Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge

Heading north on NH State Route 10 from Keene is the Cheshire County town of Gilsum. Chartered in 1763 to the Gilbert and Sumner families, one of the things that Gilsum is best known for is its stone arch bridge over the Ashuelot River, which was built in 1863 without the use of mortar. With an arch that averages 36'-6" above the river, the Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge has the highest vault of any dry laid bridge in the State of New Hampshire.

A historical plaque greets visitors to the bridge and gives a little background about its history.

View of the bridge from the western bank of the Ashuelot River, which gives you a good idea of the height of the bridge.

Another view of the bridge that crosses the Ashuelot. I find the arch to be rather impressive.

View of Surry Rd., which is the thoroughfare that the bridge carries in modern times. At the end of Surry Rd. is NH 10.

View of the Ashuelot River gorge, looking south from the bridge.

View of the Ashuelot River gorge, looking north from the bridge.

Gilsum is also home of the Gilsum Rock Swap and is the town where the mother of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon faith, was born.

Sources and Links:
Bridgehunter - Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge
Roadside History: Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge
American Whitewater - Ashuelot River
Gilsum Recreation Committee - Town of Gilsum, New Hampshire
Ware Family Association - Gilsum, New Hampshire

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