BROOKLYN BRIDGE

BROOKLYN’S BRIDGE
CHARACTERISTICS:
Iconic Design: The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most
recognizable landmarks in New York City and has a
unique design that sets it apart from other bridges. Its
Gothic-inspired arches and cables create a stunning
visual effect that draws millions of visitors each year.

Historical Significance: Completed in 1883, the

Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges
in the United States and was the first to use steel cable
wire. It is a testament to the ingenuity and engineering
skills of its creators and played a significant role in the
development of New York City.
Impressive Dimensions: The Brooklyn Bridge spans 1,595
feet (486 meters) across the East River and stands at
276 feet (84 meters) tall. It was the longest suspension
bridge in the world when it was completed and held that
title for over 20 years.

Functionality: The Brooklyn Bridge is a vital

transportation link between Brooklyn and Manhattan,
with six lanes for cars, a pedestrian walkway, and a
dedicated bike lane. It provides a crucial connection for
commuters and tourists alike.

Symbolism: The Brooklyn Bridge has come to represent

not just a physical connection between two boroughs
but also a symbol of unity and strength. It has been
featured in numerous works of art, literature, and film
and continues to inspire people around the world.

 FUN FACTS:
The Brooklyn Bridge was initially nicknamed the "East River
Bridge" when it was opened in 1883. It wasn't until later that it
was officially named the Brooklyn Bridge.
During the bridge's construction, many workers suffered from a
condition called "caisson disease" or the "bends." This was caused
by the increased pressure they experienced while working in the
underwater caissons, which caused nitrogen bubbles to form in
their bloodstream.
P.T. Barnum, the famous circus showman, led a parade of 21
elephants across the bridge in 1884 to prove its stability. The
bridge held up, but the spectacle caused a stampede and several
people were injured.
The bridge's designer, John A. Roebling, died before
construction was completed, and his son, Washington Roebling,
took over. Washington Roebling himself became bedridden due to
caisson disease and oversaw the rest of the construction from
his home.


On May 24, 1883, the bridge was opened to the public,

and over 150,000 people crossed it on foot. It was the
longest suspension bridge in the world at the time.
The bridge's main cables are made up of over 14,000
individual wires, each less than one-tenth of an inch in
diameter. If you were to bundle all the wires together,
they would stretch for 357 miles.
In 1983, the Brooklyn Bridge celebrated its centennial
with a fireworks display that accidentally set fire to the
bridge's wooden walkway. The damage was quickly
repaired.
The Brooklyn Bridge has appeared in numerous movies
and TV shows, including "I Am Legend," "Gotham," and
"Spider-Man: Homecoming."
ENJOY!
 REFLECTION
the Brooklyn Bridge is not just a bridge,
but an important part of history and a
symbol of human achievement. Its legacy
will continue to inspire and captivate
generations to come.