Born in Philadelphia, Herman Haupt was one of the first engineers to develop mathematical methods of truss analysis. Military engineer, author and inventor, by 1851 Haupt had his methods incorporated in the book General Theory of Bridge Construction.
   One of North Carolina's two remaining historic covered bridges, the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge bears the improved lattice truss design patented by Haupt. Part of Island Ford Road, and old Indian trail, the Bunker Hill Bridge crosses Lyles Creek.
   Looking to improve the important Catawba County thoroughfare, area residents hired the services of Andy J. Ransour to construct a bridge. Perhaps using Haupt's book as guide, the bridge was was built as an open span. Raised in 1895, the lattice support members were pegged with oak trunnels instead of nails. The bridge was covered within five years of its construction to preserve the wooden trusses and its wood roofing shakes were replaced with metal in 1921.
   The historic bridge underwent a restoration project in 1994, employing the expert services of Arnold M. Graton Associates from Ashland, New Hampshire. Matching the construction quality and original materials, the 81 foot bridge was superbly restored. Designated as a National Civil Engineering Landmark in 2001, the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge is enclosed in a day park setting (Connor Park) just two miles east of Claremont on Route 70. Road signs ensure the park is easy to find.

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