About Roberts Covered Bridge
The Roberts Covered Bridge holds the distinction of being Ohio's oldest covered bridge and the second oldest in the entire United States. Built in 1829, this remarkable 79-foot Burr Arch Truss bridge is the nation's oldest and Ohio's only remaining double-barreled (two-lane) covered bridge. The bridge spans Seven Mile Creek in Eaton and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
History of Roberts Covered Bridge
Construction began in 1829 by Orlistus Roberts, a genius craftsman skilled in cabinet making, carpentry, farming, and wine making. Roberts obtained a contract from the U.S. government to build this toll bridge for the Hamilton and Eaton Turnpike. Tragically, Roberts died on August 20, 1830, before completing his masterwork, and his 17-year-old apprentice James Campbell finished the bridge. Campbell later married Roberts' widow. The bridge served at its original location south of Eaton for nearly 160 years until arson heavily damaged it in 1986. A community restoration effort led to its relocation in 1991 to Crystal Lake Park in Eaton for better protection and accessibility.
Architecture and Design
The Roberts Bridge features a unique double-barreled design with three Burr Arch trusses supporting two 11.5-foot-wide lanes. Built of local poplar, beech, and oak timbers cut and hewn on the Roberts farm, the bridge has a clear span of 73 feet and an overall length of 91.5 feet. All bolts, nuts, and nails were hand-forged by the builders, and the stone abutments were quarried from nearby Rocky Run. The Burr Arch truss system, patented by Theodore Burr in 1817, combines arch and truss elements for superior load distribution.
Visiting Roberts Covered Bridge
Located at Crystal Lake Park on South Beech Street in downtown Eaton, the Roberts Covered Bridge is easily accessible and serves as the centerpiece of any Preble County covered bridge tour. The bridge is open to pedestrian traffic only, allowing visitors to walk through and admire the craftsmanship. The scenic setting beside Crystal Lake provides excellent photo opportunities, and nearby historical markers detail the bridge's significance. Downtown Eaton offers dining at The 1808 Cafe, Red Mule Inn, and Daylight Donuts.