Sackville Bridge

Contributed by: Shelley Irving

Hike reference: 7.6 km Bewdley East

The following is a summary about the bridge based on the "2 Old Guys Walking" blog. For the original post, click here.

The Sackville Bridge in near Bewdley, Ont., is a small but historically significant concrete bowstring arch bridge spanning Cold Creek. Built in 1899, it has not yet been officially designated and efforts to secure that status are ongoing but slowed by funding challenges.

Without heritage designation and funding, the bridge may face an uncertain future, with options including replacement, costly repairs, or closure to traffic. It is unique in the township and rated relatively high for historical significance.

The area also has deep local history tied to James Sackville, an early resident who operated a sawmill, built a church and school and contributed to the community. Notably, Joseph Scriven, author of the hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” lived with the Sackville family and died near the site.

The author of the "2 Old Guys Walking" blog advocates preserving the bridge – ideally restoring it or at least converting it to pedestrian use — and suggests creating a small park and relocating the nearby Joseph Scriven monument to the site, potentially turning it into a local heritage attraction.