Cedar Covered Bridge: A Piece of Iowa History

The Cedar Covered Bridge, originally constructed in 1883 by Harvey P. Jones, is a beloved landmark in Madison County, Iowa. This bridge, also known as the Casper or Storrs Bridge, is a fine example of a Town lattice truss with a queenpost overlay. The bridge has a rich history, having been moved from its original location over the North River to its current site over Cedar Creek in 1920.The Cedar Covered Bridge gained further recognition after being featured in the novel and movie, 'The Bridges of Madison County'. Its image graces the cover of the novel, and Oprah Winfrey even filmed an episode of her show at the bridge in 1993.Unfortunately, the bridge has twice fallen victim to arson, once in 2002 and again in 2017. However, each time, the community rallied to rebuild it, ensuring that this piece of history would endure. The current replica was completed in 2019 and stands as a testament to the community's determination to preserve its heritage.Today, the Cedar Covered Bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in Madison County that you can still drive through. It is the centerpiece of Cedar Bridge Park, a 27-acre area with gazebos, picnic shelters, and gardens. It's a popular spot for weddings, picnics, and leisurely drives.