Shaffer's Covered Bridge

About Shaffer's Covered Bridge

Shaffer's Covered Bridge is a 68-foot Burr Arch Truss bridge built in 1877 by William Kline. The northernmost covered bridge in Somerset County, it crosses Ben's Creek near Johnstown and retains its original stone abutments.

History of Shaffer's Covered Bridge

Shaffer's Covered Bridge was constructed in 1877 by William Kline. It is sometimes known as Ben's Creek Covered Bridge after the waterway it crosses. The bridge retains its original stone abutments, though steel stringers were added beneath the deck in 1978 to strengthen it. It is normally open to traffic but has been closed periodically for needed repairs.

Architecture and Design

The bridge uses a single-span Burr Arch Truss design and is 68 feet long. It crosses Ben's Creek in a setting that, while near a busy road and residential area, remains quite beautiful. The preservation of original stone abutments adds to its historic character. The bridge represents quality 19th-century craftsmanship that has stood for nearly 150 years.

Visiting Shaffer's Covered Bridge

Shaffer's Covered Bridge is located in northern Somerset County, only about 15 minutes from downtown Johnstown. Despite being near a busy road and residential area, it maintains a charming covered bridge atmosphere. There is room to park a car on the southern end of the bridge during normal times, though this may vary during repair periods.