NHEIM, Pa. – Planning to participate at Wood Pro Expo Lancaster this October? Enroute to Spooky Nook Sports, be sure to soak in some of the area's rich history. 

Lancaster County, home of the 11th edition of Wood Pro Expo, boasts some of America's most iconic covered bridges, each with its own tale of heritage. These picturesque structures, dating back to the 19th century, stand as enduring symbols of rural charm and architectural ingenuity. 

Spanning tranquil streams and lush landscapes, they evoke a sense of nostalgia and evoke the region's rich history. From the stunning double-span Sachs Covered Bridge to the quaint charm of the Herr's Mill Covered Bridge, each bridge tells a story of craftsmanship and resilience. Preserved with care, these historic landmarks continue to captivate visitors with their timeless beauty and timeless allure.

Lancaster County has 30 covered bridges. Only Parke County, Ind., has more surviving covered bridges in the nation than Lancaster, and that’s by a slim margin of one.

By the 1800's more than 100 sturdy arched truss bridges, critical for linking farmers to communities over waters, were built throughout Lancaster County. Most of the bridges were named for area farmers or mill owners at the time they were built.

The wooden roofs that were added to protect travelers and the structures from the elements helped extend the life of the bridges for more than a century. 

Two of the 30 remaining bridges are in Manheim, home of Spooky Nook Sports where Wood Pro Expo Lancaster will be held.

Shearer’s covered bridge spans the Big Chiques Creek at 504 E Adele Ave. The 89-foot-long bridge features a double burr arch truss design. Originally built in 1847, it was rebuilt in 1855 and moved in 1971. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) on Dec. 10, 1980.

The other historic covered bridge in Manheim, Kaufman’s Distillery covered bridge, also spans Chiques Creek located at 661 W. Sun Hill Road. Although construction started in 1857, the 96-foot bridge did not open until 1874. It was added to the NRHP on Dec. 11, 1980.

American history buffs will find three centuries of records at the historic Lancaster County Court House about a 20-minute drive from Manheim. Originally constructed 1852 and 1855, the Romanesque-design courthouse was added onto in the 1890's and 1920's. Placed on the NRHP in 1978 the courthouse archives and preserves more than 275 years of local history.

About Wood Pro Expo Lancaster
Wood Pro Expo is a regional event for woodworking businesses that brings together suppliers and experts for a localized presentation of equipment and supply solutions. Now in its 11th year, WPE includes a strong educational program on best practices for shop production and business management. The expo features a wide variety of equipment and supplies mainly geared to small and medium-sized shops.

Wood Pro Expo Lancaster takes place Oct. 24-25024, at Spooky Nook Sports/Warehouse at the Nook in Manheim (Lancaster County), Pa. For information visit woodproexpolancaster.com. For exhibitor information contact Lewis Goldman at [email protected] or 800-969-2212. 

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