ANCIENT BRIDGE
by June Bacher
Though weather-worn, it sits there
In dignity and charm--
The ancient bridge of childhood
That led to Grandpa's farm.
It used to like the rainstorms
And never minded dust;
Somehow though that's different
From aching boards--and rust.
Do you think it remembers
Young lovers' Sunday walk?
The joy of moonlight hayrides--
The laughter and the talk?
Does it recall the wagons
With pumpkin piled sky-high
On the way to market
For sweet November's pie?
Though weather-worn, it sits there,
As if awaiting sound
Of young, impatient hoof-beats
Upon the frozen ground.
A few years ago my husband and I took a drive to Brattleboro, Vermont, something we had done many times. But on this particular day as we drove over the Creamery Covered Bridge I asked him to stop so we could take a closer look at the structure. It was a truly incredible experience and thus began my fascination with covered bridges. Between western Massachusetts, southern Vermont, and southern New Hampshire, there are 9 unique, historic bridges. We’ve put together one or two day self guided tours that include detailed driving directions and a map to each covered bridge, photographs and the history of each bridge, and other notable things to do and see in each location, including places to eat and shop. We also have to loan a copy of New England Covered Bridges: A Complete Guide by Benjamin and June Evans. Here are a few of the covered bridges in our area. Taking a leisurely drive along scenic New England roads is a great way to spend a day.
Day One: Southern NH and SouthernVermont
Sawyers Crossing Covered Bridge
West Dummerston Covered Bridge
Day Two: Central MA and Western MA
Burkeville-Conway Covered Bridge
Arthur A. Smith Covered Bridge
