This Historic Illinois Bridge Has Been Standing Since 1863

If you enjoy taking scenic drives and soaking in beautiful surroundings, you'll want to add Princeton, Illinois, to your travel list.

Why the Red Covered Bridge Is a Must-See Illinois Landmark

Princeton is home to the oldest covered bridge in Illinois that is still in use today. Since 1863, the historic Red Covered Bridge has carried travelers across Big Bureau Creek. Over the years, everything from horse-drawn wagons and mules to modern cars and trucks has crossed this remarkable structure.

Built entirely of wood, the bridge originally cost $3,148.57 to construct in 1863. Today, that same project would be estimated to cost nearly $90,000. The bridge spans 149 feet and is one of only ten covered bridges still standing in Illinois. Despite its age, it remains open to traffic and is now monitored by CCTV cameras for preservation and safety.

How the Bridge Has Survived More Than 160 Years

The Red Covered Bridge was once part of the historic Peoria-Galena Trail and continues to serve as a reminder of Illinois' rich transportation history.

According to OnlyInYourState.com, the bridge is one of the last of its kind and is worth visiting for both the picturesque views and the unique experience of driving across one of the oldest bridges in the state. In 1975, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, helping preserve this piece of Illinois history for future generations to enjoy.

The Historic Rule That Made Me Laugh

The sign posted above the bridge gave me a good laugh. It reads:

"Five dollars fine for driving more than twelve horses, mules, or cattle at one time, or for leading any beast faster than a walk on or across this bridge."

That immediately made me wonder: who was responsible for enforcing those rules back then? Was there someone stationed nearby counting horses and making sure nobody was speeding across the bridge with their livestock?

Imagine being the person whose job was to determine whether a mule was moving faster than a walk.

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Of course, the rules were likely put in place to protect the bridge from excessive weight and wear, but it's still fun to picture how things worked more than 160 years ago. It's little details like this that make visiting historic places so interesting.