Welcome to Bridges & Boats, Trains & Planes: Local Innovations in Transportation!

Come join us at the Museum of Old Newbury on Sunday, Apr 27 2025 at 1:00 PM for a fascinating event showcasing the history of advancements in transportation within our local community.

Join Bob Watts, co-vice president of the National Society for the Preservation of Covered Bridges and also a Board member of the Museum of Old Newbury, for an interesting and entertaining presentation about the eclectic history of transportation and infastructure in the Newburyport area. You will see items from the Museum’s collection related to Timothy Palmer, who pioneered the construction and “disruptive technology” of wooden truss bridges, covered bridges and suspension bridges. You will learn about the five local mile-markers that date back to 1708 and answered the age-old question, “Are we there yet?” Did you know the first successful air flight in Massachusetts happened on Plum Island? We'll tell you all about it.

Bob has been photographing Newburyport and environs for a decade. Maybe you have seen his popular Facebook posts, “Come for a Walk with Me… .” Bob's curiosity and love of a good story shine through in this informative presentation.

Refreshments to follow. Open business meeting of the National Society for the Preservation of Covered Bridges begins at 2:30.