Sachs Covered Bridge, also known as Sauh’s Bridge during the Civil War, was built in 1854 out of oak and pine. The 100-foot bridge spans Marsh Creek, and connects two area townships; Cumberland and Freedom.

The bride was crossed by two brigades of the l Corps of the Union Army that were heading into Gettysburg. Later it was crossed by the lll Corps who were heading to Black Horse Tavern. At the end of the war Robert E. Lee’s Army came across the bridge after claiming victory in the battle.

In 1938 the bridge was designated Pennsylvania’s “Most historic bridge,” and was closed down to only foot and bike traffic in 1968. It was also listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

In June 1996 a devastating flood occurred in Gettysburg that caused many basements to flood. This flood raised the waters of Marsh Creek high enough to rip the bridge off its bearings and drug it downstream where it smashed against trees. The bridge was rebuilt using about seventy five percent of the original structure and was raised three feet to prevent this from happening again. It was rededicated in July 1997.

Legend tells us that three confederate soldiers abandoned their unit and were caught and hanged from the tresses of the bridge. Another legend says these confederate soldiers were spies and were caught while spying on the Union Army, and hanged. We aren’t sure if this is true, but there’s no doubt in our minds that there is some sort of paranormal activity happening here.

The bridge is located off Pumping Station Road. If you have a GPS just enter in these coordinates: 39.797361,-77.276111. It is not part of the battlefield, and does not close at 10pm with the rest of the park. It is open to the public all night. We suggest visiting during the day to get a feel for the serenity of the area, and come back after dark to conduct your own paranormal investigation! Just be sure not to go past the trespassing signs!

Just make sure on your trip to Gettysburg that you don’t forget to visit Sachs Covered Bridge. You won’t be disappointed!

Sach's Bridge