Hillsborough (NH) Stone Arch Bridges

It was during a research trip for a college class that I discovered the amazing scenic glory of Hillsborough, New Hampshire. It's not the boulder strewn mountain streams that make this place so unique. Steep forested hills and quick running streams are typical for this part of Southern New Hampshire. What makes this town a gem in the Monadnock Region actually cross those streams.

Located about 2 hours northwest of Boston, Hillsborough, NH is believed to be home to the highest concentration of “dry masonry” or “dry stone” bridges in New England. Dry stone construction uses no mortar between its stones, and uses gravity to those stones in place. Though many are familiar with the “dry stone” walls frequently seen along the back roads of New England, most are unaware of the rich history of dry stone construction in the United States.

Immigrants from Europe brought with them he techniques of their homelands. Anyone who has visited rural England or Ireland can attest to their strong tradition of dry stone construction. So when the citizens of Hillsborough decided to replace the old timber bridges, that were ill-suited for the frequent flooding of the steep streams in this hilly region, dry stone bridges were the obvious choice.

These beautiful bridges date from the early to mid 1800s have stood the test of time, survived catastrophic flooding, and several continue to carry modern automobile traffic. The proximity to Boston makes this an ideal road trip for the fans of the outdoors, architecture, and history.
Click here to learn more about these bridges and how you can check them out yourself!