The world’s longest covered bridge stands as a proud symbol of New Brunswick. This New Brunswick Day long weekend, the town of Hartland celebrates the 125th anniversary of this iconic structure. Whether you live in Saint John or travel across the province, this bridge holds a special place in local history.

According to CTV News Atlantic, the bridge connects Hartland and Somerville across the Saint John River. For many, the structure carries deep personal meaning. Shauna Bonterre traveled from Ontario with her father to attend the anniversary events. She notes the bridge is where her parents fell in love. “When they were first dating, this is the bridge they would have to cross to see each other,” Bonterre says. She adds that returning brings up a lot of nostalgia after losing her mother last year.

Big Bridge Fest Brings the Community Together

The annual Big Bridge Fest centers around the 371 metre long structure. Organizers divert vehicles away from the bridge to host dinners and services inside. The Hartland Covered Bridge Market features local artisans, food vendors, fresh produce, music, and historical displays. You will also find a town parade and a run between the covered bridge and the nearby Hugh John Flemming Bridge.

New Archways Welcome Visitors

This year, the festival introduces decorative archways. The province recently installed protective steel beams on each side of the bridge. Doris Kennedy serves on the festival organizing committee. She explains that the new beams ruined the beautiful pictures people take. Hartland based Craig Manufacturing stepped in to create the new archways to improve the view. “It shows two communities coming together to build a bridge in 1901, and that is exactly what happened,” Kennedy says.

A Century of History

The bridge opened in 1901 under the Hartland Bridge Company. Builders used cedar, spruce, and hard pine. Pedestrians and wagons paid a toll of a few cents until the province took over in 1906. In April 1920, an ice jam caused massive damage. “It took out the western spans and one pier,” Kennedy says. “And remember, it was all made of wood, the piers included. That is when the province decided to cover the bridge and make new concrete piers.” Workers finished covering the bridge by 1922 and added a pedestrian walkway in 1945. The government declared it a National Historic Site in 1980.

Preserving New Brunswick Landmarks

The province recently closed the Hartland bridge for six months to repair wooden boards and the walkway. Today, New Brunswick has 56 covered bridges still standing. This is a sharp drop from the 340 bridges that existed in the 1940s. The province maintains 51 of these structures. Recently, officials blocked vehicles from crossing the 80 year old Hardscrabble Bridge in St. Martins due to its deteriorated condition. Repairs there will take years to complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Hartland Covered Bridge?
The bridge measures 371 metres long, making it the longest covered bridge in the world.

When was the Hartland Covered Bridge built?
The bridge originally opened in 1901 and workers covered it in 1922 following damage from an ice jam.

Can you drive across the Hartland Covered Bridge?
Yes, vehicles can drive across the bridge, though organizers close it to traffic during the annual Big Bridge Fest.

How many covered bridges are left in New Brunswick?
There are currently 56 covered bridges standing in the province.