In the early colonial days (1600’s - 1700’s), Sudbury was an extremely large town divided by the Sudbury River's wide flood plain. The river crossing at this point was one of the two main connections between East and West Sudbury during those years and, by 1643, a wooden foot bridge spanned the river here. Over the next 86 years, this wooden version underwent many iterations (one of which was used by Gen. George Washington when he marched through the area).
In 1791, shortly after East Sudbury (later Wayland) separated and was incorporated, the wooden bridge was replaced with one made of stone. Built by William Russell, it was the first four-arch stone bridge without a keystone in Massachusetts. This sturdy edition lasted for about 75 years (until 1866), when it was rebuilt in its current form. This bridge stayed in service until 1955, when more modern bridges and bypasses were built.
To the right of the roadblock before the bridge is a stone monument with one side listing the various editions of the “Old Town Bridge”. The other engraved side is dedicated to the Concord men who were killed by King Philip’s warriors on April 21, 1676 when they were ambushed coming to aid the nearby Haynes Garrison. For more on that bit of history, please visit the nearby “Concord Dozen” geocache (GCHRR4).
After a short walk over the bridge, you will come to the old road’s end at the Sudbury River. There, along with some nice views, you will find a small hanging pill tube. Unfortunately, due to previous muggling, the container needed to be better hidden. So, this is now smaller than before. Accordingly, seekers will need to BYOP - and there is no longer any room for trade items. But, between the views, birds, animals, kayaking and fresh air, there should still be plenty here to enjoy!!!
Congratulations to kestrel76 for the FTF!