The Clements Stone Arch Bridge is just south of US 50 in Chase County. Drive south through Clements on the main road, take the fork to the right and the bridge is just ahead.
The bridge was built across the Cottonwood River in 1888. The stones used in construction were quarried in Chase County. The bridge has withstood many years of floods and high waters and handled all the vehicle traffic in the area.
The bridge is impressive from any angle. Like all limestone structures, the rising and setting sun makes the bridge come to life.
Some large stones appear to have been removed from the sides of the bridge at each end, almost as if a large load was needing to cross and the stones were in the way. The bridge was built in the horse and buggy days, the heaviest load to cross was probably a stone mason's load of limestone.
The gentle flow of the Cottonwood, beckons one to stay and enjoy. Pack a lunch and go have a picnic, this one is free!
This area is rich in limestone construction. Many old barns, houses, schools and even the courthouse were constructed of the native stone.
