Thomas Mill Bridge

Portal View of Thomas Mill Bridge

This is the only historic covered bridge still standing within the corporate limits of Philadelphia. It is situated in the Wissahickon Valley (northern) extension of Fairmount Park, and the old roads here have been closed to traffic, so there is only foot traffic through the bridge. On the south side of the bridge an equestrian trail passes by, so riders sometimes explore the bridge, but the trails on the north side are too steep and rocky for horses. A distinctive and picturesque red bridge, Thomas Mill has unusual sawtooth decorations at the roofline of the portal. The site is particularly attractive, and the best photographic angles are gotten from the equestrian trail south of the creek.

Scenic View

Scenic View of Thomas Mill Bridge

The interior view of Thomas Mill Bridge gives a good instance of a Howe Truss, the only one in our area.

Interior View of TM Bridge

Interior View of Thomas Mill Bridge

How to Get to Thomas Mill Bridge

From Germantown Avenue, turn south on Chestnut Hill Street. Just past the intersection with Seminole Street, there is a trail-head on the right and a white-blazed trail diagonal to the street, at the boundary of the park and private property. This trail is the former Thomas Mill Road and leads to the bridge. Hike down the trail behind the stately homes, most of which front on Towanda Ave. After about 1/4 mile, the trail is entirely within the park. The old road switches back first to the left, then the right, and becomes quite steep and rocky. Follow the old road, not the white blazes here. The bridge is at the point where the old road crosses Wissahickon Creek.

Thomas Mill Bridge Then and Now

The following two views offer almost identical perspectives 90 years apart in time. Some things don't change -- but some do. In 1908, Margaree Mansion stood just to the right, out of the picture. Little if anything remains of the mansion in 1996.

Distant View

Approaching Thomas Mill Bridge in 1995

An Antique Image

A View of Thomas Mill Bridge Before 1908

The above view is from a postcard dated 1908.