Covered Bridges

While the Covered Bridge Festival is perhaps the most talked about aspect of Parke County, there are also some fascinating elements of early Indiana History in Mansfield. The historic Roller Mill and the old-fashioned Covered Bridge, both situated along the edge of Big Raccoon Creek, bring back memories of a simpler time and place. The shops in downtown Mansfield, along Main Street, are open on weekends April through October.

Parke County, Indiana is often lauded as the "Covered Bridge Capital." It's no wonder, since they have more covered bridges than any other county in Indiana. In fact, thirty-two of Indiana's ninety-two covered bridges can be found in Parke County. The village of Mansfield is proud to be home to one of the many covered bridges spanning Big Raccoon Creek. The bridge, which was built in 1867, is still in use today. It is the longest covered bridge in Parke County, spanning 247 feet.

The bridge is Burr Arch Construction and was built by Joseph J. Daniels using native sandstone in the structure. The sandstone abutments are constructed of Mansfield sandstone thought to have been quarried nearby. It is thought that sandstone was chosen for one of its most outstanding features, its durability.

The bridge is covered to protect the interior of the bridge from the elements. Nothing will throw your mind back to the simple days gone by more quickly than riding or strolling across one of the many covered bridges of Parke County.