by

Fred Swift

Hamilton County Reporter

Hamilton County is probably the only county in America where the number of iconic covered bridges is increasing. Most areas have either a decreasing number of the wooden structures or none at all.

Locally, we will soon have three. That may not seem like many, but given the small number of these picturesque bridges still standing, it is remarkable. And, the way it happens is a tribute to local interest in acquiring the structures from other counties where they can no longer afford to be maintained.

The most recent acquisition is the Bell Ford Bridge from Jackson County built in 1868. It has been stored in a barn since it was taken out of service on the East Fork of White River near Seymour a few years ago.

County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt, who is acquainted with a commissioner in Jackson County, made the deal on behalf of Fall Creek Township and county park officials. The bridge will be moved in coming months to Geist Park on Fall Creek to become the historic centerpiece for the relatively new park.

“This bridge is the only combination post and truss bridge remaining anywhere,” Heirbrandt said Thursday. It has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The deal with Jackson County provides for a $25,000 donation to the Jackson County Round Barn Restoration Fund to enable that county to complete a move and restoration of a rare barn.

Potters Bridge just north of Noblesville was built in its present location in 1870 and is also now the focal point of Potters Bridge Park. Conner Prairie Pioneer Museum acquired another covered bridge several years ago. After repairs were made, it was placed on museum grounds over a small ravine as part of the Conner Prairie pioneer village.

(Editor’s Note:  The covered Bell Ford Bridge is coming to Geist Park, a Hamilton County facility that has been around for many years….this is not related to the new park on Geist Reservoir planned by the City of Fishers)