Bridges of Indiana's Counties - Vigo Co. - #88 Irishman

The Irishman bridge no longer crosses a river, but part of a
bay in Rubble Lake.  7/24/2011  dwm photo

It's the second oldest covered bridge in Indiana; the Irishman Bridge was built in 1847 in a different part of Vigo County, Indiana.

Vigo is best known for Terre Haute, the home of Indiana State University and Clabber Girl Baking Powder.

The baking powder isn't all that newsworthy, but it became the source of wealth for the family which bought and owned the Indianapolis Speedway for several decades.

The Irishman moved to Fowler Park in 1971 where it sits across a bay of the oddly named W. Keith Rubble Lake.

The Irishman looks at home in
Fowler Park.  (dwm)

The Irishman was originally the Honey Creek Bridge when it crossed that stream for more than 125 years.  Some early photos show a white bridge, so this old crossing has had a couple coats of paint and some tender loving care through the years.

For a relocated bridge, this may be the most authentic location as far as its placement and feel.  You can walk across the bridge and enjoy it from all sides.

This easily accessible bridge 10 miles south of Terre Haute is in a park, so there is plenty for the family to do while you shoot away.

Vigo County
internet image

Irishman Covered Bridge facts

Built:  1847 or 1845 (depending on the source) by C. W. Bishop

Style:  Queen Post truss - the only one left standing in Indiana

Length: 75 feet over Rubble Lake in Vigo County's Fowler Park

We are nearly finished making our way across every standing Indiana covered bridge, see the rest by following the link.