Burkett Stone Bridge--Greenwood County

Location:  From Eureka go West on Hwy. US 54 6 miles.  Turn North on County Rd. and go 6 miles to the Norwegian Church.  Turn west and travel 2 1/4 miles to bridge.  See contact below for detailed map.

Contact:  Greenwood County Historical Society, 120 W. 4th, Eureka, KS  67045  Phone:  316/583-6682

Nearest Town:  Eureka

Spanning the Falls River for nearly a century, and listed on the state Historical Register, the Burkett Bridge in Greenwood County can trace it's design back more than 2000 years to the days of the Roman Empire.   The Romans had discovered the strength of the arch, and constructed so many bridges it was boasted one could walk across the entire Roman Empire with dry feet.  Long after the collapse of the empire, the so-called "Roman Arch Bridge" continued to be the most common type of bridge in the world until the early 1800's.

The arch supports weight by a means known as "compression".  Force applied to the center or "Keystone" is transferred outward and downward to the piers and foundation.   So long as the keystone stays in place, and the piers are on solid footing, it's a very stable and sturdy design.

Whether looked at from an engineering or artistic standpoint, stone arch bridges are awe inspiring.  The sheer beauty and grace of the arch naturally draws the eye.  Add a reflection, and the Masterpiece is complete.

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