Bridges of Madison County - Cutler-Donahoe

The Cutler-Donahoe Bridge is named
for two families who first claimed
naming rights in 1870.
11/2/2019 dwm photo

The Cutler - Donahoe bridge was moved from its long-time home near Bevington, Iowa on the east edge of Madison County to the Winterset City Park in 1970, the year of the first Covered Bridge Festival.

It crosses a small depression where rain and snow melt flows downhill.  A one-way road passes nearby, but you have to make a complete circuit before finding a parking space.

The lack of water reduces the photographic value, but thanks to a pretty blue sky with puffy white clouds it looked good.

The advantage to the location is that it is near downtown where the action is during the annual festival.  There is a town square where the county courthouse is surrounded with businesses serve locals and tourists.

But the bridges are the show around Winterset, and this one is a strong example that is more accessible than bridges in the country.

Covered Lattice through truss.
11/2/2019 dwm photo

The park is a friendly place to hang out and explore the bridge - investigate the interior and look at all the angles - or grab a novel and rest in its shade for a few hours.

It would also make a nice stop when it is raining and you can take shelter while listening to the rain on the roof.

Cutler-Donahoe Bridge in Winterset City Park. 11/2/19  dwm

Cutler - Donahoe Covered Bridge

Built: 1870, moved 1970, rehabbed 1997
Style:  Covered Lattice through truss
Length: 79 feet

There are three more Madison County bridges - next week is the Roseman.

You can see more bridges by following the link.