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Preserving History: New Hampshire's Covered Bridges with Kim Varney Chandler
Manage episode 486475303 series 3486567
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Join Dan Egan on the 603podcast as he interviews author and historian Kim Varney Chandler, who takes us through the history of New Hampshire's covered bridges, and her new book covering all the details of the state's beloved architecture.
Chandler reveals the practical reason these bridges were covered and explains why communities have invested so heavily in preserving these structures, with some restoration projects exceeding $1.6 million.
Did you know the state once had over 400 covered bridges, with 58 authentic structures remaining today? Perhaps most remarkable is that of the seven historic covered railroad bridges left worldwide, five stand in the Granite State. Learn how Clark's Trading Post acquired and meticulously reconstructed the world's only remaining active covered railroad bridge.
We explore the threats these bridges face, from arson (the leading cause of bridge loss) to oversized vehicles, and the recent legislation increasing fines from $62 to at least $1,000 for damaging the historic treasures. This episode also touches on the unexpected connections to American history, including Underground Railroad activity around the Durgan Bridge in Sandwich.
Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates New Hampshire's unique landscape, Chandler's stories will forever change how you see these iconic structures. Discover why these bridges matter, who built them, and why communities fight so passionately to preserve them for future generations.
Find Kim's book and more about her speaking events and covered bridges in New Hampshire at https://coveredbridgesnh.com/
For more information about the 603podcast visit 603podcast.com
Chapters
1. Introduction to Season Two (00:00:00)
2. Kim's Journey Into Covered Bridges (00:01:00)
3. Why Bridges Are Covered (00:04:18)
4. NH's Bridge History and Preservation (00:06:37)
5. Saving Historic Bridges (00:12:08)
6. Railroad Bridges and Notable Structures (00:19:17)
7. The Cultural Significance of Bridges (00:27:37)
8. Future of Covered Bridges (00:32:58)
17 episodes
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