World's Only Bridge

A Coastal Maine town by the name of Harpswell is home to the world's only Cribstone bridge. Construction began in 1927 on a bridge connecting two island communities that allows strong tides and currents to flow freely. Only gravity holds the stacked granite blocks atop one another. Storms have constantly beat upon the 10,000 pounds of local granite that make up the bridge, but she has held her strength - only pausing in 2010 for small repairs. Claims state that Scotland once held a similar bridge, but no proof has ever been found. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 - it's surely a unique place to photograph and visit.

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The ancient slabs of granite evenly balance a two-lane roadway.

Perhaps one of the only towns in America whose power is carried via ocean telephone poles.

The center of the bridge houses a gap large enough to allow fishing boats to safely exit the harbor for daily fishing ventures.

Local colorful buoy houses.

Oceanic findings.

Shells.

Unloading our kayaks, we strapped on our L.L. Bean life vests and explored the coves of the islands. As fascinating as it is to explore the coast by foot, it's even more exciting to take in the view from the Atlantic. After exploring the harbor, we exited via the passageway built into the bridge and paddled a few afternoon hours. The sunshine was adequate, wind calm, and swells minimal.

Photo from the kayak on the way out of the harbor.

After loading the kayaks, we opened a beverage and sat back on the shore. The golden sun set beyond the village and we chatted of local lore and of course plans for next weekend.

As sun sets on this historic bridge, I hope to cross her again soon. My body leaves tired, but I have plenty of photos to return home and sort through.

Truly a beautiful spot that makes Maine an ideal tourist destination.