30 Interesting Facts About the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is a famous suspension bridge in New York City that connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Completed in 1883, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time and is considered a marvel of engineering.

Designed by John A. Roebling and completed by his son Washington Roebling, the bridge features distinctive Gothic-style arches and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It’s an iconic landmark and a vital transportation link, carrying thousands of vehicles and pedestrians daily.

Interesting Facts About the Brooklyn Bridge

1. The Brooklyn Bridge was completed in 1883.
2. It was the world’s longest suspension bridge when it opened, spanning 1,595 feet.
3. The bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River.
4. It was designed by John A. Roebling, a German-born engineer.
5. John A. Roebling died before the bridge was completed, and his son Washington Roebling took over.
6. Washington Roebling also fell ill during construction, and his wife, Emily Roebling, played a crucial role in completing the bridge.
7. The bridge features distinctive Gothic-style stone towers.
8. It was the first steel-wire suspension bridge ever built.
9. The bridge’s construction took 14 years.
10. Over 600 workers were involved in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge.
11. The bridge cost approximately $15 million to build.
12. The official opening date of the Brooklyn Bridge was May 24, 1883.
13. On its opening day, over 150,000 people crossed the bridge.
14. P.T. Barnum famously walked 21 elephants across the bridge to prove its safety in 1884.
15. The Brooklyn Bridge was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964.
16. It is 85 feet wide and 276.5 feet tall at its highest point.
17. The bridge has a pedestrian walkway above the traffic lanes.
18. The Brooklyn Bridge carries about 150,000 vehicles and pedestrians each day.
19. The bridge’s original color was a light tan, but it appears gray due to weathering.
20. The bridge’s towers contain limestone, granite, and Rosendale cement.
21. The Brooklyn Bridge has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.
22. It was one of the first suspension bridges to use a web truss to support the deck.
23. The bridge was renovated several times, with significant work done in the 1950s, 1980s, and 2010s.
24. It has a dedicated bike lane for cyclists.
25. The Brooklyn Bridge Park, located near the bridge, offers recreational activities and scenic views.
26. The bridge played a crucial role in the development of Brooklyn and Manhattan.
27. It was initially called the New York and Brooklyn Bridge.
28. The bridge is often illuminated at night, making it a beautiful sight.
29. The Brooklyn Bridge has inspired countless artists, photographers, and writers.
30. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a popular activity for both tourists and locals, offering breathtaking views of New York City.