Loy's Station Covered Bridge – Rocky Ridge, Maryland - Atlas Obscura

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Loy's Station Covered Bridge

Rocky Ridge, Maryland

First built around 1848, this bridge was destroyed by arson, but original timbers are included in the replacement. 

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Named for an old rail station, this bridge was originally a single span but now features a pier at the midpoint. The bridge was constructed using a multiple kingpost design. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

This bridge has taken a beating over the years. In 1991, an arsonist attempting to file a fraudulent insurance claim against the bridge parked a truck inside of it and set it ablaze. A huge outpouring of time and energy from the local community in the form of fundraising helped to save the bridge.

After a debate ensued over whether to rebuild the bridge to its original specifications or to use reinforcements as had been done during a renovation around 1930, the latter option was chosen. The bridge was rebuilt on the parts of its frame that had survived the fire. Three years later, the bridge was re-opened. The bridge was also struck by vehicles and damaged twice in 2013 but was quickly restored both times. 

Like the Roddy Road Covered Bridge, Loy’s Station also spans Owen’s Creek. A park featuring a walking path, a large pavilion, an expansive playground, ample picnic areas, open fields, and public restrooms sits adjacent to the bridge. The pavilion and restroom facilities are designed with a theme similar to the covered bridge.

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