Slowly dwindling from the effects of flood and fire, covered bridges continue fading from the landscape. Replaced by modern steel bridges, nostalgic bridge fans in New Hampshire began encouraging state-wide preservation efforts beginning in the 1950s. During the 19th century there were over 400 covered bridges in New Hampshire, and today the remaining 40 historic structures are protection by a 1963 state law.
   One of the longest covered bridges in the United States, the Cornish Windsor Bridge connects the states of New Hampshire and Vermont. One of four bridges built on this site, the current covered bridge is over 150 years old. Repaired and reconstructed over the years, the historic New England bridge measures nearly 450 feet long and is made up of two spans. Following a Town lattice-truss design, initial construction efforts in 1866 were lead by Fletcher and Tasker, earning nine thousand dollars for their efforts. Initially operating as a toll bridge, with charges as much as 20 cents (4 dollars in today's prices), the state purchased the wooden structure in 1936 and later dropped the tolls. Rated for loads up to 10 tons, the bridge still carries traffic today.
   While much of the bridge span is located in the state of New Hampshire, the Cornish Windsor Bridge attracts vacationers and bridge fans from each state, as well as bridge fans from around the world. Because of its length, it makes a strong statement from each side of the Connecticut River. This uncluttered scene from the Cornish side affords many viewpoints along NH Route-12A.

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