Built in 1882 over the Doe River, the Elizabethton Covered Bridge helped open westward growth for a town hemmed in by mountains, rivers, and flooding. County officials funded the project, and local doctor E. E. Hunter took the contract, bringing in experienced workers including engineer and architect Thomas Matson. The wooden bridge, a single covered Howe truss span, later became a lasting landmark. In 1901 it survived a disastrous flood that destroyed other major bridges in the area, strengthening its place in local memory. Now closed to motor vehicles, it remains open to pedestrians and bicycles and continues to anchor downtown civic life and annual celebrations.