Kramer Covered Bridge

About Kramer Covered Bridge

Kramer Covered Bridge, originally built in 1881 and reconstructed in 2007, is a charming Queen Truss span located on Turkey Path Road in Orangeville. This bridge has gained special recognition in recent years, winning first place in the 2019 Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau Covered Bridge Photo Contest - remarkably, photos of Kramer Bridge also won second and fourth place that same year, testament to its photogenic qualities. The bridge's location on the aptly-named Turkey Path Road creates wonderful opportunities for capturing this historic structure in beautiful rural settings. The 2007 reconstruction preserved the bridge's historic character while ensuring its structural integrity for continued use.

History

Originally constructed in 1881, Kramer Covered Bridge served the Orangeville area for over 125 years before requiring major reconstruction. The bridge was named after a local family prominent in the area during the late 19th century. By the early 2000s, the aging bridge needed comprehensive work to ensure its survival. In 2007, the bridge underwent complete reconstruction that preserved its original Queen Truss design and historic appearance while incorporating modern engineering to ensure longevity. The reconstruction demonstrated Columbia County's commitment to preserving its covered bridge heritage even when extensive work is required. The rebuilt bridge maintains the character of the 1881 original while serving modern traffic needs. The bridge's popularity has grown significantly in recent years, particularly after dominating the 2019 covered bridge photo contest with three top-four placements.

Architecture

Kramer Bridge employs a Queen Truss design, a simpler structural system than the Burr Arch but effective for moderate spans. The Queen Truss uses vertical support posts combined with diagonal bracing to create a sturdy framework. The 2007 reconstruction faithfully replicated the original 1881 Queen Truss design, maintaining historical authenticity. The bridge features traditional red weatherboard siding with white-trimmed portals typical of Pennsylvania covered bridges. The reconstruction used modern materials where necessary for structural integrity while preserving the bridge's visual historic character. The interior reveals the clean lines of the Queen Truss system, demonstrating this effective structural approach. The bridge's reconstruction shows how historic covered bridges can be authentically rebuilt when original designs are carefully documented and followed.

Visiting

Kramer Covered Bridge is located on Turkey Path Road in Orangeville, less than 10 miles from the Inn at Turkey Hill via PA-487 N and Rohrsburg Road. The bridge continues to carry vehicle traffic in a beautiful rural setting that has made it exceptionally popular with photographers. The area features working farms, rolling hills, and scenic countryside typical of northeastern Pennsylvania. The bridge has become one of Columbia County's most photographed covered bridges, particularly after its dominant showing in the 2019 photo contest. Photography opportunities are exceptional year-round, with the bridge particularly beautiful during autumn foliage season when surrounding trees create vibrant color displays. The rural Turkey Path Road setting provides excellent views and compositions. The bridge is located along the northern driving tour route suggested in the Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau's covered bridge brochure. It can be combined with visits to nearby Patterson Bridge, Twin Bridges, and other covered bridges in the Orangeville area. Best visited April through November, with October being particularly spectacular for fall foliage photography.