Camp Nelson Bridge

The Camp Nelson Bridge formerly carried US 27 over the Kentucky River in Camp Nelson, Kentucky.

The Camp Nelson Bridge formerly carried US 27 over the Kentucky River in Camp Nelson, Kentucky.

The first crossing across the river at Camp Nelson was designed by Lewis V. Wernwag in 1838. ¹ Regarded as one of the longest of its type in the world, the 240-foot covered bridge became a major artery between the Union and the Confederates during the Civil War, with Camp Nelson playing a crucial role in defending the Union during the conflict.

Replica of the north portal.

Replica of the north portal.

North abutment.

South abutment.

After a truck had broken through the covered bridge’s deck, it was condemned and replaced by a Parker through truss bridge in 1926. The covered bridge was demolished in 1933.

A new four-lane bridge bypassed the truss altogether on a new four-lane alignment in 1971.

Information

• State: Kentucky
• Route: Formerly US Route 27
• Type: Parker Through Truss
• Status: Abandoned / Closed
• Total Length: 574 feet
• Main Span Length: 276 feet
• Deck Width: 19.7 feet

Sources

1. “Camp Nelson Covered Bridge (#1513).” KYHistorical Society . Kentucky Historical Society. 14 Sept. 2006 Article.