Kreidersville Covered Bridge

About Kreidersville Covered Bridge

Kreidersville Covered Bridge is the oldest covered bridge in the Lehigh Valley and the last remaining covered bridge in Northampton County. Built in 1839, this 116-foot Burr arch truss bridge spans Hokendauqua Creek and holds special historical significance as the catalyst for Pennsylvania's covered bridge preservation movement. The bridge is now a pedestrian-only crossing set within a beautiful park maintained by Allen Township.

History of Kreidersville Covered Bridge

Constructed in 1839, Kreidersville Covered Bridge has also been known as Hummel's Bridge and Solt's Bridge, names of families who lived near the bridge over the years. In 1959, inspired citizens of Northampton County learned that the State Highway Department planned to demolish the bridge and replace it with a modern concrete structure. Their campaign to save the bridge resulted in one of the first public preservation efforts for a covered bridge in Pennsylvania. This grassroots movement led to the formation of The Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society of Pennsylvania in 1959, named for the arch truss design used in the bridge's construction. After the state restored the bridge in 1960, ownership transferred to Northampton County, and later to Allen Township in 1997. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Architecture and Design

Kreidersville Covered Bridge utilizes the Burr arch truss design patented by Theodore Burr, featuring a single span of 116 feet across Hokendauqua Creek. The bridge has stone abutments and features a distinctive red exterior with a wooden interior. Unlike many covered bridges with side openings for light, Kreidersville is notable for having no side openings, making the interior darker and more enclosed. The bridge has been well maintained and is immaculately preserved.

Visiting Kreidersville Covered Bridge

Kreidersville Covered Bridge is located in Allen Township, about 10 miles north of Allentown near the small community of Kreidersville. The bridge is open to pedestrians only and serves as the entrance to Covered Bridge Park, a beautiful area with benches, a gazebo built by local Boy Scouts, and access to Hokendauqua Creek for fishing. The peaceful setting makes it an ideal spot for family photos and enjoying the scenery. This is the final stop on the official Lehigh Valley Covered Bridge Tour, which includes all seven bridges in Lehigh and Northampton Counties.