Roley School Covered Bridge

About Roley School Covered Bridge

The Roley School Covered Bridge is a 49-foot Multiple Kingpost span built in 1899 by J.W. Buchanan. Originally spanning the Ohio & Erie Canal just south of Baltimore, it has been relocated to the Fairfield County Fairgrounds.

History of Roley School Covered Bridge

Built in 1899 by J.W. Buchanan to span the Ohio & Erie Canal south of Baltimore, the bridge was moved in 1914 by Buchanan himself to Roley Road spanning Paw Paw Creek. In 1972, it was moved to the fairgrounds. The bridge may be moved again to the site of the old grandstand, but remains at the fairgrounds. The fairgrounds is also home to an 80-round cattle barn built in 1906 by J.E. Hedges.

Architecture and Design

The bridge features Multiple Kingpost truss construction typical of J.W. Buchanan's work. At 49 feet, it's a modest span appropriate for the canal and creek crossings it originally served.

Visiting Roley School Covered Bridge

The bridge is located at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds at the foot of Mount Pleasant in Lancaster. The fairgrounds hosts the annual Fairfield County Fair and various events throughout the year. The bridge can be visited during fair events or when the grounds are open to the public.