About Hildreth Covered Bridge
Hildreth Covered Bridge, also known as Hills Covered Bridge or Lafaber's Mill Bridge, is a historic Howe truss bridge located in Newport Township, Washington County, Ohio. The bridge spans the Little Muskingum River about 5 miles east of Marietta on Hills Bridge Road. It is renowned as one of the highest covered bridges in the region, standing impressively above the stream below.
History of Hildreth Covered Bridge
Construction of Hildreth Bridge was a long process: the most significant work was done in 1878 by August Borneman of the Hocking Valley Bridge Works, but the entire construction occurred between 1871 and 1881. The bridge cost $13 per linear foot to build. The identity of its original designer is unknown. It is one of three covered bridges that span the Little Muskingum River in Washington County. In 1978, the Hildreth Bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge was bypassed by traffic in 1990.
Architecture and Design
The Hildreth Bridge is a single-span wooden Howe truss bridge, an improvement over the Long truss system in that iron rods were used for tension members instead of wooden truss verticals. The bridge rests on abutments and piers of ashlar (finely dressed stone). It features a metal roof, vertical siding, and portals with battens. Due to its great height above the stream, the bridge has long been considered one of the most impressive covered bridges in the region.
Visiting Hildreth Covered Bridge
Hildreth Covered Bridge is located on County Road 333 (Hills Bridge Road) in Newport Township, just off State Route 26. From Marietta, follow State Route 26 northeast for about 6.2 miles, then turn right on Hills Bridge Road. The bridge is immediately visible, less than a mile down the road. Parking is limited near the bridge, so visitors should use caution when stopping. The bridge is part of the Wayne National Forest Covered Bridge Scenic Byway.