The Burfordville Covered Bridge is a favorite of visitors because it is located next to the historic grain mill by the Whitewater River. Burfordville Covered Bridge When you visit the beautiful grounds of the Bollinger Mill State Historic Site near Cape Girardeau, take time to study one of Missouri's oldest remaining covered bridges. The Burfordville Covered Bridge dates to 1858, before the Civil War. It is located next to the grain mill in downtown Burfordville. It seems to transport visitors back to a simpler time when harvests of grain were taken by wagon loads across the 140-foot-long wooden bridge to be ground into flour. Built by Joseph Lansmon, the bridge isn't mentioned until newspaper accounts of the burning of the original Bollinger Mill in 1861. Fans of architecture will enjoy seeing the original Howe-truss system which was used to build the historic bridge. The unique truss style was created by architect William Howe and often used for bridge building in the day. "The benefit of Howe's design was how it held the bridge together tightly, from top to bottom, to protect it against the elements," says Brian. The Burfordville Covered Bridge was made from locally sourced yellow poplar. It began life as part of a toll road over the Whitewater River. The bridge was damaged by the flood of 1986 and closed to all traffic until 1998 when major repairs were completed. Now open for pedestrians year-round, the bridge and mill are one of the most highly sought after locations for both photographers and painters alike. Burfordville Covered Bridge is located at 113 Bollinger Mill, Burfordville; 573-243-4591. photos courtesy Missouri State Parks "I think people have a natural curiosity about covered bridges. They offer charm in a beautiful, natural setting." - Brian Stith We recommend calling ahead before traveling to make sure sites are open for foot traffic. JULY 2020 | RURALMISSOURI.COOP 11http://www.RURALMISSOURI.COOP