Thompson Mill Covered Bridge: A Step Back in Time

Nestled in the countryside near Cowden, Illinois, the Thompson Mill Covered Bridge stands as a testament to a bygone era. Constructed in 1868, this Howe truss bridge spans the Kaskaskia River, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time.Originally built for $2,500, a considerable sum at the time, the bridge played a crucial role in connecting Springfield and Effingham. It also provided access to the Thompson Mill, a local corn and sawmill that operated from 1843 to 1914. The bridge's construction involved shipping materials from Michigan to Shelbyville and then transporting them by horse-drawn wagons to the site.Today, the Thompson Mill Covered Bridge is the narrowest in Illinois, measuring only 10 feet 7 inches wide. Although closed to vehicle traffic, it is open to pedestrians, inviting them to admire its historic architecture and tranquil setting. Visitors can explore the bridge's structure, observe the Howe truss system, and appreciate the natural light filtering through the side openings.A small parking area is available near the bridge, and a pathway leads to the creek, offering picturesque views. The bridge and its surroundings provide a serene escape, ideal for photography, picnics, and quiet reflection. While some visitors have noted the presence of graffiti, the bridge remains a significant historical landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975.