Similar Bridges in category
The Harpersfield Covered Bridge is the second longest covered bridge in Ohio at 228 feet, a two-span Howe truss structure built in 1868 over the Grand River. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Mechanicsville Road Covered Bridge is believed to be the oldest covered bridge in Ashtabula County, built in 1867. At 156 feet, it is the longest single-span covered bridge in the county.