The breakfast and ride registration are held at the Preble County Historical Center, 7693 Swartsel Road.
Jane Lightner, executive director of the Preble County Historical Society, said the society began hosting covered bridge tours and rides as early at 1976, although they initially were held once every few years. Annual tours began in 1994, evolving first into poker runs and now rides open to all types of vehicles.
The Bridges, Bikes & Blues theme was introduced in 2011. In one year, it grew from 275 bikes to more than 1,000 in 2012. The event is a major fundraising project for the society to help sustain operations of the 255-acre historical center, Lightner said.
“Preble County’s eight historic covered bridges offer a glimpse of life in the slow-lane,” she said.
Covered bridges were built between 1829 and 1896, some for turnpikes, one for the railroad, one by a private enterprise and some replaced bridges destroyed by a May 1896 storm.
“Over time, for one reason or another, most of the these bridges have been removed and replaced. However, Preble County is very fortunate to have seven covered bridges still standing,” Lightner said.
Last June 24, a new Hueston Woods Covered Bridge was dedicated.
Various ride options are available beginning with the leisure ride pull out at 11:30 a.m. followed every 15 minutes by self-guided ride departure, all girl power puff ride departure and the last pack at 12:30 p.m. A 5K Run/Walk added in 2012 will begin at 9 a.m. at Eaton High School parking lot.
Runners have the opportunity to run through Roberts Double Barrel covered bridge. Race proceeds benefit the historical society and the Eaton Cross Country Parents Association. The ride costs $20 per bike/vehicle with the fee including eight raffle tickets.
The rides will be followed by activities beginning at 4 p.m. in downtown Eaton. Music, a motorcycle contest, food and merchandise from local vendors, a beer garden and raffles are among offerings planned. Blues performances from 4-11 p.m. will be by Michael Lock and The Repeat Offenders, The Doug Hart Band, Ray Fuller & The Blues Rockers and the Scotty Bratcher Band. For more information, visit www.preblecountyhistoricalsociety.com.
About the Author