Lawrence L. Knoebel Covered Bridge

About Lawrence L. Knoebel Covered Bridge

Lawrence L. Knoebel Covered Bridge is a historic King Post span located within Knoebels Amusement Park, Pennsylvania's largest free admission amusement park. Originally constructed in 1881 over West Creek near Benton in Columbia County, the bridge was purchased by H.H. Knoebel and Sons for just $40 in 1936 and relocated to the amusement park. The bridge now spans the South Branch of Roaring Creek, connecting Cleveland Township in Columbia County with Ralpho Township in Northumberland County. The bridge serves as both a functional park crossing and a beloved historic feature that enhances the park's nostalgic charm and connection to Pennsylvania heritage.

History

Originally built in 1881 by J.J. McHenry at a cost of $348, the bridge served West Creek near Benton for over 50 years before being sold to the Knoebel family in 1936. The Knoebels, who were developing their amusement park, recognized the bridge's value both as functional infrastructure and as an attraction that would enhance the park's rustic Pennsylvania character. The bridge was carefully moved to its current location spanning Roaring Creek within the park grounds. This relocation preserved the bridge while giving it new purpose in the growing amusement park. The bridge has served park visitors for nearly 90 years in its new location, becoming an iconic feature of Knoebels. The park's commitment to preserving Pennsylvania heritage includes maintaining this authentic 19th-century covered bridge alongside the newer Knoebels Grove Bridge built in 1975.

Architecture

The bridge employs a King Post truss design, one of the simplest covered bridge structural systems. The King Post uses a central vertical post with diagonal braces, creating an effective framework for shorter spans. This straightforward design was economical to construct and maintain, making it popular for smaller creek crossings. The bridge features traditional weatherboard siding, though its appearance has been adapted somewhat for the amusement park setting. The 1881 construction demonstrates traditional bridge building methods including hand-hewn timbers and wooden peg joinery. The bridge's relocation in 1936 required careful disassembly and reconstruction, preserving the original structural members and design. The King Post truss is clearly visible in the interior, providing an excellent example of this historic structural system for the thousands of park visitors who cross it annually.

Visiting

Lawrence L. Knoebel Covered Bridge is located within Knoebels Amusement Park in Elysburg, one of Pennsylvania's most popular family destinations. The park, famous for being the largest free admission amusement park in America, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The bridge is easily accessible to park visitors and provides a charming crossing between the campground and main park areas. The park setting provides excellent access and photo opportunities, with the bridge serving as a nostalgic reminder of Pennsylvania's heritage amid modern amusement park attractions. Visitors can cross the bridge while exploring the park, and the authentic 1881 structure adds to Knoebels' unique character combining old-fashioned charm with modern entertainment. The bridge can be viewed alongside the newer Knoebels Grove Bridge also within the park. The annual Covered Bridge Festival held at Knoebels in October celebrates the area's covered bridge heritage with crafts, food, and entertainment. Best visited April through October during park operating season, with the October festival offering special celebrations.