Historic Blenheim Bridge Washes Away

Steven Fieg sent news that the Blenheim, NY covered bridge, the longest of its type in the world, was completely washed away by the raging Schoharie Creek in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene.

The bridge was built in 1855 and was considered the longest single-span wooden bridge in the world, measuring 228 feet.  It was an iconic structure, virtually the only tourist draw in this small Schoharie County town of just over 300 residents. 

The Blenheim Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996.. 

Says Steven, "My Dad, Lothar Fieg jr, (Uncle Bud) told me his father used to love to inspect the bridge and admire how it was built and how well built it was. My Uncle from my mother's side (the Shafers) always wanted to drive by that bridge and how proud they were of having a world record right there in Schoharie County."