Stovall Mill Bridge

Located in an area of White County rich in history and legends of the Cherokee, Stovall Mill Bridge spans Chickamauga Creek. This is not to be confused with the more famous northwest Georgia creek of the same name. An earlier covered bridge stood here but was washed away in the early 1890's.

The bridge retains the name of the miller, Fred Stovall, Sr., who operated the mill complex for many years. The gristmill, sawmill and shingle mill were powered by a water turbine. All are gone now. Only the remains of the dam are evident. - From "Covered Bridges of Georgia" by Thomas L. French, Jr. & Edward L. French.

Built by the same family and located nearby is the Stovall House which has been converted into a Bed and Breakfast and restaurant.

This bridge is a short drive from the numerous attractions in the area and is worth the trip. The bridge appeared in the 1950's movie I'd Climb the Highest Mountain starring Susan Heyward.

Initial inspections of the bridge indicated fairly minor repairs would be necessary, but the extent of the damage from termites became clear once work began. Much of the structural wood had to be replaced or repaired with epoxy. Because of the queen post truss design, these members are fairly heavy.

Had any preventative maintenance been done in the recent past, a lot of problems would have been avoided. Installing termite protection was an important part of all the DOT rehab projects.

Facts

• County: White 
• Other names: Helen Bridge, Sautee Bridge, Nacoochee Bridge, Chickamauga Bridge. 
• Length: 36.8 ft. 
• Width: 11' 10" 
• Built: 1895 
• Builder: Will Pardue 
• Truss: Queen-post 
• Stream: Chickamauga Creek 
• Road name: Adjacent to State Route 255 
• Traffic: No 
• WGCB Number: 10-154-03 
• Parking: Yes 
• Picnic Area: Yes 
• Historic marker: Yes 
• Owner: White County Historical Society