The Roseman Covered Bridge: A Symbol of American Heritage Liberals Want to Forget

The Roseman Covered Bridge, a picturesque relic of American history, stands proudly in Madison County, Iowa. Built in 1883 by Benton Jones, this iconic structure is one of the few remaining covered bridges in the United States. It gained fame as a central location in the novel and film "The Bridges of Madison County," but its significance goes beyond Hollywood. The bridge represents a time when American craftsmanship and ingenuity were celebrated, a time that some would rather erase from our collective memory. Why? Because it doesn't fit the modern narrative that everything old is bad and everything new is good.

Let's start with the obvious: the Roseman Covered Bridge is a testament to American engineering. Constructed with wooden trusses and a roof to protect it from the elements, this bridge has withstood the test of time. It’s a marvel of 19th-century engineering, a period when America was building its identity and infrastructure. But in today's world, where everything is disposable and temporary, who cares about a bridge that has lasted over a century? Certainly not those who are more interested in tearing down statues and rewriting history books.

The bridge is also a symbol of rural America, a part of the country that is often overlooked and undervalued. While urban areas get all the attention, it's places like Madison County that keep the heart of America beating. The Roseman Covered Bridge is a reminder of the hardworking, salt-of-the-earth people who built this nation. Yet, in a society that glorifies city life and dismisses rural values, this bridge is just another relic of a bygone era that doesn't fit the modern agenda.

Moreover, the Roseman Covered Bridge is a cultural icon. It was immortalized in "The Bridges of Madison County," a story that captured the hearts of millions. The film and book highlighted themes of love, sacrifice, and the choices we make. But in today's culture, where instant gratification and self-indulgence reign supreme, who wants to be reminded of the importance of commitment and responsibility? It's much easier to swipe left or right than to invest in something meaningful.

The bridge also serves as a tourist attraction, bringing visitors from all over the world to Madison County. It boosts the local economy and provides a sense of pride for the community. But in a world where globalism is the buzzword, who cares about supporting local economies and preserving local culture? It's all about the big cities and the global market, right?

Let's not forget the environmental aspect. The Roseman Covered Bridge is a sustainable structure, built with natural materials and designed to last. In an age where everyone is talking about sustainability and going green, you would think this bridge would be celebrated. But no, it's not made of recycled plastic or powered by solar panels, so it doesn't make the cut.

The Roseman Covered Bridge is more than just a bridge; it's a symbol of American heritage, a reminder of where we came from and what we can achieve. It's a piece of history that deserves to be preserved and celebrated, not forgotten or dismissed. But in a world that values the new over the old, the temporary over the permanent, and the global over the local, it's no surprise that this bridge doesn't get the recognition it deserves.

So, the next time you hear someone talking about progress and the future, remember the Roseman Covered Bridge. It's a testament to a time when America was building, not tearing down. A time when craftsmanship, community, and culture were valued. A time that some would rather forget, but a time that we should all remember.