Aliens invaded the tiny community of Bridgeville today for the 17th Annual celebration of the saving of a community bridge.

Humboldt is known for its unique and colorful festivals. Bridgefest, held in Bridgeville today, fits the bill. It celebrates the community’s rescuing a bridge over the Van Duzen River when a second newer bridge was installed.  “The community saved it from being torn down,” explains festival goer and source of these photos, Dottie Simmons. The bridge (see here for more photos) was designed by John B. Leonard  who also designed Fernbridge as well as two other Hwy 36 bridges. These were called the “rainbow” bridge and the Dinsmore bridge, wrote Simmons who also explained that all three of these latter structures are no longer in service and the Dinsmore bridge was demolished. 

Eventually, a flying saucer competition was started by local Artist Michael Guerriero. “The flying saucer rules are hilarious,” Simmons wrote, “the wind always blows like mad in the river canyon which makes it a challenge, and a good time is had by all… .”  The festival, which supports the Bridgeville Community Center and the Bridgeville VFD, is described by Simmons as “quaint and crazy… very down home crazy and fun.”

Captain Gypsy Rover-O

Team AbiDada

Costumes are important part of the Flying Saucer contest (see here for rules.)

Points are given for having a “cool looking rig.”

Van Duzen East and the Intergalactic landing strip.

Launch of the Red Rover.

Thanks to Dottie Simmons (shown here with her spouse) for sharing photos and history with the LoCO.