Horton Mill Covered Bridge
5 mi. (8 km) N of Oneonta on Rte. 3, Oneonta, ALThe Horton Mill Covered Bridge is the highest above water in the United States. It is one of only sixteen remaining in Alabama out of 46 which were standing in 1958. In the 1930s, when the bridge was built, there were several hundred of these vanishing rustic structures in Alabama.
The present covered bridge is a replacement of the one 3/4 mile downstream built in 1895 by T. M. Horton to make his mill complex more accessible. Horton had built two dams to provide water power for com and flour mills, a cotton gin, and a sawmill. He also had a blacksmith shop, a general merchandise store, and a woodworking shop. This mill complex covered about five acres of the Horton farm.
Covered bridges were first built in the late eighteenth century in the northeastern United States. The bridges were covered chiefly to protect the wooden flooring so they would have to be replaced less often. The covering also prevented easily frightened horses from seeing the rushing water beneath them and provided a haven for weary travelers.
In addition to filling a vital role in transportation, many covered bridges were toll bridges, providing additional revenue for an area.
The local covered bridge also doubled as a community social center. It was an ideal gathering place for political discussions, gossip, or a friendly game of checkers. The beams and rafters were perfect substitutes for the modern "jungle gyms" to occupy the rambunctious children while their parents visited.
The covered bridge often provided a drill floor for the local militia. Even revival meetings were held at the bridges, and the sidewalls were often plastered with local advertisements. For the romantically inclined, the bridges seemed designed for courting; they were so popular as "sparking" places that they earned the nickname "kissing bridges."
The Town type truss, used on the Horton Mill Bridge, was promoted by a New Englander, Ithiel Town, who was granted a patent on the truss. His bridges were built in a lattice style with planks forming a webbing, Only vertical forces were used on the abutments. A genuine American Invention, the Town truss made for a durable bridge that could withstand an excessive amount of weight.
Local significance of the structure:
The present covered bridge is a replacement of the one 3/4 mile downstream built in 1895 by T. M. Horton to make his mill complex more accessible. Horton had built two dams to provide water power for com and flour mills, a cotton gin, and a sawmill. He also had a blacksmith shop, a general merchandise store, and a woodworking shop. This mill complex covered about five acres of the Horton farm.
Covered bridges were first built in the late eighteenth century in the northeastern United States. The bridges were covered chiefly to protect the wooden flooring so they would have to be replaced less often. The covering also prevented easily frightened horses from seeing the rushing water beneath them and provided a haven for weary travelers.
In addition to filling a vital role in transportation, many covered bridges were toll bridges, providing additional revenue for an area.
The local covered bridge also doubled as a community social center. It was an ideal gathering place for political discussions, gossip, or a friendly game of checkers. The beams and rafters were perfect substitutes for the modern "jungle gyms" to occupy the rambunctious children while their parents visited.
The covered bridge often provided a drill floor for the local militia. Even revival meetings were held at the bridges, and the sidewalls were often plastered with local advertisements. For the romantically inclined, the bridges seemed designed for courting; they were so popular as "sparking" places that they earned the nickname "kissing bridges."
The Town type truss, used on the Horton Mill Bridge, was promoted by a New Englander, Ithiel Town, who was granted a patent on the truss. His bridges were built in a lattice style with planks forming a webbing, Only vertical forces were used on the abutments. A genuine American Invention, the Town truss made for a durable bridge that could withstand an excessive amount of weight.
Engineering; Transportation; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1970.
About National Register Listings
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.
The University of Alabama was the site of one of the most dramatic moments in college football history. In 1970, legendary Alabama head coach Bear Bryant walked onto the field during a game against Southern California and ordered his team to remove their helmets as a sign of respect for the recent passing of USC's coach.
About Blount County
Blount County Timeline
Blount County, Alabama, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back to early Native American civilizations. The area was originally inhabited by the Creek Native American tribe, who relied on agriculture and hunting for sustenance.
European settlers began to arrive in Blount County in the late 18th century. It was named after Tennessee Governor Willie G. Blount and was officially established as a county in 1818. The early settlers mainly engaged in farming, cultivating crops such as corn, cotton, and oats. The construction of roads and railroads in the 19th century further facilitated the growth and development of the county.
During the Civil War, Blount County played a significant role as it was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers. Many local men joined the Confederate army, while others supported the Union cause. The county witnessed numerous skirmishes between the Union and Confederate forces, most notably the Battle of Blountsville in 1863.
In the 20th century, Blount County experienced economic growth and modernization. The introduction of electricity, improved transportation infrastructure, and the growth of industries such as mining and manufacturing helped to spur economic development in the county. Today, Blount County retains its rural character and is known for its picturesque rolling hills, outdoor recreational opportunities, and friendly community spirit.
European settlers began to arrive in Blount County in the late 18th century. It was named after Tennessee Governor Willie G. Blount and was officially established as a county in 1818. The early settlers mainly engaged in farming, cultivating crops such as corn, cotton, and oats. The construction of roads and railroads in the 19th century further facilitated the growth and development of the county.
During the Civil War, Blount County played a significant role as it was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers. Many local men joined the Confederate army, while others supported the Union cause. The county witnessed numerous skirmishes between the Union and Confederate forces, most notably the Battle of Blountsville in 1863.
In the 20th century, Blount County experienced economic growth and modernization. The introduction of electricity, improved transportation infrastructure, and the growth of industries such as mining and manufacturing helped to spur economic development in the county. Today, Blount County retains its rural character and is known for its picturesque rolling hills, outdoor recreational opportunities, and friendly community spirit.
Blount County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Blount County, Alabama.
- 1818 - Blount County is established as one of the original counties of the Alabama Territory.
- 1820s - The first settlers, mainly of Scottish and Irish descent, begin migrating to the area.
- 1830 - The county's first courthouse is built in the town of Blountsville.
- 1832 - The county's population reaches over 3,000 residents.
- 1841 - Blountsville becomes the official county seat.
- 1861-1865 - Blount County residents participate in the American Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate Army.
- 1870 - The city of Oneonta is incorporated and becomes a major commercial center in the county.
- 1907 - The Birmingham Southern Railroad is completed, connecting Blount County to the growing industrial hub of Birmingham.
- 1920s - The county experiences significant economic growth, with the establishment of several coal mines and timber industries.
- 1940s - Blount County participates in the war effort during World War II, providing soldiers and supporting industries.
- 1960s - The civil rights movement brings changes to Blount County as African Americans and other minority groups fight for equal rights.
- 1980s - The county's economy shifts towards a more diverse base, with the growth of healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors.
- 2010 - Blount County celebrates its bicentennial.