About Harpersfield Covered Bridge
The Harpersfield Covered Bridge is a 228-foot two-span Howe truss bridge spanning the Grand River. Built in 1868, it held the title of Ohio's longest covered bridge until the Smolen-Gulf Bridge was completed in 2008. This historic structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains one of the most beloved bridges in Ashtabula County.
History of Harpersfield Covered Bridge
The bridge was constructed in 1868 during the post-Civil War era when covered bridges were the standard for crossing major waterways. The Great Flood of 1913 dramatically altered the Grand River's course, washing away soil from the north end of the bridge and changing the river channel. To address this, a steel bridge section was attached to connect the covered bridge to the north approach. The bridge underwent major renovations in 1991-1992, when a walkway was added for pedestrians. Additional restoration work was completed in 2022.
Architecture and Design
The Harpersfield Bridge features a two-span Howe truss design, which combines wooden diagonal members with vertical iron rods. This design was popular in the mid-19th century for longer spans. The bridge's impressive length made it a significant engineering achievement of its era. The interior showcases the classic timber construction methods used by bridge builders of the 1860s.
Visiting Harpersfield Covered Bridge
The bridge is located at 1122 Harpersfield Road within Ashtabula County Metroparks. The park setting makes it an ideal spot for picnics, with facilities available nearby. The walkway added during renovations allows visitors to safely stroll through the bridge and enjoy views of the Grand River below. The clearance height is 10 feet 9 inches. The bridge is approximately 3 miles from the Liberty Street Bridge in Geneva.