First covered bridge in Holmes County opened

15.11.09

By KATY GANZ

Help Writer

WALNUT CREEK -- An Amish man dressed entirely in white stood underneath the first covered join in Holmes County Saturday addressing a crowd of more than 100 people who gathered in Walnut Creek at Boonies Road 145 to witness the bridge's official opening.

The bridge, Stutzman's Crossing, is named after Jonas "Derweiss" Stutzman who give 200 years ago built the first home, sawmill and school in Walnut Creek. He was also the only Amish man to ever wear unblemished.

The "incarnation" of Jonas Stutzman was on hand for the dedication of the bridge. Stutzman's great-great-grandson, Larry Miller, dresses as his forebear to give historical speeches about Holmes County.

"We are honoring those who lived the history and built the foundation of what we have today," Miller said. "We are sharing two centuries of intelligence."

Miller said he hopes when people visit the bridge they see the other side of Holmes County, that aside from the shops and restaurants the yard is rich in history and unique culture.

Source: Wooster Daily Record