The West Montrose Covered Bridge was completed in 1881 at a cost of $3,197.50 by barn builder John Bear. It is the only remaining covered bridge in Ontario, and the oldest one in Canada. It was constructed of oak and white pine with piles driven deep into the Grand River for support. The bridge was expected to last 70 to 80 years, but the life span was increased with concrete and steel reinforcements along with other restorations over the years. The visible aspects of the bridge still remain true to the original design.
The traditional toll for a covered bridge was a kiss, collected by the young man escorting his lady across the span in a horse-drawn buggy. The privacy of the cover of this bridge promoted this practice, and it became known as the "Kissing Bridge". The young ladies learned to become suspicious when their escort’s horse stopped inside the bridge without command.
Parking and picnic area is available nearby at the provided additional waypoint. You will need to collect some information here. Please do not park or stop in front of the nearby properties.
In order to log this virtual cache, you must complete 3 tasks:
1. From the plaque at the parking area, email or message me the name of the clerk at the bottom of the "Notice to Bridge Builders".
2. From the plaque at the bridge, email or message me the date that the capsule was encrypted.
3. With your online log, post a picture of yourself with the covered bridge in the background, taken at this visit. As per the guidelines, it's not necessary to show your face if you prefer.
Virtual Reward - 2017/2018
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between August 24, 2017 and August 24, 2018. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards on the Geocaching Blog.