Society Preservation Actions
What the Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society Has Done to Protect Pennsylvania's Bridges
Our Commitment to Action
The Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society of Pennsylvania has been actively involved in the preservation and restoration of covered bridges throughout the Commonwealth for decades. Our members advocate at the local, county, and state levels to ensure these historic structures receive the attention and funding they deserve.
Below is a record of key preservation actions, advocacy efforts, and restoration projects that the Society has supported or participated in over the years.
Preservation Actions & Advocacy
Arson Reduction Incentive
The Burr Society partners with the National Society for the Preservation of Covered Bridges (NSPCB) to apply NoChar fire retardant by Crestline Industries to covered bridges. The NSPCB funds the product; Burr Society members or our painter handle the application.
See PhotosPainting/Repairing Bridges
The Burr Society paints at least one covered bridge per year to preserve the wood and raise awareness. When needed, we also fund siding repairs prior to painting.
See PhotosHistoric Markers Program
The Burr Society partners with the Pomeroy Foundation — whose mission is to preserve history through signage — to apply for Historic Marker grants. To date, we have been awarded 9 National Register Markers and 2 Historic Transportation Markers.
See PhotosSee Pennsylvania's Covered Bridges Week
The Burr Society sponsors and promotes Pennsylvania's Covered Bridges Week, an annual event encouraging residents and visitors to explore and appreciate the Commonwealth's historic covered bridges.
See PhotosCommunity Outreach
Society members share their knowledge and research through presentations at monthly meetings, covering covered bridge history, construction, and preservation topics from across Pennsylvania and beyond.
See PhotosDonations
The Burr Society makes donations to covered bridges when possible either in PA or other states as donation requests are made.
See PhotosDecorating a Covered Bridge
Each year members volunteer to decorate Poole Forge Covered Bridge in Lancaster County for the holidays. Decorations help to draw attention to this historic structure and celebrate its place in Pennsylvania's heritage.
See PhotosGet Involved
The Society's preservation work depends on the dedication of our members. Whether you're a historian, photographer, engineer, or simply someone who loves covered bridges, there's a place for you in our efforts.