This year, the NSPCB is raising funds for repairs to the Edgell Covered
Bridge in Lyme, New Hampshire.
The bridge was built in 1885 by Walter Piper (1861-1913) and his father,
John C. Piper (1830–1904), at a cost of $1,842.77. The Piper’s owned a mill
in Lyme where the timbers for the span were cut. The bridge was assembled on
the town common and moved by oxen to its present location over Clay Brook.
It is named after Civil War Veteran Major Frederick M. Edgell (1828-1877)
who lived near the bridge. In 1936, it washed off its northern abutment. It
was moved back and tied down with cables.
Time, traffic and the elements have taken their toll on this historic
landmark. At this time, the bridge is in need of significant repairs to
ensure it can continue to stand for generations to come. Like most of the
state's covered bridges, it is owned by the town which is responsible for
its maintenance. The work that is needed has been estimated at $690,000, a
substantial amount for a small rural town. The town of Lyme will raise some
of the funds through tax revenue and grants. The National Society for the
Preservation of Covered Bridges has launched a fundraising campaign to help
with that effort.
Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Your donation
will go directly towards funding the repair and restoration work needed to
protect the Edgell Covered Bridge for the future. You can donate using the
QR Code with your mobile device, clicking the "Donate" button or by mailing
a check.
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National Society for the