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Swann Covered Bridge: A Step Back in Time

Discover Alabama's longest historic covered bridge, a picturesque landmark offering history and natural beauty on the Locust Fork River.

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The Swann Covered Bridge, Alabama's longest historic covered bridge, gracefully spans the Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River near Cleveland. Built in 1933, this Town lattice truss bridge offers a picturesque glimpse into the past and a tranquil escape into nature.

A brief summary to Swann Covered Bridge

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the river, as the area around the bridge offers scenic spots for a relaxing meal [13].
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the trails around the bridge [10, 12].
  • Visit during the Covered Bridge Festival in October for a special celebration of the area's historic bridges [12].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cleveland, Alabama, head west on State Route 79. Turn onto Swann Bridge Road and follow it to the bridge. Parking is available on the shoulder of the road near the bridge [3, 4]. Be mindful of soft gravel [4, 13].

  • Walking

    If you are already near the Swann Covered Bridge on foot, follow Swann Bridge Road. The bridge is easily accessible for pedestrians. Be aware that the road may have vehicle traffic [2, 8].

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Discover more about Swann Covered Bridge

The Swann Covered Bridge, also known as the Joy Covered Bridge, is a testament to early 20th-century engineering and a cherished landmark in Blount County, Alabama [2, 5, 7]. Constructed in 1933 by Zelma C. Tidwell and his crew, the 324-foot-long bridge stretches across the scenic Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River [2, 6, 7]. Originally called the 'Joy Covered Bridge' for connecting Cleveland to the community of Joy, it was later named after the Swann family, who owned the surrounding land [2, 5, 7]. The bridge's Town lattice truss design, characterized by its intricate network of wooden beams, showcases the ingenuity of its builders, who used ropes and manpower to hoist the heavy timbers into place [2, 6]. The covered structure protected the wooden framework from the elements, significantly extending its lifespan [7]. In 1981, the Swann Covered Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places [2]. After being closed in 2009 due to safety concerns, it underwent extensive restoration and reopened to traffic in 2012 [2, 8]. Today, visitors can admire the bridge's architecture, stroll along the riverbank, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Locust Fork [4, 10, 12]. The area offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and hiking, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a peaceful retreat [12]. Located just west of Cleveland off State Route 79, the Swann Covered Bridge is easily accessible and provides a unique glimpse into Alabama's rich history and stunning landscapes [2, 3, 5].

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