Bridge Brethren

(Fratres pontices, Freres pontifes), the name of a fraternity founded toward the end of the 12th century by St. Benedict after his building the bridge of Avignon. They were to serve in hospitals when needed, but were more especially intended to devote themselves to the building of bridges and roads. In this capacity they did great service in the south and east of France, directing the workmen, working themselves, and often defraying the expenses out of their own funds or by collections. They were officially recognised by Pope Clement III, organized on the plan of the knightly orders, and each brother was distinguished by wearing a small hammer on the breast. They did not altogether disappear before 1789, although their efficiency ceased long before that time. See Recherches hist. sur les Frrers pontifes (Par. 1818).