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Sulphite Bridge

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The existing Pratt truss structure of the Sulfite Bridge was replaced with a framed trestle bridge erected at this Franklin site in 1891 or 1892 built by the Franklin and Tilton Railroad. The bridge is located one-half mile east of Franklin Falls and south of U.S. Route 3 over the Winnipesaukee River, in Merrimack County.

This unusual bridge, called the Upside Down Covered Bridge because the railroad track crosses over the top of the structure rather than running through its center, was built by the Bridge and Building Department of the Boston and Maine Railroad in 1896, and appears to be the only deck-covered railroad bridge left in the United States. The bridge bears its name due to the large amounts of sulfur transported over the rail lines for use by the giant pulp and paper mills not far from the bridge.

Service over the line was suspended in 1973 and what was believed to be an arson fire, burned the inside of the bridge in 1980.

The Sulphite Bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Location: U.S. Route 3, Franklin New Hampshire 03235


01/10 Coming to The Franklin area
Taste of the Valley Plymouth NH March21 Experience all of your favorite local flavors. Several restaurants from the region will be there hoping to win your vote in the "Best in Show" competition.
Seacoast Home and Garden Show Durham NH March23-24 The 19th annual show features more than 225 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services for your home.
Green Mountain Film Festival Montpelier VT March22-31 Culture reigns at the Green Mountain Film Festival, featuring powerful programming on a wide range of subjects, interesting and often unexpected guests, and a convivial atmosphere.
New England Folk Festival Mansfield MA April19-21 A fabulous blend of dance, music, crafts, and food from many lands.
Spring Plant Sale Westford NH April27 The Middlesex Conservation District will be holding its annual Spring Plant Sale at the 4H Fairgrounds.
Vermont Maple Festival St Albans VT April26-28 Pancake breakfast and maple buffet, the annual “Sap Run” race, exhibits and sugarhouse tours, antiques, crafts, cooking demonstrations, youth talent, fiddlers’ shows, and a Grand Parade featuring teen “Maple Ambassadors.”