Swann Bridge
The Swann Bridge (sometimes called Joy Bridge or Swann-Joy Bridge) is, at 324 feet, the longest covered bridge in Alabama. Completed in 1933 with its roadbed about 27 feet above the water, the triple-span traverses the waters of the Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River just below Bullard Shoal.
Swann Bridge is located on Swann Bridge Road near Alabama Highway 79 just west of Cleveland. it is one of three remaining covered bridges in Blount County, all built by brothers Forrest and Zelmer C. Tidwell. Like their other bridges, the timber frame is constructed in the "town lattice truss" style with a 14 foot-wide roadway. The intermediate piers are constructed of concrete. The original wood-shingle roof has been replaced by galvanized metal.
The bridge was constructed to provide access to the Joy community from Swann Farm. A trail on the western side leads downstream to a bank opposite a sheer rock cliff.
References
- University of Alabama Center for Public Television and Radio. Bridges to the Past.