Spanning The Centuries

The Knights Ferry Covered Bridge, spanning the Stanislaus River in California, is the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi. Originally built in 1863 after the Great Flood destroyed an earlier span, the bridge was constructed using the Howe truss design, blending timber and iron for strength. Measuring nearly 379 feet, it carried stagecoaches, miners’ wagons, and later automobiles until it was retired from vehicle traffic in 1981. Today it stands as both a National Historic Landmark and a symbol of resilience, connecting the California Gold Rush past to the present. This photograph captures the bridge in striking black and white, emphasizing its weathered timbers and enduring presence amid the historic town of Knights Ferry, California.

My son, Brad, and I researched this historic site before setting out to find it. We were surprised at how well the timbers and wood are still so well-preserved. Immediately behind me is a shutdown electricity transmission plant. In the early days in this area, the rivers were used to provide modern energy, while exposed to the torrential flooding before dams were constructed. I captured this image with a Nikon full-frame mirrorless digital camera, and using post-production to bring out the grain and texturing.

Printed on Hahnemühle Photo Rag — a museum-grade, 100% cotton paper known for its subtle texture and archival quality — this piece is part of a limited edition of 25 prints. Each is hand-signed, numbered, and available in two sizes: 16×24" and 24×36". SEE FRAMING OPTIONS HERE.

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