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Mary's River Covered Bridge: A Step Back in Time

Discover Southern Illinois' only surviving covered bridge, a historic landmark offering a glimpse into 19th-century transportation and craftsmanship.

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The Mary's River Covered Bridge, built in 1854 near Chester, Illinois, is a Burr Arch truss bridge that once served as part of a plank toll road. Today, it stands as the only surviving covered bridge in Southern Illinois, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's transportation history.

A brief summary to Mary's River Covered Bridge

  • Little Marys River Covered Bridge, Chester, Illinois, 62233, US

Local tips

  • Take your time exploring the bridge and reading the historical markers to fully appreciate its significance.
  • Enjoy a picnic in the park surrounding the bridge for a relaxing afternoon.
  • Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the bridge and the surrounding scenery.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Mary's River Covered Bridge is located approximately 4 miles northeast of Chester, Illinois. From Chester, take Illinois Route 150 north. The bridge is easily visible from the road and is located in a roadside park on the southeast side of the highway. There is no fee to visit the bridge or park, and parking is readily available.

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Discover more about Mary's River Covered Bridge

Nestled in a roadside park along Illinois Route 150, just northeast of Chester, the Mary's River Covered Bridge is a tangible link to the past. Constructed in 1854, this 86-foot-long Burr Arch bridge was a vital part of a plank road connecting Chester and Bremen. The toll road facilitated the transport of agricultural goods to Chester, a bustling Mississippi River port. Built with hand-hewn native white oak, the bridge showcases the craftsmanship of the 19th century. While the floor, floor joists, roof, and siding have been replaced over time, much of the original timber remains intact. The bridge's Burr Arch design, featuring double arches on either side of the King posts, provides both strength and aesthetic appeal. In its early days, the bridge was owned by Mr. Hartmann, who financed the plank road and charged tolls to travelers. The bridge and road were sold to Randolph County in the 1870s and served traffic until 1930. In 1936, the State of Illinois acquired the bridge, preserving it as a historic site and picnic area. Today, visitors can explore the bridge on foot and learn about its history through informative signs.

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