About Thomas J. Malone Covered Bridge
Thomas J. Malone Covered Bridge is a 42-foot covered bridge located in the Pioneer Village section of Beaver Creek State Park near East Liverpool. Built in the 1870s, the bridge is named for Tom Malone, a covered bridge researcher and county historian who discovered the structure when it had been converted to a storage shed and recognized its historical significance.
History of Thomas J. Malone Covered Bridge
The bridge was constructed by C. Holden in 1870 and originally spanned Middle Run on State Route 154 in Elkrun Township, between Lisbon and Elkton. Around 1900, when it was replaced on the road, the bridge was moved intact to the Wade Huffman Farm alongside Elkton Road. In 1912, when Lisbon-Elkton Road was widened, Mr. Huffman transferred ownership to the Elkrun Township Trustees, who converted it to a storage building. It was eventually moved to Pine Hollow Road and rebuilt as a storage shed with a new, wider roof. County historian Tom Malone discovered the structure and recognized it as a covered bridge. In September 1970, this county relic was dismantled and moved to Beaver Creek State Park by the County Engineer's Department. Restoration was completed in 1971 by the Columbiana County Historical Society in conjunction with the Forest and Parks Council.
Architecture and Design
The bridge features an altered Multiple Kingpost truss design, measuring 42 feet in length. It has vertical, high-boarded dark brown stained siding, a shingle roof, straight portals, and rests on cut stone abutments. The deck consists of lengthwise planking. Its design was modified over its various moves and conversions, but it retains its essential covered bridge character.
Visiting Thomas J. Malone Covered Bridge
The bridge is located at 12013 Echo Dell Road in Beaver Creek State Park, adjacent to the restored Gaston's Mill (built 1830) and Lock 36 of the Sandy and Beaver Canal. The Pioneer Village setting includes a log schoolhouse and pioneer's cabin, recreating life from the 1840s canal era. From OH7 in Williamsport, take Leslie Road northeast 1.6 miles, then south on Echo Dell Road 1.0 mile to the bridge. The park offers over 2,700 acres of forested land with hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities along the Little Beaver Creek, designated a National Wild and Scenic River.