Spring Grove Road Bridge

Information and Findings From Pennsylvania's Historic Bridge Inventory

Discussion of Bridge

The 3-span, 136'-long, reinforced concrete T beam bridge built in 1927 is supported on concrete cutwater piers and abutments. The bridge has concrete balustrades with urnshaped balusters. Paneled concrete parapets extend over the U-shaped wingwalls. It is a complete example of one of the state's most common bridge type/designs with over 2,300 examples from 1905 to 1956. It is not individually distinguished by its technology. The bridge is located in a potential historic district and is from the period of significance. It is evaluated as contributing to the potential historic district.

Discussion of Surrounding Area

The bridge carries a 2 lane road over a stream at a rural mill village complex that includes the late 18th to early 19th century Spring Grove Forge Mansion (NR-listed 1984) at the northwest quadrant and the 1868 Oberholtzer Mill at the northeast quadrant. The mill retains its machinery and waterpower system, although it is currently inactive. Other 19th century buildings, including a stone barn and carriage house, are located to the north on Spring Grove Road. A stone dam creating an impoundment for the mill is located upstream. A farm complex with a mix of 19th to late 20th century outbuildings is at the southeast quadrant. The setting has the significance and integrity of a historic district with a period of significance from its origins as the home of a prominent Lancaster County ironmaster family in the late 18th century through the period of active operation of the mill, which was still in full operation during the 1970s.

Bridge Considered Historic By Survey: Yes, Contributing