Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most famous structures in New York. Its peculiarity is that it is the oldest suspension bridge in the entire United States. And he brought to our days the very atmosphere of old America that existed even before the times of perestroika. Today this place still functions for the benefit of the city, and crowds of tourists always strive to take pictures against its background.
The bridge overlooks the East River and connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. Its width is 26 meters, and the bridge itself is divided into three lanes. The total length of the structure is 1828 meters, and the highest height is about 41 meters. It is used both for a car crossing and as a pedestrian bridge, for which several fenced lines are allocated. This step helps prevent accidents and allows free movement across the bridge.
History of creation
The Brooklyn Bridge was erected back in 1883 as a major project to connect the two sides of the strait. At the time, this was an important measure, because the city needed a direct route between Brooklyn and Manhattan, capable of supporting enormous weight. But he had not only practical value, but also symbolic, reflecting the greatness and power of New York.
Its creator is rightfully considered John Roebling, a novice but already well-known bridge builder. When the city authorities simply could not find a suitable option to connect the two districts of the city, he proposed the innovative idea of a suspension bridge. Although the idea was risky, the authorities agreed to it, because the bridge was simply necessary. This is how its construction began.
Three members of the Roebling family worked tirelessly on the construction. By an absurd accident, John, the author of the project, died on construction, never completing his brainchild. However, the work did not stop, and Roebling's son, Washington, continued the work of his father. He did a tremendous job, but soon his life was at risk, as a result of which he severely undermined his health. The work was continued by Emily Roebling, John's wife. Under her leadership, the bridge was completed and the entire family of bridge builders was immortalized on the construction.
Opening the bridge
Also in New York you can see:
- Eternal Flame Falls, New York, USA
- Memorial 9/11 in New York
- Manhattan Bridge, New York, USA
- Times Square in New York, USA
The ceremonial event for its opening was a momentous day for the whole of America. It was attended by all the influential people of the city, its mayor, as well as the then president of the country, Chester Arthur. On that day, more than 2,000 cars and 150,000 people crossed the Brooklyn Bridge at a time, proving the colossal strength of the structure.
But people always find it difficult to accept innovative projects, which happened with the Brooklyn Bridge. This demonstration was not enough for the people. One week later, there was a rumor about the weak construction and many shortcomings of the suspension bridge. Because of something, at one point panic arose, as a result of which 12 people died under a huge crowd rushing from the crossing. However, another demonstration calmed the crowd - the authorities decided to lead 21 elephants across the bridge, whose size really inspired. This step has forever assured the people of the strength of the structure.
Today, the Brooklyn Bridge is considered an industrial wonder of the world. This is the main attraction of New York, for which huge crowds of tourists come every day, who want to forever capture the visit to this structure on a camera.
Brooklyn Bridge Towers
One of the most interesting places on the bridge is the two towers, which were built in a peculiar Gothic style. They create an overall picture of the structure, as well as being the main structural element. It is on them that all three spans of the bridge are attached, as well as the cables that support them. These structures have a majestic view that is truly impressive. And it is for them that so many visiting tourists come running here.
An interesting fact, it was in one of the towers (or rather, its pillars) that in 2006 workers discovered the entrance to a special bomb shelter. It was intended for influential persons in the event of a war with the USSR. It contained all the things necessary for life (water, food supplies, medicines), as well as protective equipment in case of radiation pollution.
It was the towers of the Brooklyn Bridge that attracted film producers so much that dozens of different films were filmed here. Among them are "I Am Legend", "Monstro" and the famous "Godzilla".
Secrets and mysteries of the structure
All great structures carry with them a bit of mysticism. Stories and legend begin to appear one after another, being drawn to this monument of human greatness. And this inevitable fate befell the Brooklyn Bridge.
One of the stories associated with him refers to the large number of deaths on the bridge. After all, it is this place that is the main goal of all New York suicides who want to settle accounts with life in a beautiful way. Diving from here has already become a classic, because even the guards are unable to stop those who wish to die with the help of the Brooklyn Bridge.
There is a legend that it is the river itself that opposes the bridge, forcing people to die on it. This is how John and Washington Roeblings died, as well as many other people. For example, the very first bridge jumper, swimming instructor Robert Oldum, took this step back in 1885. Although he only wanted to set a diving record, this attempt was fatal for him. Since then, many people come here in search of death, because no one can survive after falling from such a height.
But it's worth remembering that every attraction has a dark side. This also applies to the Brooklyn Bridge, a magnificent monument to human resourcefulness. However, its atmosphere makes you forget about it, because anyone who steps on the platform of the towers begins to enjoy this old creation of progress. Contrary to many other landmarks of past centuries, the Brooklyn Bridge is not dead. It still works as a ferry, performing its direct functions. That is why he remains to live, creating more and more rumors and legends about his existence.
And outside the city avenues, you can find remarkable places in the United States: the Grand Canyon, Carlsbad Caves, Thor's Well. - read in our articles.
