Andover, NH: Small Town, Big History
Built in 1887, this beautiful lattice-sided covered bridge was designed by Ithiel Town of Connecticut and built by carpenter Print Atwood of Andover at a cost of $522. According to local legend, Atwood’s assistants Al Emerson and Charles Wilson disagreed and cut some of the timbers short, causing the bridge to tilt.
In 1959 State Route 11 obsoleted the old coach road and the bridge was closed to vehicles. In 1982 the roof collapsed and was replaced. By 1997 the bridge had deteriorated so much that it was closed to foot traffic. In 1998 the town of Andover established the Cilleyville Bog Bridge Restoration Fund.
In November 1998 state inspectors found the bridge to be in danger of falling into Pleasant Stream, so emergency steps were taken to secure the bridge. Two 90′ steel beams were threaded through the bridge opening and cross-beams engaged the lattice sides to take the weight off the failing bottom chords and abutments.
The total cost of restoring the bridge to its original condition and ensuring its preservation in the years to come is estimated at $150,000. The Restoration Committee is actively involved in raising these funds from public and private sources.
Potter Place Station
The beginning of a railroad service was an important link for Andover. Citizens gained access to places not normally visited. The Potter Place Station was built in 1874 by the Northern Railroad in The Potter Place section of Andover. It was named for Andover resident Richard Potter. Mr. Potter was America’s first professional magician and first African-American magician. In 1890 the station was taken over by the Boston and Maine Railroad.
Then transportation modes once again changed, and evolved. Increasingly the train fell into disuse, but service continued, until the last passenger train that left Potter Place was as recent as 1962. Today the Potter Place station is an important link with our heritage from yesteryear. It was transformed into a museum of memorabilia. A visit to this unique exhibit is an enjoyable stop, and well worth the effort. Hours: Saturdays 10AM – 3PM, Sundays 1-3PM. Open May 29th – October 12th. Admission Free.
Proctor Academy
The most visible landmark on the main street of Andover is the Proctor Academy. This school, founded in 1848, has a well documented history. Its campus, located in a 250 acre central green, amid the school’s 2,000 acres of woodlands and mountain slopes, affords many year-round activities. Proctor is a non-profit corporation governed by a 39 member board of trustees. Proctor Academy archives could offer an intimate and interesting glimpse into past life styles in and around Andover.
The Andover Historical Society
The Andover Historical Society maintains a large collection of historical documents pertaining to the town and its people. Included are Town Reports from approximately 1860 to present, and Town records (unindexed and difficult to read) on microfilm going back to the original Town settlement. Also, some of the older town cemeteries have been cataloged. The two published Andover ‘Histories’ provide a wealth of information, albeit not indexed as yet. Several other historical monographs are available with indexes and are quite useful. The historical society also maintains a very interesting display of memorabilia at the antique Potter Place railroad station. This display is, in fact, a living museum in a building that played an important role in the development of the area and its culture during the 19th Century. The museum is open to visitors during the summer months on Saturdays and Sundays, and at other times by prior arrangement. The society will attempt to respond to research questions. Their mailing address is follows:
Andover Historical Society, P O Box 167, Andover, NH 03216.
