Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge

About Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge

Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge is the shortest of Berks County's five remaining covered bridges at 93 feet, yet it offers one of the most picturesque settings. The bridge spans Sacony Creek (also spelled Saucony) in Greenwich Township near Kutztown and remains adjacent to the historic Kutz Mill, creating an enchanting scene that transports visitors back to the 19th century.

History of Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge

Built in 1854 by contractors Bitner and Ahrens, Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge served the Kutz family farm along Sacony Creek. The stone gristmill was constructed by the Jacob Kutz family shortly before 1854 and was operated by successive generations, noted as the James Kutz Grist and Saw Mill in 1862 and Charles Kutz Grist and Saw Mill in 1876. The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. Local legend tells of Frank Leiby, a shell-shocked World War I veteran who served as handyman at the mill for over 30 years until his death in the 1940s, and whose friendly ghost is said to return to the property.

Architecture and Design

Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge utilizes the Burr arch truss design, the most common truss style found in Pennsylvania covered bridges. At 93 feet in length, it is the smallest of Berks County's covered bridges but demonstrates the same quality construction as its larger counterparts. The bridge features stone abutments and the traditional wooden construction that has allowed it to survive for over 170 years.

Visiting Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge

Kutz's Mill Covered Bridge is located in a rural area northwest of Kutztown. From US 222 at Kutztown, head north on PA 737 for about 3 miles to Kutz Mill Road. The bridge remains open to vehicular traffic. Parking is tricky as the bridge is surrounded by private property and homes, but there may be room to pull off on the southeastern side. The historic Kutz Mill is visible from the road but is on private property. Nearby attractions include Crystal Cave and the charming town of Kutztown with its famous folk festival.