Glen Allen Mill Bridge

Information and Findings From Pennsylvania's Historic Bridge Inventory

Discussion of Bridge

The 2-span, 131'-long, reinforced concrete, elliptical arch bridge built in 1918 is supported on concrete abutments and bullnose pier. The reinforced concrete spandrel walls and parapets have oversize panels extending from just above the arch ring to the parapet coping. The bridge has the distinctive paneling of York County reinforced concrete arch bridges that were designed by County Engineer Charles Williams during the mid 1910s. It is one of at least 10 similar bridges from 1913 to 1918 identified in York County, and it is the only multiple span example. The bridge benefits from an undisturbed rural setting that is adjacent to the 19th century Glen Allen rural mill and farm complex that has historic district potential. The bridge, which replaced a previous covered bridge, dates from the mill's active period of operation. The bridge served to connect the mill with the farms on the south bank of Yellow Breeches Creek in York County. It is evaluated as contributing to the potential Glen Allen historic district.

Discussion of Surrounding Area

The bridge carries one lane of traffic over a stream that is the York-Cumberland county line. The south (York County) side of the stream is forested with no visible buildings. On the north (Cumberland) county side, at the northwest quadrant, is a 19th-century mill and farm complex known as Glen Allen. It includes the Glen Allen Mill (ca. 1835), a grist mill complete with machinery, a stone and log residence (ca. 1790 with 19th century additions) and a federal-style brick residence (ca. 1835) with period outbuildings. According to a local history, the mill operated continuously through the mid 1960s. Glen Allen has the significance, cohesiveness and integrity to be a historic district.

Bridge Considered Historic By Survey: Yes