Save Our Old Stone Fort Bridge: Preserving History and Community Charm

A dedicated group of community members is rallying to protect a cherished piece of their local heritage—the historic 1906 truss bridge at Old Stone Fort. These passionate individuals have formed a group, “Save Our Old Stone Fort Bridge,” on Facebook to raise awareness and garner support for preserving the bridge as a pedestrian pathway. They highlight the bridge’s importance not just as a piece of history, but as a significant contributor to tourism, accessibility, and the area’s charm.

Located within Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park in Manchester, the bridge has woven itself into the fabric of the community. It serves as a picturesque setting for various life milestones, including proms, graduations, and even wedding proposals and photoshoots. The emotional and historical value it holds for locals and visitors alike underscores the community’s call to explore alternatives to replacing it with a concrete structure—a plan currently proposed by the state at a cost of $5 million.

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, the bridge’s home, is a site of significant archaeological and historical interest. The park is centered around The Old Stone Fort, a prehistoric enclosure constructed over 2,000 years ago, believed to have been a ceremonial gathering place for Native Americans. A main hiking trail along the fort’s walls offers visitors a journey through time, complemented by scenic waterfalls and twelve interpretive panels that shed light on the history of this ancient site.

The community’s effort to save the Old Stone Fort Bridge is a testament to their commitment to preserving their local heritage and history for future generations. By rallying together, they hope to ensure that the bridge remains a part of the landscape, continuing to offer its historical, aesthetic, and cultural value to all who visit.