About South Perkasie Covered Bridge
South Perkasie Covered Bridge, also known as Covered Bridge No. 8, is one of the oldest covered bridges in Pennsylvania. Built in 1832, this 78-foot Burr Arch truss bridge spans Tohickon Creek on the southern edge of Perkasie borough in Bucks County. At nearly 200 years old, the bridge represents the earliest generation of covered bridge construction in the region.
The bridge serves as a connection between Perkasie's developed areas and the rural farmland that still characterizes much of southern Bucks County. Its survival for almost two centuries makes it a remarkable example of early American engineering and a cherished historic landmark for the community.
History
South Perkasie Covered Bridge was constructed in 1832, the same year Andrew Jackson was re-elected president and during a period of rapid transportation infrastructure development in Pennsylvania. The bridge was built to serve the farming community that would eventually grow into the borough of Perkasie, providing a crucial crossing of Tohickon Creek for farmers transporting goods to markets.
The 1830s were formative years for covered bridge construction, as builders refined techniques and experimented with different truss designs. This bridge demonstrates the early adoption of Theodore Burr's arch-truss combination, which was proving superior to earlier bridge designs in strength and durability.
Throughout the 19th century, the bridge witnessed the transformation of the area from purely agricultural to a mix of farming and manufacturing as Perkasie developed. The bridge survived the transition to automobile traffic in the 20th century, though it required careful maintenance and periodic rehabilitation to handle modern loads. Today, it stands as one of the oldest continuously used covered bridges in Pennsylvania.
Architecture
South Perkasie Covered Bridge employs the Burr Arch truss design at a 78-foot span. As one of the earliest covered bridges built in Bucks County, it represents the construction techniques that were still being perfected in the 1830s. The bridge demonstrates the engineering principles that would be refined over the following decades but were already proving highly effective.
The exterior features traditional vertical board siding painted red, with the weathered appearance that comes from nearly two centuries of exposure to Pennsylvania's climate. The portal openings maintain their original dimensions, though the roadway has been reinforced to accommodate modern traffic. The metal roof replaced earlier wooden shingles but continues the steep pitch necessary for shedding snow and rain.
Inside, visitors can see the massive hand-hewn timbers that form the bridge's structure. The Burr arch members, curved beams running along both sides of the roadway, show the sophisticated understanding of structural forces that characterized the best bridge building of the era. The joinery, accomplished with wooden pegs and hand-forged iron hardware, reflects the craftsmanship of early 19th-century builders.
Visiting South Perkasie Covered Bridge
South Perkasie Covered Bridge is located on the southern edge of Perkasie borough in Bucks County, along Covered Bridge Road off Blooming Glen Road. The bridge is easily accessible from PA Route 313, approximately 2 miles south of downtown Perkasie.
Best Times to Visit: The bridge is accessible year-round and offers different appeals in each season. Spring brings rushing water in Tohickon Creek and blooming vegetation. Summer provides lush greenery. Autumn foliage creates spectacular colors. Winter snow can make for dramatic photography but may limit access.
Photo Tips: The bridge can be photographed from Tohickon Creek banks. The nearly 200-year-old structure makes for compelling subject matter. Early morning and late afternoon light provide the best illumination. The proximity to Perkasie means the bridge can be easily combined with other photography locations.
Nearby Attractions: Downtown Perkasie offers shopping and dining options. Menlo Park provides swimming and recreation facilities. Lake Lenape Park offers additional outdoor activities. Pearl S. Buck House, a National Historic Landmark, is a short drive away.