Trivia Tuesday, September 16

Last week’s answer

Question: Which bridge is considered the shortest covered bridge in the U.S.?

Answer: West Liberty Covered Bridge in Ohio

The West Liberty Covered Bridge in Geneva, Ohio, is a mere 18 feet long. Its roof truss has a width of 43.3 feet.

Constructed in 2011, the bridge carries West Liberty Street across Cowles Creek. Although small, it can hold all legal road traffic. The bridge also has footpaths on both sides to protect pedestrians from vehicles.

The West Liberty Covered Bridge’s floor beams, timber decking and walkways are all supported by a single king post. Students from a nearby vocational school crafted the bridge trusses and raised the structure over the creek.

Designer John Smolen also headed the Smolen-Gulf Bridge — the longest covered bridge in the U.S., located in Ohio as well.

Sources: Ashtabula County Barn Quilt Trail, Historical Marker Database