Elizabethton Gears Up for Covered Bridge Days Festival!
If you’re in or around Elizabethton, Tennessee, get ready for an event that’s as charming as the town itself! The annual Covered Bridge Days is back, and it’s bringing a delightful mix of music, fun, and family activities that you won’t want to miss! This beloved festival is presented by the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department, and it’s set to take place in the east end of town, right by the picturesque Covered Bridge Park.
A Celebration of History and Community
Mark your calendars because this festival is all about recognizing the beauty and history of Elizabethton’s iconic Covered Bridge, which has been standing strong since 1882. This little gem isn’t just any old bridge; it holds the title of being one of the oldest pedestrian-covered bridges still in use in the entire state! Can you believe that? It crosses the lovely Doe River and connects 3rd Street to Hattie Avenue, drawing both residents and visitors to its historical significance.
Many might glance at the bridge and see just a simple structure connecting two streets. However, dive a little deeper, and you’ll discover that it’s a key piece of Elizabethton’s rich history and culture. You see, back in the 1800s, as Elizabethton was growing, there were natural barriers like Lynn Mountain on the east and the Watauga River to the north. The Doe River would often flood, and the city’s options for expansion were limited. A bridge was crucial to help the community grow—hence, the Covered Bridge was born!
Building the Bridge: A Colonial Challenge
In an interesting twist of fate, after the county court approved the construction budget of $3,000, they faced trouble finding someone to build the thing! That’s where Dr. E.E. Hunter came in. He took the plunge and accepted the contract to build the bridge, even though he jokingly referred to it as his “$5 bridge” because he managed to make a small profit during the process. With guidance from Colonel Thomas Matson, an experienced engineer from the New York City elevated railroad project, a lasting structure was erected using local materials like mountain oak and white pine. Talk about community spirit!
Celebrating Together
This year, as we celebrate the grandeur of the Covered Bridge, the Covered Bridge Days festival gallantly serves as a party for locals and visitors alike. Expect to enjoy some award-winning music, indulging in delicious food from local vendors, and engaging in activities that promise to make wonderful memories with friends and family. The festival is not just a nod to the bridge; it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and togetherness that pulls in crowds from all over the region.
The popularity of this festival translates into lots of merchandise opportunities, allowing supporters and artists to showcase their talents both during and after the event. You’ll see unique arts and crafts lined up for sale, reflecting the creativity and spirit of this vibrant town.
More Than Just a Bridge
The Covered Bridge, standing tall and proud, is more than just a historical structure; it’s a symbol of resilience for Elizabethton. It has survived numerous floods, including the catastrophic flood of 1901, which took down many other bridges in the county. With a beautiful design and a rich history, the bridge was even listed in the Historic Engineering Record, making it an essential part of Tennessee’s heritage.
Fun fact: This bridge isn’t the only historical structure around! Elizabethton’s Historic District is filled with various properties that date from the late 1700s through the 1930s, but none capture the hearts of the locals quite like the Covered Bridge.
A Weekend to Remember
So, if you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, pack your bags and head to Elizabethton for the Covered Bridge Days. Come celebrate the history, enjoy the festivities, and let’s throw a big birthday bash for this remarkable old bridge! Let’s make some memories that will last a lifetime!
