Speakman Covered Bridge No. 2, also known as the Mary Ann Pyle Covered Bridge, is a historic wooden covered bridge located in the Laurels Preserve in East Fallowfield Township near Modena, Chester County, Pennsylvania. Built in 1881, the 75-foot-long bridge is a Burr arch-truss design and crosses Buck Run. It is the twin of Speakman Covered Bridge No. 1, located approximately a quarter-mile away.
During the late nineteenth century, James Pyle owned extensive acreage throughout the Buck Run Valley. Two earlier bridges crossed Buck Run on the Pyle property, but both were destroyed by flooding. In 1881, Chester County constructed a replacement wooden bridge at the site. The new bridge was named the Mary Ann Pyle Bridge, honoring James Pyle’s daughter.
The bridge’s timber work was completed by Menander Wood, while his brother, Ferdinand Wood, was responsible for the stonework. The detailed stone copings on the wing walls are similar to those found on the nearby Hayes Clark Bridge, reflecting the craftsmanship and architectural character of the region’s historic covered bridges.
During the mid-twentieth century, the bridge and surrounding property were part of Buck and Doe Run Valley Farms, where cattle from the King Ranch grazed on the surrounding land. Today, the bridge is part of the 771-acre Laurels Preserve, managed by the Brandywine Conservancy. The preserve and bridge are accessible to Conservancy members via a network of walking trails.
For photographers and historic-bridge enthusiasts, the Mary Ann Pyle Bridge offers a wonderful opportunity to experience both the craftsmanship of a nineteenth-century covered bridge and the natural beauty of the Buck Run Valley. Membership in the Brandywine Conservancy helps support the preservation of this remarkable landscape and its historic resources.
