IONIA Co., Mich. (July 6, 2014) – A memorial benefit commemorating the 1 year anniversary of the destruction of the historic Whites Bridge in Ionia Co. will be happening all day Sunday.
Beginning at 9 am and running until 9 pm, supporters of rebuilding the bridge will be gathered near the site selling memory bricks and plaques, commemorative glassware and other items. There will also be food and paintings of the Whites Bridge set for auction.
At 1:30 pm, a memorial service and blessing is planned on the north side of the former bridge. At 2 pm a community-wide kayak and canoe launch is planned. Supporters have been working to raise money for the past year holding various fundraisers to pay to rebuild the bridge, which is estimated to cost about $300,000, according to the Rebuild White Covered Bridge Inc.
On July 7 2013, the historic bridge was found destroyed by a fire. Investigators determined the 146 year old structure was the target of arson.
“It shocked me,” Keith Salters told FOX 17 last year after the fire happened. “I guess that whole sadness of it and the history is gone forever.”
For more information on the event which is being sponsored by the Rebuild Whites Covered Bridge Inc. click here.
