Clinton Covered Bridge

The Clinton Covered Bridge connected Clinton, Indiana, with Clinton Locks across the Wabash River and reflected the canal-era transportation needs of the Wabash and Erie Canal. Built in 1852–53 in the Long Truss style, it was a large private toll bridge with three covered spans, a draw span, and a toll house where keepers lived and worked. Expensive to build and maintain, it remained a toll crossing until local economic changes led Vermillion County to buy it in 1892 under unusual terms that let its former owner keep collecting tolls until its destruction. In 1899, it was memorably demolished by electricity, an uncommon method that made its end especially notable.

Clinton, Indiana · United States