History of the Barronvale Covered Bridge

History of the Barronvale Covered Bridge. . , This historic bridge was the tenth constructed in Somerset County. Mr. Peter Kooser petitioned the county commissioners in 1828 for the bridge to be built for patrons of his gristmill (the mill originally built by John Kooser in 1806) that once stood nearby., On Tuesday, July 14, 1829 The Somerset Herald published this notice. "The commissioners give notice that the contract for building a bridge at Koosers Mill in Milford Township (this area is now Middlecreek Township) will be sold on the 8th of August.", Cassimer Cramer obtained the contract and completed the project in 1830 at a cost of $300., In 1845 the bridge was repaired and strengthened with the installation of the heavy burr string type arches, designed and constructed by the noted bridge builder Theodore Burr. The cost to the county was $750., In 1907 the present stone supports were built. They were quarried nearby and were dressed and installed by a group of Italian craftsmen for $773.85. Some work was done to the wooden structure at this time as well., In the early 1930's the bridge was given a new cedar shingle roof (no cost recorded) that was installed by Wesley Henry and Hubert Whipkey on the downstream side and James Henry, Harry Whipkey, and Lloyd Schrock on the upstream side. That roof remained until 1986, when the present metal roof was installed to protect and preserve the bridge., The bridge is one of thirteen of its kind in Somerset County and is the longest in length of these at 162 feet. Currently, the bridge is owned and maintained by Middlecreek Township and is a popular spot for people to enjoy along the Somerset County driving tour.