Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge

About Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge

Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge spans 124 feet across Manatawny Creek in the scenic Oley Township of Berks County. The bridge sits adjacent to its namesake Greisemer's Mill, creating one of the most picturesque covered bridge settings in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Like most Berks County bridges, it utilizes the popular Burr arch truss design.

History of Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge

The construction date of Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge has been debated for years. While Wikipedia and some sources list 1832 (which would make it one of Pennsylvania's oldest covered bridges), local historian Fred Moll of the Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society determined the true date is 1868, when Greisemer's Mill Road was built. The confusion arose from a transcription error of courthouse records. The adjacent Greisemer's Mill is an 1847 grist mill measuring 40 by 60 feet and 3.5 stories tall, built by D.L. and E. Greisemer. The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 and has received new siding and a new roof in recent restorations.

Architecture and Design

Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge features the Burr arch truss design with a gable roof and stone abutments. The bridge measures 124 feet in length (some sources cite 130 feet span length). The structure has been well maintained with recent repairs including new siding and roofing. The bridge sits in a beautiful rural setting that showcases the pastoral character of the Oley Valley.

Visiting Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge

Greisemer's Mill Covered Bridge is located on Spangsville Road in Oley Township, about 1.5 miles from Pleasantville Covered Bridge. From Covered Bridge Road, turn onto Church Road and then left onto Spangsville Road to reach the bridge. The bridge remains open to vehicular traffic. There is a nice pull-off area on the southeastern side of the bridge for parking and photography. The historic mill is visible near the bridge. Nearby attractions include Daniel Boone Homestead and the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles.