Herr's Mill Covered Bridge

One of fewer than 12 double-span, double-arch covered bridges remaining in the United States. Stretching 178 feet across Pequea Creek, this magnificent structure employs a double-span configuration found in fewer than a dozen American covered bridges.

Built in 1844 by master craftsman Benjamin C. Herr to serve his bustling grain mill, the bridge showcases the height of mid-19th century engineering ambition. The double-arch design uses two parallel Burr arch trusses in each span - four parallel trusses total - creating exceptional strength and rigidity that has allowed the bridge to survive nearly 180 years of Pennsylvania weather and flood events.

The bridge's construction required selecting and hand-hewing massive timbers, some measuring over 40 feet in length, from old-growth forests that once covered Lancaster County. Local carpenters worked for more than eight months to complete the structure, which represented a significant investment for the rural community.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The Herr family operated their mill at this location for over a century, with the bridge providing essential access for farmers delivering grain and collecting flour. The mill complex included the main grinding operation, a cooperage for making barrels, and worker housing.

During the Civil War era, the bridge served as a key link in the agricultural supply chain that helped feed Union troops, with wagons loaded with grain crossing daily. The structure survived the catastrophic Hurricane Agnes floods of 1972 that destroyed many Lancaster County bridges, though it required extensive repairs afterward.

PRESERVATION STORY

In the 1980s, when deteriorating conditions threatened the bridge's survival, local preservationists formed the Herr's Mill Bridge Association to raise funds for restoration. The group successfully obtained state and federal grants, supplemented by private donations and volunteer labor.

The comprehensive restoration, completed in 1992 at a cost of $285,000, stabilized the structure while preserving original timbers wherever possible. Today, the bridge is closed to vehicular traffic but remains accessible to pedestrians.

VISITING INFORMATION

Closed to vehicles, open to pedestrian traffic year-round. Popular walking and photography destination with interpretive signage explaining historical significance. Parking available at nearby pull-off area. Best visited spring through fall. Frequently used as a wedding photography location. Active Amish farming area surrounds the bridge.

Photography tips: Exceptional subject with double-span composition. Early morning offers best light on east-facing portal. Autumn foliage reflects beautifully in Pequea Creek. Position downstream for full double-span view. Spring wildflowers frame approaches. Wait for Amish buggies on adjacent road for cultural context.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market (2 miles) Amish Farm and House (3 miles) Kitchen Kettle Village (4 miles) Strasburg Rail Road (6 miles) National Toy Train Museum (6 miles) Sight & Sound Theatre (2 miles)

The surrounding area retains much of its 19th-century character, with Amish farms visible from the bridge and the sound of horse-drawn buggies clip-clopping along nearby roads.