Brooklyn Bridge in New York – photo and description, history, tyins and mysteries, map
The 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, which existed even before the times of perestroika. Today, this place still functions for the benefit of the city, and crowds of tourists all the time strive to be photographed against its background.
The bridge rises over the East River and connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. Its width is 26 meters, and the bridge itself is divided into three traffic lanes. The total length of the structure is 1828 meters, and the maximum height is about 41 meters. It is used both for a road crossing and as a pedestrian bridge, for which several fenced lines have been allocated. This step prevents accidents and allows free movement on the bridge.
History of creation
The Brooklyn Bridge was built back in 1883, being a major project to connect the two banks of the strait. At the time, this was an important measure, because the city needed a direct route between Brooklyn and Manhattan that could withstand the enormous weight. But it had not only practical value, but also symbolic, reflecting the greatness and power of New York.
Its creator is considered to be 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 an innovative idea for a suspension bridge. Although the idea was risky, the authorities agreed to it, because the bridge was simply necessary. Thus began its construction.
Three members of the Roebling family worked tirelessly on the construction. By an absurd accident, John, the author of the project, died at the construction site, never completing his brainchild. However, the work was not curtailed, and the son of Roebling, 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 greatly 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.
Bridge opening
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The solemn event for its opening was a significant day for all 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. Such a demonstration was not enough for the people. One week later, rumors began to spread about the weak construction and many shortcomings of the suspension bridge. Because of something, at one moment there was a panic, 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, the size of which really inspired. This step 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, which is visited daily by huge crowds of tourists who want to forever capture the visit to this building on the camera.
Towers of the Brooklyn Bridge
One of the most interesting places on the bridge is the two towers, which are built in a peculiar Gothic style. They create an overall picture of the structure, also being the main element of the structure. 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 here.
An interesting fact is that it was in one of the towers (or rather, its supports) in 2006 that workers discovered the entrance to a special bomb shelter. It was intended for influential people in case of 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 contamination.
It was the towers of the Brooklyn Bridge that interested film producers so much that dozens of different films were shot here. Among them are “I am a legend”, “Monstro” and the famous “Godzilla”.
Secrets and mysteries of the building
All great buildings carry with them a bit of mysticism. Stories and legends begin to appear one after another, drawn to this monument of human greatness. And this inevitable fate befell the Brooklyn Bridge.
One of the stories associated with it refers to the large number of deaths on the bridge. After all, this place is the main goal of all New York suicides who want to settle accounts with life in a beautiful way. Jumping into the water 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 resists the bridge, forcing people to die on it. So John and Washington Roebling died, as well as many other people. For example, the very first jumper from the bridge, swimming instructor Robert Oldum, decided to take this step back in 1885. Although he only wanted to set a record in diving, this attempt was fatal for him. Since then, many people have come here in search of death, because no one can survive after falling from such a height.
But it is worth remembering that any attraction has a dark side. This also applies to the Brooklyn Bridge, a majestic monument to human ingenuity. 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 alive, creating more and more rumors and legends about his existence.
And outside the city avenues, you can find remarkable places in the USA: Grand Canyon, Carlsbad Caverns, Thor's Well. – read in our articles.