This bridge is also known as the Jackson Covered Bridge. The nickname “Honeymoon Bridge” comes from the tradition of lovers kissing under it for good luck according to an article in Wikipedia.
The residents of Jackson began debate in 1873 on whether to build a new bridge (as opposed to repairing existing ones) and if so where to locate it. A local dairy farmer and Civil War veteran Charles Austin Broughton and his son Frank were contracted to do the work. This was back in the day when people with carpentry skills built bridges vs. hiring engineering firms.
Mr. Broughton was a many of many skills though. He had been a sergeant in the 18th Regiment of the New Hampshire Volunteers, Company E during the Civil War. In addition to being a dairy farmer, has was reportedly “a finish carpenter, an avid fiddler, and a skillful bear hunter”. For a time, he was also an agent for the Swift River Lumber Company.
According to Wikipedia, in 1899 the town of Jackson paid the Goodrich Falls Electric Company to illuminate the bridge.
Thank you for providing the background information on the Honeymood Bridge, particularly the skills of Charles Broughton. So interesting!
Thank you Liz. He was a man of many talents. I’m most intrigued by the bear hunting.
You’re welcome, Chris. I was intrigued by the bear hunting as well.
What a great story. Loved the post and great shots as usual!
Thank you so much
How romantic. I mean, who hasn’t carved their initials in a covered bridge? 😜🍂💕
Wow. This bridge has really stood the test of time. It’s a beauty.
It has. Thank you, Lois.
Thank goodness for Mr Broughton! Great post and photos!
Thank you Askley. I hope you’re having a gfood day.
Such a charming story and wonderful pictures!
Thank you. I’m glad that you enjoyed it.
As things seemed simple, the locals get together and decide, they find a skilful guy, and you have a covered bridge still in place 150 years later!
It was a simpler time. I kind of miss it.
Love the patina of the wood on the outside, Mr. Bridge Whisperer 🙂
Thank you Teri. I’ll be heading up north of the White Mountains this weekend to get two more.
so fascinating! I love the photos as well!
Thank you so much.
Interesting history of the Honeymoon Bride, Did you see many carving on the wood in addition to the one you showed. I hope it’s still a romantic tradition.
I see a lot of carving and writing inside of these bridges. This was some really well done carving. It is romantic. Thank you for stopping by.
You’re welcome, Chris!
A fiddler who enjoys bear hunting. You don’t find that on many bios these days. I love the details you include. Beautiful pictures Chris! What a great addition to your collection. Looking forward to the next one.
Thank you, Sandra. No, fiddling and bear hunting are not your typical on FB or LinkedIn profiles. But it would be a hoot to put that down, wouldn’t it. The next bridge is a beauty. Have a great evening.
You never fail to bless our reader section with amazing photos and detailed information. Have a great day, Chris.
Thank you, Arati. All of the bridges have a story to tell.
Fascinating background story! And now I really would want to know if Barb and Len did kiss there? 😉
We can only guess.