Bridges of Indiana's Counties - Jackson Co. - #25 Medora

Medora Covered Bridge - the USA's longest
6/30/2011             dwm photo

Most covered bridges are relatively short. All but a handful of Indiana's covered bridges measure less than 200 feet.

Jackson County, Indiana is home to the longest in the state and what is considered the longest historic covered bridge in the country. Three spans across the river is impressive.

A modern bridge, opened in 1973, runs parallel to the Medora Covered Bridge.  It is a good place to check out the old bridge.

The bridge went out of service when the new one opened and is restricted to pedestrians.  On my visit in 2011, you could only reach the bridge by walking through chest high grass and weeds, so I didn't try it.

Based on its appearance, I wouldn't count on it to support my weight.

South end of bridge. 6/30/2011 dwm

The old bridge is unusual.  Many of these old bridges built in the 19th Century went up quick and were fairly inexpensive.

The Medora bridge took 9 months to build and cost more than $18,000.

It was originally going to be torn down when its replacement was finished, but a pardon from Governor Whitcomb saved it.

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007, it still stands; a triumph of technology.  Before the bridge was finished in 1875, locals depended on a ferry to get across the East Fork of the White River.

Jackson County
internet image

142 years later, a first look at the bridge inspires awe.

Medora Covered Bridge
Built:  1875
Style:  Burr Arch by J.J. Daniels
Length: 434 feet over the East Fork of the White River