About Rock Mill Covered Bridge
The Rock Mill Covered Bridge is a 37-foot Queenpost truss structure built in 1901 by Jacob 'Blue Jeans' Brandt. It sits at its original location at Stebelton Park at Rock Mill, offering picturesque views of the Hocking River gorge and falls alongside Ohio's oldest and largest gristmill.
History of Rock Mill Covered Bridge
Built in 1901, this was the last bridge built by Jacob 'Blue Jeans' Brandt, one of Fairfield County's most renowned covered bridge builders. The Rock Mill itself dates to 1824 and is Ohio's oldest and largest gristmill on the upper falls of the Hocking River. The mill is 6 stories with 2 below grade level, powered by a 26-foot overshot water wheel with a mill race cut through solid sandstone more than 30 feet long. The bridge was reportedly displayed in photos at every U.S. Embassy worldwide. GPS coordinates: N39 44.950 W82 42.801.
Architecture and Design
The bridge features Queenpost truss construction, appropriate for its compact 37-foot span. As Brandt's final bridge, it represents the culmination of his bridge-building career. The bridge remains on its original abutments with its historic character intact.
Visiting Rock Mill Covered Bridge
The bridge is located at Stebelton Park at Rock Mill, 1429 Rockmill Place NW in Lancaster (Bloom/Greenfield Townships). Visitors are cautioned to watch their step since falls of more than 40 feet onto rocks below are possible. The combination of the covered bridge, historic gristmill, falls, and gorge make this one of the most scenic covered bridge locations in Ohio.