History of the Kings Covered Bridge

History of the Kings Covered Bridge. . , Historic records indicate that numerous bridges have occupied the site over the years. Signs on the bridge indicate that it could have been built as early as 1802, but conflicting records are unclear as to when exactly in the 19th century the bridge was built. What is known is King's Bridge carries the name of the farmer, John King, on whose land the structure was built. The King family took possession of the bridge in the 1930's and it was used for traffic until 1934 when a new highway and bridge was built bypassing it., The bridge was built over Laurel Hill Creek on what was known as the Clay Pike. It was a popular highway for drovers traveling with their herds and flocks from Turkeyfoot to Bedford., The bridge is supported by a burr type arch and was originally designed as a multiple "Kingpost" truss that appears to have had arches retrofitted later. One unique feature of the bridge is a rare lattice floor joist layout which can be viewed from the banks. The bridge is a single span structure measuring 127 feet in length. Between wood sidewalls the bridge's width is 12 feet 7 inches and the outside width of the board-and-batten walls is 13 feet 5 inches., The King Family privately maintained the bridge from 1934 up until 1998 at their own expense. The family's love for the bridge led them to look for ways to preserve it. As a result, a ten year restoration project was launched. At the start of the project, the bridge was reinforced to prevent further damage. If it wouldn't have been for the reinforcement, a flood and ice occurrence that took place would have washed the bridge away. All of the original materials that could be salvaged were reused in the project., Kings Bridge is thought to be the oldest bridge remaining in Somerset County., Currently the bridge and adjacent park is owned and maintained by Middlecreek Township and is a popular spot for people to enjoy along the Somerset County driving tour.