About George Miller Road Covered Bridge
The George Miller Road Covered Bridge carries George Miller Road over the West Fork of Eagle Creek south of Russellville in Brown County, Ohio. Built in 1879, this 154-foot Smith truss bridge remains open to vehicular traffic, offering modern visitors the experience of crossing a historic covered bridge.
History of George Miller Road Covered Bridge
Constructed in 1879 by John Griffith, who served as agent and foreman for the Smith Bridge Company, the George Miller Road Covered Bridge was built at a cost of $14.75 per linear foot. The bridge served the agricultural community of Byrd Township for over a century with minimal modification. In the 1990s, the bridge underwent significant renovation work performed by local Amish and Mennonite crews from Amos Schwartz Construction of Geneva, Indiana, demonstrating the continued expertise of traditional craftsmen in maintaining these historic structures.
Architecture and Design
The George Miller Road Covered Bridge features the Smith truss design, a system widely used throughout southwestern Ohio. At 154 feet in total length with a span of approximately 153 feet, the bridge demonstrates the Smith truss's capability for handling significant spans. The renovation work performed in the 1990s preserved the historic character while ensuring the bridge could continue to safely carry modern traffic. The structure stands as an excellent example of the Smith Bridge Company's craftsmanship.
Visiting George Miller Road Covered Bridge
The George Miller Road Covered Bridge is located south of Russellville, Ohio. From US Route 62, turn onto George Miller Road (CR 77) and travel approximately 2 miles to the bridge. The bridge remains open to vehicular traffic, allowing visitors to drive through this historic structure. Use caution as it is a single-lane bridge. The scenic location along the West Fork of Eagle Creek, combined with the nearby Amish community, makes this area a pleasant destination for a covered bridge tour of Brown County.