West Montrose Covered Bridge                                                                            This is the last remaining covered bridge in Ontario.  In 1881, John and Benjamin Bear built this structure for $3,100.  The Bridge was originally covered for a number of reasons. The covering protected the oak floor boards, which were costly to replace, against the hot sun, wet weather and ice.   Also, horses were often frightened by seeing swirling water on both sides and thus would not set foot on the bridge.  An unusual feature, making this bridge unique in the world, is the size of the Queen Post truss (rigid support framework).   Constructed of the finest pine timber, this support (bridge has two) measures 9" by 18" by 50 feet, which was at the time, the largest Queen Post truss ever built.   The bridge, softly lit by gas lanterns, was a romantic secluded haven to steal a kiss or two and thus adopted the name "Kissing Bridge". 

Village of West Montrose       Nestling gently against the banks of the Grand River, lies the Village of West Montrose.  In 1806, Scottish settler William Anderson thought the pastoral beauty of this region was so much like his home in Scotland that he named the hamlet Montrose, adding West to the name because that was the direction he had traveled.  The charming old stone buildings in the village were built in the 1800's, many of the century-old houses have been restored and maintained to their nostalgic era.                                                                                                                                   At one time the community was industrially active, boasting a woolen mill, a water-driven sawmill, a lime kiln, and a chopping mill.  There were 2 blacksmith shops and a few stores. In 1902, Canadian Pacific built railway tracks and a station north of the village for transporting goods and livestock.   Now these businesses have vanished but the "kissing bridge" , a Country Store, The Olde Bridge Place B&B Inn and Grotto, and Westwood Furniture Company remain.  The village offers serene tranquillity, the residents are quietly proud of their  community.  Visitors are always welcome!