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Clarkson Covered Bridge: A Step Back in Time

Discover Cullman County's historic Clarkson Covered Bridge, a beautifully preserved landmark offering a glimpse into Alabama's past.

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The Clarkson Covered Bridge, constructed in 1904, spans Crooked Creek in Cullman County, Alabama [2, 3]. This historic landmark, also known as Legg Bridge, is the centerpiece of Clarkson Covered Bridge Park, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved structure and scenic surroundings [2, 5, 6].

A brief summary to Clarkson Covered Bridge

Local tips

  • Visit during the annual Old-Fashioned Days for a taste of local culture and history [2, 3].
  • Explore the park's walking trails for scenic views of the bridge and surrounding countryside [5].
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's designated picnic areas [5].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cullman, take US-278 West [4, 5]. Turn onto County Road 1043 and continue for approximately 2 miles; the park entrance will be on your left [4, 5]. Parking is available at the park's entrance [5, 7]. There is no fee for parking [6, 10].

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Discover more about Clarkson Covered Bridge

Nestled within the 5-acre Clarkson Covered Bridge Park, the Clarkson Covered Bridge stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and the enduring appeal of covered bridges [5]. Built in 1904, the bridge, originally named the Legg Covered Bridge after landowner James W. Legg, provided a vital transportation link for the local community, enabling farmers and residents to cross Crooked Creek with ease [2, 3]. The total cost to build the bridge at the time was $1,500 [2]. The 270-foot bridge is a Town lattice truss construction over four spans [3, 4]. The covered design reflects practical considerations of the time, shielding the wooden structure from the elements and extending its lifespan [5]. The bridge was destroyed by a flood in 1921, but was rebuilt the following year using salvaged materials [2, 3, 6]. The bridge remained in service to motor traffic until 1962, when it was bypassed by a nearby concrete bridge [2, 3]. In 1975, the Clarkson Covered Bridge was restored by the Cullman County Commission as part of the American Bicentennial Project [2, 3, 6]. Today, the park includes walking trails, a picnic area, a Dogtrot log cabin, and a working grist mill [5, 6, 7]. The park is a popular destination for weddings, car shows, and other activities [6].

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