Slate Bridge
No. 4
The Slate Covered Bridge, also known as the Westport Bridge, crosses the Ashuelot River in Swanzey. The original bridge was built in 1862 by David Parsons and Elijah Hills at a cost of $1,850.64. It was destroyed by arson in 1993.
A new bridge was designed by Hoyle, Tanner & Associates, Inc. and built by Wright Construction Co. in 2001 at a cost of $950,000. The 142-foot replacement bridge closely follows the design of the original. The Slate Covered Bridges is maintained by the Town of Winchester.
Slate Bridge Video
Slate Bridge Podcast Episode
The Slate Covered Bridge Committee with Francis W. Faulkner, Jr.
Kim interviews Francis Faulkner, Jr. of Swanzey, about his involvement in fundraising efforts to rebuild the Slate Bridge after it was destroyed by arson in 1993. Francis shares the many layers of funding through the process of town meeting and the community connection to covered bridges in Swanzey.
Town Truss Podcast Episode
The Town Truss with Sean James
Kim interviews engineer Sean James, Senior Vice President at Hoyle, Tanner & Associates in Manchester about the Town Truss. This lattice truss design was first patented by Ithiel Town in 1820 and has since been regarded as one of the most significant developments in the history of covered bridges. Sean will explain why that is and tell us about some of New Hampshire’s Town Truss Bridges.
Slate Bridge Photo Album
