According to Sudbury Town records, a timber bridge has crossed the Sudbury River at or near this site since at least 1743. The Native Americans who first inhabited the area (the Nipmucs and Musketahquids) identified this area as a perfect spot to live - as the hills overlooking the Sudbury River and its various tributaries made for good campgrounds with plenty of hunting and fishing nearby. This particular point along the river offers one of the shallowest fording areas during lower waters.
Historically, these floodwater areas provided abundant stocks of wild hay, which were very valuable to colonial farmers. It was these fertile meadows that led to the early settlement of the Sudbury/Wayland area. Horses, cattle and farmers with scythes could walk right up the tall grass at the water's edge to get what they needed. However, the eventual damming of regional rivers during the industrial period (especially the Concord River) had an adverse effect on these shallow-water plants. The resulting higher waters caused riverside properties to lose much of their natural value.
According to the DCR, though, "near Sherman's Bridge is a strip 150 feet wide and a quarter of a mile long of wild hay, the single place where one could experience what the colonists had experienced when they first stood amid the close-packed stems of the high, waving grasses of the river meadows." So, be on the lookout for this when you are out on your kayak or canoe!
As for the wooden bridge itself, it has become increasingly apparent that its continued existence is in jeopardy. The Massachusetts Highway Department would like to see it replaced. The structure is seen by some as a safety issue, as it has been reported that some of the wood decking has deteriorated and creosote has been leaking into the water. In addition to ongoing discussions with both Sudbury and Wayland officials, some recent state legislation has been introduced that would replace the span. So, please enjoy the bridge while you still can!
The container is too small for trade items - and please remember to bring your own writing implement. Cheers! Rawhyd