Worthington Pond Farm Covered Bridge

A Totally Worthington Bridge
Worthington Pond Farm Covered Bridge, Somers
December 2016

A few years before I first visited this rather large and pretty covered bridge, Worthington Farm was… a turkey farm. But at some point in the 21st century, real estate guy Dan Roulier bought and developed the property into a private park of sorts. I’m not sure what Roulier had in mind when he first began building stuff on the old farm, but he turned it into something unique in rural northern Connecticut.

He and his crew created short little trails, picnic areas, a “warming house,” a sugar shack, and a large-gauge (G scale) train layout. And, of course, the covered bridge.

After a protracted battle with Somers’ residents and the zoning commission, the Farm obtained a limited liquor permit and after opening in 2010, it became a destination for smaller weddings as well as prom and engagement photoshoots. Weddings are held inside the bridge, which… is a bit risky. (My wedding was in a barn, so who am I to talk.)

The Worthington Farm Covered Bridge was built in 2002 by Ron Ouelette using trees from the farm and 19th century building techniques – with 21st century upgrades, like the dormer windows on the south side to provide sunlight. It is also fully equipped with lighting, electricity, a dance floor, tables, chairs, and even a stage for a band or DJ. In the cooler evenings of April or October heaters are available to keep the area toasty warm for guests. A truly unique venue to say the least.

Since my 2016 visit to the bridge, new owners have taken over the Farm and have opened an operational vineyard and winery. I visited in 2023, and Worthington is a truly stunning property.

Unfortunately, it appears the cool train layout is on the way out. The tracks were all busted up (in 2023). Outdoor layouts seem impossible to keep up with; likely due to weather of course. The track is still out there, so maybe someone will put the effort in.

Sure, people now come here for the winery and the bridge is an afterthought. But many years ago I learned that people are really drawn to covered bridges; not just the three historic ones in the state, but also these kind of fake newer ones here and there. So I created a list, and I check them out and try to jot down a few hundred words for those few of you who care about these things to read.

So that’s what I’ve done. I hope you’ve enjoyed your “trip” to Somers today and that if you come here for the wine and food, be sure to check out the bridge and update us on the train tracks!

Worthington Vineyards & Winery
CTMQ Visit to Worthington Vineyards & Winery
CTMQ’s Covered Bridges