Covered bridges bring history to life

By Claudia Koerner

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Covered bridges are a time machine, carrying reminders of days when transportation meant a horse and buggy, technology meant a water-powered mill and construction materials were wood and stone. Though many feel nostalgia for the “kissing bridges,” neglect or modernization over the years has made covered bridges a rare sight in the state. Out of the estimated 250 covered bridges once standing in Georgia, only 12 remain on public land.

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Bridges older than 50 years are eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the Georgia Historical Society’s marker program or local recognition if they’re shown to be a significant part of a place’s historical fabric.

"Preservation really benefits everybody as far as learning about the past through real historical buildings,” said Gretchen Brock, National Register Coordinator in the Georgia Historical Preservation Division.

Historical status in the National Register also means a committee must approve any construction projects that would affect the bridge.

"The problem with bridges is you have to weigh the historical significance of the bridge with the safety issues that go along with it,” said Amanda Schraner, Transportation Projects Coordinator in the Georgia Historical Preservation Division.

When bridges are affected, Schraner said her group usually recommends any renovations or replacements stay true to the historical style. And preservation is always a priority for her group, she added.

"We love it when we can save these bridges.”

Picturesque settings and historical significance make covered bridges a common subject for professional and amateur photographers. Athens resident Johnny Watson, who got his start in photography 47 years ago in the Air Force’s photo school, said his goal is to shoot every covered bridge in the state.

“I just like the idea that they’re there after all these years,” said Watson, who has made it to eight of the bridges so far.