One of 29 covered bridges in New York State, and one of five covered bridges in Ulster County, the Ashokan Bridge (also known as the Turnwood and Olive Bridge) is a wooden covered bridge now located over Esopus Creek on the grounds of the Ashokan Center.
Built in 1885, this is a single span, gable roofed, covered timber bridge. It measures 72 feet, 6 inches long and 16 feet, 4 inches wide. The bridge originally stood over the Beaver Kill in Turnwood, NY. After many years in the heart of town, the bridge, which was originally made to support horses and not automobiles, was deemed unsafe and eventually began erode.
The county put it up for auction and the bidding took place on the steps of the County Court House in Kingston. In 1939, Mr. Lester Moehring, the comptroller of the Chrysler Corporation, bid and won the structure for $1. The bridge was disassembled, moved to its present location at Ashokan, where it was reassembled over the Esopus Creek. At its new location, it was known as Olive Bridge.
The bridge continues to be restored and supported to ensure its enjoyment for generations to come.
You can visit the bridge with a Day Pass, at a special event, or while attending a Music & Dance Camp.
