National Register Listing

Johnson Covered Bridge No. 28

SR 320, Catawissa, PA
Local significance of the structure:
Engineering; Transportation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

bridges
Pennsylvania is home to the longest stone arch bridge in the world, the Rockville Bridge, which spans the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg.
Pennsylvania random facts
Sure! Columbia County, PA has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1813. The county was named after Christopher Columbus and was originally part of Northumberland County. It became its own separate entity due to the growing population and the need for more local governance.

The county's early history was closely tied to the development of the iron industry. Numerous iron furnaces and forges were established in the area, taking advantage of the county's ample supply of timber, limestone, and iron ore. The iron industry brought prosperity to the region, attracting new settlers and creating jobs. However, by the mid-19th century, the industry began to decline due to changing market demands and the depletion of natural resources.

As the iron industry declined, other industries, such as agriculture and manufacturing, became more prominent in Columbia County. The fertile soil of the area allowed for successful farming, and the county became known for its dairy production. The rise of manufacturing saw the establishment of factories and mills, including textile mills and sawmills, which brought further economic growth to the county.

Columbia County also played a significant role in the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century. The county's location, along the Susquehanna River and near the border with slave-holding states, made it an important stop for escaped slaves on their journey to freedom. Many abolitionists in the county provided assistance and safe passage to these individuals, contributing to the fight against slavery.

In more recent history, Columbia County has evolved into a diverse community, with a mix of industrial, agricultural, and residential areas. Today, it continues to thrive with its thriving businesses, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage that showcases the county's vibrant history.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Columbia County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1813 - Columbia County is formed from parts of Northumberland County.
  • 1818 - Bloomsburg is established as the County Seat.
  • 1824 - The first courthouse is built in Bloomsburg.
  • 1841 - The Catawissa Railroad, the first chartered railroad in Pennsylvania, is completed.
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents of Columbia County serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1881 - The first telephone service is introduced in the county.
  • 1892 - The first electric streetcar begins operation in Bloomsburg.
  • 1903 - The Catawissa Creek flood causes significant damage in the county.
  • 1919 - The Bloomsburg Fair, one of the largest agricultural fairs in Pennsylvania, is first held.
  • 1937 - The Columbia County Historical Society is established.
  • 1940s-1950s - Many young men from the county serve in World War II and the Korean War.
  • 1960s-1970s - Columbia County experiences suburbanization and population growth.
  • 2011 - A record-breaking flood hits the region, causing widespread damage.