Bridge Over Troubled Waters Tuesday – Week Sixteen! Larwood bridge is similar to many of the others I’ve seen lately – it was constructed in the late thirties and is still in use today as a means to cross a river – in fact, it crosses the same creek, Crabtree Creek that Hoffman Bridge crosses. Like Hannah Bridge I also had an odd experience but overall was very glad for the opportunity to visit all of these fantastic covered bridges.
Where is Larwood Bridge?
Larwood Bridge is another of the several bridges I visited while I was journeying near Scio and Silverton. There are maybe six or seven of them just near each other and I’ll be writing a story on a suggested route, but that is a couple of weeks away. For now, let’s explore the Larwood Bridge.
Arriving at Larwood Bridge
As soon as I arrived at Larwood I noticed a difference from at least one of the other bridges I’ve visited lately. Unlike Hoffman Bridge, this one has arched entrances. The area above the supports is curved unlike Hoffman Bridge which was sharply angled. I’m not sure which one I like better, but the curve does make for an elegant entrance.
Walking through Larwood Bridge
I parked the Bronco and walked inside Larwood. It’s a beautiful bridge that has no traditional walls, but seriously sturdy supports. I really enjoy both the similarities and differences these bridges have – the small details that make each one unique. Larwood, like the Stayton-Jordan Bridge doesn’t have any walls but only has massive supports holding the roof up. The roof itself is similar to the Hoffman bridge in that the inside of the roof is unpainted while the cross members are white – which makes for a beautiful contrast I really enjoy.
Outside Larwood Bridge
Crabtree Creek is the reason Larwood bridge exists and in this section, unlike Hoffman Bridge, it’s very clear. There are several spots that look like they might be suitable for relaxing on the shore and I found myself a little sad I hadn’t thought of bringing a chair.
One the north side of the western bank just a little way off the shore is a small wooden structure – it looked far too small for a person to fit into except maybe crawling and was partially concealed by overgrown weeds and brambles. I have no idea what it’s purpose or function is but it was very interesting and strange.
Interesting Experience
It often happens – while I was visiting Larwood Bridge there was awn odd experience. As soon as I parked the bronco another car pulled up behind mine and just sat there – the driver just sitting in a running car. When I got out and started walking around taking pictures and making notes the driver in the other car got out as well. Every place I stopped to take a picture that person stopped and seemed like they were trying to see what I was taking a picture of. I got out of there pretty quickly – that other driver was rather unnerving, but it didn’t ruin the visit to Larwood, just another interesting experience.
Summary and Rating
I’ve really enjoyed visiting these bridges – there are several near each other and its a joy to see all of the differences and similarities. Larwood has some interesting qualities – lack of walls and lovely contrasting colored ceiling structure. It crosses the same body of water that Hoffman Bridge does – Crabtree Creek. There was also an odd experience while I was there, not too bad, just odd. Hopefully if you get an opportunity to visit – which I highly recommend everything will be normal. I’ll award Larwood Bridge four and a half Heywillamettes for all of it’s qualities.
Hey Willamette Valley 