Holliwell Covered Bridge

Among the historic covered bridges of Madison County, Iowa, the Holliwell Covered Bridge stands out as a structure of unique historical and cinematic significance. Located two miles southeast of Winterset, the bridge spans the Middle River, a site that has been a river crossing for travelers for over a century and a half. Built in 1880, the Holliwell Bridge is a testament to the ingenuity of its builders, Harvey P. Jones and George K. Foster. At 122 feet, it is the longest of the six remaining covered bridges in Madison County and the longest timber bridge in the state of Iowa. A visit to the bridge is an opportunity to step into a piece of living history, nestled within the peaceful, rolling landscape of the Iowa countryside.

The Holliwell Covered Bridge is not only remarkable for its length but also for its distinctive engineering. The bridge features a Town lattice truss design, a type of truss patented by Ithiel Town in 1820. What makes the Holliwell unique among its peers in Madison County is the addition of a superimposed arch and the use of metal fasteners rather than the traditional wooden dowels. The combination of the Town lattice truss with the reinforcing arch provided a stronger, more durable structure, allowing it to withstand the frequent floods of the Middle River for over a century. This particular construction method makes the Holliwell a fascinating subject for those interested in historical engineering and bridge design.

The bridge's journey to fame began with its prominent role in the 1995 film adaptation of The Bridges of Madison County. The Holliwell Bridge was a favorite of the film's director and star, Clint Eastwood, and it served as a key location for some of the movie's most memorable scenes. While the bridge was no longer in use for vehicular traffic by the time of filming, it was meticulously restored in 1995 with the help of a federal grant, ensuring its preservation for future generations. For movie buffs, walking through the Holliwell's timber-walled interior offers a tangible connection to the romance and drama that unfolded on screen, making the experience more than just a historical tour.

Beyond the bridge itself, the site offers several points of interest for visitors. The Holliwell Bridge is situated in a wooded valley, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or for simply sitting by the riverbank to enjoy the scenery. The bridge's location over the Middle River makes it a prime spot for photography, especially during the fall when the surrounding foliage is at its peak, or in the winter when the river is frozen over. Additionally, for those with a keen eye for history, a nearby mystery bridge—a pin-connected Pratt pony truss—sits on the same site, its history unknown but its presence adding to the unique character of the location.

A visit to the Holliwell Covered Bridge offers a rich and multi-layered experience. It is a place to appreciate historical craftsmanship, to connect with a piece of cinematic history, and to simply enjoy the serene beauty of the natural world. Its enduring structure, unique design, and famous backstory make it a central point of the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway and a must-see landmark for anyone exploring the charm and heritage of Winterset and Madison County.

Fun Facts

The Holliwell Covered Bridge in Winterset is the only covered bridge of the famous bridges in Madison County still standing at its original location on the Middle River.

Attraction Advice

The Holliwell Covered Bridge is open to visitors 24 hours a day, year-round. There is no admission fee to access the bridge.