SHEFFIELD COVERED BRIDGE

Sheffield, MA - The original bridge was built in 1854, this is the oldest covered bridge in Massachusetts. Covering a bridge offered protection against weather for humans and animals, but essentially, putting up side walls and a roof gave it added strength and protected the materials against weather and wear. Due to the bridge not being built to carry heavy traffic, it was closed in 1974. Extensive restoration was carried out in 1981 by Milton Graton of Ashland, NH, known as the dean of covered bridge builders. It is now only open to foot traffic.