The Memorial Day long weekend not only marked the official kickoff to Summer, but this year, also marked the historic birthday of one of New York's most treasured landmarks. One of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States, the Brooklyn Bridge, just recently celebrated its 125th year as an engineering marvel.
After thirteen years of construction, the Bridge first opened for use on May 24, 1883, connecting the New York City boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Designed by John A. Roebling, the Brooklyn Bridge was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world that was surprisingly born in tragedy. Not only were 27 people killed during its construction, but only one week after its public use debut, a rumor that the Bridge was going to collapse led to absolute mayhem wherein over a dozen people were crushed to death. Well, 125 years later, the Bridge is still standing thanks to Roebling's unique bridge and truss system that was 4-6 times stronger than other bridges built at the same time, which have ultimately vanished into history.
If ever visiting this city, I highly recommend taking a stroll across this (sturdy) masterpiece of a structure. Its grandeur combines both strength and grace that offers an exhilarating experience and breathtaking views of both the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines... there really is nothing better to do on a hot and sunny summer afternoon in this city than to be a pedestrian on what can be considered a great work of art. I suppose this holiday Monday fit the bill perfectly for such a trot... but I can't say I was feeling quite celebratory enough to tackle such an endeavour.
On one of my more ambitious days of walking the
6,000 foot-long landmark
The characteristic pointed arches through the stone tower passageways showcases the Bridge's Gothic architectural style
The Manhattan Skyline from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade
View of Manhattan from the Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park
View of the largest suspension bridge in the world
The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic part of the Manhattan skyline
(photo: Josh Haner/The New York Times)
A spectacular display of fireworks over the
East River to celebrate 125 years
East River to celebrate 125 years
1 comment:
That last picture doesn't even look real! wow!
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