A Perfect Rockwell Scene at the West Arlington Covered Bridge
April 09, 2013
Just off sleepy Route 313 is one of Vermont’s most photographed and beloved landmarks: the West Arlington Covered Bridge. The bridge, built in 1852 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, spans the famous Battenkill River. Nearby is the Gothic-steepled Chapel on the Green and up the street is a Vermont inn that is the former home of Norman Rockwell.
The scene in this photo is the same view Rockwell enjoyed from the 19th-century farmhouse in West Arlington where he lived from 1943 to 1953, some of his most productive years as an artist.
I have seen many beautiful photographs of the covered bridge and church in the summer and fall. On a recent chilly April day, I wanted to see these landmarks in the starkness of early spring. The scene was different, but still beautiful.
Then I found this quote from Norman Rockwell, and it made me appreciate my visit even more.
“Commonplaces never become tiresome. It is we who become tired when we cease to be curious and appreciative. We find that it is not a new scene which is needed, but a new viewpoint.” -Norman Rockwell
**If You Go: West Arlington Covered Bridge
Inn on the Covered Bridge Green
Baydog
Posted at 02:32h, 10 AprilIf you drive old route 7 between Manchester and let’s say Troy, you must cross over the Battenkill dozens of times, no?
I only got to ski one weekend this winter at Stratton, but it was a quality weekend at that.
Great winter for Vermont’s economy for sure!
Erica Houskeeper
Posted at 02:50h, 10 AprilThat would be a good trivia question! Route 7A in Manchester runs parallel to the river until the Battenkill turns left at Route 313 toward the NY border. So, between Manchester and Shushan, NY, you cross the river at least a few times.
Glad you got to ski at Stratton this winter. I’m sure it was fun! It was nice to see the mountains covered this winter, especially after last year!
Looks like sailing season will start soon. You must be excited!
Tony
Posted at 23:31h, 23 AprilFélicitations image Salutations Tony …