La Manche Provincial Park - Bridge 1

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La Manche is French for "The Sleeve." It was named for the shape of the harbour.

This suspension bridge is approximately 100 feet (30 m) above sea level and approximately 160 feet (50 m) in length.

In January 1966, a severe storm hit the Avalon Peninsula. In La Manche, an enormous tide washed away all flakes, boats, anchors and stores as well as the suspension bridge which connected both sides of the harbour. Miraculously, there were no fatalities.

The East Coast Hiking Association erected this bridge in 1999. It was officially opened 17 June 2000. The bridge is dedicated to the former residents La Manche Village; many who resettled in nearby communities.

It's difficult to believe that at one time there were homes, a church, a school, flakes, boats, barns and sheds were perched on the edge of this beautiful ravine. These structures were held in place by poles fitted into the rocks.

Over more then the 100 year span that La Manche was inhabited, the population ranged from 7 to 55. Although there was farming, it was at a subsistence level. Some livestock was kept.