Bridges of Indiana's Counties - Jennings County - #27 Scipio

Scipio Covered Bridge in Jennings County
6/24/2011   dwm photo

As I've been recalling visits to the bridges of Indiana's counties, it doesn't seem that long ago.

With the Scipio, this week, it seems a long time ago in the life of the bridge.

At the time of our visit it was open to traffic.  It was closed in 2015 to restore and re-open for cars, trucks, bikes, and pedestrians.  I didn't find confirmation it re-opened.

The most recent bridge work had a $500,000 budget.  It was built in 1886, according to the North Vernon Plain Dealer & Sun for $600.

The window is cut so drivers on
the bridge can see on-coming traffic.
dwm photo

The name is out of the ordinary. Scipio is named for Scipio Africanus (236 - 183 B.C.) considered one of the best military strategists ever.

The bridge's name is for it's home in Scipio, Indiana.  I bet one of the founders loved ancient history.

Sand Creek flows under Scipio bridge.
dwm photo

Scipio and James were two of several bridges we visited in southeast Indiana.

Both are restored and open now.  It's great news and even better for those of us who appreciate living history.

Jennings County
Internet image

Until the most recent restoration, the Scipio wasn't just decorative, but important to those who called it home.

In 2012, the daily traffic count was 686, a heavy load for an old bridge which had only a few touch-ups over the years.  Thanks to the most recent work and a nearby bridge to handle heavy loads, hopefully we can enjoy Scipio for a good long time.

Scipio Covered Bridge
Built:      1886
Style:      Howe Truss
Length:  146 feet over Sand Creek

Find more Indiana Covered Bridges by clicking here.