New Concord, Ohio's Unique S-Bridge Along the National Road

A rare, original National Road "S-Bridge" lies on the western edge of New Concord, Ohio. New Concord is probably more famous for being the birthplace of original "Right Stuff" astronaut and former U.S. Senator, John Glenn. This time, the combination starman/politician wasn't our reason for stopping.

When the National Road was built in the first half of the 19th century, it was cheaper to cross rivers and creeks at right angles, so if necessary, the road would be curved, creating an "S" while crossing the water. Only a few of these special old road anomalies survive today in Eastern Ohio.

New Concord celebrates this part of its National Road history with a small roadside park at the S-Bridge site, off of US40 on the west edge of town. The bridge's original brick has been restored and one can walk across the bridge and along its side down towards Fox Creek where a good view of the bridge's underside waits.

The park grounds also contain a few historical markers. The most interesting one details how from this spot one can see 5 different transportation pathways back through time: Zane's Trace, the National Road, The B&O Railroad, US40 and Interstate 70. Another highlight is an original National Road mile-marker. Both of these markers are featured in our photos section.

The S-Bridge is only a quick little side trip; it only takes about a half-hour to check out the park. In the future, we plan on visiting New Concord's John and Annie Glenn museum and some other Eastern Ohio National Road sites. Expect to read about it right here when we do.