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More WataugaLakeMagazine articles:The Butler MuseumLearn how and why Watauga Lake was formed and how the citizens of "Old Butler" Tennessee were changed forever. . . . |
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A Kayaker's ViewSee Watauga Lake up-close from a Kayak |
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Watauga Lake TriathlonSwim over 1,000 yards in a deep lake, race in your bike over 21 miles through the mountains, THEN... run 5 miles ... |
Elizabethton Covered Bridge ca. 1882
All photos and illustrations by Pat Johns ©2007
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The covered bridge was designed by Colonel Thomas Matson who also designed the Tweetsie Railroad and New Yorkr City's elevated rail system. He also supervised its construction.
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Its design, structure and elevation above the Doe River allowed it to remain intact throughout the May flood of 1901 which destroyed all other bridges along the Doe River. For residents on the east side of town it was the only avenue of escape.
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On almost any evening local residents and visitors come to this park along the Doe River, feed the ducks and walk through the covered bridge.
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The covered bridge stretches one hundred and thirty-four feet across the Doe River and is the most photographed landmark in Carter County.
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At one end of the bridge is a portion of the tree under which "the first court west of the Alleghanies was held". There is also a John Carter commemorative plaque . Carter was the first chairman of the Watauga Association and the Watauga Court.
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