Covered Bridges: The Beauty of America

The most number of covered bridges today are found in Santa Cruz County. These have become part of the landscape; well-kept and taken cared of. Though the actual number is only three, they are considered important and significant because of their history. These bridges date as far back as the 1800s. Back then there were more than a thousand covered bridges all over the western states of the US; but now there are only a few. Rapid commercialization, changes in the surrounding, and the advancement of construction materials have diminished these bridges.

The three remaining in Santa Cruz have become known and therefore they have become hard to discard. For this, they are now protected by the law and are considered historical places that should be preserved. Counties are beginning to show their efforts and support in preserving and protecting these covered bridges so they may be enjoyed by generations of the future. More people are discovering the beauty of these bridges as more and more of these bridges are being added to the registry of historic places each year. The people involved in preserving these bridges have made sure that renovation and refurbishment projects are done using the same materials and styles during the time they were constructed. This ensures that the historical integrity of these bridges is maintained throughout the years.

Covered bridges, in the early years, were used to shelter weary travelers stuck because of bad weather. They were also used to make crossing livestock more comfortable, because its structure resembles a barn. Today, they serve a more artistic purpose.

Some covered bridges today are found in private estates and gardens. They were moved and used to create a more romantic feel and add design to these properties. The larger ones were left where they stand because there are moves to block the relocation of the more historically significant bridges. Those found in private properties and colleges actually have more chances in surviving due to the added protection and security that the owners provide. The old ones in rural areas are more susceptible to damage; where they may be destroyed through vandalism and arson. Covered bridges that are remotely located are usually hard to protect even though they are protected by the government.

Covered bridges also represent the rustic charm and beauty of small-town America. Most people think of it as romantic. One time it was even called "kissing bridges", because back then, it was a place where secret lovers meet and steal kisses from each other.

These bridges also play a role in photography. They provide inspiration to talented photographers who take the effort in locating them all over the US. Covered bridges look best when photographed in autumn, because the colored leaves and wooden bridges add to the romantic effect.

One can easily appreciate the beauty of these bridges. It is truly a special relic of America - one that should be preserved and enjoyed for many generations. Thanks to the awareness that officials, hobbyists, and historic preservationists brought, people are now aware of the beauty, significance, and history of the covered bridges. They are symbols of ingenuity and hard work of the American carpenters who took time to build them and the engineers who first thought of building them. They remind America of a time when life was simple, when life was as beautiful and as romantic as these covered bridges.