Perrine’s Bridge

Perrine’s Bridge. . Most of Ulster County's covered bridges are long gone. However, in Esopus, Perrine's Bridge continues to span the Wallkill more than a century and a half after its construction. Joining Esopus to the Town of Rosendale, Perrine's is thought to be the second-oldest covered bridge in New York State and the only one of the Burr Arch Truss design remaining in the state. The unique design, on which the entire weight of the bridge is supported by dual arches braced on abutments on both sides of the river, had at the time of its construction an estimated lifespan of less than two decades., The bridge, built around 1844 by Rosencrans Wood, spans 138 feet, 3 inches, with the base constructed of Rosendale cement and local bluestone. It was so named for James W. Perrine, who once owned a tavern and a hotel that stood directly opposite the eastern end of the bridge., Perrine's Bridge was commissioned for the purpose of providing passage to and from Esopus and the lands of the Hurley Patent. It was used extensively by mill workers traveling from Tillson and beyond to the mills along the Wallkill in the Town of Esopus., Today, the bridge remains open to the public and marks a spot along the Wallkill that is popular for fishing and kayaking.