Historical Marker

First Bridge


Site of the first covered bridge here, built in 1823, thought to be the first across the Rough River. This was later replaced by another similar one after the decay of the first. Earlier crossings were by ford or ferry. An iron bridge was constructed here, 1875; removed 23 years later to Barnett's Creek. The present bridge was opened to traffic in 1934.

The famous horse race, the Kentucky Derby, has been held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville since 1875.